BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Common interview questions can be tough because they are open-ended. Tell me about yourself? What is your weakness? Our local experts help breakdown what interviewers are asking for and how to prepare your best answers.
Open-ended questions are asked because the employer wants you to share your personality and examples. It's essential before you go into your interview to practice these questions with family and friends using examples you've thought about.
When using an example you want to share with your interviewer, what the conflict was, how you planned to resolve it and what the outcome was.
Have at least two examples for each open-ended question regarding your strengths and weaknesses. Practice these questions before your interview:
· Tell me about yourself?
· What are your strengths?
· What is your greatest weakness?
· Where do you see yourself in five years?
· What do you know about our company?
· Why do you want to work here?
· How do you work under pressure?
· How well do you handle change?
· How do you make tough decisions?
· Are you a good team member?
Make sure even if you practice your answers don't come across robotic or rehearsed. The practice gives you a chance to work out all your answers, so you are not left stumped or end up rambling.
You are expected to talk around 80 percent of the time. Make your answers clear and concise and be careful you don't ramble. Be comforted that if your employer wants to know more, they will follow up with additional questions.
"How to Get the Job" local experts:
· Suki Mahal, Recruiting Specialist, Express Employment Professionals
· Laura Hill, CEO, Pinnacle Recruitment Services
· Bob Meadows, Business Development Director, City of Shafter
· Arleana Waller, Founder, ShePower Leadership Academy
· Cheryl Scott, Executive Director, Kern Economic Development Foundation
