Interview Readiness Blueprint
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become an extremely intimidating parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You have already passed the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you have what it takes 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 doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to get information from you however, also since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should us not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
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 note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a daunting task but it is possible to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you read the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page About section), raise these after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, if I am offered the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the job (or within a set of options if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today for an free quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 0800 024 129.
