Preparing for Tough Interview Questions

Preparing for Tough Interview Questions

With candidates interviewing daily with potential new employers, our job is to relieve much of the stress associated with daunting and unpredictable interview questions, to help you put your best foot forward.

We have all heard horror stories of the “How many pingpong balls fit inside a bus?” and other questions asked during an interview, however the important part to remember is that the majority of interviewers stick to relatively normal questions that you would expect to find in an interview such as:

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Why did you apply for this job?
  • Can you tell me about your strengths and/or weaknesses?

Here is how we coach our candidates to ensure their interview process is as stress-free and smooth as possible:

  • Learn about the company

Take time to learn as much about the company you are interviewing for, as possible. Start with their website and don’t be afraid to ask us any questions, if you are partnering with us in your employment search. We want to eliminate your stress as much as possible and help you through the interview process. Also try a Google search and read any news articles and recent events you can find on the company, as well. When you are asked questions pertaining to the company such as, “What made you apply for this job,” you can answer intelligently by pulling from information you researched. Client hire people who are interested in them, want to work for them, and know who they are and what they do.

  • Identify your strengths

Before you go into your interview, know why a company should choose you. If you don’t know- neither will they. Narrow down your key competencies to a few reasons why they should choose you and use them as a theme throughout your answers without directly overstating them. Feel free to work directly with us, to determine why we feel you are a good candidate to send, as well. There are key competencies we picked out about you and already mentioned to the client, so you should also be aware of those prior to an interview.

  • Know your personality

Your fit in the workplace culture is even more important than having the skills to do a job. Companies will teach skills to someone that fits in their company and on their team. If you do not fit in the culture, regardless of your skills, you might be overlooked for a position. Know the values of the company and research this in detail. Knowing how to answer questions about yourself as they fit into the company’s culture will benefit you in the end.

  • Find comfort in the unexpected

Interviewers usually have one unexpected question to ask you to see how you think when you aren’t prepared. This gives them a glimpse into the “real you” and not the rehearsed answers to their questions. Remember to take your time, stay positive and find a way to connect with your interviewer during this process. The question can create tension and hesitation, but it doesn’t have to be awkward.

 

How you handle yourself in the interview will show the interviewer how you handle high stress situations and if you would be a good fit for their company and position. Prepare good answers to potential questions, find your confidence, and make it easy for them to choose to move forward.

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