Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front: if you convince the interviewer you have what it takes, it boosts your chances of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to gain information however, also since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses in the most objective way feasible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your original point.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task then you can utilize this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. In using STAR you will need to write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, be sure to review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description or you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up during the interview when the interviewer invites 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, if I am given the opportunity to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving a wide margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials , and also for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive the free quotation or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 648 974.
