One of the major problems a job seeker faces is how to answer interview questions correctly. Answering a question correctly and speaking fluently in the presence of those examining you is hardly born with anybody, but preparation enables people to perform better. It is of utmost importance that as a job seeker, you practice how to answer interview questions at your spare time. Don't wait when you are called for an Interview to start preparing.
TOUGH INTERVIEW QUESTIONS YOU MAY LIKELY FAIL - PART 3
In furthering our series in "Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail", below are some of the most commonly asked tough questions and answer tips to get you started:
1.) Tell Us About Yourself
Bad Answer: I graduated four years ago from the University of Lagos, with a Bachelor’s in Biology — but I decided that wasn’t the right path for me. So I switched gears and got my first job, working in sales for a startup. Then I went on to work in marketing for a law firm. After that, I took a few months off to travel. Finally, I came back and worked in marketing again. And now, here I am, looking for a more challenging marketing role.
Hint: Instead of giving a chronological work history, focus on your strengths and how they pertain to the role. If possible, illustrate with examples.
Good Answer: I’m really energetic, and a great communicator. Working in sales for two years helped me build confidence, and taught me the importance of customer loyalty. I’ve also got a track record of success. In my last role, I launched a company newsletter, which helped us build on our existing relationships and create new ones. Because of this, we ended up seeing a revenue increase of 10% over two years. I’m also really interested in how companies can use web tools to better market themselves, and would be committed to building on your existing platform.
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2.) Why Do You Want To Work In This Industry?
Bad Answer: I love to shop. Even as a kid, I spent hours flipping through catalogs.
Hint: Don't just say you like it. Anyone can do that. Focus instead on your history with that particular industry, and if you can, tell a success story.
Good Answer: I've always loved shopping, but my interest in retail marketing really started when I worked at a neighborhood boutique. I knew our clothes were amazing, but that we weren’t marketing them properly. So I worked with management to come up with a marketing strategy that increased our sales by 25% in a year. It was great to be able to contribute positively to an industry I feel so passionate about, and to help promote a product I really believed in.
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3.) Where Do You See Yourself In Five Years?
Bad Answer: Relaxing on a beach in Banana Island Ikoyi, or Doing your job.
Hint: There’s really no right answer to this question, but the interviewer wants to know that you’re ambitious, career-oriented, and committed to a future with the company. So instead of sharing your dream for early retirement, or trying to be funny, give them an answer that illustrates your drive and commitment.
Good Answer: In five years I’d like to have an even better understanding of this industry. Also, I really love working with people. Ultimately, I’d like to be in some type of managerial role at this company, where I can use my people skills and industry knowledge to benefit the people working for me, and the company as a whole.
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4.) What’s Your Greatest Weakness?
Bad Answer: I work too hard, or for the comedian, "Fine Girls."
Hint: This question is a great opportunity to put a positive spin on something negative, but you don’t want your answer to be cliche — joking or not. Instead, try to use a real example of a weakness you have learned to overcome.
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Good Answer: I've never been very comfortable with public speaking — which, as you know, can be a hindrance in the workplace. Realizing this was a problem, I asked my previous employer if I could enroll in a speech workshop. He said “yes.” I took the class, and was able to overcome my lifelong fear. Since then, I’ve given lots of presentations to audiences of over a 100 high level executives — I still don’t love it, but no one else can tell!
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5.) What Is Your Greatest Failure, And What Did You Learn From It?
Bad Answer: I never finished law school - and everything that’s happened since has taught me that giving up, just because the going gets tough, is a huge mistake.
Hint: You don’t want to actually highlight a major regret especially one that exposes an overall dissatisfaction with your life. Instead, focus on a smaller, but significant, mishap, and how it has made you a better professional.
Good Answer: When I was in college, I took an art class to supplement my curriculum. I didn’t take it very seriously, and assumed that, compared to my Engineering classes, it would be a walk in the park. My failing grades at midterm showed me otherwise. I’d even jeopardized my scholarship status. I knew I had to get my act together. I spent the rest of the semester making up for it, ended up getting a decent grade in the class. I learned that no matter what I’m doing, I should strive to do it to the best of my ability. Otherwise, it’s not worth doing at all.
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Similar Interview Questions In This Series
5 Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail - Part 1
5 Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail - Part 2
5 Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail - Part 3
5 Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail - Part 4
5 Tough Interview Questions You May Likely Fail - Part 5