Interview Questions: Predictable Questions

These sample interview questions are typical in most job interviews. Know they're coming. Write out your answers and rehearse each one until you sound relaxed and confident.

1. Tell me something about yourself.
   Prepare a 30-second commercial about yourself that highlights your skills and the value you bring. Tailor this commercial to the job and the company. Remember to use key phrases within this brief monologue. Rehearse this until you know it without thinking about it. Make sure it is almost exactly 30 seconds in length.


2. How do you handle ambiguity? Change? Conflict?
   The interviewer is watching you closely for your reaction to this question. If you flinch, the other person will hone in on these topics, and the interview may never progress. Have concrete examples of your personal experiences with undefined tasks and large changes where conflict was present and handled appropriately.


3. What is the most difficult decision you have ever made?
   Ensure that your answer to this one is professional and impacted multiple people. Do not answer this one off the cuff. Have a great example that shows some risk – even if the result was a failure. The question is not, “what was the best decision?” A difficult decision can cost money, time, and resources, so be very specific about the result.


4. Why should we hire your over all other candidates?
   Walk a tight wire with your answer to this question. Write out a brief answer that makes a couple of good points without braggadocio. Confidence is essential, but overselling will kill the interview.