How to Answer Interview Difficult Questions Honestly

Let's face the facts. No one really likes the interview process. Despite the fact that you have a stellar resume and that you can dress to impress, an employer doesn't really know you until the interview. You will be questioned about your experience, your interests and your strengths. And, inevitably, you will be asked a question that makes you uncomfortable or could possibly make you appear in a less than good light. Every job seeker has encountered this situation, and knowing how to handle this and other difficult questions with honesty and integrity will help you survive your interview and hopefully get your dream job.

Understand Why the Question Needs to Be Answered

No interviewer expects you to sell yourself short. Just like dating, no prospective employer expects brutal honesty, but they do expect something. Employers ask uncomfortable questions about prior firings, bad situations at other jobs or weaknesses because they need to know whether an interviewee can think on his or her feet, that the person is aware of themselves, if the interview is sincere, and if there interviewee truly understands how to interact with others.

Knowing these things, an interviewee needs to not fear the questions, but face the questions. Avoiding a clear and honest answer could very well end your chances of getting the job.

Prepare for Your Interview in Advance

The purpose of an interview is to show an employer that you are the right fit for a position. Just as you have prepared a great resume and polished your best shoes, you should be prepared for the interview questions. Think speed dating rules. Anticipate the questions that are to be asked. Most employers will ask you to relate your greatest weakness. Most will ask how you handled issues or situations with co-workers or supervisors. Any interviewer worth their salt will ask about any disciplinary action, terminations or resignations.

Brutal honesty, could torpedo your chances for the job, but thoughtful honesty can show an employer that you have character and think well on your feet. If asked your weaknesses, offer strength as your weakness. Being overly committed, being unable to let a project fail, or being a perfectionist are examples of weaknesses that that are really great qualities in workers. When faced with a negative question, take a moment and offer a general answer. Be mindful that you do not want to be perceived as picky or a troublemaker- especially if you are not. Explain how you are always able to work through issues, if they arise with co-workers.

Be sincere. Own up to mistakes and shortcomings, but also show how you have learned from these situations and are a better employee because of your growth.

Hitting the Curve Ball

There are times you cannot anticipate some questions or even attitude of your interviewer. In those cases, remember to put your best foot forward and find common ground. Couch your answer as a hypothetical and explain the pros and cons of each situation. Indirectly, you will have answered the question, but not confessed any past sins.

Interviews are a means to an end. It's your face to face meeting with your potential employer. All the interview questions are designed to demonstrate whether you are a right fit for his or her company. Questions should be answered with respect, sincerity and thoughtful honesty. If you can accomplish this, you are on your way to securing your dream job.