Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
One of the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely stressful parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on your resume, experience as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes you increase your odds to be selected for the next phase of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you however, also since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you express your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses with the greatest objectivity possible. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be difficult however, you can learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should review the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection It is crucial to think about the job description to honestly package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to address your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job application or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them at the end of the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or in a variety if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us now for the no-cost quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
