Expert Tips for Tackling Tough Interview Questions with Confidence

Having a job interview can be nerve-wracking by itself without stressing about what questions you will be asked. So we have created a productive plan to use when you have an interview in which we show how you can discuss your wage expectations, resume gaps, and yes, flaws, in a simple and helpful manner with some expert tips.

Firstly some tips to help prepare for the interview and when asked those tricky questions. Being prepared helps build your confidence going into the interview and recruiters will be looking for someone who is confident and calm. Your interviewer's perception of you is just as important as your actual qualifications.?

Before the interview:

• Research the company before the interview for a solid understanding of the company and the position. Employers evaluate your motivation and interest by how much you know about their business.
• Prepare your answers to common questions (the questions and sample answers are listed below)

During the interview:

• Stay positive and calm. Make sure you respond to the interviewer's question by paying close attention to what they say.
• Connect your abilities, successes, and goals to the business's needs and use the STAR (situation, task, action and result) method when answering questions about yourself.
• If you don’t know how to answer a question, just be honest about it
• Talk in plain, direct terms. Stay away from filler words like "um" and "like." Make your argument quickly and concisely.
• Always ask questions after the interview and for the role, ask questions as if you already have the role

After the interview:?

• Follow up once if you have not heard from the company by the end of the hiring deadline they first specified. Contact the interviewer or human resources representative by phone or email. Ask about the revised hiring schedule and reiterate your interest in the job.
• Analyze how well you did. A question or two stumped you? Think about how you can strengthen your responses for the next interview.
• Consider what you learnt during the interview about the role and the company. Consider whether the position would support your priorities and objectives.

Common interview questions and sample answers

Having a job interview can be nerve-wracking by itself without stressing about what questions you will be asked. So we have created a productive plan to use when you have an interview in which we show how you can discuss your wage expectations, resume gaps, and yes, flaws, in a simple and helpful manner.

So, tell me more about yourself.

This is a question that interviewers will probably ask you early on, or you may be required to respond to it during preliminary phone interviews or recruiter screenings. In your response, you should give a brief overview of your schooling, your career highlights and accomplishments, and the factors that led you to the position you're asking for.

Why did you apply for the position?

Employers frequently ask this question to make sure you've given your decision to apply for a job at their company some thought and consideration. If you're switching sectors or work roles, this query can be especially significant. Make sure to highlight why you like the company and explain why you are a good fit for the position,

Example: "When I started looking for a new job, I specifically looked for organizations that value innovation, philanthropy, and honesty, and your firm tops the list. I'm searching for a job where I can apply my enthusiasm for fantastic user experience since your company has always been forward-thinking and employed technology to assist improve the customer experience and I believe with my previous experience I would be the perfect fit for the role.’’??

What is your reason for leaving your current position?

Understanding this information is important for employers. They can use it to determine whether the position will be a better fit for you, make sure they can fill any gaps left by your prior employer, or determine whether you may have contributed to a bad experience for both of you. Answer truthfully, but avoid revealing too much unpleasant or personal information.

Example: "While I much enjoyed my time spent at my former employer, there are now few prospects for growth that are consistent with my professional objectives. This role is a wonderful fit for my skill set and professional advancement goals.’’

What is your biggest flaw?

To determine if you have a sense of self-awareness and how you're attempting to develop, employers may inquire about your weaknesses.

Example: "I've been working on improving one of my weaknesses, which is my capacity to offer helpful feedback. I realize how vital it is to give comments on work or projects that could have been handled more effectively. I'm writing down my criticism before I speak with my colleagues to help us fix this. This enables me to prepare my response beforehand, provide the best criticism I can, and feel less anxious.’’

I noticed a gap in your resume, could you tell me more about that?

Being unemployed may indicate a lack of drive or effort. Employers inquire about your activities since your last position in order to determine whether you have been effectively managing your time. It's always a plus if you're eager to discover more about your interests and self. Let them know how you made the most of your time off to set the route for your future endeavours.?

Example: ‘‘I left my previous job because I recognized I needed to change careers because my work had grown incredibly repetitive. I took some time off to reflect on what it was that I really wanted to pursue. I reviewed case studies, read up on the newest in business and technology, and worked on my communication skills to become better prepared for my next career opportunity.’’

What is your expected salary?

Employers inquire about your expected salary in order to grasp your expectations. It's crucial to request a reasonable sum that is based on your knowledge and experience.? Investigate similar careers and their salaries by doing some research beforehand.

Example: "Considering my experience and skills, I'm seeking anything about €30,000 per month. I'm more enthusiastic about the prospect of this opportunity, though. I'm willing to negotiate on the same.’’

An interview is merely a chance for you to present your strongest professional attributes. Recognize that you are the only person getting in your way. Remain calm, honest, and assured in your actions. Preparation is key. Good luck!

Check out our program on Interview Preparation and how we help prep you for the big interview by conducting mock interviews, company research and insightful tips to calm your nerves and build your confidence to smash the interview!