Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Practice is key, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gain information however, also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer may be because of management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way that you express the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses with the greatest objectivity can be. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your previous point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can employ the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task, but you can always practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to make? Do you convey openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to think about the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the end of the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for a free quote or phone us directly to speak to one of our experts on 0800 024 129.
