Strategies for Interview Success
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the biggest and most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow with a brief argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be difficult however, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page about section), raise these at the end of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important for ensuring you are in 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, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for the no-cost quote or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 1300 291 288.
