Continuing the series of “More tough job interview questions” today, we want to highlight one of the major concerns of every employer, i.e., the attitude of the candidate – What kind of employee will you be?

To get to know a person’s attitude within a short frame of time is no easy feat. Interviewers cannot possibly ask the candidate point blank. Framing the relevant questions is a technique.

Look out for questions in the following manner and check out the tips on how best to handle them:

1. What are the reasons for your success in your career?

First of all, be proud of your success. Don’t brush it aside and try to act modest. Do you believe you had been hard working, determined, focus and teachable in order to be successful? If yes, do not be ashamed to proudly point out what you are made of.

2. Why do you want to work with us?

This is also a test of whether you have done your homework about the company and the job at stake or not. Something along the line on opportunity to learn about the industry that you are interested to pursue, a job that you believe you are able to contribute much in terms of your experience yet giving the necessary growth will be good. The bad answer even if you mean it from the bottom of your heart is, “I really need a job and you happened to have an opening. So, I say, “Why not?” That definitely will not get you hired.

3. Tell me how you moved up through the organization

A character of a person does not change very much. Your past behavior could well be repeated in the future. That’s how people view things generally. People normally value hard work and sincerity of those that reached somewhere. Your promotion may well be a fluke but it’s not a good idea to boast it, “I didn’t do very much to get the promotion. If you asked me now, I have no idea why I got the promotion. I think I’m lucky to have a manager that likes me very much.” That will not do.

4. Tell me about the most pressure situation you were in

Always have a story or two in your pocket ready to be shared. Your experience in overcoming those situations says volumes about your attitude. So, pick a good one and learn to narrate it well.

5. Describe the most difficult problem you had to deal with

Like the above, your story tells something about the type of person you are. Choose a problem that is work related though. Stay away from sharing something personal. By saying, “I had to deal with an ugly fight over my son’s custody a few years ago” may be the most difficult problem for you but it won’t help your candidacy.

6. What have you done that shows initiative?

People like to work with those that are helpful, supportive and willing to share, either ideas or workload. Again, by telling your past stories that shows your initiative will enhance your chances of getting hired.

7. What do you think of your current/previous boss?

In general, employers identify with employers. Whatever you say about your previous bosses, they will assume you will do the same about them too. So, be wise. Even if you had the misfortune of working with the most unprofessional jerk in the world, you do not present him as such. Highlight the positive side of your boss and your working relationship with him/her.

More Tough Job Interview Questions - Part 2 »

More Tough Job Interview Questions - Part 1 »

Tough Job Interview Questions - How Best To Handle Them »

Top 10 Most Common Job Interview Questions »