Top Questions You Can Expect during a Job Interview - Part 2
Last month, we shared the Top 3 Questions You Can Expect during a Job Interview to fill you in on some of the most popular questions interviewers ask.
This month, we're sharing 3 more common questions that you may receive during a job interview to help you prepare responses and impress a hiring manager.
- Why are you the best person for this position?
As you prepare for the interview, reread the job description to see how your skills match with the job requirements and responsibilities. During the interview, talk about how you've used the same skills in previous jobs or have had similar responsibilities during training, volunteer work or internships. As you detail why your background is a good match for the position, also explain what excites you about the job and how you think you can make a difference for the company.
- Can you tell me about a time when you faced a challenge and how you handled it?
Many employers use this type of question to seek concrete examples of skills and experiences that relate directly to the position. These questions are based on the idea that your success in the past is a good gauge of your success in the future.
It may be hard to answer a question like this “on the spot” so take some time before your interview to prepare. Think of a real situation you faced that had a successful outcome. Describe the situation and give details on what you did and why. Then describe how it turned out. You may even want to add what you learned from the situation and how you might apply that to future challenges.
- Do you have any questions for me?
It's always a good idea to have a few questions prepared to ask the interviewer. It gives you the chance to learn more about the position and responsibilities, the person who's interviewing you and the company. It also shows the interviewer that you're enthusiastic about the job. However, this is not the time to ask about salary or benefits. Rather, asking questions about the company or position shows you're interested. Check out our post, It's Your Turn: Questions to Ask During a Job Interview, for a few ideas of appropriate questions you could ask.
Keep in mind that an interview helps hiring managers determine not only that your skills and experience match well with the responsibilities of the job, but also that your personality would fit well with the other employees on the team. Being prepared to answer questions about yourself and your experience may help you feel confident and leave a great impression during your next interview.
Consider practicing your responses with family members, friends and your Ticket to Work (Ticket) service provider. Going over your answers with someone else may help you find a more conversational tone and cadence, which can help you relax when answering during the real thing.
Interview practice is just one of many services that you may receive from a service provider through Social Security's Ticket to Work program. The Ticket program offers career development supports for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI). The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.
For more information on preparing and acing your next interview, check out:
- Increase Your Chances for a Job Interview
- Can You Hear Me Now? Mastering the Phone Interview
- The Job Interview: It's More Than What You Say
Learn more
You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.
