Interviews can be extremely frustrating and are usually nerve-racking, unless you’re prepared. Then again, preparing for an interview is just as difficult as being in one, unless you read this article and prepare your own answers for some of the most common asked questions by recruiters.
1. “What was missing from your last role?”
As hard as it is on the spot, be as specific as you can because if you fire back with an answer containing any ambiguity, you’re going to be pressed for specificity. Try to recall one or two events that encapsulated exactly what was missing, instead of an overall description of it.
2. “Your bosses, what did you think about them?”
No wasting time in this interview. Expect this question early on. What’s the est advice? Be sure to balance the negative with the positive, here. Naming qualities in a negative light will work against you. Even if you hated your incompetent, micro-managing boss, the recruiter is looking to see how well you can observe tact.
3. “How do you like being rewarded for good work?”
Take time before you explain how you like your back patted. The quick response would be the gratuitous kind of recognition. However, formal recognition or time-off are acceptable forms of reward as well. This question is asked to look for “congruency in behaviors.” Do you fit culturally with the company, is the moral of this question.
4. “Do you have integrity?”
Note to self: look up the formal definition of “integrity” before going on interview. The worst answer to this question would be replying with confidence, yet describing something completely different from integrity. Be specific and articulate how you’ve practiced integrity in your past position. Good rule of thumb, integrity = actions speak louder than words (just make sure the actions were admirable).
5. “Do you think age discrimination exists in the job market?”
This is another difficult question to answer, obviously depending on your age. We live in times where older, more experienced workers are taking jobs from post-college graduates at the entry-level. Also, those same older, seasoned workers are sometimes applying for jobs they’re over-qualified for and that can work against them too. Present both sides of the argument without being too partial to where you fit in the issue.
6. “So, why are you the best candidate for this position?”
Time to get paid, ladies and gentleman. This is the hand you go all in on. Understand what is expected of your position and relay how you can satisfy that. This is the moment where you need to toot your own horn without being totally brash. They must believe you’re not only the most qualified, but the most eager to start this position. Everybody wants the money of a new job. Instead, express to them how you desire the experience, knowledge and opportunity of working with fellow bright-minds.
SOURCE: Mashable
IMAGE Collegegrad.com
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