Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most daunting aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into among the more stressful parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes, it boosts your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gather information and information, but also since they want to help you get out of potential contentious issues and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses with the greatest objectivity feasible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to your previous point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task then you can utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR you will need to write a context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a tall order however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page about section), raise these after the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the most qualified person for this task, if given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.