Every job interview is likely to have at least one tough interview question that's meant to throw you for a loop or elicit revelatory information. Don't let yourself be surprised when a job recruiter or hiring manager pulls out one of these questions. Instead, think ahead, and be prepared to answer whatever tough interview question comes up. A little advance preparation can make a big difference when the hiring decision is made.
Why Should We Hire You?
This tough interview question cuts right to the point, but many job candidates neglect to prepare an answer for it. This question is a blunt way of asking why you are the best candidate for the job. To prepare for it, go through the job description point by point, and be prepared to identify exactly what skills, qualifications and knowledge you possess to meet the requirements of the job. For each point, find a specific example that illustrates why you are indeed the most qualified candidate being interviewed.
Why Are You Unemployed?
How you answer this question depends in part on why you left your last job and how long you've been unemployed. If you were downsized due to a downturn in the economy, say so honestly. If you're making a jump between industries or fields, explain your reasons for the change, and find a way to tie your old job responsibilities to the new job. If you were let go for less than flattering reasons, simply say you parted ways with the old company, and find a way to turn the discussion back to your skills and qualifications.
Tell Me About Yourself
This should be a simple question, but it's filled with potential traps that make it one of the toughest interview questions to field. Keep your answer focus on work, and leave your personal life at home. This is not the time to talk about your kids, your boyfriend or what you do for fun on the weekends. Instead, talk about work history, education and experience. Don't recite your entire resume, and keep your answer to about one minute.
Sing a Song That Describes You
No, nobody is likely to expect you to break into song in an interview. This question and others like it, however, are part of a group of unexpected tough interview questions designed to test your poise and self-image. Some companies use questions such as "How would you explain the Internet to an 8-year-old?" or "Is your mother disappointed in the path your career has taken?" to test candidates' quick thinking, deductive reasoning or personality. Google and Microsoft are especially known for tossing these types of questions at applicants during interviews.
As you wrap up your job interview, be prepared to answer one more tough interview question: the one where the interviewer asks if you have any questions. Take the time to prepare sharp, focused questions that show you understand the company and its business well. If you can answer these questions, you should make an excellent impression during your interview.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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