Interview Preparation Tactics
A major and daunting aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate this increases your chances of passing the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity can be. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure 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 follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a task or project, you may employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR it is necessary to describe the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you read the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job, or if you have any questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) You can raise them after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the most suitable person for the task, if offered the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or as part of a range if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. One important tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for the complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our experts on 1300 202 475.
