A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most daunting aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve been through the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing through the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to elicit information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to the question could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with the greatest objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
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 argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement on a project or task, you may employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be difficult, 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 fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you read the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is essential to consider the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to inquire to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you have concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be offered the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to give a range of where 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 the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today for the complimentary quote or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 215 100.
