Interview Preparation Tactics
The most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked personal questions, the interview has become among the more intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already made it through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to gather information however, also since they want to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to consider include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task then you can apply this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be difficult but it is possible to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, make sure you review the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to look at the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to improve your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your purse is important to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for the free quotation or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 0800 024 129.