Job interviews can be so debilitating especially if you’re not much of a talker – because you need to be able to sell yourself. It’s no wonder that sometimes, the people who look amazing on paper don’t always get the best roles. It’s becoming increasingly important to have the ability to pitch yourself – as you’ll find that everything in your career will be a pitch. From working your way up the ladder amidst office politics to interacting with “The who’s who” in your field to bagging new clients.
There are 4 tricky questions often asked at job interviews. Here are a few tips on how to answer them, as you pitch yourself to prospective employers:
Tell me about yourself
This is usually the first question that comes in nearly all interviews. It isn’t an ice breaker like most interviewees often seem to believe. It is in fact an opportunity to figure out how best you fit into the organisation. By the time you’re on the hot seat, you should have done some research about the company with a general understanding of their structure and what they may be on the look-out for. Tailor your strengths to fit this purpose. Also make sure it ties into your cover letter and CV.
What is your salary expectation?
Find out what others are making in the role in which you are applying for. Always say negotiable after giving a figure. This doesn’t sell you short, it just keeps the organisation from completely writing you off completely if they are unable to meet your salary expectations. Let them come back with a figure and you might just find that the benefits and work experience you will be receiving from the company are invaluable enough to settle for a salary that may be less than what you expected.
Why did you leave your previous job?
If you have a job currently, say that you’re seeking a better opportunity. Do not go into detail even if you have a demon for a boss. If you do, it’s an immediate turn off for the company who you’re looking to work for. It is a dead give-away that you’ll rat them out the minute you get the chance to. If you got fired from your previous job, say that you parted ways and sway the conversation to focusing on your accomplishments. If you were laid off, it’s ok to say that it was recession-related.
What are your goals for the future?
It is always a great idea to tie your response back to your role at the company. Mention how you see yourself having more responsibilities within the company and give examples of positive results you would be looking to make within the company. Most people don’t know this and it becomes a question of “she says these are her goals for the future but that doesn’t tie in to the role she’s interviewing for so this will be a pit-stop for her, should we offer her the role.”
We wish you the best of luck in your job interviews!
