A Guide to Interview Preparation
A major and difficult aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their career or past successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into an extremely nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve completed the initial step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate this increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gain information as well as since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer could be due to problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses in the most objective way possible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why do you not take you on?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific manner. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can use an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a tall order, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, ensure that you review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to review the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being honest about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description, or if you have any concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if given the opportunity to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety 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 salary to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or phone us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 291 288.
