Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already completed the initial step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon your profile, work history and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of passing through to the next step in the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and worries. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with as much objectivity as possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific way. Add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a daunting task, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, be sure to review the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to include a range that you would 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 the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us now for your complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 993 659.
