Six Smart Answers to the Toughest Job Interview Questions

The dreaded job interview. What are they going to ask me? What should I say? Should I be more confident or more deferential? I don’t want to seem obnoxious but I don’t want to come across as an ass-kisser either. Let us steer you through this sticky process and help you land that job.

1. “Can you tell me about a time you’ve clashed with a supervisor?” Never, ever bad mouth a previous boss. That displays poor character and bad judgement. You may have despised your previous boss and thought he/she was a total buffoon but it is very unwise to say that to a potential new boss. You might say that creative people often have different visions and you and your boss would sometimes have creative differences about a project but you have always respected his/her ideas and respect that someone has to make the final decision.

2. “Tell us a little bit about yourself.” Don’t mention weird hobbies such as curing your own meat or making your own ventriloquist dolls. They don’t want to hire a serial killer. Activities such as hunting can be problematic because you might be dealing with a militant vegan. Potential managers like to see a well-rounded, adventurous person. Talk about a trip you took or your interest in fitness, sports, hiking, skiing; these types of activities give the impression of overall health. FYI: You don’t have to actually do these things; they can just be of interest to you.

3. “Why do you want to work here?” Whenever someone has asked me that I feel like answering: because I need to eat and pay bills. However, that is not a good reason or them to hire you. Do your research. Hopefully, you are interviewing for a job for which you have an interest and skill set. Be specific about how you are a good fit for the job and how the job is a good fit for you. Keep this in the back of your mind: you are not asking for a job. You do want a job that will make you professionally satisfied.

4. “Why should we hire you?” Make a list. Don’t be shy. Your mindset should be that these people need you, not that you need them. Talk about successes you have had in the past. Don’t be overly egotistical and make yourself seem like a superhero. Talk about how you were part of a great team and you were able to accomplish your goals but how you also took the lead in certain areas and were proactive in making decisions. Make it clear that you are a serious person and expect to be taken seriously.

5. “Why do you want to leave your current job?” You are looking for opportunities for growth. It was a great experience working there, great company, great bosses and managers, but you are looking to expand into different areas. Talk about the specific areas in which you want to grow and how you see the company being able to meet your goals.

6. “What is your biggest weakness?” Please do not say that you work too hard or that you are a perfectionist. Those are the most obvious and lamest responses. Try saying that you have had trouble giving your honest opinion about what you really think of a colleague’s work because you do not want to insult the person but you are working on being more forthcoming. Say that you are working on offering valuable criticism when appropriate.