Interview Readiness Blueprint
The most daunting aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into one of the biggest and most stressful parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already completed the initial step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing the next stage of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to elicit information, but also, since they want to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means removing any emotional responses such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why do you not choose you?" 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. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be difficult however, you can learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description, or you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the best person for the task, if offered the chance to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for an free quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
