Tips for tricky interview questions
You might come out of an interview wondering why you mumbled through what with hindsight seemed like simple questions. Here are some common questions you can expect in most interviews and suggestions on how to respond.
Why do you want this job? This should be straightforward, but many trip up either by not directly answering the question or giving responses that are too ‘me; focused. When a potential employer asks you why you want to work at their organisation, it can almost seem like a trick question, but it’s not.
Feel free to share your career aspirations but make sure you also say something about how the organisation will benefit if they hired you. Avoid mentioning money or benefits at this stage. You will have a chance to discuss such details later.
Why should we hire you? Don’t ever go into an interview without researching the organisation. Your response to this question will usually reveal if you really want to work for the organisation and if you would be a good fit. Show that you understand the wider mission of the organisation and the requirements as indicated in the job advert.
Tell them some positive things about the organisation if you can and show how your strengths would be an asset. Share relevant achievements from previous jobs. If your qualifications are your biggest assets rather than on the job accomplishment, explain how those qualifications will enhance your capacity to do the job.
Why do you want to leave your current job? Don’t ‘bash’ your former employers, your managers or offload your negative experiences from other organisations.
Continues next week.
