As with answering those tough job interviews, preparation is crucial, so you should be researching as much information as possible on the company you are seeking to impress. Check out their official company website and make sure you know the Chief Executive / Managing Director details.
Now, let's go through some frequently asked tough interview
questions.
"What motivates you?"
I recommend being very honest with this answer, many people will claim that being happy in their job motivates them or even working for a blue chip company is their main goal. If you are going for a well paid job in the city or even many other jobs I would recommend this answer "I am motivated to obtain the highest salary possible while also aspiring to further development within this company."
"What do you know about the company?"
Essentially, the hiring manager wants to know if you have done your homework on the organization. Do you honestly want to work for this specific company, or are you just out applying to every job that you see? By doing your research before hand, you will also be able to ask specific questions about the organization. For example, if there is a change in senior leadership, you will be able to note that when speaking with the hiring manager and ask the follow up question on how/if that will impact the way in which the company operates. It is imperative to do your research on the organization before going into an interview to really demonstrate your commitment to be hired.
"What are your salary expectations?"
The dreaded money questions! It is taboo for an interviewee to ask how much the position pays, but undoubtedly, the interviewee will be asked about the prospective employee's salary expectations. To be prepared to answer this question, it is very important to do your research. You may want to check a variety of sources such as your country local job search website so that you can come up with an appropriate salary range. You do not necessarily have to answer with a specific dollar amount, but at least be prepared to share a range that you are comfortable with.
"What is your biggest weakness?"
Now I am all for honesty but you need to be smart with this answer! Do not have a big list of your faults! Only focus on one small weakness which can actually be perceived as strength!
An example may be "Sometimes I am a perfectionist and expect too much from people" This demonstrates that you have passion, standards and also a desire to succeed!
"Walk me through your resume."
This question sheds a lot of light on the frequency and reason you change jobs. This question elicits a great answer to how you handle change and stressful situations. If you move for minor reasons, the company may think you have a difficult time handling change and stress.
Make sure you explain each job you've held and why you left. A common mistake for interviewees is to read through the entire resume word for word. The person you are interviewing with can read, and they want you to give them a little more "colour" about your professional history.
"What Qualities Make You Successful?"
There are two keywords that an interviewer wants to hear: "Initiative" and "Vision". When you list the former, you are emphasizing that not only are you a team leader, but you are willing to pick up where others have left off and take it forward. When you say "Vision", the interviewer sees ambition and a drive to move forward in a guided manner (i.e., you know where you're going and how to get there).
"Why should I hire you?"
This is your opportunity to sell yourself! Talk about your talent, skills, knowledge and highlight your strengths. As the Company, they want to hear that both parties are on the same page. The Company is looking to hear from you, why you truly feel you are the most qualified candidate. Your response should align with your previous answers.
"Are You A Team Player?"
Although this seems like a basic "Yes" or "No" question with an obvious answer, the way in which you respond is important. When you say "Yes", make sure you have concrete examples ready. Talk about your college days, for example, if you played team sports or were a member of a club or other social group. Give examples from your previous jobs where you collaborated with others on different projects or simply played an active role in keeping a team running. Be as specific as possible.
"Are there any questions you would like to ask us?"
Some candidates see this question as a kind of trap - it isn't. It may be an idea to ask a question to show an interest in the job but you don't have to. A good one that shows you are motivated to succeed would be 'can you tell me about the training and development I can expect to receive?'
Conclusion
Tough interview questions can often be make or break your job interview as many people freeze but you should remain confident and assertive, many employers will admire monetary and promotion goals and this will help distinguish you from the crowd who give a standard safe answer.
Interview questions are actually great for your career prospects as many people struggle when answering tought interview questions, so with a little preparation work you will secure your dream job!
