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How to Handle Challenging Interview Questions "Offer your tip or experience on our Blog Page " It is well known that certain questions (e.g., religion, politics, family, disability) cannot “legally” be asked of a job applicant, which can make the screening process sensitive. There will be times, however, when an interviewer crosses the line, whether intentionally or unknowingly, and tries to trick you into answering these questions. Be open to the fact that even though the interviewer asks an illegal question, it does not necessarily mean that the intent was to discriminate. The manner in which you respond to an interview question should demonstrate your emotional and social intelligence skills. First and foremost, do not be defensive. Always respond in the most diplomatic way possible; be tactful and use finesse. Your facial expression, tone, and posture will speak louder than the words you select. Do not show “visual” discomfort, arrogance, or intimidation. The way you answer must fit your personality, so before the interview practice answering improper questions with a friend or an interview consultant. Here are some situations and sample responses to help you relax and prepare for your career job interview: Situation #1: Handling the sense of awkwardness caused by being out of the workplace for a significant period of time due to industry cutbacks, a family situation, or personal issues. Response: I can understand why you ask that question. I had to tend to some very important business outside the job market. You do not need to give full details about your life – just enough to satisfy the question. It is better to be proactive and answer voids of more than six months ahead of anyone asking. Your response cannot be vague; it must be specific. For example:
You do need to give some details, however; your personal life is on the table during an interview – even if it is just an undercurrent. Any vague answers count against an applicant. Situation #2: Answering a question with a question in order to clarify the underlying purpose without seeming to challenge the interviewer. Response: Is that information you need for this interview? Perhaps you can let me know how it relates to the position. I just need to understand the purpose so that I may answer appropriately. It is okay to show concern about a question. Never question why a question is being asked unless it pertains to illegal protected class issues such as gender, age, sexual orientation, parental status, etc. Never challenge an interviewer, that is, if you want the job. It is best to seek legal advice if you are concerned, or speak to someone you know personally who has a human resource background. For example:
Situation #3: Answering difficult questions or questions that you are trying to avoid without seeming defensive, all the while maintaining your sense of control and sincerity. Response: That is an awkward question to answer or I am not sure I understand the nature of the question. May I ask if it is necessary or for clarity? Avoid the term “illegal” for an interview question, since it might not be. You do not want to sound defensive. Never challenge the interviewer. Situation #4: Having to tactfully sidestep a question. Response: May I ask why you are asking? Assess the motive behind the question. If you do not think that it is malicious, and you really want the job, then put it back on the interviewer, or answer indirectly. This might help the interviewer realize that he or she has asked an inappropriate question. Situation #5: Responding to a question about your personal life. Response: My personal life is good. Thank you for asking. You do not need to elaborate or identify specific family members. You could be referring to immediate family or distant relatives. However, there will be times when child care arrangements and absenteeism is a concern if you are asked to work nights and weekends as needed.
Situation #6: Drawing attention away from a disability. Response: Although I am physically challenged, I am mentally very sharp. Be upfront. Here is the question that interviewers will ask:
Then address your need for a wheelchair, ramp, hearing device for the telephone, or other things. You must be very up front, but reiterate that you have the skills and knowledge to excel in the position. Situation #7: Overcoming your obvious heritage or immigrant status. Response: If you need to know whether or not I am authorized to work in the United States, I am. This takes the pressure or awkwardness away from the interviewer. Sometimes in an interview the question is posed something like this:
Answer honestly, yes or no. Interview Tip: The Bottom Line: Etiquette is the ability to put others at ease with you. You will put the interviewer at ease by being prepared to answer questions with a positive and helpful demeanor. Always be diplomatic and kind. Displaying a defensive attitude will surely work against you and is unnecessary. Realize too that the interviewer’s job is also at stake if he or she makes a wrong interview choice. Resource: “The above questions and responses were formulated with the assistance of the following:
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