Ever participated in an interview session and thinking that it’s been running smoothly so far before your interviewer suddenly asked- “Do you check emails during your vacation?” You are one that devotes selflessly to your work, but at the same time, you would prefer to be uninterrupted when you’re relaxing somewhere at the beach. How should you answer that question?

At some point, we may have provided inappropriate answers that we wished we can take them back. How do you take on these difficult questions that both explain your situation and still make you look good?

In this article, we will explore how you should answer some of the tricky interview questions in an eloquent manner that will leave you pocketing the offer once the session ends.

Question 1: Why did you leave your previous job?

Don’t Say: “I get bored easily,” or “My ex-employer was a terrible boss; I cannot wait to quit that job.”

Instead, Say: “I am seeking for more challenging and rewarding positions to improve my skills,” or “I’m drawn to your companies’ goals and mission which align with what I’m looking for.”

Why: The last thing you ever want to do is to highlight the negative details of your reason, particularly if you’re zooming in one incident.

Question 2: Why have you been laid off?

Don’t Say: “I am a victim of my ex-boss’ inconsiderate antics,” or “There is too much work, I couldn’t keep up.”

Instead, Say: “It is terrible that it happened but I see it as a blessing in disguise,” or “We both came to a mutual understanding that my specific skills can benefit other companies elsewhere.”

Why: Using a bitter tone to bad-mouth, point fingers or portray own self as a victim never looks good to anyone who does it. Take this opportunity to let your prospective employer know that you’re ready to take on new challenges.

Question 3: How do you deal with difficult people that you come across at work?

Don’t Say: “If I can, I just avoid them at all cost,” or “I’ll tell them straight if I don’t like the way they do things.”

Instead, Say: “It was challenging to work with them. However it did teach me empathy,” or “I learn to put myself in their shoes, and find out the actual root of the problem.”

Why: Speaking in general about the certain traits you admire in people reflects your maturity in handling the situation which will impress your potential employer.

Question 4: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years from now?

Don’t Say: “How would I know, it’s too far away,” or “Erm, still working here?”

Instead, Say: “I always want to keep learning and keep getting better, eventually becoming an expert at what I do,” or “It will be humbling to be working alongside individuals that are smart, positive and enthusiastic about things who will push me to go beyond what I’m capable of now.”

Why: Such questions can reveal that you might not have a long-term plan just yet. However, it is better to talk about what you’ll like to learn and accomplish with the emphasis to excel at the job that you’ve applied for instead of being dismissive or sarcastic.

Question 5: Do you have any questions for me?

Don’t Say: “No, I don’t have any,” or “Does your company have any overseas vacation,” or “Am I entitled to employee discount?”

Instead, Ask: “What is the biggest challenge your department is currently facing,” or “what does it take for us to bring the company to success?”

Why: Your potential employers might want to know how much thoughts you’ve put into the role. So show them that you are serious in committing and that you will perform your best while you’re at it!

There are plenty more tricky questions to tackle, but these should give you a clearer idea of what potential employers look for in an employee based on your response.

And coming back to the email question – have you thought of an appropriate answer yet? It should not be, “No way!’, although you might be thinking it. We advise somewhere along the lines of “I am 100% dedicated to my responsibilities but I do believe in self-care for long term success,” coupled with “whenever emergency arise, my mobile is always available for reach..”

How would you have worded it? Do let us know in the comment below! And if you are ready for a grueling interview, come and apply for vacancies here.

Concept by : Rizky Anggara

Written by : Michell.Lee

Design by : Risky Ramanda