Answers to the 3 Toughest Interview Questions
Preparation is key when it comes to interviewing. As you walk into your interview you should hope for the best but prepare for the worst—already knowing how you will answer the most difficult questions that could get thrown at you. How you tackle the most challenging questions could end up making all the difference in landing the job.
Here are some of the trickiest interview questions and ways to respond:
1.) Why should I hire you?
While this is one of the most intimidating questions an employer can ask, it provides an opportunity to directly convince your interviewer why you are right for the job. If answered well, this question can bolster your case as a candidate. In order to provide a convincing response, you must already be informed about the company and position you are applying for. Make sure you’ve done your research concerning what the company is looking for, and then you can explain why you’re the right person for the job.
2.) Tell me about yourself.
This question usually comes up early on in the interview, and can set the stage for a smooth meeting. Your response should avoid trivial information while giving the employer a sense of who you are. For example, succinctly covering your recent work experience and future career goals can be done in response to this question. Try to stick to explaining your professional development rather than irrelevant hobbies or weekend activities.
3.) What is your greatest weakness?
If you do not already have a well-prepared answer to this question you are likely to get stumped or do more harm than good in your response. Cliché ‘weaknesses’ that are really strengths—such as ‘I work too hard,’—should be replaced by a more sincere trait. You can be honest about a weak point you have, followed up with how you plan to apply yourself to compensate. Another appropriate response is to list a skill that you hope to hone at your new job.
Before your next interview make sure you have thought through the answers to these as well as more basic questions. Preparation will never be wasted when you walk into an interview. And while these specific responses could be used, they should always be altered to your unique situation.