Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become an extremely nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve passed the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you as well as because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer with as much objectivity as feasible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions like "Why should you not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement on a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be difficult but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you show genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to look at the job description to honestly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job description or the general page for hiring about section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, should I be offered the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 202 475.
