Ready Yourself for Interviews
The most daunting aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the most stressful parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already passed the first step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate upon your profile, work history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gain information, but also, because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to problems with management, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating emotional responses like answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions such as "Why should we not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be a challenge, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to convey? Do you show openness, sincerity and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the job description again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to look at the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the jobif given the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you are expecting. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for your complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 024 129.
