Job interviews are nerve-wracking for many reasons. Most are due to the pressure and uncertainty that comes with them. After all, there’s a lot of stake here for job hunters.
Interviews are high-stakes situations where job applicants feel they’re judged. This fear of judgment over their qualifications or communication skills can cause anxiety. Applicants also feel pressured to perform well. They also experience self-doubt in these situations. Many people start to wonder if they’re qualified or skilled enough.
The stress and anxiety caused by interviews have a detrimental effect on jobseekers. Their nervousness could hinder them from performing well. They might even say the wrong things.
Being well-prepared can make a big difference. Knowing how to answer interview questions well can set an applicant apart. It will also boost their chances of landing the job. This post gives a short guide on how to answer interview questions to make a good impression.
Understand the Intention Behind the Question
Job applicants are often in a hurry to answer a question. It’s better to take a moment before diving into it. Spend a few seconds to try and understand what the interviewer is asking.
Interview questions assess the applicant’s problem-solving abilities and communication skills. It’s also a way to see if the individual will fit into the company’s culture.
Interviewers ask different questions to check the applicant’s skills. “Tell me about a time you worked in a team” is a common interview question. This is a behavioral question that assesses past behavior to predict future actions. Technical questions test job-specific skills. Situational questions gauge a person’s critical thinking process.
Use the STAR Method for Behavioral Questions
Behavioral questions are common in interviews. The best way to answer them is to use the STAR method. STAR is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
A job applicant using this method will first describe the context of the situation. He or she will then explain their task. They should mention any challenge or responsibility they faced. The applicant should explain the specific actions they took to address the issue. They should then explain the result of their actions.
Answer Technical Questions with Confidence
Confidence is crucial when it comes to job interviews. That’s why job applicants should take their time. When faced with a technical question, it’s best to take a deep breath and avoid rushing in. It’s OK for applicants to pause and take some time to think.
Applicants should answer technical questions with a clear and concise explanation. They should ask for clarification if they’re unsure about something in the question. Job applicants can even walk the interviewer through their thought process. This demonstrates problem-solving skills. It also shows that they have a logical approach to challenges.
Prepare for Common Interview Questions
Every interview is different, but some questions are almost guaranteed to come up. Savvy job applicants prepare their answers to these questions ahead of time. Doing this helps them feel more confident during the interview.
Most interviewers’ opening salvo is “Tell me about yourself.” Applicants should give a concise and professional answer. They should focus on their background and relevant experience. They should also mention why they’re interested in the role.
“Why do you want to work here?” is another favorite among interviewers. The trick is to research the company beforehand. This will give the applicant information they can use to tailor their answers. It’s best if they mention specific aspects of the organization that appeal to them. They can touch on the company’s values, mission, or work culture.
Applicants should also prepare an answer to “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” A good strategy is to highlight strengths that relate to the job. Job applicants should also mention a weakness or two. They should cite a real but minor area they’re working to improve. They should also explain how you’re addressing this.
Mastering how to answer interview questions takes a lot of practice. Job hunters can impress prospective employers with preparation and a strategic approach. Applicants should remember to stay calm. They should also showcase how their skills and experiences make them the best for the job.
One Last Thing
NW Recruiting Partners is a leader in building strong professional connections. We’re a full-service recruiting company based in Kirkland, Washington. Our company collaborates with some of Seattle’s top employers. We also work with companies across California and the Pacific Northwest. We specialize in recruiting for construction, real estate, and accounting. Our company has been around for over two decades. We have refined our search process to ensure we find the best talents. You can contact us here or at 206-343-8732.
