Hard Business and Interview questions with Image in mind

Continuing the Image is everything series today we talk about your career and answering tough questions.

We all know what it is like to sit down in front of someone throwing out questions that seem to be a trap knowing that there is a right answer and a not so right answer.

There is no reason why these questions should be frowned upon though because if you know what the person wants and you know what you want, then you just have to bring those two ideas together in your answer.  It is a combination of conforming your answer to the ideal answer and how you present yourself.

The most important thing is to stay confident with who you are.  Confidence and Attitude is the key to creating a good image and every question answered with confidence is that much stronger.

Now to answer the actual question, several things have to be considered.  First, how is my answer going to relate to the subject matter(getting hired, getting raise, etc.).  Second, always answer without judging yourself/others or limiting yourself.

SOME EXAMPLES:

What are your salary expectations?

Answer:  Salary is not my primary consideration.  Of course, there is an acceptable standard for (position) in this industry.  I’d be open to any reasonable offer.    OR  According to (National Salary Publications) my job is valued at (such and such Range) and considering my experience I feel I fall into the upper half of that range.

-NOTE:  These answers were straight forward and were not limiting.  It leaves the questioner with the choice of what is reasonable.

What are your weaknesses?

This is a tricky question, because you never should mention a true weakness.  It is more about turning a slight weakness into a positive.

Answer: “I am a perfectionist to the point where I spend time perfecting projects which aren’t always in line with what makes the company the most money at any given time.”  OR “I plan to improve my public speaking by taking a course this next year.”

What conflicts have you encountered and how have you handled them?

Remember to never judge yourself or limit yourself.  Also remember to focus on the subject matter which is getting hired.  Don’t be afraid to state an actual conflict, but show that you handled it in an appropriate manner.  Don’t ever be negative about the situation. Focus on how you positively handled the conflict.

Answer:  “I suggested that we work together to sort out our issues.  We listened to each others issues and decided together which ones were most important and which ones we can compromise on.  We looked for similarities in your goals and placed them first.  We collectively decided what to give up and what to keep, so that both of us felt like part of the solution.  We were both satisfied in the end.”

MORE QUESTIONS(External Links)

How to Ask for a Raise.

Tough Interview Questions and the Answers

How to sell Yourself

Answering Tough Questions about Loans and Banking

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