Steps to Interview Readiness
The most daunting aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into an extremely nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information, but also, because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer could be due to management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your reasoning with the greatest objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a task or project it is possible to apply the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a tall order but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, you should go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if given the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the job (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you anticipate earning. A good tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for your no-cost quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 871 072.
