How to Answer the Hardest Interview Questions
Best Responses to the Most Common, Difficult Job Interview Questions
Aug 31, 2009
Job interviews can be intimidating. Interview anxiety is most commonly related to the fear that there might be difficult questions asked about one's career past, present, or future. The most effective way to overcome these feelings of intimidation is to prepare for what are commonly described as the hardest or most difficult interview questions.
Interview Questions About the Past
Interview questions about the past can be frightening for a job candidate when his or her employment history has been sparse or unpleasant. These uneasy feelings typically arise in situations where:
- The candidate's prior employment was terminated by the employer for poor performance.
- The candidate has had long gaps of unemployment.
- The candidate resigned from his or her prior position due to a bad relationship with his or her colleagues or boss.
- The candidate was otherwise unsuccessful in his or her prior position.
Employers typically uncover these unsavory situations by asking one question: "Why did you leave your last job?" While it may be tempting to divulge every detail, it is important to note that doing so could negatively impact the hiring manager's decision. Job candidates should, instead, focus on answering this question by being truthful and maintaining a positive attitude. To answer this question truthfully, positively, and successfully, one must:
- Never make negative comments about former companies or bosses.
- Talk about the positive aspects of the job and the former supervisor’s strengths
- Speak clearly about the prior position in context of its role as a stepping stone to greater opportunities.
Job seekers may also become anxious when asked to describe a past failure. When this occurs, one should be brief in his or her description and immediately pivot to a description of how the perceived failure has helped them to grow, develop stronger goals, or invest in others.
An example of this practice is found in the following statement: “I finished in last place at a marathon after more than six months of training. At first, I was hurt, disappointed and even embarrassed. Then, it occurred to me that I actually finished the marathon. It was my first time. Now I’m proud of my accomplishment and I’m looking forward to trying again next year.”
Interview Questions About the Present & Future
Questions about the present and future are uncomfortable because many are uncertain about where their careers are headed. Others find it difficult to talk at length about themselves or their own goals. Some of the most common questions regarding the present or future are:
- Where do you see yourself in five years?This question is often a double edged sword. Interviewers are attempting to see if the candidate is interested in rapid advancement. Job seekers who expect to advance more rapidly than preferred by a prospective employer are often eliminated from the hiring process as they are not viewed as candidates with long-term potential. Interviewees should preface their answers with a statement addressing their intention to work for the employer on a long-term basis.
- What is your biggest weakness? When asked this question, one should describe a weakness in brief detail. Then soften the uncomfortable moment by describing the measures that have been taken to overcome it. For instance: “My greatest weakness is that I can be shy at times, but I’ve overcome that weakness by joining a book discussion club. The interactions have really helped me to come out of my shell.”
- Why do you want this job? This question should be addressed using language that will express the candidate's short-term and long-term career aspirations. For instance: "I am attracted to the data processing position because I enjoy using my technical skills in environments where high productivity is necessary. The work is similar to what I've done in the past, so I'm confident I'd be a good fit. I am also aware of the company's advancement opportunities, and I find them very attractive."
- Why should we hire you? What can you add to our company? A candidate should answer this question with a list of three or more viable examples of how his or her past or present experience and skills will add value to the organization.
- Do you think you are currently overqualified for this position? The best way to answer a question about being "overqualified" is to respond by using the word "experienced."
Job interviews can be opportunities to showcase one's skills, personality, and potential to prospective employers. Candidates should remember that preparation is the key to overcoming interview anxiety.
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