Interview questions are not as straightforward as they seem, and answering just one question incorrectly may put you out of the running for a job.
The moral of the story? Be ready to read between the lines.
Here are seven of the most common interview questions, what the hiring manager is really asking, and how you should respond:
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“How do your education, work history, and professional aspirations relate to the open job?”
How to respond: Select key work and education information that shows the hiring manager why you are a perfect fit for the job and for the company.
For example, a recent grad might say something like, “I went to X University where I majored in Y and completed an internship at Z Company. During my internship, I did this and that (name achievements that match the job description), which really solidified my passion for this line of work.”
2. “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“Does this position fit into your long-term career goals? Do you even have long-term career goals?”
How to respond: Do NOT say you don’t know (even if you don’t) and do not focus on your personal life (it’s nice that you want to get married, but it’s not relevant). Show the employer you've thought about yourcareer path and that your professional goals align with the job.
3. “What is your greatest weakness?”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“Are you self-aware? Do you know where you could stand to improve and are you proactive about getting better?”
How to respond: A good way to answer this is with real-life feedback that you received in the past. For instance, maybe a former boss told you that you needed to work on your presentation skills.
Note that fact, then tell the employer how you've been proactively improving. Avoid any deal breakers (“I don’t like working with other people.”)or cliche answers (“I’m a perfectionist and I work too hard.”).
4. “What motivates you to perform?”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“Are you a hard worker? Am I going to have to force you to produce quality work?”
How to respond: Ideal employees are motivated internally,so tell the hiring manager that you find motivation when working toward a goal,contributing to a team effort, and/or developing your skills. Provide specific example that supports your response.
Finally, even if it’s true, do not tell an employer that you’re motivated by bragging rights, material things, or the fear of being disciplined.
5. “Tell me about a time that you failed.”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“How do you respond to failure? Do you learn from your mistakes? Are your silent?”
How to respond: Similar to the “greatest weakness”question, you need to demonstrate how you've turned a negative experience into a learning experience.
To do this, acknowledge one of your failures, take responsibility for it,and explain how you improved as a result. Don’t say you've never failed(Delusional, much?), don’t play the blame game, and don’t bring up something that’s a deal breaker (“I failed a drug test once…”)
6. “Why do you want to work here?”
What the hiring manager is really asking…
“Are you genuinely interested in the job? Are you a good fit for the company?”
How to respond: Your goal for this response is to demonstrate why you and the company are a great match in terms of philosophy and skill. Discuss what you've learned about them, noting how you align with their mission, company culture, and reputation.
Next, highlight how you would benefit professionally from the job and how the company would benefit professionally from you.
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