Prepping Effectively for Interviews
A major and frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into an extremely nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gather information and information, but also because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your responses using as much objectivity can be. This means removing any emotional responses such as responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not employ you?" The key is to stay 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 up with a short argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to use an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR you will need to write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a challenge, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, be sure to read the description of the position. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to improve your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you have questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this jobif offered the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today to receive your no-cost quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 0800 215 100.
