Interview Readiness Blueprint
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already been through the first step by submitting your resume to an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to gather information and information, but also since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason but the way the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity can be. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to your previous point.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a task or project then you can apply the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe a context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you show openness, sincerity and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to review the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being open regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for an no-cost quote or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 215 100.
