Strategies for Interview Success
The most difficult aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be an extremely stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to get information from you however, also because they want to see you get out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you express your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with as much objectivity as possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do we not choose you?" The key is to not lose composure 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 argument or explanation of why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a task or project, you may use this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for the free quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 986 051.
