Ready Yourself for Interviews
One of the most frightening aspects of job searching is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing through the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your own achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gather information however, also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why do us not choose you?" The key is to not lose composure and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a daunting task however, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, you should go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume, or you have questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us now for an free quotation or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 024 129.
