Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
A major and daunting aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the most stressful parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already passed the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing fears about speaking about your own achievements. 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 nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you however, also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way that you express the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer with as much objectivity as is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not choose you?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a task or project, you may employ the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. When using STAR it is necessary to describe an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to make? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or if you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 735 398.
