Interview Preparation Tactics
A major and frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their career or past achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into an extremely intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve passed the first step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified that increases your chances of passing the next phase of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to gather information, but also, since they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer in the most objective way is possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a project or task, you may apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. In using STAR it is necessary to describe the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you show sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting on the resume or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the jobif offered the chance to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you expect to earn. One important tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between 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 expectations.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a free quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our experts on 0800 215 100.
