A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become among the more intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already been through the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of passing the next stage of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your accomplishments. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to get information from you and information, but also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response with as much objectivity as can be. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on emotions or feelings that are not supported by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do we not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of why you responded a certain way. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, 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 make? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should read the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection It is essential 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 see your strengths as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or if you have any questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in their general hiring page about section), raise these after the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this task, if given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or on a list when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive a free quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants on 0800 215 100.
