What is your biggest weakness?

The weakness question. Possibly the one we all dread the most and aim to prepare for which then goes out the window the moment the question is posed to us. Whilst this question is obviously meant to try and find out more about you, after all your CV only sells the best parts, it can be a bit of a stumbling block if you don’t answer it correctly.

It’s a given that any negative you identify you need to try and turn into a positive. Whilst many employers expect this will be your approach, identifying your weakness and explaining how you are overcoming it will show the interviewer you are actively seeking to better yourself. Try to identify an area in your work life you would like to improve on. For example, this could be a software package you aren’t confident on which you can then follow up with the steps you are taking to improve your knowledge.

How do you schedule your time?

Managing your time is an essential part of any job role and this question will help the interviewer to understand more about your time management skills. It’s important to show the interviewer how you prioritise tasks you are set and how you manage your time to achieve set goals.

When answering this question make sure you can provide examples of how you have managed your time effectively previously. If there are any time management tools that are relevant to your industry then make sure you mention these if you have used them before.

The curveball question

The curveball is a question designed to try and throw you off your interview a-game but take time to consider your answer and you’ll impress the interviewer no end. Questions such as; how many traffic lights are there in London, are designed to test your analytical skills and see how you can handle pressure.

When answering this question take the time to consider how you would start to work out the end result. The interviewer will be aware you won’t know the exact answer but showing how you would attempt to reach a conclusion will show the interviewer you aren’t put off a challenge.

Why should I hire you?

Often one of the closing questions once the interviewer has established your strengths and weaknesses, this is your chance to shine and sum up your career to date so far. Make sure you reference key points that are related to the job role in question and draw on past experiences to back up any claims you make.

Think of what competitive edge you have on other candidates, do you know how to use a particular software package? Or do you have any extra qualifications which boost your educational achievements? Much like the initial tell us about yourself question, this is your chance to tell the interviewer why you and only you are perfect for the role at hand.

Do you have any questions for us?

If you have the opportunity to ask questions during your interview then don’t pass it up. Asking questions enables you to show your interest and enthusiasm for the company and the role you’ve applied for. It’s also your chance to find out more about your potential employer and work out whether you would like to work there.

Make sure you’ve researched the company thoroughly and can draw upon relevant projects the company may have worked on and ask questions about them. Ask how the role fits within the current team and what your day to day duties will look like too so you can get a good feel for the company. Take a look at some more examples of good questions to ask here.

Thorough research and preparation are key when facing an interview situation and understanding how to answer difficult interview questions will ensure you aren’t put on the spot and help you ace the interview.

Search for your next opportunity or register your details at: http://www.halesgroup.co.uk/