A Guide to Interview Preparation
A major and daunting aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions Interviews have become among the more nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. You have already made it through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial step to the front: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you express your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do we not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a project or task, you may apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge however, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to make? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your strengths as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to work on your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, if I am offered the chance to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or in a variety, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you are expecting. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quotation or call us direct to speak with one of our experts on 0800 024 129.