Interview Preparation Tactics
A major and intimidating aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the biggest and most stressful parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already been through the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gather information however, also because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response in the most objective way feasible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other important questions to ask include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions such as "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. Lead with your point and follow with a brief reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task it is possible to employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the result.
The body language
Behaving naturally 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 friend you trust to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, be sure to read the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection, it is important to think about the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions or you have concerns that weren’t answered 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 during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if given the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still want to know what salary you expect to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive the no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 986 051.
