Interview Answers You Should Never Give A HR Manager

We all know how daunting interviews can be. More often than not, most interviewers will ask the same questions, which gives you an upper hand when you do your research and prepare for an interview.

This article is a guide on how not to answer these common interview questions that your interviewer will most likely ask you.

1. “Tell Me About Yourself”

Do not talk about things that are not related to the position you are interviewing for. The interviewer doesn’t want to hear about where you grew up or how many siblings you have, unless they specifically ask. Instead, talk about the experience and skills you have that are related to the job you are interviewing for.

2. “What is Your Greatest Strength?”

Now this is a question most people oversell with the answers. First you should not name a strength that is not relevant to the job. Secondly, do not name a strength you cannot demonstrate, this makes you into a liar and lastly do not sell yourself short but don’t brag either. Instead talk about a strength that is crucial to the job.

3. “What is Your Weakness?”

This is a scary question because no one wants to show weakness. However, it is important to remember that we all have weaknesses. So, do not say you have none because you need to seem trustworthy. Instead name a weakness that is not important in the job. For example do not say you have a weakness in using Excel yet it is a key requirement of the job.

4. “Why Do You Want To Work For Us?”

Do not say “because you need the money.” As much as you think it is a funny answer, it only serves to make you look money oriented instead of goal oriented. Talk about what you like about the company and how you are passionate about fulfilling the company needs. Keep in mind that you should not overdo the praise as this sounds like sucking up.

5. “Why Should We Hire You?”

Do not explain why you want the job or be too general with the answer. Remember to be specific. Show that you are uniquely qualified to fit the position and can deliver on the expectations. Also, don’t be too modest.

6. “Do You Have Any Questions For Me?”

Never say “No, I’m okay” this is a mistake very many people make. You should always have questions that you will ask the interviewer ready.  Don’t ask questions that focus on what you can get from the company either. Instead base at least one question on something you found during your company research.

Remember to keep your answers short and to the point unless asked to elaborate on something. Always go through the job description and master it as this will help you in answering most of the questions. Never go to an interview unprepared as it will definitely show.

Michelle Wanjiku is a Communications Officer/ Digital marketer at Career Point Kenya. Email michelle@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke