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You Asked Career Advice: Questions

How do I answer those tough Interview Questions?

Jul 25, 2006

Many of you have asked about those psychological questions and group interviews - so how do you handle these types of Interviews?

I've had a flurry of responses to an article telling readers to relax for the interview - that mostly what the employer is looking for is how you think and react on your feet - meaning what do you do under pressure?

Yes, many interviewers will use this time as a power play for their own personal gain. Yes, this means they do enjoy putting you through all the hoops, whistles and psychological stress.

You must remember to keep your cool, keep your temper and your patience, and keep your mind active. Listen to what is actually asked - don't try to think of an answer before the person has even finished asking the question. Take a moment to compose your answer - yes, they will appreciate this on your part as actually thinking rather than just a quick answer - this shows you do take their work seriously.

You will be asked about your future goals - talk about achievements you want to accomplish in general terms. For example - do not say you want to be the president of a company in five years - this shows a total lack of business acumen and comes off more as a "wise-guy" approach. Also, don't talk too much about personal life - it would be okay to say you want to work with your Baseball team and win the tournament next year, but to say you want to be married by the summer is TOO MUCH personal information and would be used against you (not a company person, looking out for self, will this person take time off for maternity/paternity leave, etc.) However, it is good to HAVE a plan of some kind in place - ie - you intend to have a down payment for a house or condo within three years - this shows planning and financial responsibility - both traits desirable for the working world!

And yes, you will someday have that interview from hell - one where nothing goes right, be it you or the interviewer. Just stay in control - use it to your advantage. If you feel the interview has become a waste of time - tactfully end the interview: "I appreciate your taking the time to explain the company and the position, and at this time this is not the right match between us".

Yes, it happened to me. I was being interviewed for a training position with a large computer firm. Nothing was going right - three men in pinstripe suits looking down their noses at an up-and-coming with proven previous experience young lady. I decided to end our agony - I stood up, said "Gentlemen, I appreciate your time, but this is not the position for me" - and I shook their hands and left. I didn't get halfway down the hall when one of them came running after me - stating while yes, I was NOT for this position, they did have another sector I would be perfect for - would I be interested? (yes, I did get that contract - for their outside clients). Interesting, the three gentlemen gave me a high recommendation for the other sector - they said they appreciated my honesty and ability to take charge and assess a situation.

The morale? You never know when an opportunity will present itself - so always act with courtesy and respect - for yourself as well as others - this can turn a negative situation into a positive one!

On a lighter note - see if you can answer any of the questions in this week's

blog.

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