How to handle tough interview questions

There are 1000s of candidates looking for jobs right now and employers don’t have to compromise. They will persevere until the right candidate comes along who ticks all the boxes.

If you get called up for an interview, make sure you have the answers to tick all the boxes. Interview questions have become complex and are tougher than ever before. So avoid stumbling and stuttering your way through your answer when the interviewer asks you a question and respond with a confident answer.

Preparing for tough interview questions

1. Tell me about yourself…
This is your elevator pitch, your opportunity to succinctly reference your academic qualifications and how you gained your skills/experience related to the role you are applying for.

2. What do you know about this company?
Make sure you’ve done your research and looked at their website and/or asked people who work there about the company, what it stands for, the culture and why they like working there.

3. Tell me about any recent developments that have occurred in the marketplace that may affect our business
Look at industry news and trends to understand the industry landscape.

4. How would you add value to our company?
Think about the role you are applying for and match your skills, experience and qualifications to show you have what they want. Go the extra mile and add how you were proactive at Uni or at your previous jobs in organising or leading initiatives to bring people together for charity or other activities.

5. Give me an example of when you had to solve a problem at work, how did you do it and what was the outcome?
You’ll have lots of these. Think of relevant problems that relate to the position you are applying for so you can show how you’ve overcome or handled the situation.

6. What is your biggest achievement in life?
I’m sure you’ve had many of these too. Pick out sporting, academic, voluntary, charitable or travel related example.

7. Tell me 3 main weaknesses you have
Everyone hates this question and it could be asked in a different way to elicit your weaknesses. Always turn your weakness into a positive. For example: Public speaking is a weakness, however I have joined Toast Masters, a Debating team or speak at a Networking group which has improved my confidence.

8. Why should we hire you?
Avoid the obvious answer – because I’m the best person for the job. Reiterate the skills, experience and/or academic qualifications you have and how you will add value to the company. Include your interest in the industry and based on your research you share the same work ethic and believe in the product/service.