Tips for answering questions at interviews

Interviews are often the first contact you have with the company you may soon work for. And as first impressions are very important, especially to the interviewer, you must make full use of this session to convince him or her of your capabilities and enthusiasm to join the company.

It’s understandable that you may be nervous but try to calm yourself down as you start off. All you need is to be more enthusiastic and confident when responding to questions. Don't rush your answers and unless asked to elaborate, don’t give lengthy answers. Answer as naturally as you can and show that you are honest and sincere.

A good technique is to write out your answers to the questions you anticipate and review how your answers would be to make them more concise. Then practice your polished answers out loud, over and over. If you can have someone help you do a "mock interview," that would be helpful.

Most questions will relate either to your ability to do the job or to the type of employee you will be. Here are the common tips that can be used to help you to answer interviewer correctly.

"Tell me a little about yourself."
When responding to this request, focus on both your personal and professional values. Always be honest and highlight your best traits, especially those that relate to the position for which you are applying. Mention experiences and accomplishments you are most proud of.

Here's an example: "I'm experienced as a communications specialist with extensive knowledge of public information tools and techniques. In my other jobs, I've developed comprehensive communication plans for major public events, written many articles accepted by worldwide publications, and created specialized educational programs. I am always keen to learn new methods and procedures which can help me work more efficiently and at the same time benefit the company.”

"What do you feel has been your greatest work-related accomplishment?"
Choose one example that was important to you and at the same time, helped the company you worked for. Describe it as clearly as possible but if it a technical matter, then you should simplify it so as not to bore the interviewer who might not necessarily be a technical person. It’s also important to mention what sort of results were achieved and if you received a commendation, mention that as well. Try to pick an accomplishment that relates to the position for which you are applying. Employers like to hear about accomplishments that reduced expenses, improved revenues, solved problems or simple helped to enhance a company's reputation.

"What is your greatest strength?"
This is a great chance to highlight your best skills. Don't pick just one; focus on your top three or four. Some examples: leadership skills, team-building skills, and organizational skills. Determine which strengths best suit the position you are applying for. If the job requires someone who can handle multiple tasks, you could say: "I'm good at organizational skills, prioritization and time management. But my greatest strength is my ability to effectively handle multiple projects and deadlines."

"What is your greatest weakness?"
Be careful with this one! Most interview guides will tell you to answer it with a positive trait disguised as a weakness. Examples would be like "I tend to expect others to work as hard as I do," or "I'm a bit of a perfectionist." Problem is, the interviewers have probably heard these answers many times so try to be more original. Think of what your weakness is (before you go for the interview) and then explain how you have ensured that it does not create issues in your work and how you have managed to overcome it. IMPORTANT: Be sure the weakness you talk about is NOT a key element of the position!

"What is the toughest problem you've had to face, and how did you overcome it?"
Try to make find a problem that faced your company rather than you personally or your particular work group. Give specific examples of the skills and techniques used to resolve this problem. Emphasize the successful results and it would be a positive sign of your character if you are generous in sharing credit if it was a team effort. Of course, your specific role should also be highlighted.

"Have you ever had to discipline a problem employee? If so, how did you handle it?"
This type of question would be asked if the job requires supervisory duties. Naturally, you would have to already have experience working with subordinates. Explain how you used problem-solving skills, listening skills, and coaching skills to help the employee. If those techniques resolved issues with the employee, be sure to say so. If there was no solution possible, then explain what you did in accordance with the company's policies and what the end result was. It’s important that you show that you had to be objective in your actions.

"Why do you want this position?"
Here's where research about the company you have approached is important. Understand what the company is all about and then pick the strong points which attracted you. You should also show how your qualifications and goals complement the company's mission, vision and values (use specific examples). If you are applying for a position in a company for which you already work, explain how you'll be able to apply and expand on the knowledge and experience you've gained from your current position, and how you can increase your contributions and value to the company through your new responsibilities.

"Why are you the best person for this job?"
Some people approach this with confidence while others may stumble here because they have not thought about it before coming to the interview. So be prepared for this question and be confident and enthusiastic when you answer this. Don’t be arrogant and say you are the best qualified person because you don't know the qualifications of the other applicants. Instead, emphasize several reasons why you should be hired. For example: "I've got extensive experience in (name the appropriate field) and have the specific skills I believe you are looking for. I'm dedicated and enthusiastic about helping your company meet its goals and will provide top-quality results. I'm an outstanding performer who takes pride in my work.”

Good Luck!