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EXECUTIVE AND MANAGEMENT SEARCH CONSULTANTS

TOUGH QUESTIONS
FUNAMBULE

When invited for a job interview, we expect to go through the familiar chronological
set of questions and we are generally well prepared for such a classic exercise.
But what about those unexpected and confusing type of questions such as :

  • "So...tell us about yourself"

    Er!...about me!...sure I am a hard worker...there's nothing wrong with me...While this may be seen as an easy one, quite a few solid candidates blundered on this simple question.The reason is that we are not accustomed to sell our abilities and competence like a product. For those who have given it some thought, this is the right opportunity to talk about your strengths such as your enthusiasm, leadership, self-confidence and reliability, with a few anecdotes supporting your points.

  • What would you say is your strongest quality?

    You certainly have numerous qualities and since you have to choose only one be careful as it will also reflect your values. Some might say honesty, others reliability or sense of leadership, but whatever it might be, be ready to make reference to a situation where you have demonstrated such a strength.

  • What interests you most about this position?

    Your education, training and experience background as well as your accomplishments should provide good references for answering that question. Do not hesitate to stress the fact that this would represent a dynamic move,while giving you the opportunity to grow, to increase your responsibilities, your know-how and possibly to reach new goals.

  • Do you work well under pressure?

    Everyone will say yes but it would be more convincing if you could provide examples of situations when you have remained cool under fire. Be careful not to choose a situation of crisis for which you were the one responsible!

  • If you could change one thing about your personality, what would it be? Why?

    Your answer to such a question could turn positive if you choose a feature related to your attitude and determination. Comments such as "I am sometimes impatient with slow performers" or "Being very demanding on myself I sometimes expect too much from others" are good. Keep in mind that most interviewers will use the information you give to raise even more incisive questions.

Interviews should never end leaving a doubt, a negative element, a failure or a "limited" success. Every situation as regretable or painful as it might have been, has served you positively. Those lessons of the past have helped you developing your know-how and has contributed in some way to your achievements.


The content of this page will be reviewed periodically and we hope you will find
some of these hints or suggestions helpful.

We welcome your comments.



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