Tricky interview questions and how to answer them

Savvy hiring managers can glean a great of information from candidates by asking just a few carefully chosen questions. If you want to make a great first impression, here are some tricky interview questions to expect and expertly answer…

So, tell me about yourself?

This question is often used as an ice breaker to kick-start the interview, but it can often feel like a conversation curveball. Take the time to look at your CV ahead of the interview and note a couple of career highlights that directly relate to the job and use those to answer this question professionally. Just remember to keep it short and sweet!

What’s your biggest weakness?

Naturally in an interview you’re keen to only discuss your strengthens and what makes you the best person for the job, but this question shows how self-aware you are. There are two ends of the scale to avoid – you should never verbalise negative qualities but you should also refrain from trying to turn a strengthen into a weakness such as, ‘I’m too organised’.  The best way to tackle this tricky question is to address a genuine shortcoming and how you overcame it. This will show the interviewer you are able to accept a weakness and more importantly - you can progress from it.

Why do you want this job?

Your answer to this question will need to show that you’re familiar with the company you’re interviewing with. Avoid an answer that could apply to any company such as, ‘it’s a great company and I’d love to work there’. Instead focus on the positives of the job you’ve applied for and what attracted you to the role - for example it could be the company culture, flexible hours or opportunity to upskill.

Why you?

More often than not, this a closing question that gives you the opportunity to stand out from the crowd and make sure the interviewer remembers you. Talk about your experience and skills but also don’t be afraid to inject your personality by talking about your interests and what makes you uniquely suited to the job.

Need more job advice? Check out Pertemps other career blogs.