3 Interview Questions You Must Know How to Answer
Job interviews are stressful. Even in the most friendly, non-confrontational interview setting, it still feels like your education, experience, and even your very character are all being called into question, and if you suffer from interview anxiety, are shy, or get nervous easily, you could come off as unfriendly, inexperienced, and not suitable for the team. The best way to overcome interview jitters is to practice, practice, practice.
The ugly truth about interviewing is that most interviewers are unskilled at conducting interviews. Most people haven’t been adequately trained in asking the right questions that get to the key attributes of a successful candidate. So while the onus of interview preparation is usually squarely on you, the candidate, you have the latitude to drive the conversation. To effectively do this, you need to develop a script communicating why you are the best person for the job. Here are the top 3 “must-know” interview questions for job seekers, along with some tips on how to frame your responses:
Tell me about yourself. This is the most common and challenging interview question because it is almost always asked, putting candidates in a difficult position to articulate a compelling response. “Tell me about yourself” is vague, and that’s what gives people trouble. However, it lets you direct the conversation to your strengths and key accomplishments. I recommend that clients craft a succinct, achievement-oriented response to this question that quickly communicates their value to the organization. Above all, limit your examples to your professional experience, not your personal interests.
Why are you looking to leave your current role? This is another interview question that is almost always asked. This is a tough one because it’s not really relevant to the new role, so there’s no need for the interviewer to know why you want to make a move. Everyone knows that most people move for one of the following reasons: dreadful boss, toxic environment, compensation, or financial troubles with their current employer. If you’re on the job market now, chances are that your reasons for wanting to move on fall into one of these buckets. A good way to respond is to frame your response around the value you bring to the organization and the value for which you want to be recognized.
What else can I answer for you? This must-know interview question is much more than a courtesy or a formality. This question allows you to ask insightful questions of the interviewer and solidify your standing as a strong candidate. This can also help you evaluate the company culture, which is imperative when you’re looking to change jobs. Some good questions to ask are:
What is the best part about working here?
Is risk-taking encouraged, and what happens when people fail?
What is the biggest opportunity for the team over the next 12-18 months?
What is the biggest pain point for your customers/clients?
How do you define success in this role?
Interviewing is hard, but proper preparation and familiarity with the must-know interview questions can help equip you with the tools needed for success. Along with interview basics such as having a firm handshake and dressing appropriately, being prepared with answers to must-know interview questions helps you make the right impression. And as always, you’ll want to send a follow-up letter in which you reiterate your strengths and the unique qualifications you bring to the job after the interview.