How to Handle the Toughest Interview Questions
Interviewing for a new job is nerve-wracking. You need to convince strangers that you are the right person for the opening. When you want to escape a difficult (or even demeaning) work environment, it increases your already high level of anxiety.
People wonder what gatekeepers (Human Resources) and hiring managers consider bad answers. You want to be truthful; however, you probably sense that some replies, no matter how accurate, end up reflecting badly on you. Here are some recommendations from experienced recruiters (including myself) that shed light on the interview process.
“Why are you looking for a new job?”
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Completely truthful answer: “My co-workers are so unprofessional, they drive me crazy.”
A poor work environment is a major reason for people to seek new employment. Avoid being too critical when you answer this question. “Regardless of your reason, your new employer does not care why you are leaving. They are only asking you to see how negatively you respond,” states Sherry Julitz, a recruiter with 30 years of experience in the field. She recommends researching the hiring organization and formulating positive responses that include:
“The hospital or medical practice is one I have always wanted to work for.” “When I saw the opening, I was excited to make the career move.” These answers are great if you are applying to a well-regarded organization.
If you applied to a hospital or practice that is not as well known, focus on a strong point of the organization. “One of the things that attracts me to this opportunity is the professionalism you’ve demonstrated during my interview process,” is a recommendation from Debra Johnson, an Executive Senior Partner with Lucas Group in Chicago. She also advises people to refrain from negative statements.
“How would you describe your ideal boss?”
You would like to say: “Not the one I’ve got.”
Sometimes individuals rise to management positions despite lacking leadership skills. If your employer’s poor management prompted you to search for new employment, steer clear of a negative response or a cutesy reply such as, “You.”
“My ideal boss would set clear expectations, give feedback / recognition, and be open and truthful,” (Sherry Julitz, SJK Consulting). This answer is positive and indicates you know the management style that works best for you. You also sidestepped any negative discussion of your boss’s shortcomings.
“What is your biggest weakness?”
What you’re really thinking: “Gee, you’ll disqualify me if I tell you.”
The internet is full of advice on how to handle this question. I always recommend that candidates succinctly describe how they overcame a genuine weakness. From my experience, hiring managers wanted to see that you took action to address concerns. Here are two examples.
- Many people love medicine, but hate the paperwork. If you found yourself falling behind on completing required administrative duties, consider the following answer:
“I found myself falling behind on my paperwork. I took the following steps to manage my time better…”
- Dealing with obstinate patients is a challenge for many doctors and nurses. Describe the steps you took to gain agreement with patients. Tell the interviewer how these measures improved outcomes.
No Negativity Please!
Interviews are often squeezed in during a busy workday. Avoid the impulse to explain in detail about a bad work situation. Hiring managers and HR Representatives interpret those statements as negative (at best) and whining (at worst).
Focus on the positive aspects of the opportunity in front of you. A new position offers the chance to gain experiences and fulfill more of your potential. The entire interview process can make otherwise self-confident people doubt themselves. Apply some of the aforementioned suggestions to help you confidently answer the toughest interview questions.
If you enjoyed this post follow the link to read How to Handle the Toughest Interview Questions Part 2.
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