A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most daunting aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of getting through the next stage of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gain information, but also, because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the previous section.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task then you can utilize 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 the first thing you need to do is write a context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a daunting task but it is possible to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you review the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the jobif given the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to include a range that you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks in addition to these when you think about your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 02 8036 2428.
