Tough Interview Questions
A tough interview question is any question that you're not prepared for. Below are some sample questions you might be asked during a job interview. For each question, formulate a thoughtful answer. Then memorize it. Being prepared to answer these (or similar) questions will make you more comfortable and confident in any job interview – and increase your chance of being hired.
Knowledge of Yourself
In five words or less, describe yourself. Tell me about yourself. Describe your best friend. Tell me a story. What are your weaknesses? (or: What areas of your job performance could be improved? or: What would you find most challenging about this job?) What special skills do you have? What have you accomplished? What are your goals? Why should I hire you?
Knowledge of the Employer
Why do you want to work for us? How could you contribute to our company's goals? Evaluate your most recent employer. What do you expect from an employer? What is the greatest challenge facing our field today? What sets us apart from our competitors?
Work Environment
Tell me about a problem you once had on the job, and how you solved it. How does an ideal manager make you successful? In your opinion, is conflict inevitable? What is more important to you – Speed or Neatness? Have you ever been injured at work or at home? How many days were you absent from work last year? How many times were you late for work? Have you ever quit or been fired from a job? Why did you leave your last job? What is more important to you – Wages or Job Satisfaction? What are your salary expectations? Would you consider working without pay, and if so, under what circumstances? How do you feel about working overtime?
Personality Traits
How do you handle disagreements with your superiors? Do you feel comfortable delegating tasks? What tasks do you like the least? What types of people do you work best with? Are there any types of people who "rub you the wrong way?" Are you a leader or a follower? In your last job, what was your biggest disappointment? What motivates you? What makes you angry? What's the greatest honour you’ve ever had? How well do you handle criticism?
Negativity
You seem overqualified for this position; wouldn't you become bored and want to quit? We're looking for a younger person. We can't match the salary you were earning at your previous job.