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How to answer tough interview questions

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How to Answer Tough Interview Questions

While the exact content of interviews varies by your field and role, many of the same interview questions are used across the board to get to know a candidate better. We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: lots of skills are transferrable.

Whether you’re preparing to start looking for a new gig yourself or you need to freshen up your interview skills for incoming candidates, these three Qs and As below will help you get the conversation moving and grooving no matter what side of the table (or video call screen) you’re on.

Why did you leave your last job?

What’s important when responding:
Be honest but stay positive, even if you left because of something negative. Focus on what you learned from your last job and how this new role you’re interviewing for aligns better with your career goals.

What to say:
"While I enjoyed my time at my previous job, I reached a point where there was limited room for growth. I’m looking for an opportunity that will allow me to challenge myself further and develop new skills, which is why I’m excited about this position."

What is your greatest weakness?

What’s important when responding:
The key is to share how you're actively working to improve while being totally honest. Hint: Don’t try and use the cliché answer of "I'm a perfectionist." Instead, share a real weakness and how you're able to address it.

What to say:
“Sometimes I take on too many tasks because I want to help wherever I can. I’ve learned that this can lead to burnout, so I’ve started to prioritize tasks with project management tools that help me stay organized and on track. Since then my workload has been a lot more manageable and I can focus more on each project.” 

What would you do if you were given a project with unclear instructions?

What’s important when responding:
Employers want to know how you problem-solve. Be sure to hit on the points of how you 1) take initiative, 2) communicate effectively, and 3) ensure the project gets done in the end.

What to say:
"First, I would ask whoever assigns me the task about the project’s goals. If that information isn’t available, I’d do my own research, ask colleagues, and use what I know to make the most informed decision. Once I’m able to get some clearer direction, I’d continue on while making sure I’m providing updates to whoever is in charge along the way.”

…while you take your dog for a walk during the all-hands meeting. 

We may or may not be all getting a little out of control with the martini flavors, but for now, we’ll give TheThirstyGals’ Honey Mustard Martini recipe from Instagram a taste.

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Want a little glimpse into your future and where you might be in 10 years? Victoria Hutchins, AKA TheDailyVictorian on Instagram, reassures us that it’s all going to be okay in the end. 

Thank you so much for rocking with us this week! Now go buy yourself a little treat of the week. See you back here next Wednesday!

—Rod and Gabi

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