Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be an extremely stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already made it through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front when you convince the interviewer you have what it takes, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gather information, but also, because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to the question could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response in the most objective way possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like answers based on emotions or feelings that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why do we not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
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 why you responded a certain way. Next, provide details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task, you may apply this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR, you must state the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you display genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, you should go over the description of the position. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is essential to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How do I become the best person for the jobif offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable 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 also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for your free quote or phone us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 993 659.
