A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their work or prior successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already been through the first step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon 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 you’re a good fit you increase your odds of passing the next stage of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to gain information however, also in order to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with the greatest objectivity feasible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
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 the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to the previous section.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task it is possible to utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR, you must state the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the job description again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to look at the job description to honestly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or if you have any questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be offered the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the position (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or fixed number. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today to receive a no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
