Mastering Interview Readiness
The most difficult aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already been through the first step by submitting your resume to an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way feasible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a task or project then you can apply the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be difficult however, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, make sure you review the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection It is crucial to look at the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the business. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you have any questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them during the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the jobif given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the position (or on a list when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you are expecting. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for your free quotation or phone us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 648 974.
