Tough Interview Questions

Tough Interview Questions:

Be prepared to encounter most of the following "tough questions" in your interview, such as:

"Why do you want to work here?"

To answer this question, you must have researched the company. You need to reply with the company's attributes as you see them. Cap your answer with reference to your belief that this can provide you with a stable and happy work environment - the interviewer's company has that reputation - and that such an atmosphere would encourage your best work.

"What kind of experience do you have for this job?"

This is a perfect opportunity to sell yourself, but before you do, be sure you know what is most critical to the interviewer. The interviewer is not just looking for a competent Director, or Manager; they are looking for someone who can contribute quickly to current projects. When interviewing, companies invariably give a broad picture of the job, but the person they hire will be someone who can contribute to the needs of the business in the first few months. Only by asking will you identify the areas of your interviewer's greatest urgency and interest.

If you do not know the projects you will be involved within the first six months, you must ask. Level-headedness and analytical ability are respected, and you will naturally answer the question more appropriately.

"What did you like/dislike about your last job?"

Interviews may start with a preamble by the interviewer about his company. If this happens pay attention; this information will help you answer the question. Any statement the interviewer makes about the job or corporation can be used to your advantage. Use this to highlight all your positives points

Note: criticising a previous employer is a warning sign that you could be a problem employee. Keep your answers short and positive.

"Why are you leaving your present position?"

If your current company is not meeting your expectations, you can often explain this in a positive way. "I need to be challenged to develop my potential further. I'm interested in additional responsibility and new opportunity, which unfortunately are limited at (name of current employer) because of (company size/limited product line/company restructuring or downsizing). The reputation and market focus of (name of prospective employer) offers many opportunities for someone with my training and experience. It's the ideal environment I've been seeking."

"How long would you stay with the company?"

The interviewer might be thinking of offering you a job. But, employers are aware that the marketplace is such that new hires often do not stay with the company more than two years. Your reply might be: "I would really like to settle down with this company. As long as I am growing professionally, there is no reason for me to make a move."

"Have you done the best work you are capable of doing?"

Say "yes" and the interviewer will think you're a has-been. As with all these questions, personalise your work history and include the essence of this reply: "I'm proud of my professional achievements to date, but my best is yet to come. I am always motivated to give my best efforts, and there are always opportunities to contribute when one is alert."

"How long would it take you to make a contribution to our company?"

You are best advised to answer this question with a question, be sure to qualify the question i.e. In what area does the company need a rapid contribution? Or, do you have a special project in mind you will want me to get involved with?" This response could lead directly to a job offer, but if not, you already have the interviewer thinking of you as an employee.

"What would you like to be doing five years from now?"

The safest answer contains a desire to be regarded and a true professional and team player.

"What are your biggest accomplishments?"

Keep your answers job-related, a number of achievements should spring to mind. Do not exaggerate contributions to major projects. You might begin your reply with: "Although I feel my biggest accomplishments are ahead of me, I am proud of my involvement with…I made my contribution as part of that team and learned a lot in the process. We did it with hard work, concentration, and an eye for the bottom line." Always remember to quantify your achievements.

"Can you work under pressure?"

You might be tempted to give a simple yes or no answer, but don't. It reveals nothing and you lose the opportunity to sell your skills. Actually, this common question comes from an unskilled interviewer, because it is closed and does not give you the chance to elaborate. Whenever you are asked one of these, provide a brief yet comprehensive answer and seize the opportunity to sell yourself. For example, you could say: "Yes, I usually find it stimulating. However, I believe in planning and time management in order to reduce panic.

"How much money do you want?"