The Most Tricky Job Interview Questions and the Best Answers

23 09 2008

When it comes to job interviews preparation is the key. One of the most important things to prepare for is tough job interview questions and the potential answers you might give.

Use these examples of tricky job interview questions to prepare for your next job interview. Above all, make sure that you don’t over-prepare and end up sounding like a scripted robot. The key is to get the answers prepared mentally in a brief outline.

“What kind of salary are you looking for?”

Although this is often one of the last questions you might be asked, you need to treat this one with utmost care. If you don’t know what sort of salary is reasonable for the position, then you will have to ask the employer what their range is and then simply work from there. Do not start negotiating off the back of this question…wait until you are actually offered the position first, before you make any salary negotiations!

Remember, the salary you can command is directly related to your suitability and skills for the job.

“Are you a team player?”

If you’ve worked with colleagues in the past, then you are indeed a team player. The employer will gladly (and often expect) some real life examples. Use your job interview preparation to think of a few.

However, do not rule out the possibility of working alone. The idea is to come across as flexible and adaptive as possible. In other words, do not say that you only work well in a team, as this might hinder your chances if the job also requires solitary work.

“What is your greatest strength?”

This is your chance to shine, your greatest window to impress the employer above all else. However, don’t get carried away and go overboard here, as you might come off as a little phoney.

Try to be concise and list a handful of your strengths such as:

– Ability to work well under pressure
– Ability to train other people
– Problem solving skills
– Positive attitude
– Organizational skills
– Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers

The way to make this answer really pack a punch is to provide examples. Remember not to ramble on too much, but simply give a brief example for each strength.

Of course, the more you are able to align and tie in your strengths with that particular job position the better, which is explained in much more detail in in this guide.

Did you know that the number of unemployed job seekers in the UK is rising, and in the US the unemployment rate has recently risen to over 5%?

This means that you now face even tougher competition for your dream job and more brutal hiring managers who cannot afford to hire anyone less than a perfect match for the job.