Strategies for Interview Success
A major and difficult aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become among the more stressful parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already made it through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing fears about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to gather information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The reason for this could be due to management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you express your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not take you on?" 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. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the previous section.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a 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 to selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge but it is possible to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, you should review the job description over again. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to consider the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range, for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you are expecting. One important tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks too and think about these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for the free quotation or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 02 8036 2428.
Additional Information
- Resume for Vet Nurse Sydney
- Resume for a Warehouse Worker in Sydney
- Selecting a Professional Resume Service Your The Key to Success
- Mastering the Job Application Process: A Comprehensive Guide to Writing Winning Resumes, CVs, Cover Letters, and LinkedIn Profiles
- How to Write a Good Customer Service Resume
