Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
Perhaps the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past successes. 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 intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer with as much objectivity as can be. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task, you may use this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR, you must state a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge However, you can learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about 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 see your strengths as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or in a variety when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you are expecting. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for your no-cost quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 986 051.
