Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to showcase their abilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes, it boosts your chances of getting through the next stage of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to elicit information, but also, since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses in the most objective way is possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not hire 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 then follow it up with a short reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. When you use STAR, you must state the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be difficult, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to consider the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this jobif given the opportunity to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the position (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive an complimentary quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 694 635.