Ready Yourself for Interviews
A major and difficult aspects of the job search is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the most stressful parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already completed the initial step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and you being considered for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your own achievements. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gain information, but also, since they want to help you get out of potential contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you express your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses using as much objectivity can be. This means eliminating emotional responses like responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not hire you?" The key is to remain 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 then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, you should review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will be just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting in the job description, 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 the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them during the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, should I be given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for your complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
