Knowing how to answer difficult questions during an interview is a gift for some and something that seems impossible for others.
Don’t worry, the solution is easy.
Once you understand what companies are looking for and you have the main tips, all that’s missing is practice.
Let me give you a few tips:
1. During Your Introduction Please Just Listen Carefully to the Question.
At the beginning of the interview, candidates are the most nervous. If that’s your case – we have all been there – try to take notes on the questions, otherwise you might find yourself lost in the middle of your speech.
They might ask you…
- To introduce yourself.
- To share a brief overview of your career journey and how it has led you to apply for that position.
- To tell them about your latest role.
See the difference?
For this first stage of the interview, keep it short – they will ask you to elaborate on what they feel relevant-, include keywords from the job description and highlight your most relevant experience and skills for that role.
2. Try To Demonstrate Your Skills and Experience With Examples.
Examples are more credible. You can have a simple structure on your mind:
Challenge, Action and Result. Make a list of the most important skills and responsibilities of the position. Prepare concrete examples from your previous experience that demonstrate your skills and responsibilities.
3. Interviewing for Fashion Roles Will Come With an Added Task.
If you want to work in this industry, make sure you are up to date with everything that has happened and the new trends in the fashion industry.
4. Be Aware of Any ‘Red Flags’ That Might Appear on Your CV.
Is there any missing information? Do you have any career gaps? Have your experiences been ‘too short’? Were you laid off?
Be prepared to give a coherent explanation. Face these questions in a natural way. There’s no shame in being laid off, or in leaving a job because of our mental health, or in taking a career break to travel. Don’t be afraid of being honest.
5. Prepare Your Speech for Deeper Questions About Your Professional Experiences.
Your motivation for the role and the company, your expectations, and your career goals.
6. There Might Be Other Questions Coming Up.
We professional interviewers might get a little crazy here-, like ‘What makes you different from other candidates?’ – ALWAYS have in mind what your unique value proposition is.
7. Finally, Make a List of Questions You Want To Ask About the Role or the Company.
In my experience, candidates with good questions are always better candidates. Ask about your future team, your manager, the recruitment process, what a day in the job would look like… etc.
Last but Not Least, Don’t Forget To Smile.
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