Strategies for Interview Success
A major and frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your profile, work history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to get information from you, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement on a project or task it is possible to employ the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a daunting task 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? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting 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 your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the chances for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today for an free quotation or phone us directly to speak to one of our experts on 1300 681 902.
