Ready Yourself for Interviews
One of the most difficult aspects of job hunting is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost 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, but also, since they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to this question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you formulate your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task, you may employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. In using STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a tall order however, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, ensure that you go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, after 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 opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a free quotation or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 0800 215 100.
