Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
A major and frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already made it through the first step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and expertise is the proverbial step to the front If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through to the next step in the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to get information from you however, also since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will demonstrate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning in the most objective way possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. When using STAR you will need to write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be difficult however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, be sure to go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to look at the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or the general page for hiring About section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the job, if I am offered the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for your no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 02 7910 6323.
