Interview Readiness Blueprint
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become an extremely stressful parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve passed the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gather information as well as because they want to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. When you use STAR you will need to write an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be difficult however, you can try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the 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 on the resume, or if you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you are expecting. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks too and think about these when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials , and also for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a free quotation or contact us directly to speak with one of our experts on 02 8036 2428.
