Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become among the more nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already passed the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information and information, but also since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on emotions or feelings and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should we 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 follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be difficult however, you can learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you review the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and 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 to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume or if you have questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you are expecting. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for an free quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 993 659.
