Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become one of the biggest and most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already made it through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your resume, experience, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying 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 leaving your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to problems with management, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Then, add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a challenge however, you can try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, you should review the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume or if you’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section), raise these at the end of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 0800 024 129.
