Preparing for an interview can feel like a full-time job. You spend countless hours studying your previous accomplishments, researching the organization, comparing your skills and qualifications to the job requirements, planning your outfit, and the list goes on! You get to the point where you feel overly prepared to answer any question that comes your way, or so you think…
Today we are going to discuss some of the most difficult interview questions that you could face in your next interview. Will you be prepared to answer them?!
When you walk into the interview, remember that your interviewer is taking note of your communication skills and poise as well as the specific answers you provide to their questions.
Preparing for an interview can feel like a full-time job. You spend countless hours studying your previous accomplishments, researching the organization, comparing your skills and qualifications to the job requirements, planning your outfit, and the list goes on! You get to the point where you feel overly prepared to answer any question that comes your way, or so you think…
Today we are going to discuss some of the most difficult interview questions that you could face in your next interview. Will you be prepared to answer them?!
When you walk into the interview, remember that your interviewer is taking note of your communication skills and poise as well as the specific answers you provide to their questions.
Tell me about yourself.
I like long walks on the beach, pizza, wine…Ok, this may not be exactly the answer the interviewer had in mind. Your response should be brief, think 2-3 minutes per answer. Consider your most recent professional accomplishments and be sure to highlight how they are relevant to the position you are pursuing. The best thing you can do is to highlight how you will benefit them.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
The best way to tackle this question is to consider specific skills that could be improved and the steps you have taken to make them better.
What sets you apart from other applicants?
This is an excellent question because it gives you an opportunity to show off the knowledge you gained about the company while preparing for your interview. Discuss why you are excited about the position and what unique skills and experience you bring to the table. They also want to know how your personality fits into the culture of their company.
Tell me about a time that you didn’t work well with a supervisor. What was the outcome and how would you like to have changed what happened?
This is a tricky question and you want to be very careful when you answer. Try to keep your response positive and respectful. Even if you had a negative experience with a supervisor, discuss what you learned from that experience. If you had a difference in opinion from a previous supervisor, discuss the process that you took to address that difference and how the outcome improved the situation. Let them know that you took the time to listen to other’s opinions and you were open to collaborate to come to an agreement.
The bottom line: take time to research and prepare, communicate how you will benefit the company, and be succinct!
Mary Southern, M.Ed