Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
A major and daunting aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You have already passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on your resume, experience as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front when you convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing through the next stage of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gain information however, also in order to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and worries. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with the greatest objectivity feasible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project, you may employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult but it is possible to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to review the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to review the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them after the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be offered the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you expect to earn. A good tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary 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 reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive the free quotation or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 735 398.