Strategies for Interview Success
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their career or past achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon your resume, experience as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information, but also, in order to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your answer in the most objective way feasible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as answers based on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task, you may employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a challenge but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, be sure to read the job description again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to review the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description or if you have concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving a wide margin. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today for a free quote or to call us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 871 072.
