Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
The most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already made it through the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified, it boosts your chances to be selected for to the next step in the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Practice is key, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you however, also because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do us 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. Start with your statement and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task then you can apply this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. When using STAR it is necessary to describe an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a daunting task However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, you should review the job description once more. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your strengths as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing within the description of your job, or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this task, if offered the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $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. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an no-cost quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
