Tricky Interview Questions and How To Answer Them
Being prepared for an interview makes it easier for you to show what you are truly capable of. Edge Careers have taken a look at some of the trickiest questions asked at interview and how you should answer them.
What is your biggest weakness?
This question can be a difficult one as you are being asked about your shortcomings, when your instinct, in an interview situation, is to keep your weaknesses as well hidden as possible. What you can do is frame your answer to give it a positive spin.
Strengths and weaknesses can be switched into the same thing, so another way to approach this question is to think about how you overcome the potential downside of your greatest strength. For example, if you’re a natural teamworker, is it difficult for you to cope with conflict or assume leadership abilities? How do you cope with this?
Why do you think you will be successful in this job?
You should not use this as an invitation to boast – you are being asked to match your strengths to the qualities needed to do the job. Don’t forget, it’s a very specific question. Why are you suited to this job, as opposed to any other? Thorough employer research will help you answer this question, as it will enable you to match your skills, interests and experience to the job role and the company.
Have you ever had a bad experience with an employer?
This question is a test of your ability to think on your feet and come up with a diplomatic response. Whether you sidestep the question by saying you’ve always got on well with your employers, or describe a tricky situation you’ve experienced that highlights your potential, you need to avoid attacking your previous employers. Also, be aware not to incriminate yourself.
Give an example of a time when you handled a major crisis.
This is similar to asking ‘Can you give an example of a time when you had to cope with a difficult situation?’ or ‘Give an example of a time when you had to cope under pressure’. However, ‘crisis’ is a much stronger word. You may find it easier to give an example if you think back and come up with a time when you had to cope with an unexpected problem.
Where do you expect to be in five years’ time?
This is another question that allows you to show off your employer research and understanding of your chosen career path. You’ll want to come across as enthusiastic, but not arrogant. Tailor your response to reflect the nature of the organisation, the sector, and your own experiences and skills.
What motivates you?
You are particularly likely to be asked about your motivation in a strengths-based interview, which focuses on what you enjoy doing and what you do well. Your answer should draw on an example from your extracurricular activities, work experience or studies that suggests you would be strongly motivated by the job you are applying for.
How do you manage your time and prioritise tasks?
When an interviewer asks how you manage your time, don’t just give an example of a time when you did this successfully. Your interviewer wants to know your tactics and strategies for getting yourself organised, so whatever approach you use to prioritising and listing your tasks, you should be ready to describe it.
Give an example of a time when you showed initiative.
If an interviewer asks you to describe a situation in which you showed initiative, avoid giving an example of an idea you had but never put into action. It’s much better to talk about a time when you not only came up with a solution to a problem but also acted on it. Then you can explain the effect your decision had when you put it into practice.
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