Strategies for Interview Success
A major and intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating parts of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through the next stage of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your accomplishments. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to gather information however, also in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a project or task it is possible to use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. In using STAR it is necessary to describe a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, be sure to read the job description over again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the best person for the job, if I am given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing an expansive margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a free quotation or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 694 635.
