Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to get information from you and information, but also because they want to see how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning using as much objectivity feasible. This means removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions like "Why should us not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation on a project or task, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a challenge However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, you should read the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or you have concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page About section), raise these during the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you are expecting. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you think about your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive a free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 297 507.
