Steps to Interview Readiness
A major and intimidating aspects of job searching is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve passed the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances of getting through the next step of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information however, also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The reason for this could be due to management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as possible. This means removing emotional responses like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to consider are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not choose you?" The key is to remain calm 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 follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a particular project or task, you may use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. When you use STAR you will need to write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be difficult however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you convey openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description over again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to consider the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us now for the complimentary quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 02 8036 2428.
