Strategies for Interview Success
One of the most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. It is a normal consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already been through the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information and information, but also because they want to see you get out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to utilize this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge however, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should go over the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to look at the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your strengths as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The most appropriate person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am offered the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. One important tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us now for the free quote or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 1300 694 635.
