What do you do if you're faced with challenging interview questions?

1 Stay Calm

When faced with a tough question, your first reaction might be panic. However, maintaining composure is critical. Take a deep breath and allow yourself a moment to collect your thoughts. Remember, it's perfectly acceptable to take a brief pause before responding. This demonstrates thoughtfulness and composure, traits that are highly valued in any professional setting. Use this time wisely to structure your answer in a way that highlights your competencies and aligns with the job requirements.

2 Understand Fully

If you're presented with a challenging question, make sure you understand it completely before you start to answer. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if something isn't clear. This shows that you're attentive and committed to providing a thoughtful response. It also gives you extra time to formulate your answer. Listen carefully to the interviewer's words and ask relevant follow-up questions if necessary. This will help you tailor your answer more effectively and avoid potential misunderstandings.

4 Show Adaptability

Interviewers often ask difficult questions to gauge your adaptability and problem-solving skills. Emphasize how you've successfully navigated challenges in the past. Share examples of when you had to adjust to unexpected changes or think on your feet. Highlighting your flexibility demonstrates that you're capable of handling the unpredictable nature of a dynamic work environment, which is particularly important in higher education where change is frequent.

5 Be Honest

There might be times when you don't have an answer to a question, and that's okay. Honesty is always the best policy in an interview. If you're unsure about an answer, admit it and express your willingness to learn or find out more. This shows integrity and a genuine interest in self-improvement. Employers appreciate candidates who are honest about their limitations but are eager to grow professionally.

6 Reflect Positively

End your responses on a positive note by reflecting on what you learned from the experience or how it contributed to your professional development. Even if the situation you're describing was challenging or didn't turn out as planned, focusing on the positive aspects can demonstrate resilience and a growth mindset. Employers are looking for candidates who can learn from their experiences and apply those lessons to future situations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?