Handling Common Interview Pitfalls and Tricky Questions: Tips and Strategies for Success
Congratulations on landing an interview! Interviewing is a significant step towards getting hired and achieving your career goals. Hence, it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected twists and turns that may arise during this conversation. In this post, we'll explore strategies for success, common interview pitfalls and tricky questions, providing you with the tips and strategies needed to navigate them with confidence.
What you're to read:
- Strategies For Success at An Interview
- Common Interview Pitfalls
- Possible Tricky Questions
- Conclusion
Strategies for Success
1. Stay Calm and Composed: Don't rush your answers. When asked a question, use a conversation filler to inform the interviewer you're paying attention. Then take a deep breath, pause if needed, and respond thoughtfully.
2. Ask Clarifying Questions: If unsure about a question, ask for clarification to ensure you provide a relevant response.
3. Listen Actively: Pay attention to the interviewer's questions and respond thoughtfully. You would be considered impolite or rude if the interviewer has to repeat questions because you didn't pay attention.
4. Portray Appropriate Language and Demeanour: Dress and address properly. Watch your words and your actions. Do not reach for anything (pencil, bottle of water, your files, etc.), even if it is on the table in front of you, without asking if you can have it.
5. Show Enthusiasm and Interest: Demonstrate passion for the company and role, and ask insightful questions in return.
6. Try and use the STAR Method: Structure your responses using Situation, Task, Action, and Result to provide clear and concise answers.
7. Be Your Regular Self: Be yourself, and avoid portraying a behaviour that you won't sustain when on the job.
Common Interview Pitfalls
1. Negative Talk: Avoid speaking negatively about previous employers, colleagues, or experiences. Instead, focus on the positive aspects and what you learned from the situation.
2. Lack of Preparation: Research the company, practice answering common questions, and review your resume to ensure you're familiar with your own experiences.
3. Inconsistencies: Ensure your responses align with your resume and online profiles. Inconsistencies can raise red flags and damage your credibility.
4. Pride: Being confident is a mile away from being proud. Be confident in your skillset but not boastful, and don't be a one-man army who did everything alone. Discuss your individual and team accomplishments, and give credits if needed.
Possible Tricky Questions
1. "What's your greatest weakness?" - Frame your response positively, highlighting what you're doing to improve. Here, if your greatest weakness is procrastination or forgetfulness, rather than saying it bluntly, say this: "I have developed a habit of setting up daily reminders about tasks and their completion deadlines.
2. "Why did you leave your previous job?" - Focus on positive reasons, such as seeking new challenges or opportunities for growth, change in life goals or personal reasons. For example, "At my previous job, I was in charge of sales, but I think my skillset is better tailored as a marketing manager".
3. "Where do you see yourself in five years?" - Show ambition and enthusiasm, but also demonstrate commitment to the current role. For example, as a classroom teacher, you could aspire to become a dean of studies by taking interest in the performance of students as a class master.
4." Why should we hire you?" - Use the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action and Results) to convince your interviewer. For example, "At my previous workplace, the most brillant Form 3 student had 12/20, so I was brought in to teach physics to Form 4 students. Through the hands-on and real-world approach to teaching I implemented, the weakest student in my class had 10/20 at the end of the year".
Conclusion
Interviews can be challenging, but being prepared for common pitfalls and tricky questions can make all the difference. Remember to stay positive, confident, honest, and show enthusiasm for the opportunity at hand. By following these tips and strategies, you'll be ready to handle even the toughest questions and showcase your skills, qualifications and experience confidently. Good luck!
