Strategies for Interview Success
A major and difficult aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You have already been through the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you as well as because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, that are not supported by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not hire 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 then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to the previous section.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. In using STAR, you must state a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task however, you can try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should read the job description again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection It is crucial to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will be just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions not answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if given the opportunity to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the chances for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or in a variety when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you are expecting. A good tip is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other 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 equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult 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 are able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for your free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 0800 024 129.
