9 Tough Interview Questions and the BEST Answers

Summary

In this video, HR expert and job search strategist Mateline Man shares tips for answering nine of the toughest job interview questions. From 'Tell me something not on your resume' to 'What is your greatest weakness?', Man provides frameworks and sample responses to help job seekers navigate challenging questions. She emphasizes the importance of being authentic, strategic, and prepared, using real-life examples to demonstrate how to highlight your strengths and address weaknesses. The video aims to boost confidence and help job seekers land their ideal job offers.

Takeaways

• 😀 The first tough interview question is 'Tell me something not on your resume.' Answer by sharing something that reflects your values, character, or growth mindset, such as volunteering or learning a new skill.
• 😀 If asked, 'Are you interviewing with other companies?' answer honestly, stating you're in multiple interview processes, and mention why you're particularly interested in this opportunity.
• 😀 For the question 'Describe yourself in three words,' choose traits from the job description that align with your experience. Provide a brief example for each trait.
• 😀 'Tell me about yourself' is one of the hardest questions. Prepare a clear and concise answer using a free worksheet to help craft the perfect response.
• 😀 When asked, 'What did you dislike about your last role?' provide a truthful, relatable answer that shows a minor frustration, without painting yourself into a corner. Don't say you disliked the core aspects of the job.
• 😀 The 'Tell me about a time you failed' question requires using the CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) method to demonstrate how you handled the failure, learned from it, and turned it into a positive outcome.
• 😀 When asked about your greatest weakness, choose something you're actively working to improve, and explain the steps you're taking to get better. Show progress and results from your efforts.
• 😀 For oddball questions like 'If you were an animal, which animal would you be?', choose an animal that embodies the trait you're trying to emphasize, such as communication or empathy.
• 😀 'Why should we hire you?' should be answered by summarizing the role's requirements, highlighting your relevant experience, and then flipping the question to ask the interviewer if they see you as a fit for the position.
• 😀 When asked about salary expectations, avoid giving a specific number. Instead, express flexibility and ask the interviewer for their salary range, so you can see if your expectations align.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the question 'Tell me something not on your resume' in job interviews?

The purpose of this question is to see you as a whole person beyond your qualifications and experience. It allows the interviewer to assess if you are a culture fit and to understand what truly drives you.

How should you respond when asked if you're interviewing with other companies?

The best response is to be honest and confident. You can say, 'Yes, I’m currently in a few interview processes, and I’m especially interested in this opportunity because [specific reason].' This shows that you are in demand and have marketable skills.

How can you effectively answer the question 'Describe yourself in three words' during an interview?

You should choose three words that align with the job description and demonstrate traits that are relevant to the role. For each word, provide a brief example from your past experience to showcase how you embody those traits.

Why is the question 'What did you dislike about your last role?' considered a good interview question?

This question helps the interviewer determine if you are a good fit for the role and company. It also helps them understand your preferences and ensures that the role you're being considered for won't lead to dissatisfaction.

What is the most important aspect when answering the question 'Tell me about a time you failed'?

The most important aspect is how you reacted to the failure and what you learned from it. You should provide a story using the CAR method (Challenge, Action, Result) to highlight how you addressed the situation and the positive outcomes that resulted.

How should you approach the question 'What is your greatest weakness' in an interview?

Pick a real weakness that you're actively working on improving, but ensure it is not a core component of the job. Explain the steps you’ve taken to address it and the progress you’ve made, demonstrating self-awareness and a commitment to growth.

What’s a good strategy for answering quirky interview questions like 'If you were an animal, which animal would you be?'

For these types of questions, focus on the trait you want to highlight for the role and build your answer around it. For example, if you want to demonstrate communication skills, you might say, 'I would be a parrot because they excel at listening and repeating information.'

How should you answer the question 'Why should we hire you?' to stand out?

Start by summarizing your understanding of the role and its challenges. Then, match your experience and skills to the needs of the role, providing specific examples of how you’ve solved similar challenges in the past. This shows that you're prepared and well-suited for the position.

What’s the best way to respond when asked 'How much are you looking to get paid?'

It’s best to avoid giving a specific number right away. Instead, express flexibility by saying you're looking for the best fit and overall package. If they insist on a number, ask them for their salary range first and then see if your expectations align.

What should you focus on when preparing for tough interview questions like these?

You should focus on understanding the role, reviewing the job description, and preparing real-life examples that align with the qualities the interviewer is seeking. Practice answering in a concise, clear manner while being authentic and confident.