Interview Preparation Tactics
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people but others feel nervous about being asked about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you however, also because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious topics and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. 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 response using as much objectivity can be. This means removing any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not choose you?" The key is to remain calm 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 follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a task or project, you may apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a challenge, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to convey? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will be just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you have any concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the task, if given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving a wide margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today for your no-cost quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
