Behavioral based interview questions have become a popular choice with many Recruiters and HR Managers. This type of questioning allows them to learn more about a candidate’s past experience as a predictor for future performance, but there are still some companies and some interviewers who will use more traditional interview questions. How would you answer the following?
1. What’s Your Biggest Weakness?
There’s really no easy answer to this tough interview question, but it helps to be honest with the interviewer. No one is perfect and if we’re truthful, there are certain things that we can all improve. Try not to provide too much damaging information. Think of a past shortcoming that you’ve been able to correct through self help techniques, coaching, or experience. This demonstrates that you had something you struggled with but now have the adaptability to overcome.
2. How Do You Handle Stress?
Most employees like multitaskers who can delegate and execute tasks without feeling overwhelmed. Can you handle multiple priorities and projects at the same time? An answer stating that stress is a natural part of life and you feel equipped to handle the challenges of the job and balance them with the rest of your life may be just the answer that earns you the job. Think of examples from your work or personal life that required you perform under pressure.
3. Tell Me About A Time You Made A Bad/Wrong Decision
Similar to the biggest weakness question, don’t divulge anything that you can’t recover from. Some interesting examples we’ve heard from candidates included: Deciding not to go for additional education or certification due to time constraints, Deciding to use old technology for projects becuse they were afraid of trying or learning something new, Deciding to go with the status quo becuase they were unsure they had the clout to effect change in the workplace. The interviewer is not as concerned with the actual decision, but rather how you handled the situation and the outcome.
4. Tell Me About Yourself
The worst experience I had as an interviewer was when I asked this question and the candidate began with her elementary school experience. The interviewer is really interested in your professional skills. Be sure to comment on any jobs that allowed you to demonstrate responsibility, data analytics, supervision, independence and teamwork. This is the time that you should toot your own horn.
5. Questions About Your Former Employer
No,don’t say it. You know, the first thought that pops into your mind about your boss that stole all your ideas and presented it at a meeting as if it was his. What about the rude coworker who was so obnoxious that no one can stand her. Sometimes an interviewer will ask a question about what you didn’t like about your previous employer so that they can determine if you are a good team player. Make sure you side step those interviewing pitfalls by avoiding negative feedback and only highlighting your positive experiences.