Prepping Effectively for Interviews
A major and daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve completed the initial step by submitting your resume to an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your own achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information however, also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with as much objectivity as is possible. This means removing any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can use an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a daunting task, but you can always try to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to review the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to work on your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if given the opportunity to join the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount 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, fixed amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today for your free quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 648 974.
