Strategies for Interview Success
A major and difficult aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve completed the initial step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to elicit information however, also because they want to see you get out of potentially contentious questions and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning in the most objective way feasible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions that are not supported by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task it is possible to use this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR it is necessary to describe a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to make? Do you show authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, make sure you review the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to look at the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or if you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or the general page for hiring About section), raise these during the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or on a list in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us now for the free quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 694 635.
