How to Interview for a Job in American English, part 3/5

Summary

In this video, the presenter continues a five-part series on job interview preparation, focusing on common interview questions and effective response strategies. Highlighting the importance of maintaining enthusiasm despite setbacks, the video offers a detailed example of overcoming challenges in a professional setting. It also addresses the common question of personal weaknesses, encouraging honesty and self-improvement. Viewers are reminded of the value of preparation, and the video invites them to share their own interview experiences and questions. Overall, it aims to equip job seekers with the confidence and skills needed for successful interviews.

Takeaways

• 😀 Job interviews can be a significant source of stress and anxiety, especially in a non-native language.
• 💼 Preparing for common interview questions can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.
• 🔍 Interviewers often ask about setbacks to assess resilience and problem-solving skills.
• 📈 Practicing varied responses to common questions is crucial for effective communication during interviews.
• 🤝 Candidates should reflect on past experiences to formulate meaningful answers to interview questions.
• 📉 When discussing weaknesses, it's important to show self-awareness and a willingness to improve.
• 🎤 Public speaking is a common weakness that many candidates can relate to, emphasizing the need for practice.
• 📝 The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can be an effective way to structure responses to behavioral questions.
• 🚀 Candidates should view setbacks as opportunities for growth and innovation in their roles.
• 💬 Engaging with others' interview experiences can provide valuable insights and tips for improvement.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video series mentioned in the transcript?

The video series is designed to help viewers prepare for job interviews by discussing common interview questions and how to effectively answer them.

Why might interviewing in a non-native language increase stress for candidates?

Interviewing in a non-native language can be more stressful due to potential language barriers, difficulty in expressing thoughts clearly, and the pressure of conveying confidence in a less familiar linguistic context.

What types of questions might an interviewer ask to assess how a candidate handles setbacks?

Interviewers might ask about past experiences dealing with difficult clients or coworkers, responding to crises, giving difficult feedback, or handling disagreements with supervisors.

How can candidates prepare for the type of questions related to setbacks?

Candidates can practice responding to various versions of setback-related questions every day leading up to the interview, which helps build relevant vocabulary and confidence.

What is a recommended structure for answering the question about one's greatest weakness?

A suggested structure includes stating the weakness, explaining how it affects work, and describing efforts made to improve in that area.

What was the response given by the candidate when asked about their greatest weakness?

The candidate humorously stated that their greatest weakness is chocolate, then clarified that it is public speaking, which they are actively working to improve.

What personal experience does the candidate share regarding public speaking?

The candidate expresses that while they are comfortable in small meetings, they still experience stage fright when presenting to larger audiences, and they wish to become more comfortable to enjoy the experience.

How does the interviewer relate to the candidate's fear of public speaking?

The interviewer acknowledges that fear of public speaking is common and admits to sharing that same fear.

What is the expected outcome of a well-prepared interview according to the video?

The expected outcome is to leave the interview feeling confident and prepared, enhancing the overall interview experience.

What invitation does the host extend to viewers at the end of the video?

The host invites viewers to share their interview-related questions or stories in the comments and encourages them to sign up for a mailing list for free weekly English lessons and cultural insights.