The job interview is usually the most worrying step in the job search process, and if there is anything to look for, it is the calm to face it in the most focused way possible. Find out how to relax and overcome the anxiety generated by tense moments, such as a job interview:
To help you in your preparation for the job interview, we have made a list of the 10 most controversial questions in job interviews that the recruiter might ask you, and which it is advisable to have prepared, in order to answer with confidence and determination.
- Why did you leave your previous job? Or are you currently working? Why would you leave your current job? With this answer, you reinforce why you want to work for the company. Clearly express your intention to take on challenges that motivate you and how you think the company can give you a good opportunity to achieve them.
- What sparks your motivation? This question is directly related to your work ethic, your personal vision and your objectives. Never link topics such as money or prestige to it.
- What makes you different from other candidates? Assert your strengths and achievements with confidence, be honest and humble, but don't forget that it's your moment to sell yourself. It's your moment to demonstrate why you are the best hire for that position and for that company.
- Do you accept criticism? How do you handle it? Responding with an example is always a good option, as you demonstrate how you react to it through the normality of telling it. This gives veracity to the response.
- How do you feel about taking orders from a supervisor? This question aims to extract information about how you work in a team and your ability to follow guidelines. One explicit way to demonstrate this is to give a self-explanatory example.
- Mention a mistake you made that revealed one of your weaknesses and how you overcame it. Avoid getting into very personal issues; you should present your professional side. Use examples that link the question to your working life. Answering honestly is what will give your answer credibility.
- What aspects of this job don't appeal to you? No job is perfect, so saying that you like everything about it is not a good option, nor is saying that you don't like something before starting at a new company. The answer to this question should be neutral, play it safe, i.e. even if at the moment you don't see anything that doesn't appeal to you, it's possible that you will find it later. Explaining it naturally and making it clear that it is normal and does not represent a problem for your performance is the best option.
- Are you currently participating in other selection processes? All interviewers know that if a person is doing an interview, it is because they are actively looking for work, so don't be afraid to say that it is true. If so, mention that you have attended other interviews and the status you are in. The fact that you have been approached by other companies makes your profile more interesting.
- What salary range are you in (if you are currently working) or hoping to be in (if you are unemployed)? Research the market average before the interview. It is not necessary to specify a specific figure. The best option is to give a range between a minimum and a maximum, where the minimum is what you really expect.
- Do you want to ask a question? Never answer with a ‘no’, this shows disinterest and apathy. Prepare in advance any question related to the position, the company, the team, etc., that highlights your interest and the previous research you have prepared about the company.
Hang in there with a positive attitude!
Delight the interviewer with your passion for your profession and your interest in the company. The impression you leave will mean that, if you are not chosen for this vacancy, they will think of you when there is another one, and maybe that is when you will be given the opportunity.
All selection processes leave something positive. Even if you are not the person chosen, everything contributes to achieving the goal you have worked so hard for: ‘Finding a job’.
Always remember that your talent and professional experience exist, and are still there, with you. You know in advance that when you face a selection process, there is a possibility of not being chosen, but remember also that if you don't get this opportunity, you will get another. Remember that!
Marycel Mercado
