The difference between being hired and being rejected is in how you answer those tricky questions we all fear. The interview stage is for you to prove that you’re the best person for the position. Everything you say is a chance to market yourself effectively.

1. The Elements of Interview Success – Tip 3 – How to answer
difficult interview questions
The difference between being hired and being rejected is in how you answer those tricky questions
we all fear. The interview stage is for you to prove that you’re the best person for the position.
Everything you say is a chance to market yourself effectively.
So what are some of the toughest questions to answer? Being aware of them will allow you to
rehearse, giving you peace of mind that you’re ready for anything your interviewer throws your way.
Here are some questions you should expect and prep for.
1. Tell me about yourself.
This may come across as a friendly ice-breaker, but it’s not the time to recite your whole life
story. What the employer is actually interested in is your working style, if you’re right for the
organisation and if you’ll fit in with the culture.
Your best response:
Tailor your answers to what you know about the company. If you know the role requires a
lot of teamwork, then mention how you thrive when collaborating with others.
This would also be a good point to mention your core skills, your interests, and what you
enjoy about the career path you’ve taken.
2. What is your biggest weakness?
Your instinct might be to claim that you’re perfect, but this will make you come across as
overconfident and cocky. Be honest about your weaknesses.
Your best response:
Choose a responsibility from the job description you feel you could improve on, and then say
what actions you’re currently taking to develop the skill.
Not comfortable with Microsoft Office? Mention that you’ve been researching online
courses for the program.
Taking a negative question and creating a positive response demonstrates your ability to
plan and improve.
Learn more interview secrets and check out the latest HR Jobs with Changeboard.com

2. 3. Why are you looking to move jobs?
Don’t fall into the trap of bad-mouthing your current employer. This reflects poorly on your
professionalism. It will make your interviewer question what you might say about them
down the road if you decide to leave.
Your best response:
Keep your answer short and sweet. Instead of focusing on what you don’t like about your
current or last role, talk about what makes you the perfect fit for this position. If you say: “I
want more of a challenge,” be prepared to answer their follow-up questions. They might ask
you:
 Why didn’t you approach your current employers about not being challenged
enough?
 What would a new challenge look like for you at this stage in your career?
4. Why do you want this job?
Ask yourself: Is the salary attractive? Are you interested in the position? Does the culture
appeal to you? Are there opportunities for growth? Honesty is the best policy.
Your best response:
Avoid answers like: “Because I would be good at it.” This could come across as defensive and
not well thought-out. Incorporate your skill set into your answer, and outline how your
experience will help the organisation. Don’t be afraid to mention how this job will benefit
you – does it give you more responsibility? Does it fit with your career goals? Create an
answer that demonstrates how hiring you would be good for you and the business.
5. Do you have any questions?
Your interview isn’t just about you impressing your interviewers, it’s also about if the role
and organisation is a good fit for you. Take some time to prepare your questions in advance.
Identify what would influence your decision to take the job, and ask questions based on
that. Here are a few examples:
 What are the team dynamics like?
 What are you like to work for?
 What are the key competencies you’re looking for in an employee?
 Do you have any reservations about my skills or experience?
The interview process doesn’t have to be a scary experience. If you’re prepared to answer the tough
questions, you’ll be able to show the employer how you can add value to their organisation.
Learn more interview secrets and check out the latest HR Jobs with Changeboard.com

3. We’ve already shared how you can dress for success, prepped you for different interview
styles, and advised you on how to create your best interview responses.
But what else you can do?
In Part 4 of this series, we’ll outline the little touches that will help you stand out from the
competition and raise your chances of getting hired.
Learn more interview secrets and check out the latest HR Jobs with Changeboard.com