How to Ace Tricky Interview Questions

Interviews can be nerve-wracking. The anticipation, the pressure, and those tricky questions that require careful and strategic responses – they can all make you feel like you're walking on thin ice.

Nobody wants to stumble when faced with unexpected curveballs. However, with the right preparation and guidance, you can turn these questions into opportunities to showcase your skills, experience, and unique qualities

I help job seekers prepare for and nail interviews to land their next role every day, and we often talk about three questions and how to answer them.

If you have any specific questions or need personal assistance in your interview preparation, feel free to reach out. I'm here to support you in your journey towards interview success.

Question 1: "Tell me about yourself."

This seemingly simple question is often asked at the beginning of an interview to assess your fit for the role and gain insight into your skills and experiences.?

It's crucial to provide an engaging and relevant response that showcases your suitability for the position.

Start off with a hook that grabs the interviewer's attention and highlights your enthusiasm for the role.?

Then, focus on elaborating on your relevant experiences, emphasizing achievements and skills that directly relate to the position.?

Tailor your response to align with the job requirements, emphasizing how your past experiences have prepared you for the responsibilities and challenges associated with the role.

You want to convey your passion for the industry, your positive qualities, and your motivation to contribute to the company's success.

Remember to keep your response concise and impactful. Practicing your answer beforehand will help with this.

Question 2: "Why should we hire you over someone more qualified?"

This question is asked to assess your confidence, interest in the role, and unique selling points, so use this opportunity to demonstrate your value.

Confidence is key here. Express belief in your abilities and highlight specific achievements or experiences that set you apart from other candidates.?

Emphasize your strong work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to continuously learn and grow professionally.?

Showcase your enthusiasm for the role and company, highlighting your alignment with their values and goals.

This question also allows you to reveal your X-factor – a unique aspect of your background or skills that the interviewer may not be aware of yet. It could be a special talent, a language proficiency, or experience in a niche area that makes you a valuable asset to the company.

Use this question as an opportunity to highlight your competitive edge and leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

Question 3: "Why are you leaving your current role?"

When asked this question, it's essential to respond diplomatically and not to criticize your current or former employer.

So my best advice for this is to focus on turning any negative aspects into positive ones.?

Avoid phrases that imply dissatisfaction or negativity about your previous / current role. Instead, focus on positive reasons for seeking new opportunities.?

For example:

If your previous role was a bit toxic, say you have a desire for a more collaborative and supportive work environment.?

If you found your role stagnant, express your eagerness to continue growing and taking on new challenges.?

If the role didn't align with your passions, discuss how you are seeking a position that better aligns with your skills and interests.

By providing positive explanations for leaving your current role, you demonstrate professionalism, a forward-thinking mindset, and a genuine desire to find the right fit with the company you're interviewing with.

Nailing tricky interview questions requires preparation, confidence, and practice to increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and securing the job.?

Remember, practice makes perfect, so rehearse your responses with a mentor, friend, or even in front of a mirror to ensure a polished delivery.

If you need some help in preparing for your interview or would like personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. Good luck with your interview!

Jack Kalb, CPA, CA | Minted Search Group