Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most frightening aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and you being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate this increases your chances of passing to the next step in the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your achievements. Training is the key to success, 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 of nailing the interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to elicit information as well as in order to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer using as much objectivity feasible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not employ you?" 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. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. Then, add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. When using STAR it is necessary to describe an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the final result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a daunting task but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should read the job description over again. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them after the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, should I be given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range, for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you are expecting. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital for ensuring you are in ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive a free quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
