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Interview questions. How to successfully conduct an interview What would you change in a new position

The questions that the employer asks you at the interview are perhaps the most important part of it. Some of them turn out to be so tricky that they plunge into a stupor, and some simply seem meaningless. “Is my potential boss crazy?” - you think when they learn about your favorite color. But do not rush to draw such conclusions! The fact that you are asked at an interview about hobbies and hobbies, as well as some seemingly insignificant details of your life, means the interest shown by the employer in you and his desire to find a good employee. Well, who can be better than your candidacy?

Frequently Asked Interview Questions

In order to get the job you want, you need to understand why employers usually ask you about certain things. In particular, the question regarding your favorite color is aimed at diagnosing your personality traits: psychologists have long proven the connection between different shades and character traits. Although one should not take such tests too seriously, because they already contain a certain error, and any sane person (and you want just such a boss, right?) understands that black or gray does not mean passivity and depression in a hundred percentage of cases. Such things cannot be the main selection criterion, but they can complement the already existing picture.

And for this add-on to be beneficial for you, you need to be well prepared for answers to the most frequently asked questions. We specifically compiled a list of them, and also asked HR managers what meaning is put into each of them. Catch first-hand information and draw the appropriate conclusions!

-Please tell us a little about yourself

This question often confuses many applicants, and this is natural: open-ended questions are generally more difficult than questions with stipulated answers. Accordingly, how to answer it is also unclear. In general, he shows a prioritization in the life of the applicant: it so happened that a person first of all talks about the most important thing for himself. Therefore, you should not talk about your husband and children with enthusiasm, because for sure the employer is more interested in professional experience and education.

However, there is no need to retell the summary either - this is a senseless waste of time. by the most the best option there will be a clarification of what the employer wants to hear: a description of the nuances of a professional biography or a story about your non-work interests. In any case, it would be nice to focus on something important for your future work, even if it is mountaineering.

-What is the reason for leaving your previous job?

Your employer wants to know what you didn't like about your old job and what you expect from your new one. If you immediately start complaining about your former colleagues and boss, you run the risk of being branded as an eternally whining and absurd person, and this is not the best reputation for a potential employee. Some of the adequate reasons include the lack of career prospects, routine duties, problems with the location of the old place and work schedule. All this may well be an obstacle to the continuation of cooperation. However, when choosing one of the reasons, do not forget to clarify that everything is in order at the new workplace, otherwise the meaning of your employment is somewhat lost.

-Tell us about your strengths?

You should not abstractly talk about what a good person you are - the employer is not interested in this. It is important for him to learn about those qualities that are primarily needed for the effective performance of official duties. Of course, he understands that the applicant can lie, and invent, and embellish something. That is why it is so important to support your story with specific examples from your life and work practice. Use of clichés like “sociable”, “neat”, “hard-working” is not recommended – better be specific about how well you can listen to the customer and convince them to make a purchase.

-What are your shortcomings?

This is the opposite of the previous question. There are two extremes in the answer to it: a simple and honest story about all your minuses (including the fact that you don’t know how to cook borscht and quickly forget your faces) and phrases in the style: “What are you, I have no flaws” . Oh yes, there is also the hackneyed: "I'm a workaholic."

All of these options increase the likelihood of being denied a seat. If you want to interest the employer, then tell us about some of your real shortcomings - the one that you learned to deal with or even turned it “in your direction”. For example, you do not like to do monotonous and routine work. Therefore, you try to work on interesting and creative projects, and when you still have to do something monotonous, you find some kind of interest and element of the game in it.

Why do you want to work in this position and with us?

It would seem that the recruiter is waiting for you to start praising his company. However, everything is not so simple: general phrases like “I was interested in career prospects, a solid organization, high salary” may not only not help, but also alienate a potential employer from you. And all because it seems as if you are reading a “jagged” text from the Internet by heart.

You should be more specific in these recommendations. For example, say not “interesting work”, but “I want to apply my experience and qualifications where it will give the highest result and will be appreciated”. Thus, you will really answer the recruiter's question and interest him in your candidacy.

- Do you currently have other job offers?

An unexpected question, and even with a catch. If you answer that there are no offers, then you may get the impression that no one needs you, and if you say that you have a lot of options, it will seem that you don’t need this job. So what to do? Talk about other interview invitations, but emphasize special interest in this: “I am currently considering several employment options, but yours is the most attractive and promising for me.”

-Was your interview successful at other companies?

Trick question: the employer is trying to understand how valuable you are as a specialist. Agree, a good shot is likely to interest many, and your task is to convince your potential employer that you are exactly that. Tell us about your successes in this field, emphasizing what a competent specialist you are. You can also mention some failures, but they should not be related to the fact that you “got into a puddle”, but to the fact, for example, that the position was not quite according to your profile or with dissatisfaction with employment conditions.

How do you see your work in five years?

How recruiters love to abuse this question! In fact, it is aimed at diagnosing your attitude to life: how much you are focused on personal and professional success, what direction in your activity is a priority for you. Passive and lack of initiative people, as a rule, say that they cannot imagine such distant prospects, often emphasizing the role of chance and fate. And employees who are active and motivated to succeed are likely to easily tell you about where they see themselves in five years. By the way, career planning is generally very important for achieving significant professional goals, because setting them is the first step in this direction.

-Will your personal life interfere with your work?

Unfortunately, this question is often asked by girls. You can, of course, argue for a very long time on the topic of gender discrimination, but the fact remains: for many women, a career is a lesser priority than a family. And, when it comes to irregular working hours, long or long business trips, constant traveling, not every girl will agree to this, especially if she has a family.

As a rule, an honest employer immediately stipulates such items in the requirements for a potential employee - at least those that relate to the direct nature of the work. But there are companies that try to cheat the law and force employees not to have children for a certain period of time, do not issue maternity leave, sick leave for child care, etc. ... It is they who sin with such questions when interviewing for a seemingly neutral position. Therefore, when you hear something like this, think about it and take a closer look at the way in this company, if there is anything suspicious there. In any case, all these requirements are illegal, and the employer, if desired, can be held accountable.

One must be prepared for this question, although it is not quite typical of Russian culture. In the West, there are no work books at all - they only have resumes, letters of recommendation, and the contacts of previous colleagues and bosses indicated in the resume. That is why special importance is attached to a peaceful “parting” with the old place of work.

It is desirable that you be prepared to answer such a question, so it is better to discuss with former colleagues and managers the possibility of providing their contacts to a potential employer. Withholding such information may lead the HR manager to think badly that you do not have positive references or that you do not have enough experience.

-What salary would suit you?

In Russia, the question of money is banned, and therefore it is very difficult for domestic applicants to make a good impression at an interview. They all think that setting a good price for themselves is indecent and vulgar, and a bad one is unprofitable. But a competent specialist should always represent the level of the desired salary - at least approximately. This figure is the sum of the average wages of employees of this organization, as well as the income of specialists of this profile and similar qualifications.

If you are hesitant about setting a figure, then here is a little recommendation for you: it is better to slightly overestimate the level of expected income than to underestimate, because you will always have time to “fall” and bargain. Don't forget to consider employee benefits such as health insurance, bonuses, travel allowances, and other benefits.

What would you change in your new position?

A question with a "double" bottom: on the one hand, it diagnoses your awareness of the company's affairs, corporate culture, and, on the other hand, your initiative and creativity. When answering it, you need to be very careful. If you don't know something, it's best to clarify some details with the recruiter before answering the question, otherwise it may seem that you are simply reshaping everything for yourself, regardless of the appropriateness of the changes. It's also a great chance for you to show off your personality and make some interesting suggestions for a potential job.

-What is your attitude to life: what difficulties do you see in it, and how do you cope with them?

Very good question! Firstly, it helps the employer to determine what kind of person is in front of him: an eternally dissatisfied whiner or “fighter”. Some people begin to complain about the numerous difficulties in life, the lack of positive moments, the anger and hostility of others, fatalism. This indicates their passivity, self-doubt, distrust of others, pessimism - in general, such an employee is likely to reduce the effectiveness of the production process.

Act on the contrary: talk about the fact that there are problems in life, but they are quite surmountable, and their resolution gives it drive and energy. Let the employer understand that, in your opinion, a person is the creator of his own destiny and career, and the people around him, as a rule, are ready for cooperation and are open. This will demonstrate your active life position, responsibility, focus on success and achievement and the ability to interact with others. Of course they want to hire you!

-Tell us about your professional connections that you could use in a new position?

This question tests your value as a specialist. Any person who has worked for some time in a particular industry, one way or another acquires useful contacts. If this does not happen, it means that something is wrong with the person, and the effectiveness of his activity is called into question. He may not be able to organize the necessary distribution channels, legal approvals, or some other things necessary for the successful implementation of projects. So let your employer know what specific people you can connect with and how those connections will help with professional issues.

-How do you improve your professional skills?

The employer in this context is interested in two things: your activity and willingness to learn. As you know, a real professional never stops learning and is able to do it on his own, without pressure from parents, colleagues and superiors. So tell your potential boss what courses you've taken, what seminars you've attended, and what professional magazines you've read lately. You should not immediately put pressure on the fact that you will be happy to undergo training at the expense of the company: a good company will be ready to provide you with such an opportunity, but your pressure may seem selfish and even scare a little.

-What do you like to do in your free time?

It would seem, where does the interview for a vacant position? And here's the thing! The leaders of many companies are now quite aware of the fact that the effectiveness of professional activities is inextricably linked to the kind of people their employees are. Their interests and inclinations are more truthfully capable of beautiful words tell the most important thing about their personal characteristics. For example, a person who breeds aquarium fish is most likely not very creative and stress resistant. And the applicant who defended his Ph.D. thesis, for sure, has a sense of purpose, an analytical mind and attention to detail.

So feel free to share your hobbies in response to this question. Of course, you should not focus the attention of the employer on the fact that you like to spend nights in clubs in the company of your favorite cocktails. But some interesting and unusual activity will allow you to attract the attention of a potential boss.

-Do you have any questions for us?

Yes, they cannot be! Questions to the employer are another indicator of your interest and level of thinking. Those who do not give a damn about this (usually final) stage of the interview are at great risk of “flying by” with their work, like plywood over Paris. So, what should you ask the interviewer?

Questions about the job itself - everything related to responsibilities, main goals, special projects, criteria for performing work. Do not ask about what is clear from the job description or has already been agreed - it is better to clarify ambiguities or ambiguities. For example, you might ask, “What are your top priorities for this position over the next six months?” or “Why did this position become vacant?”.
Issues related to the evaluation of performance, its criteria and methods of verification. It is important for you to have all the information about this, otherwise it may turn out that something incredible and unthinkable will be required from the employee.
Questions about the organization of the company or department: who will be your immediate supervisor, who will supply your department, what place does he occupy in the company. It's also a good idea to be aware of the biggest challenges the department or team is currently facing - this will give you a good idea of what the job is about.
Questions about your career: about the likelihood of promotion, company plans, its growth and development. You can ask the interviewer about your career prospects in the organization, the promotion of employees within the company, and even the position that you can take in about five years.
Questions about opportunities. Specify the possibility of training, trips abroad, advanced training, expanding the scope of your activities through the implementation of additional duties - all this can become an even more significant and pleasant bonus than wages.

Typically, interviews are limited to just this range of questions. So you have all the keys to answer them with brilliance and present yourself in the best possible light. We want to remind you that it is worth lying less and giving more specific examples - this always has a positive effect on the employer. And, of course, good luck with your interview!

At an interview, employers often ask candidates: “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”, “What are your plans for the future?”, “What is your professional dream?” - what to answer such questions, our expert, head of career services HeadHunter Marina Khadina will tell you.

When asking where you see yourself in five years, the employer wants to understand two things: how your plans meet the expectations and capabilities of the company, whether you can implement them in a new place, and also what goals you set for yourself, what you want from your career.

It is important to answer this question honestly and openly, because many companies have a certain career development logic. If your expectations will be very different from the company's capabilities, it is better - both for the employer and for you - to understand this in advance. Then neither the employer will be surprised, nor you will be demotivated later. Here it is appropriate to ask the employer about the company's practice, whether there is an accepted career development logic.

Do not share non-career plans with your employer (building a house, training, family) unless you are most certainly asked about it. The answer to this question should be as related as possible to the work under discussion.

Sample answers for this question:

“In a few years, with additional experience, I would be interested in moving from a technical role to a management role.”

“What are the possible development scenarios in your company for professionals like me?”

“My long-term plans include growing with the company, learning, expanding my responsibilities and bringing the greatest possible benefit to the company’s business.”

“I see myself as the most effective employee in a well-organized company like yours (if you know about it). I plan to develop my skills while continuing to add value to certain areas of your company.”

In case of a question about a dream - it's good if you have it. It is important for the employer to understand what you are striving for and whether the proposed work can bring you closer to the goal, whether it will become an obstacle to achieving your goal. It is important that your dream is somehow connected with the career steps that you are going to take in the upcoming workplace in the near future.

Good luck with your interviews!

P.S. If you think you might be invited for interviews more often, try to draw the attention of the employer to your resume. The "Bright Resume" service will highlight your resume in the general list with a bright color, and the "Auto Update" service will automatically raise your resume to the top of the search results list within two weeks.

Smart recruiters can get a lot of information out of you by asking the right questions.

These questions seem very simple, but they help reveal the information that the candidate is trying to hide. In other words, they are designed to deceive you.

Lynn Taylor, national labor expert and author of Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job, says such questions are asked not only to identify shortcomings. "Questions like this help weed out unnecessary information and find out who the candidate really is," says Taylor.

We present to your attention 17 tricky questions and tips that will help you formulate the right answers.

Describe yourself in one word

Why is this being asked?"Most likely, this way the interlocutor is trying to determine the type of your personality and the degree of self-confidence, as well as to find out if your work style matches the style adopted in the company," explains Taylor.

What's the catch? This question is dangerous in the early stages of the interview, when you have no idea who exactly the potential employer is looking for. "There is a fine line between self-confidence and complacency, shyness and modesty," says Taylor. - "People are multifaceted, so it is difficult for them to describe themselves in a few words."

What answer is expected from you?"First of all, be careful," Taylor advises. - "If you consider yourself a reliable and dedicated person who is also not averse to joking, voice the conservative option." If you're applying for an accountant job, don't mention your preference for being creative.

This characteristic is more suitable for an artist or decorator. An accountant must be punctual and accurate. "Most employers are looking for people who are honest, reliable and driven, who can work in a team and don't succumb to pressure. However, if you just blurt out prepared words, you will not make the best impression. This question gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your best qualities and suitability for the position you are applying for.

Are you applying for other vacancies? How do they compare with our vacancy?

Why is this being asked?"In fact, the interlocutor wants to know how active you are in your search," says Nicolai. - "Based on the answer, he will be able to evaluate how you speak of other employers and how honest you are."

What's the catch? If you say that you are not applying for other vacancies, this does not make you look good. Few job seekers submit resumes to only one place, which is why the employer may think that you are lying. If you are honest about other opportunities and speak positively about them, the recruiter may become worried that you intend to choose another employer and will not want to waste their time on you. "Responding negatively about other employers is also not an option," says Nicolai.

What answer is expected from you? You can say, "I'm interviewing with several organizations, but I still can't decide which step is best for me." "That's a decent answer," Nicolai says. - "Do not praise or scold the competitors of a potential employer."

Talk about your strengths and weaknesses

Why is this being asked? The interlocutor tries to identify potential problems - for example, inability to work in a team or lack of punctuality. "Each job is unique, so there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The strengths you mention should match the requirements of the job, and the weaknesses should reflect something positive," Taylor says. - "Ultimately, the interlocutor must understand that the pros outweigh the cons."

What's the catch? The answer to this question can completely spoil the impression. If you are honest about your shortcomings without highlighting your strengths. "Also, the benefits listed may not fit the specifics or style of work," says Taylor. “It would be better to prepare the answer to this question in advance, so as not to walk through a minefield.”

What answer is expected from you? Human Resources professionals want to know that your strengths are a perfect fit for the position you are applying for, and that your weaknesses won't prevent you from doing your job well. "In addition, they evaluate your honesty and the degree of self-confidence," - says Taylor.

Why do you want to work here?

Why is this being asked? This question is asked in order to determine the motives of a potential employee, the degree of his awareness of the company and the desire to get a job.

What's the catch?"Of course, there are several reasons why you want to work for this particular company," says Taylor. "It's just how you prioritize that matters." You may think to yourself, "I hope my work here will be paid what it deserves" or "At least I'll have a decent boss" or "I live fifteen minutes away from the office", but all these arguments are of no importance to personnel department representative. "Besides, the potential employer wants to know how interested you are in the job," adds Taylor.

What answer is expected from you? Representatives of the personnel department want to see that the candidate has done the preparatory work, studied the specifics of the company and the industry as a whole.

In addition, they want to make sure that you need this (and not any) job, that you are energetic and positive, that you are aware of your goals and are ready to contribute to the common cause.

Why do you want to leave your current job?

Why is this being asked?"A potential employer is trying to find out in advance about possible problems especially if you've changed jobs a lot before," explains Taylor. He wants to see all the pitfalls and evaluate the candidate objectively.

What's the catch? Hardly anyone likes to talk about an unloved job. If you do not show diplomacy and tact, the representative of the personnel department may have additional questions and doubts.

What answer is expected from you? The employer hopes that you are looking for new opportunities to showcase your talents and abilities. "Remember, recruiters don't mind hearing that you're interested in growing professionally at their company."

What are you most proud of professionally?

Why is this being asked? The interlocutor wants to understand your true passion and aspirations. "It's not just what you get to work on that matters, but how you feel about it," says Taylor. "People who talk about the previous case with pride and zeal are expected to feel the same way about the new one."

What's the catch? Managers may assume that you enjoy doing what you are talking about, and you do not mind continuing such activities. If you do not describe the situation from different angles, you may be considered limited.

What answer is expected from you? Recruiters want candidates to be able to articulate their thoughts and infect others with their enthusiasm and positive energy. "Remember one thing: don't exaggerate or brag about your successes," Taylor advises. - "If you manage to get this job, you will have to justify your words."

What qualities did your leaders and colleagues have that you enjoyed working with the most/least?

Why is this being asked? The HR specialist is trying to determine the level of your conflict with people belonging to certain personality types. "In addition, he needs to know what conditions you need to be productive," says Taylor.

What's the catch? If you cannot disengage from the situation, then you run the risk of admitting that you are experiencing difficulties in interpersonal interaction. In addition, your potential boss may have some of the listed qualities. If you said that the previous boss was holding too many meetings and you didn’t have time to work, and your interlocutor blushed sharply, you may have hit him for alive.

What answer is expected from you?"They want to hear positive feedback from you, not negative feedback," explains Taylor. "Start your story with the good and only mention the bad in passing." Do not evade the answer and do not stick out your personal shortcomings.

Talk about the qualities you value in other people. Emphasize that you can work with people belonging to different psychotypes. For example: "I feel like I can get along with a variety of people. I enjoy working and interacting with people who know exactly what they want and tend to set their expectations in advance."

Would you like to open your own business?

Why is this being asked? Taylor argues that this is how the employer tries to determine the likelihood that one day you decide to go free swimming. "Executives want to know that the money and time they spent on you will pay off," she adds.

What's the catch? Each of us has probably thought about starting our own business. This question is dangerous because you may be overly enthusiastic about the prospect of being your own boss. The employer may be afraid that this thought is too close to you.

What answer is expected from you? Of course, there is nothing wrong with recognizing the attractiveness of the prospect of self-employment. You can turn the conversation in a different direction by saying that you have already tried to open your own business or thought about it and felt that this option was not suitable for you. It will sound more true than "No, I never thought about it."

A question like this is your chance to talk about teamwork and looking for his place in the team. In addition, you can say that you like the work of a specialist, and you do not want to organize the work of other employees or keep accounts. To dispel all the fears of a potential employer, tell him about what attracts you to him.

If you could choose any company, where would you like to work?

Why is this being asked? The Human Resources representative wants to make sure that you are serious and not ready to accept any offer you receive. "It also weeds out candidates who often change their minds. You must have heard about how great it is to work at Google, but if you talk about it, you will appear in front of the employer in a disadvantageous light. Remember that the interview is not a secular conversation, and proceed from the available opportunities," Taylor advises.

What's the catch? A casual mention of big competitors can cast doubt on your intentions.

What answer are they waiting for?"The interlocutor wants to know that his company is the first on your list of priorities." You can answer: "I have collected information about organizations that operate in our industry, and your company seems like the perfect place for me to work. I like what you do and I would like to contribute."

If you won $5 million, how would you spend it?

Why is this being asked? The employer wants to know if you will stay where you are if you don't need money. The answer to this question gives insight into your motivation and work ethic. A story about the desire to spend or invest money speaks of the maturity of a potential employee and his ability to bear responsibility.

What's the catch? Such questions are usually asked suddenly and are very confusing. "They are in no way related to work, and their purpose is not clear at first glance," says Taylor. "If you don't think about your answer, you will quickly lose control of the situation."

What answer is expected from you? The employer wants to know that you will continue your work because you like it. In addition, he wants to make sure that you can make sound financial decisions. If you are irresponsible with your money, then you will probably not value the employer's money.

Have any colleagues or superiors ever asked you to compromise your principles? Tell about it.

Why is this being asked? A potential employer is trying to assess your morality. "He wants to hear a story about a delicate situation that you managed to get out of with flying colors," explains Taylor. "Perhaps this is how he tests how far you can go." In fact, the question is: Do you know how to use diplomacy? Can you make a public scandal? Can you kick back? How do you think in such situations?

What's the catch? The interlocutor wants to know how delicate you are. In addition, they do not want to hire those who speak ill of previous employers, no matter how serious their misdeeds are. "If you share too much information, you're unlikely to get a job offer," says Taylor. "That's a very tricky question. Choose your words carefully and try to be as tactful as possible."

What answer is expected from you? Try to give a clear and professional answer without revealing sensitive details. Answering too honestly will not give you any advantage.

You can say something like: “I was once asked by a colleague to participate in a project that seemed unethical to me, but the problem resolved itself. Overall success is very important to me."

Are there any reasons why someone might not like working with you?

Why is this being asked? A potential employer wants to know in advance about possible communication problems and asks about it directly. "The worst thing that can happen is that you lie and your deception is exposed," explains Taylor. "The negative tone of a question can confuse even the most experienced professionals."

What's the catch? This question can do you a disservice. If you decide on a simple path and say that working with you is a pleasure, then you will simply insult the interlocutor and devalue his question. Therefore, you will have to formulate the answer in such a way as to tell the truth and not look pathetic at the same time. "Recruiters don't like candidates who feel sorry for themselves," Taylor says.

What answer is expected from you? You can say, "I'm not easy to get along with, especially when the deadlines are running out. I often lose patience and lose my temper quickly." This will make you not look your best. Taylor suggests modifying this answer slightly: "I usually get along well with my colleagues. My previous experience proves it. However, some colleagues have temporarily disliked me when I tried to make them work better. Sometimes we are forced to make uncomfortable decisions for the good of the whole companies".

Why are you looking for a job for so long?

Why is this being asked?"Recruiters tend to be skeptical," Taylor says. "Sometimes they see guilt where there is none, until they are convinced otherwise." This is a nasty question that can sound offensive. You may think that the interlocutor suspects you of a lack of motivation, knowledge or experience, problems with employers, and other sins.

What's the catch? The very wording of the question is meant to test you. Ignore the bait and give a calm, thorough answer.

What answer is expected from you? The Human Resources representative wants to make sure you take the initiative even when you're unemployed. your perseverance and perseverance will be useful to the company. Sample answers: "I go to interviews all the time, but before accepting an offer, I must make sure that the job suits me 100%", "I am actively looking for a job and trying to improve my skills (through volunteering, advanced courses qualifications, etc.)". "If you manage to control yourself, you can give a coherent answer without going into details," says Taylor.

Exercise caution. Do not complain about the high level of unemployment, the specifics of the labor market and industry, etc. The employer wants to evaluate your desire to contribute to the common cause and to know how active you are.

How did you manage to find time for this interview? What did you say to your manager?

Why is this being asked? Hiring professionals want to know your priorities. What is more important to you - current job or interview? "Employers know that habits can be used to judge a potential employee's integrity. If he neglects his work for the sake of a ghostly opportunity, he is likely to repeat this trick when he looks for the next job," says Taylor. "Also, they want to see how you handle awkward situations (like when you have to lie to your boss)." Ideally, you should come to interviews during your lunch break, which is considered personal time.

What's the catch? In fact, the question sounds like this: "What is it like to look for a new job behind the back of the authorities?" For the most part, applicants are embarrassed that the case is framed in this way, so they try to give a lengthy answer.

What answer is expected from you? Explain that work is of paramount importance to you. Schedule interviews before or after work, at lunchtime or on weekends. If you are asked to voice an excuse that you provided to your boss, do not go into details. Don't say, "I took the day off." Taylor recommends saying, "My manager understands that I have personal time and doesn't ask what I do. He is more interested in the results of my work."

Tell me about the most difficult situation you have ever faced.

Why is this being asked? With this question, the representative of the personnel department receives a huge portion of information. He will not only learn how you cope with stressful situations, but also understand how you think and determine the degree of complexity of the situation, what actions you take to cope with unforeseen circumstances.

What's the catch? As a rule, this question is perceived as an invitation to brag about your successes. Don't fall for this bait. "Emphasize your ability to solve problems under pressure," Taylor advises. - "Do not talk about your feelings and experiences. Tell us about the steps you have taken to cope with difficulties. Did you manage to act logically and consistently?" Choose your examples carefully, as they will give a potential employer an idea of what you find difficult.

What answer is expected from you? Taylor argues that employers want job applicants to be problem solvers. "They favor those who think sanely and professionally, as well as those who are able to quickly recover from setbacks," she adds. To formulate a worthy answer, prepare in advance a story about how you successfully overcame major professional difficulties.

You have been running your own business for several years. How do you plan to adapt to our culture?

Why is this being asked? If you've run your own business, you probably have the qualities that any company would need. But Nicolai argues that such an experience may confuse some HR professionals and raise similar questions. According to Nicolai, "many employees who have never had to exercise independence are afraid of former entrepreneurs."

What's the catch? Many hide personal achievements to prove that they do not pose a threat to the company. This approach does not allow you to demonstrate your desire and ability to work.

What answer is expected from you?"The employer wants to see in the candidate the commitment to the company, the desire to become part of a large team and contribute to the common cause," says Nicolai. Even if you don't like the idea, emphasize how important the job is to you. "The employer wants to know that the job seeker needs him," she says.

How do you define success for yourself?

Why is this being asked?"The interlocutor is not only trying to determine the level of your motivation, but also to some extent testing your character," says Taylor. The answer gives an idea of the applicant's priorities. Do you enjoy dealing with challenges? Learn something new? Or are you taking a more personal approach?

What's the catch? This question is a real minefield, because the concept of success is very subjective. Any, even the most reasonable answer can be misinterpreted. "There's a fine line between being ambitious and being proactive, although either way you'll bring significant value to the organization," says Taylor.

What answer is expected from you? When answering general and vague questions that imply a subsequent discussion, try to build phrases so that they do not cause objections. "Define success in a way that speaks directly to the potential employer, based on what you read in the job description and learned during the interview," Taylor advises. For example: "My success lies in applying the experience and knowledge gained to achieve the company's goals."

Taylor argues that such a response is fundamentally different from other formulations, in which there is a thinly veiled "desire to get a good position in order to gain access to more important things." Use specific wording that is directly related to professional activities.

So you've been invited for an interview. Do you really want to work in this position and are very afraid of not being selected? Then you need to gather all the will into a fist and prepare for the conversation: think over the style of clothing and rehearse the speech, taking into account likely questions.

The 11 Essential Interview Questions and Smart Answers You Can Find Here. How to answer complex and non-standard questions in order to please the employer? What questions a recruiter will ask depends on what position the employee is being hired for, however, as a rule, there is a standard set of questions that are asked to all applicants, which will be discussed below.

Before conducting an interview, the employer usually invites the applicant to fill out a special questionnaire, a sample of which can be viewed.

Recently, situational questions have become very popular, when the employer describes the situation and invites the applicant to choose the right behavior in this situation.

Examples of great, good, and bad answers to interview questions:

Video - uncomfortable interview questions

What to say in an interview

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

When answering a candidate's question, pay attention to the following: - formally sets out biographical data or immediately lays out "trump cards", emphasizing his desire and opportunity to take this position; - states only the main thing, that is, speaks about his qualifications, experience, responsibility, interest, diligence and decency, or cites irrelevant facts; - speaks briefly, precisely, clearly or mumbles for a long time and does not express his thoughts well; - carries or speaks calmly, confidently or insecurely.

2. How do you look at life: what difficulties do you see in it and how do you cope with them?

Some people speak in the sense that life is difficult, there are a lot of problems, most of which are insoluble, that people are evil and unfriendly, that there are few joys in life and everything is decided by fate, chance or other people, but not by himself. So, in front of you is a passive person, unsure of himself, not trusting others, pessimistic and unhappy (loser). Other people speak positively about life: there is no life without problems, difficulties can be overcome, the fate and career of a person are in his hands, people are friendly and ready to cooperate, a person is the blacksmith of his own happiness. So says a person who takes an active life position, aimed at success, ready to take responsibility, successfully interacting with people and able to enjoy life.

3. What attracts you to work with us in this position?

It’s bad if they answer with common phrases: “I am attracted by growth prospects, an interesting job, a solid company ...”. I must give serious and concrete arguments: the desire to apply my qualifications and experience where they can give the greatest return and will be appreciated, the attractiveness of working in a strong team of professionals.

4. Why do you consider yourself worthy of this position? What are your advantages over other candidates?

This is the best question for a candidate to, without false modesty, name his main advantages over other applicants. At the same time, he must demonstrate his ability to convince, emphasizing his advantages. It is bad if the candidate answers this question with weak arguments and gives his formal biographical characteristics.

5. What are your strengths?

The candidate must emphasize first of all the qualities that are required for this job, and provide convincing evidence on specific facts. But you can hear clichés repeated thousands of times: “I am sociable, neat, efficient,” etc. Ask him to clarify what his sociability, accuracy, diligence are manifested in, what is his manner of listening to the client, what he has achieved thanks to his strong qualities.

6. What are your weaknesses?

From a smart candidate, you are unlikely to hear repentance for sins and a long list of his shortcomings. He will try to turn the answer in such a way as to increase his chances even more. For example, he will say: “Many consider me a workaholic” or “I don’t know how to relax, I feel good only when I work” or “I am too demanding of myself and others.” If the candidate is showing off too much and you want to lead him into a frank admission of his shortcomings, you can tell him such a joke. In such a situation, the candidate characterizes himself: “Conscientious, hardworking, I don’t drink, I don’t smoke ...” Then he is asked in surprise: “Do you have any shortcomings?” “There is one,” the candidate admits, “I like to lie.”

7. Why did you leave your previous job?

It is bad if the reason for leaving was a conflict, if the candidate scolds the orders that were there and his former leader. Leaving work because of a conflict is an escape from difficulties, an admission of one's own defeat, which leaves an imprint on the self-esteem of the individual. A negative attitude towards people, the habit of conflict with employees, and especially with management, is a stable characteristic of a person and will definitely manifest itself in one form or another at a new job. A good candidate will highlight the positive things in his previous work and relationships, and will name such worthy reasons as the desire for a more interesting (highly paid, professional growth opportunities) work and the desire to realize his potential to the fullest.

8. Why did you decide to change jobs?

This question is asked to someone who is working at the time of the interview. As in the answer to the previous question, not with better side characterize the candidate's story about the conflict. Whereas the desire for professional growth, expanding the scope of one's knowledge and skills, and raising salaries is respected and welcomed in all developed countries.

9. Have you received any other job offers?

The credibility of the candidate will increase if he talks about other job offers, but notes a special interest in this particular one. Well, if he expresses a desire to get maximum satisfaction from his work. His mood not only affects his health and moral climate in the team, but is also the most important prerequisite for high labor productivity, the most reliable guarantee against mistakes, negligence and marriage, and ultimately the main guarantee of the prosperity of the company.

10. How well have you been interviewed in other places?

It is important to find out for what reasons did not pass the interview in some places and successfully passed in others. If he convinces that your competitors are interested, then you try to keep him.

11. Will your personal life interfere with this work associated with additional loads (irregular working hours, long or distant business trips, constant traveling)?

This question is often asked to women. Some firms, in an attempt to get around the law, impose harsh conditions, such as not having children for a certain period of time, not taking sick leave to care for a child, not taking unpaid leave, etc.

12. How do you imagine your position in five (ten) years?

Many people without initiative, who do not plan their careers and lives, answer that they do not imagine such long-term prospects. And a person aimed at personal success will readily talk about his planned professional growth, and, possibly, personal goals. Max Eggert, in his book A Brilliant Career, talked about the importance of career planning. At a famous business school, on the first day of class, students were asked who had written down the milestones and goals of their personal careers. Only 3% of them raised their hands. After 10 years, it is these 3% who have achieved more financial success than all the others combined.

13. What changes would you make in your new job?

Well, if he shows his initiative, familiarity with the situation of innovation and reorganization. However, this is permissible only with a deep knowledge of the problems in the firm. It is bad if the state of affairs does not know too well, but strive to redo everything in its own way.

14. Who can you contact for feedback on your work?

Must readily provide phone numbers and addresses of former colleagues and leaders. Withholding such information will immediately reveal the lack of positive recommendations or the inexperience of the applicant.

15. What salary do you expect?

A Russian proverb says: "He who does not know his own price will always sell cheap." A good specialist always knows his worth and expects a high salary. It is better for the candidate to overestimate the expected pay for his work than to underestimate it. If the salary is offered, do not forget to “blow up the pie” and list the benefits available in the organization: bonuses, medical insurance, preschool institutions, free travel and meals, free professional development and other manifestations of caring for staff. [...] If a candidate is obviously bluffing, you can “knock him out of his role”, cool his ardor by sharply lowering the offered salary and benefits. Remember this joke? An arrogant young artist in a demanding tone puts forward his conditions for the chief director of the theater when applying for a job: "Salary 500 dollars, main roles, 8 performances a month and the provision of a separate apartment." To which the chief director calmly puts forward his own: "50 dollars, daily performances, extras and a dorm room." - "I agree".

5 more questions can be added to the main ones.

16. What are some of your professional connections that you could use in your new job?

17. How do you improve your professional qualifications?

18. What do you like to do in your free time?

19. When could you start a new job?

20. What questions do you have?

V. Polyakov
excerpt from the book "Technology of Career"