21 More Challenging Interview Scenarios
- The unanticipated question from left field
If during the interviewing process you find that you are asked a question you had not anticipated that slightly throws you off, here is a technique to help you handle the situation. This same strategy can be used when you are asked a particularly difficult question. The important thing is to remain confident at all times.
The approach I suggest will help you buy a little time during the interviewing process. It will allow you to think on your feet. At the same time, it will not diminish your self-confidence.
My suggested response to the awkward or sometimes unanticipated broad or particularly difficult question is, “I’m sorry but I have never been asked that question before. While I’d like to think more about that question, what comes immediately to my mind is the following situation …” And then you proceed to elaborate.
- The pregnant pause … intended
If you sense that someone may be using this technique on you to unnerve you, then in a helpful tone counter, “Is there anything else you’d like to know about … (the question you just finished answering)? Treat it as a lapse of attention on the interviewer’s part. That is the only way to deal with it.
- 3. What salary are you looking for?
You do not answer this question with a salary figure. You merely say, “While I appreciate that you’re asking me that question, I feel as though it may be a bit premature. Right now I’m more interested in getting additional information about your company and the position. I’m sure you know what the fair market value is for someone with my type of experience. You strike me as a fair type of guy/gal. In the event that an offer were to be extended to me, I would expect nothing but a fair one. If it is all right with you, I would like to get back to discussing the position.”
There will be a total of 21 questions. I am going to break these down to 3 for each post so you can really take the time to focus on them and study them.
As I have mentioned in the past these are some of the more stressful interview questions situation.
See if you can do some role playing with your partner, friend or fellow support group member.
You need to be able to maintain a strong sense of confidence during this process. You need to be able to buy yourself some time to create some really powerful answers that will continue to show you in positive light.
Again where it is appropriate, I am suggesting you create a document that you save and print out to practice from. You will want to practice before each interview. Practice you answers a loud.
Make sure you feel comfortable with you answers and feel like they truly are your answers. Be authentic in the interview.
For more in depth information on other job search topics, visit my other blog “Sweet Job Advice” located at www.TheJobSearchExperts.com
Have a great day!
Warmly,
Eleanor
The Job Search Expert. Tm
The Expert in Job Search Solutions. tm
Practice you answers to these challenging and common interviewing questions.
PS
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