Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked personal questions Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit you increase your odds of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing fears about speaking about your achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to elicit information as well as in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with the greatest objectivity feasible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific way. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a project or task, you may employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. When you use STAR, you must state a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the results.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a daunting task, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you read the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to consider the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you have any questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or their general hiring page about section), raise these during the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, if I am offered the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are typically advertised along with the position (or on a list in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today to receive an no-cost quote or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
