Interview Preparation Tactics
One of the most frightening aspects of job hunting is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes you increase your odds of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to gain 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 leaving your current job?"
The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning in the most objective way can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as answers based on emotions or feelings that are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should us 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 follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. When using STAR you will need to write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a tall order However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description over again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description, or if you have any questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page 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 are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the job (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For instance, if 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. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us now for your free quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 202 475.
