Interview Readiness Blueprint
The most frightening aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You have already been through the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare 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 rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to get information from you and information, but also since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with as much objectivity as is possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" 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 up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task, you may apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you show openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, make sure you go over the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume or if you have any concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you are expecting. A good tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for an no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak with one of our experts on 0800 024 129.
