ANSWERING THE TOUGH QUESTIONS Interviewers can put you on the spot. The best way to handle these situations is to be prepared. Below are some of the more difficult questions as well as some guidance for answering them. How did you like your last employer? Never criticize a former employer in an interview. You might
express appreciation for what you learned on that job. If pressed as to why you left, an appropriate answer can refer to your leaving “to pursue a new and challenging opportunity” or “for a situation which offers more opportunities for advancement.”
What kind of people rub you the wrong way? This is not the time to get into personal likes and
dislikes. The interviewer really wants to see if you get along well with most people. A good answer may be that you generally liked everyone with whom you have worked.
What are your major weaknesses? The best approach is to list a weakness that you are aware of and
working on. Employers are looking for self-aware individuals that are actively working on things to improve in the workplace. Something like not having great time management skills, but that you are working towards improving by implementing an agenda every day at work.
Why did you apply for this job? Be ready to cite several reasons why you think your current level of skill and interest help qualify you for the position. Also, provide several points why you are particularly interested in this position/employer (which also reflects the research you have done on the organization).
Where do you hope to be 10 years from now? You should have a feel for the direction you want to
take in your career. A good answer is that you seek the opportunity to show how well you can perform and hope to go as far as dedication to the job and working intelligently will carry you.
May I answer any questions about the job? Be prepared to ask several good questions about the job
(for example: with whom will you work, how is work evaluated, how can you learn more about the job now, etc.). At this stage of the process, do not focus on salary. Again, before you leave the interview, be sure to express interest in the job and ask what is the next step in the process and when does it happen.
Was your previous performance ever appraised? How were you assessed? From the candidate’s
answers, the interviewer can usually get an idea of their honesty. While no applicant is expected to reveal major flaws or serious shortcomings, everyone has some weaknesses and failure to admit, but expressing too much imparts a negative impression.
What are the most satisfying or frustrating aspects of your present position? The answers provide insight into what makes the applicant tick – is this candidate result oriented? Do they derive satisfaction from tangible or intangible results? Conversely, has there been difficulty with interpersonal relationships such as personality conflicts, which may have blocked efforts to reach objectives? Be careful what you say and never criticize former co-workers.
CAREER SUCCESS GUIDE
LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY 24
