Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into an extremely intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes, it boosts your chances of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gather information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response with the greatest objectivity feasible. This includes removing emotional responses like responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can employ this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be a challenge However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you review the job description once more. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is essential to look at the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions, or if you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this jobif offered the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For example, if you are expecting to earn $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. Consider other benefits and perks too and think about these when you consider your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment or credentials as well as interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for the complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 326 135.
