Tough Interview Questions

“How To Survive Tough Interview Questions”

Is there really such a thing as a tough interview question? If we break it down into parts it’s not so overwhelming.

To make it easy on you for tough interview questions, I’ve included 4 tips that will give you steps that will help you firm up a good response.

Tough Interview Question Tip 1. Listen to the question
Tough Interview Question Tip 2. Take time to think
Tough Interview Question Tip 3. Use Positive Information
Tough Interview Question Tip 4. Refocus attention with a question

John finally got an interview with a company he’d admired for years, but he blew it with this one tough interview question. Too bad, because he’d done everything right—almost. He established good rapport, avoiding talking about salary too soon, and explained past accomplishments powerfully. Then, the boss asked the question John feared: “Why were you fired?”

John stammered, fidgeted, and then bitterly threw blame. “I worked so hard to produce quality product, but the bean counters insisted we cut corners. Our products were terrible, and they didn’t care. I told them they were ruining the company, so they fired me.” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, John knew he’d blown the interview.

Most of us go into interviews fearing questions about our weak spots: Why were you unemployed so long? What’s the reason you’ve had so many jobs? Why have you been at the same company for so long (This used to be a good thing!)? What would your former boss say about you?

Praying the interviewer won’t ask is poor strategy. Here’s a better one.

First, accept what happened. Look for the lessons, forgive those who did you wrong, and accept responsibility for your part in what happened. Your attitude will be contagious. Then, follow these steps:

Tough Interview Question Tip 1. Listen to the question Make sure you understand exactly what the interviewer is asking and why. If you’re not clear, ask for clarification. Many times, people mistake harmless questions for dangerous sensitive questions. A prospective sales rep, who didn’t own a car, was asked what kind of car she drove. Her mind raced. “Is he asking how successful I am—or what?” Fortunately, she had the presence of mind to ask, “That’s an interesting question. Why do you ask?” The manager explained that sales reps need a car with a big trunk to carry a large display. She smiled and said that won’t be a problem. If they hired her, she’d get a car with a big trunk.

Tough Interview Question Tip 2. Take time to think Ideally, you have anticipated every sensitive question, and have a well-rehearsed response. However, if you’re caught off guard, don’t just blurt something out. It is always preferable to pause a moment to give a thoughtful response.

Tough Interview Question Tip 3. Use Positive Information Use positive information to put yourself in a favorable light. Be truthful, but remember, you are marketing yourself. Be selective about the information that you share. Certain things are not the employer’s business; others will only be an issue if you mention them.

Tough Interview Question Tip 4. Refocus attention with a question Conversations tend to stay on topic until someone changes the subject. Don’t let the conversation linger on your liabilities. Take the initiative to refocus attention by asking the employer a question.

John could have said: “I have always had a deep commitment to quality. While at ABC Company, we were number one in our industry. Customers could count on top quality—no excuses. Then, senior management cut corners, and our quality suffered. I found it hard to produce products that weren’t excellent. They decided it would be best for everyone if I moved on. I agree, and I wish them well.” So far, John has given good positive information. But now, he should refocus by asking something like this, “I’m looking for an employer who shares my commitment to quality and customer service. Can you tell me about your philosophy in those areas?”

In this way, John doesn’t sound like a complainer or a troublemaker, but sounds responsible and committed. This new conversation also helps both parties to see if the job will be a good fit. John doesn’t want to get fired again because he’s working with management that doesn’t share his high standards.