Jobs-Search

Finding a job in these tough economic times is not easy. Job hunting can always be really stressful. Fear of the unknown is the norm until the time of the interview. You do everything you can to prepare, but what about those tough interview questions?

Most importantly might be the infamous question “Tell Me about Yourself”? This is a hard one because there answer can be so broad. Please don’t talk about your hobbies and family. Use this opportunity to discuss your experience and accomplishments. Take care to talk about things that are relevant to the position you are applying for.

Another big question always asked is “Why Should I Hire You”? Don’t be afraid to be boastful here, but respectfully so. Show your credence in yourself and what you can offer the company. A job interview is competitive and gives you the chance to showcase your talents. Tell your prospective employer about what sets you apart from the other candidates.

And then there is always “What is Your Greatest Weakness”? This is the question that might very well be the most difficult to address. The biggest mistake is using a positive thing and trying to turn it into a weakness. For example, taking your job too seriously is not a weakness and turning it around to look like a weakness defeats the reason for the question. Be forthright about what you perceive as a weakness and how you are addressing it and trying to conquer this weakness. Answering this question in a forthright manner willingness to grow and what company doesn’t want an honest person as part of the team.

And then the question is “Are You a Team Player”? This question is often viewed as a simple yes/no question. The obvious answer is yes but be prepared to offer some good examples on how you work well with others. Discuss how working as part of a team with others has helped you in work or school. This question often leads to questions about how you deal with differences of opinions in the workplace so be prepared to answer.

A question all employers love to ask is “How Do You Handle Conflict with a Supervisor”? This is not always an easy question to answer. The easiest way to answer is to treat the conflict with a supervisor as you would with anyone else that you work with. Talk about asking to have a meeting with this supervisor. Perhaps the most important thing that your prospective employer may be looking for is that you will not cause a scene and that you don’t have a problem with authority.