Steps to Interview Readiness

Posted by Palmerston North Resume on 25 Jun 2025

One of the most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.

This doesn’t need to be the scenario.

Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.

It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your accomplishments. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the 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 elicit information, but also, in order to help you get out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"

The reason for this could be due to problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses using as much objectivity can be. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.

Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should us not choose you?" 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. Start with your statement and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.

In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. In using STAR, you must state an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.

The body language

The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a challenge but it is possible to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?

Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses

Before you go to the interview, ensure that you read the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to consider the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will also be important.

Prepare questions

Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page About section), raise these after the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer

"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to join you and your colleagues?"

"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"

"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"

Know what your salary expectations are.

Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to include a range that you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.

These steps to prepare in your purse is important to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and bold.

To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 215 100.

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