Steps to Interview Readiness
The most intimidating aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gain information however, also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity can be. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
If you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could 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 the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, be sure to go over the job description again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to think about the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this jobif given the opportunity to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the position (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you are expecting. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today to receive the free quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 0800 215 100.
