Interview Readiness Blueprint
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your profile, work history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of passing through to the next step in the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to elicit information, but also, in order to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you express your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way can be. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
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 the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task, you may utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the final result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a challenge, but you can always practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you read the job description again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection It is crucial to consider the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually 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. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or in a variety when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be 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 think about your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 993 659.
