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 Jenrene – Articles & Resources

Managing Interview: Challenging Questions


"Why do you want to work here?"
You preparation include researching the company. Describe the key company’s attributes and manage your response that you believe the company can provide you with a stable and happy work environment.

"What kind of experience do you have for this job?"
Leverage on this chance to position your strength against the key requirements of the job. Most interviewers are interested in candidates who can contribute quickly to the needs of the business, particularly in the first six months. Probe to establish company critical urgency and interest.

"What did you like/dislike about your last job?"
Be observant during initial discussion to search for opportunities to reinforce your positive strength. DO NOT CRITICISE PREVIOUS EMPLOYERS. Avoid negative and long answers.

"Why are you leaving your present position?"
Be logical and composed even if you are leaving under challenging situation. Try to project positive feelings. Answers may include: "While I enjoy the stability of the job, I may miss the opportunity to develop my potential to the fullest." "Your company’s reputation and market leadership fit my search for the ideal environment to exhibit my talent and experience."

"How long would you stay with the company?"
Your reply might be: "I would really like to settle down with this company. As long as I am growing professionally, there is no reason for me to make a move."

"How long would it take you to make a contribution to our company?"
Important to qualify this question first; i.e. In what area does the company need a rapid contribution? Or, do you have a special project in mind you will want me to get involved with?

"What would you like to be doing three years from now?"
The safest answer contains a desire to be regarded and a true professional and team player.

"What are your biggest accomplishments?"
Keep your answers job-related, a number of achievements should spring to mind. Do not exaggerate. You might begin your reply with: "Although I feel my biggest accomplishments are ahead of me, I am proud of my involvement with..... We did it with hard work, concentration, and an eye for the bottom line." Always remember to quantify your achievements.

"Can you work under pressure?"
Whenever you are asked one of these, provide a brief yet comprehensive answer and seize the opportunity to sell yourself. For example, you could say: "Yes, I usually find it stimulating. However, I believe in planning and time management in order to reduce panic.

"How much money do you want?"
Generally, companies have salary ranges for every job; so giving an ill considered answer can reduce your job-offer chances to zero. The solution? Try: "Currently/in my last job my package is S$ xxxxxx, however, there are element of risk involved and lack structured benefits. I'm interested in this opportunity and I will seriously consider any reasonable offer you care to make me."

What are you looking for in your next job?"
You must say what you want in terms of what you can give to your employer. The key word in the following example is "contribution": "My experience at XYZ PLC has shown that I have a talent for motivating people. This is demonstrated by ... I am looking for an opportunity to continue that kind of contribution, and a company where I can develop in a professional manner."

"Describe the most difficult problem you've had to deal with."
This is a favourite tough question. It is designed to probe your professional profile; specifically, you're analytical skills: "Well, I always follow a five-step format with a difficult problem. One, I stand back and examine the problem. Two, I recognize the problem as the symptom of other, perhaps hidden, factors. Three, I make a list of possible solutions to the problem. Four, I weigh both the consequences and cost of each solution, and determine the best solution. And five, I go to my CEO/Director/Manager, outline the problem, make my recommendation, and ask for advice and approval." Then give an example of a problem and your solution.

"What would your references say?"
You have nothing to lose by being positive. If you demonstrate how well you and your boss get along, the interviewer does not have to ask, "What do you dislike about your current manager?"