Answers That Could Make or Break Your Job Interview

Advisor October 30, 2020

Getting a good job can sometimes be challenging. There’s so much competition and so many screening processes to deal with. There are tests, discussions, evaluation assignments, and whatnot. It’s definitely not something you can take lightly. And even if you make it through all these initial stages, you’ll eventually have to face a couple of one-on-one interviews at different levels to get the final job.

Pexels | Your answers during an interview determine whether you’ll land the job or not

While you may be confident about your performance in tests and assignments, interview outcomes are something that can never be accurately predicted. Despite being prepared well, you can lose out on an opportunity due to a few unsatisfactory answers, wrong approach, or lack of confidence. As such, it’s imperative to know what not to do at interviews if you want to crack them.

On that note, allow us to walk you through a couple of common questions and the appropriate way to handle them.

Question – Please tell us something about yourself

Confidence is the key here. Frame your answer well. Start by telling them about your past job experiences, and then go on to describe your hobbies and interests. Being hesitant is normal, but it shouldn’t lead to stammering or fumbling.

Read – How To Stay Calm And Avoid Nervousness?

Question – What’s your dream job?

Never hang on to a specific position. This is a common mistake made by many. That’ll make the interviewer suspicious. Rather, communicate that you’re looking to work in a progressive environment or in a company that offers high growth prospects.

Question – What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Do not exaggerate. Be specific and clear. Start with your weaknesses first and then cover up with the strong skill-set you’ve acquired. Don’t miss out on communicating that you’re working on overcoming your weaknesses and turning them into your strengths soon.

Pinterest | A commonly asked question is around your strengths and weaknesses

Question – Who do you think is hard to work with?

This is a tricky one. Adopt a diplomatic approach here. Start by explaining the different personalities of people you know, and then gradually slide into saying that it could be challenging, but if you know how to convince people, nothing is difficult.

Question – What’s the reason behind leaving the previous job?

The best answer to this would be that you were looking for growth but couldn’t find relevant opportunities in your previous job. Saying this would stop you from criticizing your last job, and also create a nice impression.

Question – Do you have any questions?

The best way to tackle this is by clearing your doubts. Don’t pretend. Raise queries if you’ve not understood anything. Pose questions related to your position or ask for some advice for the future.

Read – How Should You Dress Up For An Interview?

Pexels | When given an opportunity, clear all your doubts through sensible questions

Wrapping Up

Always stay calm during an interview, and don’t ask any awkward questions. Some interviewers have a habit of asking stressful questions. If you ever face such a situation, use some humor to think calmly and then answer. This way, the interviewer would be convinced that you can handle stressful situations.