Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already completed the initial step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to get information from you, but also, since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do be able to not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a project or task then you can employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR you will need to write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting about nervously? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, you should read the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential customer. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the business. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or if you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page about section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity 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
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you expect to earn. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range is anywhere between 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 consider your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today to receive a free quote or call us direct to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
