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Handling a "Negative Question"
If the job interviewer asks you for an example of a time when a certain job skill failed you, do not let it "stress you out". They do not expect you to be perfect. Part of the reason they ask the question is to see how you handle yourself. Give an example but be sure to point out what you learned from your failure and how you would handle the situation now.
The Interview Response Format
It may be helpful to structure your answers using the following format:
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Validate or repeat the question (i.e. make sure you understand what is being asked). |
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Use concrete examples in your answers, specifically related to your job. Try to quantify your achievements as much as possible. Eg I achieved sales of $X within the first X months, which was X% above my sales targets. Or, as a result of my initiative, my team and I achieved cost savings of $X in X months, which was a year on year reduction of X%. . |
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Summarize your strengths demonstrated by the example, again related to your job. |
Responding To Questions
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Be prepared for questions as soon as the job interview starts. |
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Ask the job interviewer to repeat/rephrase questions, if needed, for clarification or to "buy time". |
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Allow yourself silence while thinking of an example or response. |
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Break eye contact while thinking of an example or response. |
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Ask for time to come up with an example if needed. |
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Admit a "mental block" if you have a difficult time thinking of an answer. This is much better than trying to "fake it." |
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