A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on your resume, experience, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gain information and information, but also since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why do us not take you on?" The key is to stay 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 follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you responded a certain manner. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task, you may employ the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding on selection criteria. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a challenge but it is possible to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you communicate openness, sincerity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you go over the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to think about the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you are expecting. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for the no-cost quote or phone us directly to speak with one our experts on 1300 694 635.
