Interview Preparation Tactics
One of the most difficult aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit this increases your chances of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice 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 apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to gain information however, also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses in the most objective way can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a particular project or task it is possible to employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a daunting task, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, you should go over the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to think about the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume or you have concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in their general hiring page About section) Bring them up after the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for the free quotation or contact us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 03 5420 1572.
