Handling Interview Questions

Handling interview questions

Job interviews are nerve-wracking enough without tricky questions to trip you up. It's important to remember what the interviewing process is about, to evaluate your ability to do the job. Challenging questions will allow the interviewer to see how you can think on your feet and cope with stress.

Ð'* When faced with a difficult question, there is nothing wrong with a brief contemplative pause before answering.

Ð'* Seek the opportunity to turn the question around and sell yourself, focusing on the company's needs and your abilities.

Ð'* Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if you don't understand it - try to determine what the interview is looking to find out.

Ð'* Remember the interview is a two-way process, you are there to demonstrate you ability not only to speak out but also to listen.

Ð'* Try not to stray from the point, offer relevant information to the question.

Ð'* Always offer positive information.

Interviewers' favourites:

Tell me about yourself

This is a good chance to impress an employer , but it is a deceptively simple question that can have a variety of answers. The employer is really interested in how you would fit into the company, so keep your answers as pertinent to the company and its work as possible.

Why do you want this job?

The employer wants to know that you are genuinely interested in the company, and not just looking for something to tick you over for a few months. Say that you view the position as your natural next step. You like the firm because Ð'... show off your knowledge and make all that research you have done worthwhile.

Why should we offer you this job?

You need to show how you can add new skills or ideas to the job. You could try thinking about any weaknesses you perceive in the company, and how your past experience and unique abilities could benefit the company.

Why did you leave your last job?

The interviewer may want to know if you had any problems in your last job. If you did not have any problems, simply give a reason such as: it was a temporary job or you want a job better fitted to your particular skills.

If you did have problems, honesty is the best policy. Show that you can accept responsibility and learn from any mistakes you made. Explain any problems you had and, and don't be tempted to slag off the employer concerned. Demonstrate that it was a learning experience that will not affect your future work.

What's been your biggest success at work?

The interviewer wants to see that you