Steps to Interview Readiness
One of the most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked personal questions Interviews have become among the more stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to gain information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your response in the most objective way is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task then you can apply 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 using STAR it is necessary to describe a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be difficult, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to look at the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or their general hiring page about section), raise these during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How can I be the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the chances for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or in a variety, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you expect to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today for the free quotation or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 0800 215 100.
