How to Deal With Awkward Job Interview Questions


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Job interviews can be pretty nerve wracking. As you wait in the lobby anxiously waiting to hear your name called, you consistently file through the list of answers and information you’ve memorized and prepared. Your name is called, you walk into the office, and the interview begins.

“So tell me about yourself.” And you have no idea where to start. This question is the first of a short list of questions that are always asked during interviews that can be hard or awkward to answer. When asking you this question, the interviewer isn’t implying that he or she wants to know about all the details of your life story. Rather, what this question is really designed to get out of you is what you believe you can offer the company and what skills you have that you can bring to the job. Don’t feel stumped when asked this question. Get into the mind of the interviewer and answer in ways that sell yourself the best. Answer according specifically to the job position or type of company that you are applying for.

Another question that can be awkward to answer is the infamous, “Why did you leave your last job?” This can be especially tricky to answer if you were fired or you quit under sketchy circumstances, in which case you’re going to want to script an answer to this question beforehand that focuses on the positive as opposed to the negative. Whenever you are asked a question to which you could easily form a negative answer, you always want to try to put a positive spin on it.

“So, what would you say your weaknesses are?” Take a breath and focus. This is yet another one of those awkward to answer questions. You are in the midst of trying to sell yourself to this company and now they want to know about your flaws. The interviewer will be looking to see what characteristics or skills you choose to focus on. Remember, don’t stay in the negative. As you bring up your flaws answer in a way that suggests that these are the things you are working on.

“And why would you like to work here?” You’re thinking, “Because I need a job.” But that should definitely not be your answer. If you like this company and want to be a part of their team, then make it known! If you don’t know that much about the company, let them know that you are interested in seeing if you can fit into their work environment and bring something valuable to their team of employees. Sell, sell, sell.

“Now, do you have any questions for me?” Instantly you retort in your head, “Why would I have questions for you? I just want to know if you’re going to hire me or not.” Don’t answer with a stock response because it shows a lack of interest and intrigue in the business of the company. Think on your feet and if you’ve gathered some information about the company during the interview, incorporate that into your question.

Remember, interviews are double sided. The company is trying to figure out if you fit the bill and you are there to find out if this is a job and environment you really want to be a part of.

Michelle Abrams writes for a discount vouchers website where you can find discount vouchers and Comet discount codes.

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