Ever been caught off guard in an interview?
It’s a situation many of us have faced. You walk in, feeling prepared, and even confident the interview is going well once the questions start coming... and then they ask that question. It can be enough to leave a person momentarily speechless. But don’t worry, you’re not alone!
In fact, a recent survey in the UK revealed that 47% of professionals feel nervous before interviews (Source: Guardian Careers). It’s perfectly normal to feel some anxiety when facing unexpected questions. But with the right mindset and preparation, those challenging moments can become opportunities to stand out. I’ll be breaking down some of the trickier questions and how to handle them like a pro.
1. "Tell me about your biggest weakness."
This question is a classic, and it can catch even the most well-prepared candidates off guard. Employers ask this not just to hear about your flaws but to gauge your self-awareness, problem-solving abilities, and how you learn from past experiences.
Pro Tip: Don’t just mention a weakness—share a specific experience that helped you recognise it. Talk about a time when this challenge showed up, how you navigated through it, and what actions you took to improve. For example, you might say, “I used to struggle with time management when handling multiple projects. I realised this when a project deadline slipped. Since then, I’ve adopted better prioritisation methods, like time-blocking and using project management tools, which have made me more efficient.” This kind of approach instead highlights your critical thinking, adaptability, and commitment to growth.
2. "Why should we hire YOU over other candidates?"
This question can feel like a direct challenge, but it’s actually a fantastic opportunity to showcase your unique value. It’s your moment to align your skills, experiences, and passion with the job description – and then go beyond it.
Rather than simply matching your qualifications to their needs, emphasise any additional skills or insights you bring that could add extra value to the role. If there’s something about their products, services, or company culture that resonates with you, share that too. For example, you could say, “In addition to my experience in project management, I have a strong background in data analysis that I believe can improve the efficiency of your team’s workflow. I’ve always admired your company’s commitment to innovation, and I’d love to contribute to that culture.” Think of this as your chance to close the sale – make your response meaningful, memorable, and tailored to what excites you about the role.
3. "We have had some issues with employee retention in the past."
This one can be a bit of a red flag. It’s important to understand why they’re bringing this up, as issues with employee retention could indicate challenges within the company culture or management style. But it can also be an opportunity to show your genuine interest and proactive approach.
Pro Tip: This question requires careful navigation. Ask for further details if needed, such as, “Could you share more about what steps the company is taking to address these challenges?” This shows that you’re curious and thoughtful, and it can give you a better sense of the work environment. Reassure them of your genuine interest in the role by expressing what excites you about this opportunity, and why you believe it aligns with your career goals. For example, “I’m really excited about the potential for growth within this position, and I’m eager to be part of a team that values continuous improvement.”
Final Thoughts: Turning Nervousness into Confidence
Feeling nervous before an interview is completely normal, especially when unexpected questions come your way. But with some thoughtful preparation, you can turn these moments into golden opportunities to shine. Remember, interviews are as much about you assessing the company as they are about the company assessing you. Be honest, be yourself, and most importantly—be ready to tackle “that” question with confidence.
