A Guide to Interview Preparation
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve completed the initial step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified you increase your odds of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to elicit information as well as in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a difficult situation can be a daunting task, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, be sure to review the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to consider the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to inquire to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions, or if you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or as part of a range, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or set number. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive the complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our experts on 0800 024 129.
