Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You have already passed the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing through the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to get information from you as well as because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with as much objectivity as possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you responded a certain manner. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a project or task then you can apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be difficult but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, you should read the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their 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 your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 240 606.
