Strategies for Interview Success
A major and intimidating aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating parts of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to gain information as well as because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way that you formulate your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do we not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge However, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to make? Do you show genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you read the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to review the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, if I am given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you are expecting. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a no-cost quote or call us direct to speak with one of our experts on 0800 215 100.
