A Guide to Interview Preparation

A major and daunting aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating aspects during the selection process.

This does not have to be the scenario.

Interviews are an important means for the candidate to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already been through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.

Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers:

Be comfortable with difficult questions

Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to gain information, but also, because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"

The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as can be. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by facts.

Other important questions to ask are "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions such as "Why should we not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and arrange your thoughts with care.

Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow with a brief argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Then, add examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your original point.

Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a task or project, you may use this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.

It’s all in the body language

Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be difficult however, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a 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 seem intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?

Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses

Before you go to the interview, be sure to go over the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as notable.

Prepare questions

Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like 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 description or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:

"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to join you and your colleagues?"

"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"

"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"

Know what your salary expectations are.

The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or in a variety if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.

Inputting these steps into your purse is important for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.

To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for the free quotation or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 189 376.

Additional Information

• Why a Professional Resume Writer is Worth the Investment for a Career Shift
• Resume for Community Support Worker in Gold Coast
• Resume for a Flight Attendant Gold Coast
• Mastering the Art of Building a Strong Construction Project Management Resume
• Unlocking the Potential of Your Credentials with a Winning Cover Letter and Resume