Strategies for Interview Success
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You have already been through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your resume, experience as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing the next stage of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to get information from you, but also, in order to help you get out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer could be due to problems with management, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "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 us not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR, you must state an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge However, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options, in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you anticipate earning. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for a free quotation or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 871 072.
