Prepare yourself for ‘trick’ questions

553

Competition for executive level jobs has grown so fierce that a single want ad in a major newspaper can generate hundreds-even thousands- of resumes. And because employers can be so picky, they're asking some pretty tough questions.

Whether you're an executive or not, if you're interviewing for a new job, you need to be prepared. Employers want to see how you react. They want to catch you off guard so you'll reveal how you really think. They are more wary when it comes to bringing a new person on board; they can't afford to get stuck with someone who doesn't fit their culture . . .especially when he or she is in a top position of influence.

The most successful candidates don't take any chances. They prepare for the worst possible questions . . . here are some of them:

1.      "Why should I hire you?"

Don't say, "Because I'm a hard worker and dedicated." That's what everyone else says. Instead, match up the top 3 job qualifications with 2 or 3 of your past accomplishments in those areas. For example, "Your organization is beginning a major culture change from autocratic to participative leadership. In my former company I was asked by the President to help him lead that effort. It was hard work but we learned a lot and I think I can shorten your learning curve."

Highlight a few key projects, technical expertise or experiences that the new company will salivate over. Your goal is to make them want you based on what you've done for your past employers. Talk results, results, results.

2.      "Describe a time when your work was criticized."

For this one they are trying to determine if you are open to feedback and how you used it. They are also testing you to see if you'll slip and tell them about a problem that could knock you out of the running.

I don't recommend telling the interviewer that your work hasn't been criticized; you could sound arrogant or uncoachable. Instead, use the opportunity to tell a short story about a time when a boss gave you some coaching (not necessarily criticism) on a weakness that wasn't job threatening.

The important thing is the punch line. Tell how you improved and how pleased your boss was about your results. Obviously, you don't want to highlight a weakness that could make the interviewer worry. For example, if you are after the Regional Sales Manager position, don't tell the interviewer your boss criticized your people management skills.

3.      "Name two weak points of your previous boss."

Be ready for this one. Don't sound critical. Pick out two things that your boss needed to improve and tell how your skills filled in the gap so that you made a good team. Speak about your boss's weakness respectfully and emphasize your good working relationship.

4.      "Why haven't you found a job by now?"

If you've been unemployed because of a lay off or because you were fired, you need to be ready with a rehearsed answer. Ideally, you can say, "I'd rather take my time and find the right fit than take a job that may not be the right match. At this point in my career I'm concerned about making a difference-a major impact on my job-and I'm looking for the right environment as well as the right job. I could have settled for less but I don't want to."

5.      "Why did you leave your job?"

Okay, maybe you couldn't stand working for the boss from hell one more day--but this isn't the place to spill your guts. And if you were laid off after many years, don't sound bitter. You might by tempted to talk about all the flaws in management, strategy, culture...but don't. It's best to look inward for your reason. Are you looking for the next logical step in your personal growth? Are you interested in a company with a broader mix of products? Are you looking for a niche company where you can use your special technical skills? The best answer will sound like you are looking forward toward your next opportunity instead of backward with blame.

Even though you can't be prepared for every question, preparing for the worst will help you to be mentally ready when the time comes. 

Savvy Negotiation Strategies to Get Paid What You’re Worth on a New Job (Detailed, 8-page PDF by email – no shipping charge)
Easy, Step-by-step Guide to Using the Internet to Land a Great Job (Detailed, 10-page PDF by email  – no shipping charge)
The Resume That Opens the Door and the Interview That Gets the Job (Detailed, 37-page PDF by email – no shipping charge)