There are so many other questions that may be challenging, but I am going to focus on the ones people may think are generally challenging. We can have another post or series on more, but for now lets focus on the top 3 that I have witnessed people having struggles with.
Tell me about yourself?
What's one of your weaknesses?
Why did you leave (or are leaving) your last employer?
Simple questions, that can be difficult to answer. Well, that is why I am here. And although my recommendations are not the only answers, my goal is to steer you in the right direction.
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF?
The above photo at least conveys how it may feel when you are asked that question. All eyes are on you after they ask you this question. Some may think that everything they need to know is on the resume, and you are right! To an extent. Your job it to make that resume come to life. Why and how is your resume and experience different from others? What is your story, personally and professionally? What brought you here? Who is the person they see?
WHAT'S ONE OF YOUR WEAKNESSES?
This can be an intimidating question to answer. But, one thing I want to caution you on is to not sound like a super-invincible hero. One mistake I've seen was people not being able to identify a weakness because they may feel they have it all together or they weren't prepared to speak to that question because, after all, interviews are about telling them how great of an candidate you are - right?
WHY DID YOU LEAVE (OR ARE LEAVING) YOUR LAST EMPLOYER?
Some may not consider this a tough question, but in my experience, I've seen people bomb this question. Essentially, it isn't about your last employer. I want to see how you handle yourself and speak of others. It's more so a question to help give more insight about your character. For one, it isn't flattering to speak negatively of your previous employer, because that is what I as the interviewer may think you would do to my organization. If you had an unpleasant experience with your previous, or latest, employer - only depict the positives and expound on how it brought you to this moment.
LETS WRAP IT UP!
Don't mind if I do. Overall, when you tell an employer about yourself, practice telling your story. Not from where you were born or too personal of details but expound on your niche. If your job you are interviewing for is more so Customer Service related, give supporting details.
Example: I've always had a passion for helping people in any way I can. I am all for providing an experience for anyone who walks through the door. Working at [insert first job on resume] helped me sharpen those skills when working in the reception area...
Weaknesses can be difficult to discuss because some may not want to dwell on anything they feel is negative. Your goal is to not make it negative. Be honest.
Example: Procrastination has been an issue in the past however I am proud to say I have overcome that by putting plans in place by setting my own internal deadlines. Even if I have a deadline to you, I will also preset one for myself. Over the years I have found that to be beneficial for both my employer and I.
Saying things like I am too organized or too nice to people is an obvious way to say that "nothing needs improvement" when we are human and all know we have areas we can work on as a person.
Honesty and being yourself is key but you have to polish it to ensure that you are being your best-professional self. It may take practice and a couple of interviews to know how you would like to present yourself and be perceived. But what ever you do, be consistent in your approach even after signing your Offer Letter!
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