But hiring managers like to ask open-ended interview questions like this to get a better feel for your perspective on the job and the company. Sure, they can see your degree or your last job, but that doesn’t tell the full story of how you’ve applied those skills or your deeper understanding of the industry.

Additionally, the interviewer will be able to use your response to gauge your level of enthusiasm for the job and the company as a whole. Generic, memorized responses that you practiced for each of your interviews is going to be a red flag that you’re not fully committed.

Why You Should Love This Question

At first, open-ended questions can seem the most daunting. In reality, however, you should cross your fingers and hope that they are the main format throughout the interview. This question in particular gives you the chance to really sell yourself and your qualifications for the job.

Realistically, if you flip that question and consider why this job is the perfect match for you, you’ll be able to brainstorm an answer that shows how you and this position were custom-made for each other.

Perhaps it’s the ideal next step in your career path, or you’ve recently gained the needed certifications and now you’re qualified. When you reframe that in the context of your skills and experience being the ideal solution for their needs, you’ll be able to articulate an answer that makes you a memorable candidate.

How to Craft the Best Answer

Think of this question as an opportunity to give an elevator pitch of your professional life and how it has all led you to this precise moment.

Start With Excellent Research

As with any open-ended questions you’re preparing for, your success is going to be dependent on the quality of your research. You should study the job posting, research the company’s mission and goals, devote time to exploring their social media, and most importantly, read between the lines to try and determine what the company’s priorities are.

Your answer should demonstrate that you understand not only what they are looking for in a candidate but also what makes the company unique and desirable as an employer.

Start by mentioning the specific job title and then explain how your skills, experience, and interests all align with what the company is searching for.

Add in Some Confidence and Personality

This is also a prime opportunity to mention any unique qualifications or skills that might make you stand out from other candidates. Are you bilingual? Do you have an advanced degree in a relevant field? Any awards or recognition you’ve received throughout your career can be brought up here as well.

The goal is to let your personality shine through while offering tangible experiences that make you a great fit. Examine what in your background is a match for the desired skill set, and then consider a specific example that can bring that to life.

For example, suppose you’re interviewing for a sales role. Your response might include that you consistently beat your sales targets by 15% each month.

Be Concise

While you shouldn’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, you also want to demonstrate your ability to communicate professionally and concisely. Instead of going over every way you’re a match for the role, choose the most impactful two or three skills.

If you can sum up your answer in one minute or less, that’s ideal. This question is often used toward the end of the interview, so circle back to any details they’ve given about the position that you might include.

Think Outside of the Box

In some cases, you might be interviewing for a role that’s a little out of your comfort zone. In these scenarios, it’s okay to get creative with your answer and think outside the box.

Even if you don’t have direct experience in the field, focus on any related skills or experiences that would make you successful. For example, if you’re interviewing for a position in event planning but have no previous experience, you could highlight your organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.

The key is to stay positive and upbeat while showing that you’re confident in your abilities. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job, not just why you want it.

Avoid Negative Comparisons

Even though you’ve been asked why you’re the best candidate, you should focus on your skills, rather than comparing yourself to other candidates.

Without knowing the other applicants and what they have to offer, if you use comparisons to make yourself sound like the better fit, you’re likely to sound arrogant. Keep your answer targeted on “I” responses, focusing on your own unique skills and history.

Practice Makes Perfect

Whether it’s this question or any other, practicing before your interview is essential. Not only can it help you notice any awkward pauses or where your answer doesn’t flow, but it will also give you a chance to ensure that you’ve crafted the most persuasive answer.

One of the best ways to practice is with a friend, family member, or professional career coach. A career coach can go over an entire mock interview with you and offer feedback about adjustments you could make.

Sample Answer for “Why Are You a Great Match for This Role?”

If you put all this together, it might sound something like this answer for an event coordinator role.

I’m an excellent match for your event coordinator role because I have three years of experience coordinating events and am fluent in Spanish. I’ve followed your social media for a while and noticed that you have quite a few international clients, so I’m confident my language skills will help me in this role.

Not only that, but in my previous role, I was responsible for managing and organizing all aspects of events from start to finish. This included everything from managing vendors to handling on-site logistics on the day of the event. My managers have consistently expressed appreciation for my attention to detail and organizational skills. I’m delighted to use those skills for the annual underserved youth events that your company organizes, which is a cause I’m passionate about.

Becoming the Most Memorable Job Candidate

If you truly believe that this is an excellent job for you and your career has been leading you to this point, then with some brainstorming, research, and practice, you’ll be able to confidently answer why you’re the best match for the role.

The post How to Answer “Why Are You a Great Match for This Role?” appeared first on Job-Hunt.

If you’re considering your first management position, one of the questions you’re likely to encounter during your interview is, “Why do you want to move into a management role?”

Don’t let the question throw you. With thoughtful preparation, you can easily articulate why you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Why Employers Ask This Question

One of the biggest challenges of moving into a management position is communicating your motivations. Hiring managers recognize that success in the role is less about your technical skills and ability to do the specific job and more about motivating and facilitating others to do the work.

Managers will seek evidence of your empathy and a genuine heart for leadership. To give an answer that impresses the employer, you need to shift your mindset away from your personal deliverables and instead showcase the desire to help others be as successful as possible.

How to Answer This Question

As with any other open-ended interview question, the key to successfully answering this question will come from company research. You’ll need to express how you’re the perfect fit for both the team and the position.

Understand the Needs of the Role

The best way to learn about a company’s needs is to devote time to becoming its biggest fan. Explore the company’s social media, and get very familiar with its organizational structure and products. Pay special attention to any new projects or negative reviews they’re getting.

After a solid overview, consider how the role you’re applying to fits into the company’s structure. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What are some challenges that the team might face?
• How can I help the team and the company succeed?
• What would a reasonable next step for the team be?
• How will I help team members develop skills to achieve those goals?
• What part would the team play in meeting the company’s deliverables?

Once you’ve developed a well-rounded view of the role and how it fits into the company, you can start connecting the dots between your experience and the position.

Show How Your Skills Align With the Role

One of the ways that interviewing for your first management role differs from your previous interviews is that you need to move to a results-oriented mindset.

As a manager, you’ll be able to create an incredible impact on an entire team or department. Hiring managers are looking for you to have an awareness of that. But even more, they’re hoping to discover that you’re excited by the possibility of how you can create growth and meet standards for the team you’re seeking to lead.

So, avoid focusing on the technical skills that align with the role. When you bring them up, use them as an example of how you’ll build connections with your team, rather than utilize those skills yourself.

Craft Your Answer

Review your research on the company and the role, creating a list of your skills matching their needs. Then, brainstorm specific examples that bring those skills to life.

Avoid using vague action words, like “I’m great at motivating others.” Instead, you’ll want to craft a response that will paint a vivid picture for the interviewer.

For instance, you could say something like:

I enjoy finding creative ways to motivate everyone on the team to succeed. On my current team, we were struggling to meet our sales goals, so I created a bingo game to help everyone visualize our opportunities. We consistently beat our sales goals by breaking them into smaller, more attainable steps.

Sample Answers

Example Answer 1

I see the role of a manager as a guide and facilitator more than anything else. I’m excited about the opportunity because I know how a great manager has impacted my career. I’m looking forward to being a mentor and motivator for others. As a senior trainer for my team, I’ve been able to help over 35 team members be successful in their roles, and I’m excited to put those skills to work at an even higher level.

Why this works:

If you’ve done your research and discovered that the company sees their managers as less authoritarian and more in line with career coaches, this is a great answer. You’re clearly stating how you view the role, and you’re weaving in your experience with helping teammates find success.

Example Answer 2

I see the role of a manager as primarily focused on helping others achieve results. I’m excited about this role because it’s an opportunity to take my skills in sales and marketing and help sales partners develop those same skills. In my previous role, I increased sales by 25% in six months by working with my team to develop creative marketing strategies. I’m confident I can bring that same focus on team collaboration to this role and achieve the needed results.

Why this works:

This is an excellent answer for a role focused on results because it shows that you realize that your skills will directly impact the team’s overall goal. You back up your claims with data, which is always impressive to interviewers.

Shine During Your Interview

When one of your career goals is to move into a management role, the tone of your interview needs to straddle the line between how you’ll use your skills to help the team succeed and showing that you’re likable and relatable.

Do your research and ask thoughtful questions about the team and its goals. Doing so will help the hiring manager recognize the value you offer.

The post How to Answer “Why Do You Want to Be a Manager?” appeared first on Job-Hunt.

If you’re unsure how to create an answer, it’ll be a challenge to genuinely communicate that to prospective employers. This is especially true if you are naturally more introverted and tend to be uncomfortable promoting yourself, downplaying your accomplishments and believing that your work speaks for itself.

Unfortunately, failing to communicate the value you bring to your employer will allow them to form their own opinions, which are often off the mark. So, how do you step out of your comfort zone and own your unique message?

One of the best ways to get more comfortable tooting your own horn is to take ownership of your unique value proposition (UVP).

Understanding Your Unique Value Proposition as a Job Seeker

Your unique value proposition is what makes you the best candidate for a particular role.

When employers are looking to fill a position, they want to know what you can bring to the table that other candidates can’t. Your unique value proposition is your chance to sell yourself and show why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Creating Your Own Unique Value Proposition

When crafting your UVP, think about what you have to offer that no one else does.

What are your unique skills and experiences? What makes you passionate about the work you do? Answering these questions will help you hone in on what makes you the ideal candidate for the job you’re pursuing.

Examples of Unique Selling Points for Job Seekers

Remember, your UVP should be unique to you. But to get your creative juices flowing, consider any comments, awards, or recognition you’ve received throughout your career.

Perhaps you’ve received awards for streamlining operations or innovative cost reductions. Maybe you’ve been recognized by a previous employer for improving employee morale and boosting customer engagement. Whatever accolades you’ve received, use those as inspiration for explaining your value.

Using Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Job Search

Once you have a few ideas, you can start working them into your application materials.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition on Your Resume

Your resume is one of the first places employers will look to learn more about you, so ensure your unique value proposition is front and center. One way to do this is by fully utilizing the power of your resume summary. This brief statement outlines your qualifications and emphasizes why you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

If you have a lot of experience, you might want to focus on your accomplishments and the critical skills most relevant to the position. For example:

Accomplished sales professional with 10+ years of experience exceeding quotas and generating new business. Proven ability to establish relationships with clients and close deals.

If you don’t have as much experience, highlight what makes you stand out from other candidates. For example:

Recent graduate with a degree in marketing and experience managing social media accounts for small businesses and national nonprofit organizations. Skilled at creating content, analyzing data, and developing strategies to grow an audience.

In both cases, the unique value proposition is clear and concise, telling employers precisely what the job seeker can offer.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. And it’s often easier to write what makes you unique, so start here and share what the employer will gain if they hire you.

Use specific examples to support your claims and show employers what you could bring to the team. For example:

In the job posting, you noted that you’re looking for a candidate with experience in copywriting and social media. In my previous role as a marketing assistant, I was responsible for creating both digital and print content. I also managed the social media accounts for my company, which allowed me to increase our customer engagement by 18%.

As you can see, my skills and experiences perfectly align with what you’re looking for in a candidate. I would love to put my talents to work for your company and help contribute to your success.

Use Your Unique Value Proposition in Your Online Profiles

A healthy professional presence online is vital during your job search. Most employers will look you up online before deciding whether to interview you, so it’s critical to ensure your online profiles are up to date and professional.

Your unique value proposition can also come in handy here. Use your UVP to update your profile descriptions and create a tagline that sums up who you are and what you do. For example:

Marketing professional with 10 years of experience developing and executing campaigns that drive results. Skilled in copywriting, social media, and project management. Passionate about helping businesses achieve their goals.

This short description tells employers everything they need to know about you and what you can do for them. It’s the perfect way to make an excellent first impression and get them interested in learning more about you.

Sharing Your Unique Message

While it can be uncomfortable, it’s essential that you own your accomplishments and manage the message that your job search sends. Just remember, you’re helping the hiring manager understand why you’re the best fit for their needs. They won’t know unless you tell them.

The post How to Convey Your Unique Value to Employers appeared first on Job-Hunt.

While it might seem like the interviewer has all of the control, you have a part to play in how the interview flows as well. Since this is your first opportunity to truly interact with anyone from the company, it’s an excellent opportunity to begin building relationships.

And the better the rapport is during the interview, the easier it will be for the hiring manager to picture you on the team.

Building Rapport During Your Interview

Building rapport is the art of having a harmonious relationship where the conversation flows easily. Helping to create that kind of interaction makes you a memorable candidate that stands out as someone professional and easy to work with.

Here’s what you need to know about building rapport during your interview.

1. Research Thoroughly

Have you thoroughly researched the company and the interviewer? If not, that should be your first step. Building rapport with your interviewer starts long before you walk through the door.

Most people appreciate it when you are interested in them as individuals, so, if you can, try to find out some information about the person interviewing you. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for this, as you can usually get a sense of their career journey and what they’re interested in professionally.

You’ll be able to ask more relevant and thoughtful questions, as well as highlight any commonalities you have. Additionally, looking at the company’s website and social media pages can also give you some insights into the company culture and what they value.

2. Utilize Open and Friendly Body Language

First impressions are everything. When you meet your interviewer, you want to ensure you come across as confident, professional, and likable.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to give them a firm handshake, smile, and maintain eye contact throughout the conversation. By making an effort to appear open and friendly, you’ll be more likely to put your interviewer at ease and establish a good rapport.

Also, if you tend to talk more quickly when you’re nervous, make a concerted effort to speak slowly and clearly. It’ll help you project confidence and show you’re comfortable in the situation.

3. Practice Active Listening

Would you consider yourself a good listener? It’s easy to focus all your energy on preparing answers to curveball questions. If you find that you’re starting to answer the question before the interviewer has finished asking it, you might need to slow down and practice your active listening skills.

Active listening is a skill that’s invaluable in any professional setting, but it’s vital during an interview. When your interviewer is talking, give them your full attention and resist the urge to start planning your response in your head.

Instead, try to listen to what they’re saying and ask clarifying questions to understand what they’re asking. Next, take a conscious breath before answering, so you can slow your response and give a thoughtful answer.

4. Create a Conversation

When answering questions in an interview, it’s crucial to sound friendly, conversational, and enthusiastic. You don’t want to regurgitate the information they already have from your resume.

Instead, use this opportunity to elaborate on your skills and experience, giving the interviewer a better sense of who you are. While you want to be mindful of the time and keep your answer targeted, you can expand it a bit to provide context around your answers.

For example, if you’re asked about your favorite role and why, you might answer:

I would have to say my favorite role was my first role out of college. I worked for a small business as a marketing coordinator.

Instead, you could add more details and context that help them to relate to you better:

I’ve enjoyed all of the roles I’ve had so far, but if I had to choose one, I would say my favorite role was my first role out of college. I worked as a marketing coordinator for a small company and loved the creative freedom I had to develop new campaigns.

I enjoyed working with such a close-knit team. Everyone was so supportive and willing to help out, making coming to work every day enjoyable.

5. Avoid Negative Language

In any professional setting, it’s important to avoid using negative language. This is even more true in an interview. You want to come across as someone upbeat and positive, even in difficult situations.

So, when asked about past work experiences, don’t dwell on your challenges. Instead, focus on how you overcame them and what you learned. By doing so, you’ll show that you’re resilient and adaptable, which are two highly valued qualities in any workplace.

6. Be Enthusiastic About the Company and Role

One of the best ways to build rapport with your interviewer is to express how excited you are about the company and the role you’re interviewing for. You’ll highlight that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in working for the organization.

If you can, mention what drew you to the company and why you think you’d be a good fit for the role. As you establish a connection with your interviewer, you’ll set yourself apart from other candidates.

7. Ask Relevant Questions

Do you have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer? To make a good impression, asking thoughtful, relevant questions that show you’re engaged in the conversation and genuinely interested in the role is essential.

For example, instead of asking self-focused questions about vacation days or salary, ask questions that will give you a better sense of the company culture or the day-to-day responsibilities of the job.

By asking investigative questions, you’ll build rapport with your interviewer and get the information you need to decide if the job is right for you. In turn, you’re showing the interviewer that you’re genuinely invested in learning if the role is a great fit.

Some great questions to ask include:

• What are the biggest challenges facing this department/company?
• What would you say is the company’s primary competitive advantage?
• What are the essential qualities for success in this role?
• Can you give me a brief overview of the team I’d be working with?
• What are some projects I could expect to work on in this role?

Questions like these will help establish a connection with your interviewer and demonstrate that you have the skills and qualities they’re looking for.

8. Follow Up After the Interview

Do you breathe a sigh of relief when you leave an interview and then wait a bit breathlessly for them to reach out? Your rapport and interview work are incomplete until you follow up to thank the interviewer for their time. And it’s an excellent opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position and how you would be a valuable asset to the team.

A simple thank-you note or email is usually sufficient. Just make sure to personalize it and mention something specific you discussed during the interview. You’ll create a more lasting impression and stay top of mind as they decide.

Relationship-Building During Your Interview

Building rapport during an interview is essential to landing the job. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to establish a connection with your interviewer and demonstrate that you’re the right candidate for the role.

The post How to Be Likeable in an Interview: 8 Ways to Build Rapport appeared first on Job-Hunt.

But when you got the email, you were notified that it is going to be a team interview with several of your potential team members and your new boss.

Realistically, you have two options here. You could panic at having to be in the hot seat with multiple interviewers, or you could embrace the chance to get an in-depth look at whether this team will be a good fit for you. If you choose the second option, we’ve got some tips to help you prepare.

Preparing and Succeeding at Team Interviews

In reality, no matter what position you’re interviewing for, if you’re applying for a team role, there’s a possibility that you will need to participate in a team interview at some point.

And while they may seem daunting at first glance, there’s no need to worry. Using the following tips, you can ace your next team interview.

Do Your Research

If you can, find out who will be on the interviewing panel so you can look them up. The more prepared you are, the more confidently you will present yourself and the more value you’ll add to the discussion.

Before you step into a room for a team interview:

• Research the company.
• Learn about the company’s size, industry, culture, and values.
• Consider what sort of team environment you would thrive in and whether the company offers that.
• Review the job posting and qualifications to get a clear idea of what they are looking for in a candidate.

Recognize the Players

During a traditional interview, there are fewer dynamics at play. It’s generally you and the hiring manager. On the other hand, in a team interview, you’ll need to figure out who’s who.

There will usually be two types of people in the room: the interviewer and the screener. The interviewer is typically the one asking most of the questions, while the screener is there to take notes and evaluate your nonverbal communication.

Once you’ve identified the screener, it’s essential to make eye contact and smile throughout the interview, as they’re looking for cues that you’re friendly and engaged.

With that said, don’t neglect the interviewer—make sure to answer their questions thoughtfully and pay attention to their cues. When all is said and done, they’ll compare notes and discuss your fit for the role, so it’s essential to make a good impression on both.

Know Your Role

If you’re interviewing for a job that involves working as part of a team, it’s essential to try and figure out what role you’ll be playing in the group. Will you be the leader? The follower? The mediator? Knowing your part ahead of time will help you be more prepared for the interview and better able to answer questions about your team skills.

One way to figure out what role you’ll be playing is to take some time to review your research on the company and the job before the interview. That will help you understand what they’re looking for in a candidate.

If the job description mentions leadership qualities, for example, it’s likely that they’re looking for someone who can take charge and manage a team. If they’re looking for someone good at problem-solving, they might want someone who can act as a mediator between team members.

Another way to figure out your role is to pay attention to how the interviewer asks questions about your teamwork skills. If they focus on questions about your ability to lead or motivate others, they might want to see if you have what it takes to be a leader. If they ask more questions about your ability to work well with others and compromise when necessary, they might try to gauge whether you’d be a good follower or mediator.

Be an Active Listener

In any interview, it’s important to be an active listener. But it’s even more essential during a team interview, especially since you might be nervous interacting with multiple team members.

Ensure that you not only listen to what others are saying, but you also pay attention to nonverbal cues, ask for clarification, and try to contribute thoughtfully to the discussion.

The best way to show that you’re an active listener is to ask relevant, open-ended questions. Not only does this demonstrate that you’re engaged in the conversation, but it also allows you to learn more about the team and their work.

As the team members answer you, use your active listening skills to frame your answer and create a natural dialogue.

Ask Relevant Questions

How many questions should you ask in a job interview? The answer varies depending on who you ask. Some career experts will tell you that it’s essential to ask at least one question, while others say you should ask several.

The reality is that there is no magic number of questions to ask. Instead, the key is to focus on quality over quantity, which flows naturally into the conversation. Thoughtful, insightful questions will show that you’re engaged in the discussion and genuinely interested in the job duties and team dynamics.

If you’re unsure what questions to ask, try to avoid asking about things that can be easily found online (e.g., the company’s website) or that have already been covered in other interviews (e.g., the job duties). Instead, focus on asking open-ended questions that will give you a better sense of the team culture and their unique experiences with the organization.

Offer Examples of Teamwork

When interviewing as part of a team, the interviewer will want to see how well you work with others. Be ready to share specific examples of working as a team and your role in that situation.

For example, if you’re applying for a position on a marketing team, an interviewer may want to know when you had to support another team member with their portion of a project to meet a deadline. If you’re applying for a job in sales, the interviewer may want to hear about a time you supported a team member dealing with a demanding customer, even though it didn’t benefit you directly.

In each case, the interviewer is looking for you to demonstrate that you’re able to put the team’s best interests first and work well with others.

Winning at Team Interviews

Though it’s hard not to feel intimidated when you’re facing several people, remember that you’ve already impressed the managers with your credentials and experience.

If you do your research upfront and prepare for the challenges of group dynamics, a team interview becomes a straightforward discussion among peers that you can navigate with confidence.

The post How to Prepare for Team Interviews appeared first on Job-Hunt.

That’s the fourth time this month. You might be wondering, “What is going on?”

There are many reasons you could be getting lots of interviews but no job offers. Usually, it’s due to some common interview mistakes. But the good news is that they’re fixable.

Here are a few reasons job seekers may be getting interviews but no job offers. 

You Didn’t Prepare for the Interview

Did you take time to review the job description before the interview? Did you practice common interview questions? If not, that is likely the reason you didn’t advance to the next round. Take this as a learning opportunity, and in the future, prepare beforehand. 

You want to be able to answer common interview questions (like “Where do you see yourself in five years?”) and be able to speak to why you think you’re the best candidate for the job.

In addition, if you’re interested in remote or hybrid jobs, you’ll also want to prepare for some common remote job interview questions to confidently answer why you want a remote job and how you’ll handle working from home.

It might sound silly, but practice your answers out loud. You don’t want your first time tackling a challenging interview question to be in front of the hiring manager (when the stakes are high).

You Didn’t Research the Employer

In addition to preparing for common interview questions, a best practice is to always research a prospective employer. Not only does this help you write a better cover letter, but having a solid understanding of the company can help you stand out from other candidates. 

There are many ways you can start researching a company. For one, FlexJobs makes it easy for its members to research companies by offering the option to “follow” companies and read up on accolades, the work the company does, and the positions they hire for. You can also follow companies on social media or browse the company website. 

Unprofessional Behavior

Professionalism is paramount during the interview process. Make sure you conduct yourself appropriately.

The following are some examples of unprofessional behavior that can be a turnoff to prospective employers:

• Arriving late to the interview (online or in person)
• Badmouthing a former employer
• Complaining
• Not dressing appropriately
• Not preparing for the interview ahead of time

You Didn’t Seem Excited About the Role

Yes, at the end of the day, a job is a way to pay your rent and support your family. But if you’re not excited about the role, your interview responses and body language will give you away. Employers want someone who will enjoy the work the job requires.

Otherwise, they know that as soon as you get offered something better, you’re going to bail. Hiring a new employee is expensive, so employers want to make sure they’re making an investment in the right candidate. 

Before accepting an interview offer, ask yourself if this is a job you could see yourself doing for two to three years. If the answer is no, politely decline the offer, and keep applying to other opportunities.

You Were Asked an Illegal Question

Although rare, being asked illegal questions is another potential reason some job candidates don’t progress beyond an initial interview.

This can happen for many reasons. Sometimes, the person doesn’t have experience with interviewing and may not be familiar with laws regarding hiring. And unfortunately, sometimes discrimination is the goal. Sadly, some employers may not value how diverse perspectives can enrich their team.

There are certain questions that a hiring manager legally can’t ask you. Below are some examples of illegal interview questions:

• Are you married?
• Do you have children? Are you planning to have children?
• What’s your religion?
• How old are you?
• Do you have any disabilities?

If you are asked any of these questions during an interview, you don’t have an obligation to answer. Instead, you can politely ask, “How is this relevant to the job?”

Candidates also have the option to report these incidents to their local Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) field office. 

Furthermore, if you’ve been asked an illegal job interview question, you can visit WorkplaceFairness.org to learn more about your legal rights and options. 

Land Your Next Job

If you’re getting interviews but no offers, make sure you’re not making these common mistakes. Not preparing for an interview or unprofessional behavior can create roadblocks to getting a job offer. Make sure to practice common interview questions and conduct yourself appropriately for future interviews so you can land that next role. 

The post Getting Interviews, But No Job Offers? Here’s What to Do appeared first on Job-Hunt.

If you’re at a mid-career stage, this can often mean pursuing new leadership roles or working on more complex projects. You might be considering changing careers altogether.

Whether you’re looking to make a lateral move or start fresh in a new field, interviews during the mid-career stage require you to refine your approach a bit more than you did during the earlier stages of your career.

Interview Tips for Experienced Candidates

Understanding the challenges and opportunities of the mid-career stage can help you make the best impact on the hiring manager. Your experience and skills are impressive, but you must ensure your interview technique is up to par for your career level.

Approach Interviews From a Leadership Perspective

Realistically, you’re probably interviewing for roles that make a more significant impact on an organization. Your focus should be on preparing for questions that revolve around leadership and team-building, rather than individual achievements.

Consider situations when you’ve been able to help resolve conflict or create momentum for others.

Be sure to focus on how you were able to transfer your skills to new environments and what the challenges and successes looked like. Show that you’re capable of taking on more responsibility and can do so in a way that benefits those around you.

More: Leadership Interview Questions and Example Answers

Emphasize Your Accomplishments

Often, mid-career professionals can make the mistake of assuming that their accomplishments speak for themselves. While you may have a wealth of experience that you didn’t have at earlier stages of your career, you want to put the same amount of preparation into your submissions.

This is an area where many mid-career professionals fall short. Hiring managers want to know about the specific things you’ve done that have made an impact.

To prepare:

• Take some time to reflect on your most significant achievements.
• Write down as many details as possible, including relevant numbers or metrics.
• Be ready to talk about what you did, how you did it, and what the results were.
• Ensure that you use tangible, data-driven examples.

It would be best if you also prepare to talk about any challenges you faced along the way and how you overcame them. This shows that you’re resilient and adaptable—two essential qualities in any leader.

Don’t Neglect Your Career Plan

Hiring managers at the mid-career stage want to know that you can grow and develop in a leadership role and create continuity for the team you’d be joining.

To prepare for questions about your potential, take some time to reflect on your long-term goals. What do you hope to accomplish in the next five or 10 years? How does this role fit into those plans?

You should also prepare to discuss any continued education or professional development you’ve pursued. This will show that you’re committed to lifelong learning and always looking for ways to improve.

Highlight That You’re Results-Oriented

At the end of the day, hiring managers want to know what you can do for their organization. They’re looking for someone who can come in and make an immediate impact, so you need to be able to demonstrate that you’re action-oriented.

Take time to research both the organization and the specific role you’re interviewing for. What are their needs? How can you help them meet those needs?

Be sure to focus on the areas where your skills and experience match. Then, back up your claims with concrete examples. The more specific you can be, the better.

Paint a Whole-Person Perspective

Most recruiters will be looking to see if you’ll help the company’s culture thrive as a mid-career professional. Open-ended interview questions are a great time to accentuate how your values align with the company’s initiatives.

Mention any time you’ve spent volunteering or participating in community events or a cause that you’re passionate about. Maybe you applied your knowledge or skills in a way that reveals your abilities related to the job you’re interviewing for.

Play Up Recent Experiences

Depending on the role you’re applying for, you may confront a bias against slightly older workers. Most of the time, it’s not even a conscious thought that the recruiters have.

But you can help to counter that by highlighting recent experiences and mentioning current industry standards and technologies. This will help showcase that you’re focused on staying at the forefront of the industry.

Successfully Interviewing as a Mid-Career Professional

By following these tips, you’ll be able to show the hiring manager that you’re the right candidate for the job. With your experience and skills, plus targeted preparation, you’ll be well on your way to landing the mid-career role you’ve been aiming for.

The post 6 Interview Tips for Mid-Career Professionals appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Unlike “hard” questions (“If you could be any kind of tree…”), situational interview questions are designed to give the interviewer more information about you. And they’re an excellent opportunity to sell yourself to the interviewer. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Are Situational Interview Questions?

Situational interview questions, also known as behavioral interview questions, are nontechnical questions all about you! Specifically, these questions probe how you have handled or might handle a situation you’ll encounter on the job. Often, these questions start with:

• Tell me about a time when…
• Have you ever…
• How do you deal with…
• What do you do when…

When you hear these phrases, you know a situational question is coming next.

Why Do Employers Ask These?

It might seem a bit odd to ask these kinds of questions. For example, if a hiring manager asks, “How do you deal with angry customers?” it’s unlikely you’ll say, “By throwing them out of the store” or “Hanging up on them.” 

However, there are two reasons why employers ask situational interview questions. First, past behavior is often a good indicator of future behavior. Asking how you’ve handled a past situation gives the employer a better idea of how you’ll probably behave while working for them.

Second, situational interview questions are also a great way for the hiring manager to see if you have the specific skills or traits they’re looking for in applicants. Using the above example, you might focus your answer on your conflict-resolution skills and talk about how you listened to the customer to better understand their concern, then worked with them to find an agreeable solution.

How Do I Answer Situational Interview Questions?

Situational interview questions are a fantastic opportunity for you to tell a detailed (but brief!) story that illustrates your skills and can help the employer understand why they should hire you over the other candidates.

One of the best ways to answer these questions is to use the STAR method. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Using this method can help you not only explain which skills you possess but how you would put them to use on the job.

In brief, you explain:

• The Situation you faced
• The Task you needed to accomplish
• The Action (or actions) you took to complete your task
• The Result your action had and what that meant for the company

Situational Interview Questions and Answers

So, what does all of this look like in action? We spoke to the career coaching team at FlexJobs to get their expert insights into why employers ask these questions and how to answer them.

Tell me about a time when you disagreed with a coworker or manager. How did you handle it?

What the employer is trying to find out: Toni Frana says, “An employer is trying to understand your communication style, particularly in a potentially awkward or difficult situation.” And as Tracy Capozzoli points out, “The employer is trying to ascertain your ability to build and nurture relationships using communication and problem-solving skills.”

Answer: “A coworker and I were working on a presentation and had a hard time agreeing on what information was best to share. It was important that I understood exactly where my coworker was coming from, so I asked a few clarifying questions. From there, we were able to reevaluate the objectives of the presentation and reports we both felt were essential to include. The result was a highly successful presentation. The leadership team thanked us for providing detailed and accurate information, allowing them to make more informed decisions about critical organizational objectives.”

Tell me about a time you failed at work.

What the employer is trying to find out: Frana says that the employer is not trying to learn about your failures. Rather, “they are trying to see what you learned from an experience where you failed.” She advises job seekers to highlight what they learned and what they would do differently when faced with a similar situation.

Answer: “I was responsible for [X] project. While the team worked well together, we encountered several unexpected obstacles, including [Y and Z]. As a result, we missed some deadlines [or missed this goal]. Even though we didn’t have the outcome we hoped for, we debriefed and reflected on what happened. The team then put processes and procedures in place [include an example] to ensure something like that didn’t happen again.”

How would you approach a task you’ve never done before?

What the employer is trying to find out: The employer is trying to understand how you face the unknown. There may be times you’re assigned a task you don’t understand. Do you ask for help or go it alone? What’s your game plan for difficult tasks?

Answer: “First, I would evaluate why this task is important and what overall purpose it serves. Then, I would do some research to identify who I might need to speak with, including people who have done this task or might have the skills to help me. I would also do some independent research into how to do it. Lastly, if I felt stuck, I would reach out to my manager to clarify any lingering questions. Once I completed the task, I would try to gain feedback about my performance, so I could know what to improve in the future.”

How do you deal with conflicting deadlines from different managers?

What the employer is trying to find out: Keith Spencer says that the employer is trying to figure out how you manage multiple priorities at the same time. So, talk about how you prioritize tasks and block off time to work on them.

Answer: “First, I examine all the assigned tasks and estimate how much time it might take to complete each. I also examine how important the task might be. For example, if the CEO wants something by tomorrow, that’s pretty important! Then, I’ll look at due dates and work backward on my calendar to see how much time I’ll have each day for each task and block off that time to devote to the task. Finally, if I see there are conflicts or just too much to do, I’ll talk to my manager and see if any of the deadlines are flexible or ask if there’s anyone who can help me out.”

Tell Me About…

Situational interview questions seem difficult—at first! But once you understand why the interviewer is asking it, you’ll be able to formulate an answer that demonstrates you’ve got the right skills and experience for the role!

The post How to Answer Situational Interview Questions (Example Answers) appeared first on Job-Hunt.

Did reading that make you break into a sweat? Many people dread this question because it’s open-ended. How do you know what to include from your extensive work history? What makes a good response to get you to the next round?

This question isn’t quite as scary as it seems. Once you understand why employers ask this question and what they’re looking for, you can craft a response that positions you as a qualified candidate worth being invited to the second round. Here’s how to master your response.

Why Do Employers Want You to Walk Them Through Your Resume?

Employers will ask you to walk them through your resume to better understand your previous experience and what you bring to the role. They’re seeking a concise summary of your past accomplishments and job duties to gain insights into how you’ll fit into the advertised position.

How to Answer “Walk Me Through Your Resume”

Since this question is often the first to be asked, it can set the tone for the rest of the interview. Here are a few key components that make up a strong answer.

Keep It Brief

Don’t give a detailed presentation of every job you’ve ever had. Keep your answer brief and to the point. This is often the first of several questions in an interview, so you don’t want to spend half an hour answering it. A few minutes highlighting your skills and value should suffice.

Study the Job Description

To answer this question successfully, you must first read the job description. Keith Spencer, a FlexJobs career coach, explains, “You should focus on what is relevant to your audience. To do this, ensure you have fully and carefully reviewed the description of the position you are interviewing for, then bring up examples from your past that highlight related skills and experiences. This allows you to focus on the experiences that make you qualified for the role and able to excel in that position.”

In other words, if you’re applying for a full-stack developer position, you don’t need to discuss your lesson planning experience or curriculum development skills. Craft a strong response by focusing on what matters to the hiring team.

Focus On Your Accomplishments

When you’re talking about your previous experience, you don’t want to only provide a list of tasks. Instead, FlexJobs career coach Rachel Adkins recommends focusing on quantifiable and specific achievements. For example, if you wrote emails that increased open rates from 15% to 23%, or you were a top sales representative at your last company, mention that in your response.

More: How to Answer “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

Practice Your Answers

One of the best ways to provide a compelling answer to “walk me through your resume” is to practice your response. You don’t want your first attempt at the question to be when you’re sitting in front of the hiring manager!

Don’t just write it down or think it in your head. Practice saying your answer out loud. Reciting it aloud will help you keep your answer concise and avoid stuttering or rambling.

Example Answers for “Walk Me Through Your Resume”

Of course, to practice your response successfully, it helps to see some examples. Here are a few sample answers to consider.

“Walk Me Through Your Resume” Sample Answer

In my previous role as a social media coordinator at [X Company], I was responsible for executing social media strategies and ads for TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. During my time at the company, I grew our social media followers by 60% and increased revenue from our targeted ad campaigns. The social media manager role at your company feels like the perfect next step in my career.

Sample Answer for Recent Graduates and New Professionals

I graduated from the University of Arizona with a double major in communications and Spanish. I completed coursework in communications technology, public speaking, and corporate communications during my studies. At my internship, I was responsible for developing social media campaigns and promotions for local events. I read your company is expanding into Latin America, and I can use my communication skills and bilingual abilities to help you connect with customers in the region.

Sample Answer for Career Changers

As you can see, I left teaching in 2018 to pursue a career in technical sales. Several of the skills that made me a successful teacher, like tailoring my message to different people, interpersonal skills, and communication, helped me succeed as a top sales representative at [XYZ Company].

Prepare to Ace Your Interview

“Walk me through your resume” can often make interviewees feel like deer in the headlights. But this won’t be you if you take the time to study the job description and practice your answer. By doing so, you’ll be able to answer this interview question like a pro.

The post How to Handle “Walk Me Through Your Resume” In an Interview appeared first on Job-Hunt.

One interview question that doesn’t seem to come up often is, “What makes you unique?” However, once you dig into what the question is asking, you’ll find this “unique” question is far more common than it seems.

Why Employers Ask “What Makes You Unique?”

There are two reasons why an employer might ask, “What makes you unique?”

First, it’s likely you aren’t the only applicant the company is interviewing for the role. And it’s equally likely that all the candidates are similar in background, education, and experience. So, while the employer is asking you to talk about what makes you unique, what they’re really asking is, “Why should we hire you over the other candidates?”

The second reason employers ask this question is because it’s unique! You may have been expecting and even prepared for, “Why should we hire you?” and the employer knows this. So, by throwing you a curveball, the employer is trying to measure how well you handle the unexpected and think on your feet!

How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?”

As you formulate your answer, remember that in this case, “unique” doesn’t mean “one of a kind.” For example, it might be unique that you know Morse code. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll need this particular skill for the role. The employer wants to know about the combination of skills and experience that only you possess and how you will use them to benefit the company.

Your answer needs to be specific to the role without being generic. Saying you’re unique because you have top-notch communication skills isn’t, well, unique. And while saying you have top-notch communication skills because you know Morse code is very unique, it’s probably not relevant to the role.

However, saying you have top-notch communication skills because you’ve spent the last few years creating press releases that increased traffic to the company website by 44% is unique, compelling, and specific!

Lead With Confidence

You might have a lot of skills or traits that make you unique. So, pick the one skill or trait you’re most confident talking about.

This doesn’t have to be a hard skill. You could discuss a soft skill or even an aspect of your personality that will help you excel in the role. For example, if you’re interviewing for a customer service role, you might choose to highlight that you’re an excellent listener or have an uncanny ability to understand where people are coming from.

Relate Your Uniqueness to the Role

Then, talk about how this skill or trait is relevant to the role. Using the example above, you could explain that being a good listener is essential in a customer service role because you recognize that often when people call, they are angry. Angry people usually want to be heard, and you have no problems hearing them out and being sympathetic.

How Will This Benefit the Employer?

Finally, explain how your unique ability will benefit the employer.

As a good listener, you’re able to hear what the customer is saying, and you take that information to soothe the customer and help them find a solution. This can help retain that customer and even turn them into a loyal, repeat one!

Sample Answer for “What Makes You Unique?”

Here’s what the pieces look like together:

One thing that makes me unique is that I’m a fantastic listener. This serves me well as a customer service agent because I can listen sympathetically to the customer and help them understand that I’m here to help. I’ll then work with them to find an agreeable solution. In my current role, I’ve received a five-star rating at least 98% of the time, with the majority of the customers saying that they were satisfied with the outcome and willing to recommend us to others.

As Unique as You

While there’s only one you, the other candidates may be pretty similar to you. Help an employer understand why they should hire you by talking about your uniqueness in a way that explains why you’re the best person for the role!

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