Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
One of the most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked about their career or past successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become among the more intimidating parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to get information from you and information, but also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with as much objectivity as can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
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 why you responded a certain way. Next, provide details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project, you may employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. In using STAR it is necessary to describe a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by 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 questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, be sure to go over the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to think about the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description or if you have any questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them during the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing an expansive margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today to receive the free quotation or call us direct to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
