Prepping Effectively for Interviews
A major and daunting aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. It is a normal consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions Interviews have become one of the most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You have already made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes that increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. The practice is essential and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to get information from you however, also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response in the most objective way possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then follow it up with a short reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a particular project or task, you may use an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the Result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a daunting task, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to think about the job description to clearly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume or if you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for your no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 1300 995 142.
