Interview Questions #1
Dos and Don'ts
Today, I share my experience as an HR and hiring manager in interview situations. I don't know how many interviews I've witnessed. Some were interesting because I learned a lot about other people's lives, some were embarrassing because the candidate was unprepared, and some were boring. And some were successful.
I met many well-prepared candidates and felt the urge to dig even more deeply.
In the first part, I will start with typical questions and what you should and should NOT answer. But don't worry, even if you're nervous and can't get a word out, you still have a chance because the interview is only a part of the recruitment process.
I hired an intern once; he had just turned 22 and was so nervous that his only sentences were, 'I don't know.' I knew he was good, not because of his marks but because of his non-verbal signals. His resume was structured. His manners were excellent. So, he started as an intern and quickly became the junior project manager in my department.
Interview situations are sometimes weird, and I often want to protect the candidates from answers that only lead to embarrassment. To both sides of the table. Look closely at typical interview questions and what you should not do.
The classic: Tell something about yourself.
“I'm a keen marathon runner, but now I'm training for a triathlon. It keeps me fit in stressful times. And that's how I train for endurance.”
Yawn. I can't listen to stories like that anymore. And yet, I ask the question repeatedly because we're hiring people at the end of the day. We want to get to know YOU, not the person you want to be. Even if you win the Ironman, you have doubts, guilt, and failures. Tell us about your successes and also your dreams. Don't repeat your CV. If we haven't read it by then, it's our fault.
Choose the following checklist to prepare your pitch:
Highlight critical skills and experiences that make you a strong fit for the position.
Mention any specific expertise or certifications.
Mention characteristics that remain in our memory.
Express your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
The scary one - What is your biggest weakness?
“Hm.... My perfectionism?”
Please. Don't. This is the moment when recruiters start rolling their eyes. They've heard this so many times before. When I've listened to answers like that in interviews, I've pressed harder and harder to roughen up the slick surface. Nobody is perfect, and the candidates know that, too. Candidates often choose a weakness, which they then use for all interviews. At first glance, this seems practical because life is much more interesting than preparing for interviews. However, some weaknesses hinder one job, while they are minor issues for another.
Use the following strategy to choose a weakness in an interview situation.
Choose a fundamental weakness: Select a genuine weakness, but avoid mentioning something crucial to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a programming position, saying you struggle with attention to detail might not be the best choice.
Demonstrate self-awareness: Start by acknowledging the weakness and demonstrating self-awareness. It's essential to show that you understand your areas for improvement.
Discuss steps taken to improve: Share the steps you've taken or are currently taking to address and overcome this weakness. This highlights your proactive approach to personal and professional development.
Show progress: If applicable, discuss your progress in overcoming or mitigating the weakness. This demonstrates that you're aware of your shortcomings and actively working to improve.
Relate it to the job: Connect your weakness to the job requirements and explain how you manage it to ensure it doesn't hinder your performance in the specific role.
For example, if you are afraid to speak in public, I recommend the following answer.
“I struggled with public speaking but recognized its importance in my field. To overcome this, I enrolled in a public speaking course, joined a Toastmasters club, and have been regularly practicing. While improving, I've presented successfully in team meetings and at industry conferences."
The risky one: Why do you want to leave your job?
"My boss is a narcist. My colleagues are preparing for a role in a Halloween show, and I have no clue about my tasks."
Even if it's true, avoid falling into this trap. Try to frame your dissatisfaction positively and emphasize your career goals and growth. It's not easy. Therefore, I have prepared a few examples for you:
Career Advancement
"I'm seeking new challenges and opportunities for professional growth that align with my career goals. This role will allow me to expand my skills and take on more responsibilities."
Skill Development
"I've learned a lot in my current role, but I'm looking for a position that will allow me to develop my skills further in … as I believe it's crucial for my long-term career progression."
Seeking a New Industry or Field
"I'm excited about exploring a new industry, and I believe my skills in [mention relevant skills] can be effectively applied in this different context. I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to a new environment."
Company Culture Fit
"While I've appreciated my time at my current job, I'm looking for a work environment that aligns more closely with my values and allows for greater collaboration and innovation."
Relocation or Commute
"Due to personal circumstances, I'm looking for a more conveniently located position that doesn't require as much travel time. This change will enable me to balance my professional and personal life better."
Company Restructuring or Changes
"There have been recent changes in the company structure, and my skills and expertise would be better utilized in a role more aligned with my strengths and where I can make a meaningful contribution.”
The silent one: What annoys you most in your current job?
Silence. Because this is why you quit. Again, try to be as positive as possible. Even if it's hard. My favorite is the 4-step approach:
(1) Choose a minor annoyance which is manageable
(2) Emphasize problem-solving to show that you have a proactive and solution-oriented approach
(3) Highlight personal growth and mention skills you have developed as a result of overcoming challenges
(4) Connect it to the new job and explain why the company's working environment is better suited for your strength.
For example, you can answer like that:
"In my current role, one minor annoyance has been the limited opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration. While I value my work within my team, this collaboration across different departments can bring a fresh perspective and enhance overall productivity. To address this, I've taken the initiative to organize informal meet-ups and networking events to facilitate better communication between teams. I believe this new position offers a more collaborative environment, which aligns with my preference for cross-functional teamwork."
The funny one: What animal would you like to be?
“Hahahaha.” I don't know if it's an urban myth or if anybody was asked a question like this. But I am sure some people are prepared for this question. What animal would you choose?
Stay tuned for part 2 of the interview questions next Sunday!