Steps to Interview Readiness
One of the most daunting aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions Interviews have become an extremely intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already completed the initial step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon your resume, experience as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit you increase your odds of passing through the next step of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gain information as well as in order to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as is possible. This means removing any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding on selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a challenge but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting about nervously? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, ensure that you go over the job description over again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to think about the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions or if you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, should I be offered the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the position (or within a set of options, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
