Be Specific with Your Interview Answers

A recent survey shared an interesting view from hiring managers about interviewing.  They were asked to share some of the top reasons why job candidates do not get hired for a job they might be perfect for – the most common reason – they gave horrible answers during their interview.

You can practice and practice your interview answers, however, if you are not specific with your answers, you are wasting your time.  Hiring managers today are looking for candidates that give them specifics and details when answering their interview questions.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you go to your next interview:

• Most hiring managers are looking for candidates that communicate during their interview as if it were a conversation between two colleagues.  Communication skills are extremely important in today’s business world, therefore, you must practice communicating effectively.
• The interviewer is looking for answers that show specifically why you can handle the job.  For example, if they ask you how you handle stressful situations, it is best to give them more than, I handle stress well.  Give them a specific example of how you handled a stressful situation.
• As more and more interviewers ask behavior questions, you must be prepared to give them information that will provide them with a deeper understanding of how you would handle the situation.  Again, providing a detailed example of a similar situation is best.

Being clear and concise with your answers is always good practice, but learn to give more detailed examples.  You do not need to provide every little detail, but giving them an example that will allow them to visualize and understand how you handle the situation is key.

Communication is the backbone for a good interview, and when you learn to be specific in your interview answers, you will shine above the rest of the candidates.


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