Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important method for applicants 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 passing its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate this increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your own achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses with as much objectivity as can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to your original point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the final result.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a tall order however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, signalling your intent to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the position (or in a variety if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your purse is important to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us now for your no-cost quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 871 072.
