Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
One of the most daunting aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. It is a normal consequence of seeking the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You have already passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes you increase your odds of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to get information from you however, also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as can be. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions such as "Why do we not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
If you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task it is possible to apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the Result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a daunting task but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to make? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you read the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to consider the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will be just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, should I be given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or set number. Keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today to receive an no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 986 051.
