There are four broad questions all interviewers
are trying to answer when they begin interviewing you.
Why you?
Why this job?
Why our organization?
Why this career industry?
These questions can be asked in a number
of ways, some more challenging to answer than others.
And of course, you might also be asked
to talk about your weaknesses or a gap in your resume.
Leaving you wondering just how to respond.
I'm Sinéad, and coming up in this video,
I have got you covered with concise example answers
to eight difficult but very common questions.
So take notes and practice these short, direct responses.
So you can feel fully prepared to crush your next interview.
And be sure to stick around until the very end
to learn how to answer a tough interview question that even
the most polished of professionals struggle with.
These interview secrets are tips you definitely
don't want to miss.
Now, before we dive in because everybody's job search is
different, there may be some answers
that aren't an exact match to your specific personal
situation.
But that's totally OK, because you will still
be able to adopt the key phrases and tone to craft
your own unique response.
And of course, as you build upon these examples
to tailor your own responses, always
be as specific as possible and share quantifiable data
to fully showcase your impact.
All right, let's begin with question number one.
How do you handle stress?
Now you can actually start to answer this question before you
even answer this question.
Put a smile on your face, make direct eye contact,
and be aware of maintaining an optimistic attitude
through your body language.
Now, you're ready to answer with something like this,
when you are overseeing a program with multiple moving
parts, work can get stressful.
But I do my best to breathe, visualize my day,
and then focus on the most important tasks that
need to be done.
Scheduling tools and calendar reminders
are my go-to when I need to hit tight deadlines.
It's important to use key phrases
like, I focus on the task at hand, or I manage my time.
Now, on the flip side, stay away from saying anything
like stress.
I don't get stressed.
Everybody gets stressed, and a potential employer
wants to know how you handle the stress.
And of course, I tend to shut down,
or anything along those lines should definitely
be avoided also.
Responses like this could actually
seriously hurt your chances of getting a second interview.
So be sure to show optimism and a positive attitude
when talking about how you handle stress.
Question number two.
Why are you looking for a new job?
Oh yeah, this one can be a bit tough to answer.
Sure, you might just be ready for a change,
but the interviewer wants to know more.
Confidence is key because if you sound insecure
in your response, you can actually
come across as untrustworthy and potentially raise
some red flags.
So start with that confident optimistic tone
that you have now mastered.
And try answering with something like, my current role
has allowed me to refine my project management skills.
But I haven't found much opportunity for growth.
I'm now in the process of looking for a position that
will allow me to use my capabilities
and work passionately for a cause I stand behind.
I'm eager to find a role that will
help me grow as a professional and use the skills I've
acquired over time.
Some key phrases you may want to consider
for this answer would be I'm looking
to grow as a professional.
I'm looking to use a certain skill,
and here is the right time to list a specific skill
in the job description for the role
that you're currently interviewing for.
I'm looking for a more challenging role,
or I want to contribute to the company's
goals and their mission.
Each of these phrases show that you
are ready to grow with a new opportunity
and that you're not just looking for more money.
And something else to keep in mind, talking trash
about your current or former employer,
no matter what your situation was, can seriously backfire.
Negativity is a turnoff, so keep your response objective
and focus on what you learned instead
of the downfalls of the job.
Now, before I move on to our third question,
be sure to hit that like button down below.
And then let us know what interview advice has
been the most helpful to you down the comments.
All right, moving on to question number three.
What is your greatest weakness?
You might be thinking, I'm sorry, show off my weaknesses
seems like a trick question, right.
As if the entire interview itself doesn't already
make us feel vulnerable enough.
But don't worry, you guys, there are actually
so many great ways to answer this question as long as you
keep your tone sincere and own what makes you human.
Here's an example.
In my early career, I didn't know how to prioritize my work.
I learned pretty quickly that understanding
today's tasks and the larger impact of my job
was my responsibility.
I now start our team meeting with this is what
I have planned for the week.
Am I missing anything pressing?
That's an honest example that also shows growth,
and that's how you own your weakness.
Key phrases like, I learned, I now know, and I now
make these efforts, are great when
talking about your weaknesses.
And again, avoid dodging the question altogether
by saying things like, I have no weaknesses.
And definitely don't try to hide your weakness behind a flex
like, I work too hard.
First impressions are everything.
So even if you really do work super hard
and you're stronger than the wind,
take responsibility for your weaknesses.
They're what makes you human, and interviewers
want to get to know you.
Now, with that being said, you should also
be mindful of the job requirements for the role
that you are interviewing for.
So that you don't mention one of the necessary skills
as one of your weaknesses.
You wouldn't want to say your weakness is project management
if you're currently interviewing for a role
like a special events manager.
This one can take some practice.
So for even more on how to speak about your weaknesses
in an interview, we've got you covered with this video right
here.
Question four.
Why did you take a break in your career?
So since we are human, we may have gaps in our resume.
You want to approach this question with a genuine tone
and then add as much enthusiasm as you can.
So let's say that you took a career break to be a caretaker.
Here's a good explanation.
I took a pause in my career to devote myself
as the primary caretaker for my family, which
needed my full attention.
The break was unanticipated, but it gave me
an opportunity to be there for my family
during a time of need.
I am now eager to get back to work
and excited to see where I go for the next chapter
in my career.
The optimism just feels good, doesn't it?
Now, what if you were fired, laid off, or oh, my gosh,
you just needed some time off.
Just be honest and respond with something similar to this.
To be honest, it was a difficult time.
But I left with the confidence knowing
that I had developed important skills,
and I built strong relationships with my managers
and my colleagues.
Now, I am walking away with more knowledge than I had before,
and I am so excited to apply those experiences
to my next role.
Phrases like this is what I learned.
I did x things to stay current in my field,
replacing x with specifics, and I'm
excited to get back to work, can help
you stay confident and honest as you answer this question.
And show your motivation for the future.
Flat responses like, I needed a break with zero context
or explanation is dangerous.
Not mentioning what you did during your time away from work
to stay active in your field or further your skills
can show disinterest and a lack of ambition.
Now, let's uncover a really difficult question,
question number five.
Have you ever been fired from a position?
Of course, nobody likes this question if the answer is yes.
But if you have been fired or laid off,
and someone is now asking you to explain,
the key is to be sincere.
Demonstrate how this experience helped
you grow and speak objectively.
Here's an example.
Previously, in my career, I had a job that was not a great fit.
I honestly didn't have the experience to deliver.
But I learned so much during that period.
It's because of that experience that I
am confident that this role is one I can thrive in.
An answer like this is honest and also highlights
what the person learned from being fired.
As you prepare your own responses, lean on key phrases
like, wasn't the right fit, and since then, I
have grown and learned.
And pro-tip really practice answering this question
in full in advance.
It's not the lightest question, but it's also
not an interrogation.
So if you're prepared to answer it,
you will be able to confidently address previous mistakes
and how you've grown.
Question number six.
Why should we hire you?
Oh, now, it's time to shine humbly, of course.
Be confident, but don't brag.
Here's a great example.
From our conversation and my understanding of the position,
my unique combination of planning,
both local and international events,
could help your company reach clients in new markets.
With my motivation to succeed, and my ability
to build relationships quickly, I
feel that I could be an ideal fit for this role
and contribute to your goals quickly.
This applicant is confident and clearly ready
to conquer whatever challenge is in front of them.
To nail this question, use phrases
like I'm uniquely qualified, or I can
start making an impact quickly.
And a tip on what not to say for this one.
Avoid comparing yourself to others,
especially if it's an internal role.
This question is about your skills
and what you bring to the table.
So focus on yourself instead of comparing yourself
to some other candidate.
Question number seven.
Tell me about a time when you made a mistake at work?
One more time for the people in the back, we are human.
And sure, it is hard to discuss professional moments
that we are not necessarily proud of,
but people make mistakes.
The trick here is to turn that mistake into something
positive by explaining how you quickly
pivoted from that mistake and what you learned from it.
Here's an example.
When I was first starting out as a social media manager,
I was responsible for posting content to my company's
multiple social channels.
While I was always diligent, always double-checking copy
before publishing, one time, I included the incorrect date
in a graphic for an upcoming event.
While I worked with a designer to create the graphic,
it was ultimately my responsibility
to verify info before posting.
As soon as I noticed the mistake, I removed the post,
contacted the designer, and requested an updated graphic.
While this mistake was small, it did
teach me to always double-check copy
before posting, even when I felt so confident in the process.
Remember, the interviewer is really
wondering how you handle and overcome challenges.
Because the truth is we all make mistakes
throughout our careers.
Phrases like it taught me, or I learn from this experience
can show an employer humility, self-awareness,
and conflict resolution.
And another tip here, don't mention
a mistake you just made.
Reference a past mistake that you would
have had time to learn from.
You wouldn't have learned that much
from the mistake that happened, I don't know, last week.
All right, are you ready for the question that
can trip up even the most well practiced candidates?
It's question number eight.
Have you ever been asked to do something unethical at work?
And cue the suspenseful soundtrack.
But honestly, you guys, ethical questions
are valid and important questions
that employers ask to assess your integrity
and your approach to solving problems in the workplace.
So the key to success here is sincerity and transparency.
Remember to be a star.
S is for situation, address the situation
you may have experienced.
T is for tasks.
Explain your role.
A is for action or approach.
Provide specific examples of how you handled the situation.
And R is for result. Highlight how you applied integrity.
Now, here's an example of what this may look like.
I once had a boss that wanted me to lie to his supervisor
and was willing to quote-unquote, take
responsibility for any consequences.
But I told him I couldn't help him do something dishonest,
and then he threatened to fire me.
But I did my best to stay true to my values,
and three weeks later, my boss was
let go for dishonest behavior.
I was not only able to keep my job but also my integrity
for doing the right thing.
Now, if you've never been in an unethical situation,
you can still address your values with key phrases
like, I haven't personally been involved or looking for a work
environment where integrity is a core value.
Using these phrases shows good intentions
and righteous integrity.
So no matter what situation you may have experienced,
try to clearly emphasize your ability to act with honesty
and reiterate your core values.
This is another question that takes preparation.
An unsure answer can give off the wrong impression.
If you imply that you take part in unethical work practices,
even behaviors like cutting corners or telling white lies,
this could be a deal-breaker.
Remember, interviewers, are testing your integrity
with this question.
So be sure to always showcase your values.
Interviews are unpredictable, so let's
recap the four overarching questions most interviewers
have.
Why you?
Why this job?
Why our organization?
Why this career industry?
Once you feel good about these, put some time
into specific, more difficult questions
that we've explored today.
Preparation is key, so before your next interview,
go over the refined responses and key phrases
several times until you are feeling
confident and ready to go.
And if this video's got you feeling more prepared,
be sure to give us a like.
And then head down to the comments
and let us know what is the most difficult question you've ever
had to answer in an interview.
And before you go.
Make sure that you are subscribed to our channel right
over here.
And that you hit that notification bell
because we drop essential career advice just like this
every single week, and you definitely
don't want to miss it.
I'm Sinéad De Vries.
Thank you all so much for watching,
and I'll see you all soon.