Answering Interview Questions – Do You Know What to Say?

Answering interview questions – do you know what to say?  There are many different types of interviews to which you may be invited, from an informal “get to know you and learn about the job” type of interview, to a more formal, structured interview. Regardless of the type, there are certain parameters which should be followed.

• Answer each question like you are writing a paragraph, i.e. have a beginning, middle and end.
  • Start with a strong introduction to the topic and state your philosophy;
  • Describe how you would accomplish something or how you would approach it;
  • Summarize your point.
• Have answers to conventional questions already formulated.
  • “Tell me about yourself.”   This should capture relevant background information and skills that you possess, that relate to the position. Your answer should highlight your most relevant qualifications.
  • “What is your strength?” Think about a unique trait that you possess, which can be directly linked to the position for which you are applying.  Know what they are looking for.  This could be what separates you from other candidates.
  • “What is your weakness?”   Be careful to not try and capture a characterization that, in some instances, may be deemed as a weakness, but can also be perceived as a strength, i.e. “sometimes I am too eager and impatient”. You may think this translates into “I am enthusiastic and have a strong sense of accomplishment”, however, interviewers are no longer fooled by this.  Be honest with your weakness and explain how you are resolving it.
  • “Why should I hire you?” Keep this simple. Articulate your skills and some of your accomplishments that will make you stand out, and demonstrate that you are the right fit for the job.  Show them that you have done your homework and researched their company.  You know what they are looking for and you have it.
• Be prepared to answer competency based questions  formulated to ask you to relate previous experiences.
  • “Tell me a time when …” Take the time before the interview to think of some examples from previous work or other life experiences, that you will be able to speak to in the course of the interview. Don’t forget to talk about you. This is a good time to show how you take initiative, or have good judgement, or how you have accomplished something specific.
  • There is a strong belief that previous behaviour is indicative of future behaviour, so make your stories relevant to the competencies in which they are assessing.

Remember, you are being assessed on everything throughout the entire interview. Being well prepared will be evident to the hiring board. Stay professional, remain positive and let them see that you are excited to be part of their team.  And if you need some help getting ready for this all important interview, don’t be afraid to reach out to a Certified Professional Career Coach to help you prepare.

Do you know someone who is faced with this challenge? Feel free to share this post by using the share links at the top of this page. Also, if you’d like more interview tips, feel free to check out the interview resource page.