Interview Preparation Tactics
A major and difficult aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to showcase their abilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already passed the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and you being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gather information, but also, because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you formulate the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer using as much objectivity possible. This means removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should us not hire 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. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your original point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project then you can use 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 it is necessary to describe a context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult However, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting about nervously? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, make sure you go over the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page about section), raise these during the interview when the interviewer encourages 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 given the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our consultants at 1300 202 475.
