Question:
Good day! I would really like to get your advice on this matter. I will have a job after graduation, my specialty is banking. Tell me how to behave correctly in possible “delicate” situations when applying for a job, when they ask questions like “name the strengths and weaknesses of your character”?
One of my friends found herself in this situation: when at an interview she was asked to take a sociability test, which consisted in the fact that she had to approach a stranger (an assistant interviewer who was busy with her own business) and talk to him on any topic, so that he becomes interested (a friend was confused and she was politely refused a job). What options can be applied in such cases? Thank you in advance!
Psychologist's answer:
Hello!
In my opinion, looking for a job is also work, and often even more than subsequent workdays. Glad you are taking this seriously. Of course, you should prepare for the interview and “train” yourself, but you should also not rely on your training, because. reality may be different from rehearsals. There are a number of tricky questions, the answers to which are best thought out in advance, but there are also a number of projective questions that have a hidden connotation and only a specialist in this field can recognize them. So, briefly about the main thing:
Possible interview questions
Tell us about yourself. It is important HOW you talk about yourself, where you start. Tell us about your education, why you chose it, your interests, etc. It is not advisable to say anything that has a negative connotation, compromising facts, etc.
List your shortcomings. Phrases like “too responsible, I work hard” do not play in favor of the candidate. Speak neutral facts that do not affect the work process.
Why did you leave your previous job? You should not talk about conflicts with colleagues or a leader, even if this is true. We can say that it was geographically inconvenient, the schedule did not suit us, there were no prospects, etc. And it’s very good, if this is really true.
What do you know about our company? It is better to find out as much information about the company as possible before going there for an interview - this is useful, first of all, for you and is always pleasant for a potential employer.
Why do you consider yourself worthy of this position? What are your advantages over other candidates? This question is the best opportunity to unobtrusively talk about your strengths, but they must be argued.
Where do you see your career in 5 years? Here you need to be very careful! It is commendable when you plan your career, but the future leader may not like your desire to take his place - it is better to keep silent about this.
In any case, first of all, you must remain yourself and not compromise the principles that are significant to you, otherwise, even with a successful interview, how long can you pretend while working.
Believe in yourself and be yourself!
Good luck!