Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most frightening aspects of the job search is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve been through the first step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your own achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you, but also, since they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning with as much objectivity as possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other important questions to ask include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project, you may use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a difficult situation can be a challenge, but you can always practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to make? Do you show genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to read the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions or you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the task, if offered the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today for the complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 871 072.
