Interview Readiness Blueprint
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into among the more stressful parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. The practice is essential and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to get information from you however, also because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your answer with as much objectivity as feasible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why do you not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the 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 ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to make? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, you should go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to work on your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them after the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, should I be offered the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or in a variety if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration 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.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our experts on 1300 871 072.
