Today’s lesson: Some advice about answering questions in interviews
Lesson Title
Some advice about answering questions in interviews.
Duration: 60 minutes
Level: Upper intermediate or Advancede
In this lesson, you will learn
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they don’t have to be.
By following the simple tips below, you can increase your chances of success and impress the interviewer.
Remember. When answering questions, it’s important to be specific and to give examples.
Some good advice about answering questions in interviews.
Don’t just say that you’re “hardworking” or “reliable.” Instead, give examples of times when you’ve demonstrated these qualities. For example, you could say something like, “I’m hardworking and I’m always willing to go the extra mile. For example, in my previous job, I was responsible for developing a new training program for new employees. I was able to meet the deadline even though I had to work overtime and on weekends.”
It’s also important to be positive, even if you’re asked about a weakness. Try to frame your weakness in a positive light and explain what you’re doing to improve. For example, if you’re asked about a time when you made a mistake, you could say something like, “I made a mistake in my previous job when I accidentally sent a report to the wrong client. But I learned from my mistake and I’m now more careful when sending emails.” Finally, be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The interviewer will be able to tell if you’re being fake, and it will make you look bad.
Tips and advice about answering questions in interviews.
By following these tips, you can improve your chances of success in your next interview.
Listen carefully to the question before you answer
Make sure you understand what the interviewer is asking. If you’re not sure, it’s okay to ask for clarification.
Think first
Take a moment to think about your answer before you respond. This will help you give a more thoughtful and articulate response.
A clear voice
Speak clearly and confidently. Make eye contact with the interviewer and avoid fidgeting.
To the point
Be concise. Avoid giving long, rambling answers. Aim to answer each question in a few sentences or less.
We’ll explore responses to basic interview questions.
I’ll provide you with two replies to the same question: the first will be rather boastful, while the second will employ language more suitable for an interview setting.
What would you consider your most significant accomplishment in your career so far?
Boastful tone of voice:
“In my previous role, I basically reinvented the entire system they had. I’m quite certain they would have struggled to achieve half of what they did without my groundbreaking ideas and execution.”
Professional tone of voice:
“One accomplishment I’m proud of was the opportunity to enhance the system in my previous role. Working alongside a dedicated team, we introduced improvements that yielded positive results.”
Can you describe a time when you took an initiative that wasn’t part of your regular tasks?
Boastful tone of voice:
“Well, I often found myself taking the reins because others couldn’t step up. There was this one time when I just took over a task no one was addressing. It’s not boasting if it’s true – they really needed me there.”
Professional tone of voice:
“There was an instance where I noticed a gap in our processes. After discussing it with my supervisor, I took the initiative to address the matter, always ensuring that it aligned with the team’s objectives. It was a rewarding learning experience.”“
How did you handle a challenging situation in your previous role?
Boastful tone of voice:
“I remember when our team was in a real mess, and no one had a clue about what to do. I single-handedly stepped in, took control, and basically saved the day. It’s safe to say that without my intervention, things would have fallen apart.”
Professional tone of voice:
“In one instance, our team faced a challenging situation. I was fortunate to have the chance to contribute some ideas and strategies. With collaboration and combined effort, we managed to navigate through the issue successfully”
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