Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve made it through the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front when you convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing through the next stage of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Practice is key, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to gain information, but also, since they want to help how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a tall order, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to consider the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to inquire to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them during the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the opportunity to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for a free quotation or contact us directly to speak with one our experts on 03 5420 1572.
