Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
Perhaps the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door when you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit this increases your chances of passing to the next step in the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you, but also, since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way can be. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR it is necessary to describe a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be difficult but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to look at the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or if you have questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How can I be the best person for the task, if offered the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, 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.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today to receive your no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our experts on 0800 024 129.
