The interview is undoubtedly one of the most unnerving steps of the job search process. Luckily, one way to calm yourself and be prepared is by knowing what’s in store and crafting smart replies to tough interview questions in advance.
1. Tell me about a time you overcame an obstacle?
if you’re like most interviewees, you find that answering these types of questions by making a connection to the potential job can be a challenge. So to ease some stress and use the STAR method. STAR is an acronym that stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This is a technique that organizes your answers to these kinds of questions. As you start to think about the answer to this question, begin with the end in mind. In other words, make a mental note of what personal skill(s) you would like to showcase in your answer. The employer is asking about a stressful time, so you may want to demonstrate skills like time management, prioritization, and diligence.
2. What is your biggest weakness?
Employers may ask about your weaknesses to see if you have a sense of self-awareness and how you’re working to improve. They want you to be honest, but you don’t have to dig into your dark past or reveal everything. There is a good way and a bad way to answer this question. One way you don’t want to answer is to say “I don’t have any.” The best way to answer the question is, to be honest, positive and focused on a solution rather than the problem. For example, talk about a time you realized you needed to brush up on your skills and the steps you took to improve them.
3. Why are you leaving your current position?
The interviewer is probably trying to get you to answer with a weakness of yours. So, instead of trashing your last job or boss, try answering with something like this: “I did not feel my responsibilities were challenging enough.” Then the employer will feel confident that you are ready for whatever they may throw at you.
4. Why should we hire you?
Employers want to know what differentiates you from other candidates they might be interviewing. To answer, explain how your experience, skills, and attributes make you the best fit for the job. Make sure to carefully review the job description beforehand to understand what qualities they’re looking for. Similarly to putting together a resume, mirroring the language used in the job posting is a great way to show you’re qualified for the job.
5. Why do you want to work here?
Employers usually ask this question to see if you put any research or thought into applying to the job or company. So, research the company and take a look at their mission statement. Try to figure out their culture and put together a response that embodies their culture and mission.
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