A Guide to Interview Preparation
One of the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions Interviews have become an extremely stressful parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve been through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to get information from you however, also in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you express your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating emotional responses like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why do we 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. Lead with your point and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain manner. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task, you may employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. In using STAR you will need to write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a tall order however, you can learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you go over the job description over again. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the business. The best person to inquire to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the jobif given the chance to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you are expecting. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today for the free quotation or call us direct to speak with one our consultants on 1300 694 635.
