Strategies for Interview Success
A major and intimidating aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already passed the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to elicit information however, also because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like answers based on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why should be able to not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure 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 with a brief explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a task or project, you may utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a daunting task but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is essential to look at the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions, or you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in their general hiring page About section), raise these during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be given the opportunity to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the job (or on a list when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to include a range that you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today for your free quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 03 9909 5130.
