Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
One of the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door when you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit you increase your odds of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to elicit information and information, but also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with the greatest objectivity possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why do we not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the final result.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a tall order but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you go over the job description over again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses is just as important.
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 questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description, or you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or the general page for hiring About section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a complimentary quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 326 135.
