Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to gain information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer in the most objective way possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" 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. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a challenge but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Are you looking intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you read the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section), raise these after the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 648 974.
