A Guide to Interview Preparation
One of the most daunting aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already made it through the first step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances of passing through to the next step in the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to elicit information and information, but also because they want to see you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on emotions or feelings and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
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 reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Then, add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. In using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, be sure to read the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential client. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you have any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the end of the interview when the 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 with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. One important tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive your no-cost quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 261 665.
