Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to see you get out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you express your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity feasible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not employ you?" The key is to remain calm 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 explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
If you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you show genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you review the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is essential to think about the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. 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 you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for your complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 871 072.
