Interviews are a great way for employers to get to know their future employees. They are helpful for you to be able to show your strong suits to a potential company while also evaluating if the company aligns with your personal career goals.
With that being said, sometimes there are more difficult questions in an interview that you should be prepared for. Here are some questions an interviewer could ask you, broken down to help you fully understand what they are trying to ask you:
1. Have you ever had a bad experience with an employer?
This question requires critical thinking and professional communication. The employer is looking for a calm, respectful answer. Use this question to focus on your conflict resolution skills and specific skills that were needed at this job. Do NOT bash your previous employer.
2. Why do you think you will be successful in this job?
This question is not for you to brag about yourself. It is an opportunity for the interviewer to learn more about the skills you deem as important. It is also a time to gear your answers to skills that may be important for the specific job you are applying for.
3. What’s your biggest weakness?
It is difficult to go against your gut to point out your weaknesses instead of strong suits. Everyone has weaknesses! These weaknesses do not mean you are any less qualified for a position. This question is mainly for your employer to identify how you are improving or overcoming said weaknesses. Be sure to include this in your answer.
4. Tell me about a time when you failed.
This is a great question to provide information on your personal perseverance. Use this time to emphasize the important lessons you learned about yourself and how you learned to work and grow in a professional environment. You can also use this time to talk about coping and resilience. Do not let this question be alarming!
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
This is a great question employers use to learn more about your personal goals. Be careful to answer this question sounding hopeful and excited, rather than conceited. Use this time to respond in a way that reflects well on the company you are wanting to work with. Talk about your specific skills that will help you reach your goals.
