A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting 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 work or prior achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit you increase your odds of getting through the next step of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your achievements. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gather information as well as since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses in the most objective way can be. This means removing emotional responses like answers based on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise argument or explanation of why you responded a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a project or task it is possible to utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a daunting task however, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, ensure that you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, should I be given the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today to receive your free quote or contact us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 993 659.
