Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most daunting aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already completed the initial step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your resume, experience as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate this increases your chances of getting through the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to gather information however, also because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not choose 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. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the Result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be a challenge However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, you should go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or if you have any questions not answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also 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 an complimentary quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 694 635.
