Interview Readiness Blueprint
One of the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already made it through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate this increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information, but also, because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you express the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your reasoning using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why should us not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement on a project or task, you may use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. In using STAR, you must state the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, ensure that you read the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions, or you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or the general page for hiring About section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How do I become 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 in the present"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us now for your free quote or contact us directly to speak with one our experts on 1300 202 475.
