Ready Yourself for Interviews
One of the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gain information however, also in order to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity feasible. This means removing emotional responses like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a task or project, you may apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, be sure to review the job description again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to work on your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this jobif given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one our experts on 0800 024 129.