Preparation for a job interview is essential; however, if you're not preparing for tough interview questions, you could be caught off guard. Explore unusual questions that hiring managers commonly ask prior to the interview so you can present yourself professionally and show you're prepared to take on any challenge.
Where Do You See Yourself in Five or 10 Years?
Although it's difficult to predict the future, when asked this question during a job interview, you must have a prepared response that shows you're loyal to the companies you plan to work for in the future. Tell the hiring manager you plan to make an impact at his company long term, but avoid offering any personal goals that could reveal too much information about your family status.
What Is Your Biggest Weakness?
Employers are trying to pinpoint skills that need improvement when asking these types of interview questions during a job interview. Avoid sounding too general and hone in on skills that are in progress. For example, detail hardware and software programs you wish to gain mastery, yet already have some proficiency. Make sure you are not responding with phrases such as "I work too hard" or "I'm too nice." Employers can see right through these types of responses and may question your honesty.
Why Did You Leave Your Last Position?
Even if you left your last position because of your lack of skills or a disagreement with a supervisor, refrain from divulging this type of information during a job interview. Instead, focus on your career goals. For instance, if you did not feel there was room for advancement at your former company, share these details. Focus on skills that you have that were not utilized and explain you want to make a stronger impact at the employer's company.
Tell Me About Yourself
As one of the most commonly used questions in a job interview, "tell me about yourself" can be a little tricky for job seekers. The employer is not interested in your personal accomplishments, family status or hobbies. Instead, the hiring manager wants to know more about your professional accomplishments. Refrain from just repeating information that appears on your resume or cover letter. Expand upon not only your tasks and duties at each former position, but also detail how you worked well with teams, supervised employees and increased sales or profits. Outline your professional honors and recognitions during this 30-second pitch.
Tough questions often derail candidates during a job interview. Show you're not unnerved by maintaining a professional demeanor with positive body language and focusing on your accomplishments, skills and experience. Offer honest information about your work with your past employers and explain how you can make an impact at this company.
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