Just hearing the word “interview” is enough to trigger the fear of being judged, making just about everyone nervous. Here are three very common questions you have to get right.
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
Easy, right? Unfortunately, people mess up this question constantly. It’s not an invitation to recite your entire life story. Focus on a concise relevant summary of your professional journey, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
Answer Strategy:
- Present and Past: Start with your current role or situation. Briefly describe your accomplishments. Summarize your relevant past experiences, focused on roles that demonstrate the skills required for the position. Make sure to quantify your achievements by providing data to back up your skills. Quantify!
- Two Minutes Max: Practice your delivery to ensure it flows naturally and confidently in under 2 minutes.
- Tailor it: Carefully review the job description and always highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant.
Example: “I’m currently a Marketing Specialist at __________, where I’m responsible for developing and executing social media campaigns. In my previous role as a Content Creator at [Previous Company], I increased website traffic by 20% in six months by implementing a new content strategy. I’m passionate about digital marketing and I’m confident my skills and experience in content creation and social media management would be a valuable asset to your team.”
2. “What are your strengths?”
This question gives you a chance to feature your most valuable strengths and demonstrate how they align with the JD.
Answer Strategy:
- Choose strengths that are related to the position: Don’t just list generic qualities like “hardworking” or “dedicated.” Highlight the skills and attributes needed to succeed in the role. Back up your claims to be strong in certain areas with concrete examples.
- Be Specific: Instead of saying “I’m a good communicator,” say “I’m a skilled communicator, particularly in presenting complex information to diverse audiences.
- Limit Your Strengths: Focus on 2-3 key strengths. Trying to list too many will dilute your message.
Example: “One of my key strengths is problem-solving. I enjoy analyzing complex situations and developing creative solutions. At [Previous Company], we faced a challenge with [problem]. I took the initiative to [action] which resulted in a [positive outcome]. Another strength is my ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. I’m always willing to contribute my expertise to achieve shared goals.”
3. “What are your weaknesses?”
No, you don’t provide an actual list of weaknesses! And, heaven forbid, you never say you have no weaknesses. That just sounds arrogant.
Answer Strategy:
- Choose a Genuine Weakness: Don’t try to spin a strength as a weakness, although this is the strategy of many. Choose something you’re genuinely working on improving.
- Focus on Improvement: The key is to emphasize the steps you’re taking to address the weakness. This demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement.
- Be Positive: Focus on overcoming the weakness not the weakness itself.
Example: “One area I’m continually working on is public speaking. While I’m comfortable presenting to small groups, I sometimes get nervous speaking to larger audiences. To improve this, I’ve joined a local Toastmasters club and I’m actively seeking opportunities to present at company meetings. I’ve already seen significant improvement in my confidence and delivery, and I’m committed to continuing to develop this skill.
Are you having difficulty finding talented employees to fill your open positions? With 25 years of experience, a 4.8 Google rating, an average experience level of 22 years, our own Thought Leadership Team, and an A+ rating from the BBB, you will quickly see why we’ve built so many permanent, long-term client relationships. Visit our website at www.execsallied.com/employers or Email us at info@execsallied.com. We are here to help!
