Interview Preparation Tactics
A major and intimidating aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. The practice is essential and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply 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 you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to 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 then provide a concise argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific way. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a task or project it is possible to apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order however, you can try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job, or if you have concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up during the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be offered the chance to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you are expecting. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits in addition to these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 189 376.
