Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already completed the initial step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your personal achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to gain information however, also since they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why do you not employ 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. Start with your statement and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task, you may apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be difficult, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can 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 around with a nervousness? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, be sure to review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is essential to review the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the company. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page about section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the opportunity to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your purse is important to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive a free quote or phone us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 257 381.
