Interview:
As a rule, at least three candidates are invited to fill a position. Since there is only one position to fill, two out of three interviews not to success.
This is extremely annoying for almost 70% of applicants, at least if you want the job.
Of course, play in Job Interview Many factors play a role, but applicants coached by us usually get the job in two out of three cases.
Why is that, you might ask?
And yes, you guessed right: the key to success lies in professional self-presentation.
Presentation?
Yes! Presentation!
In our coaching and application training sessions, we have learned a great deal about job interviews due to the Corona crisis.
Exciting presentation
In online interviews via Zoom, Teamview or Skype, it was possible to turn the often boring CV retelling into a powerful and exciting PowerPoint presentation.
Using meaningful images and storytelling elements, the passive job interview such an interesting dialogue. Prepare for the typical questions and incorporate the answers into your presentation,
Instead of reacting to the HR staff’s questions, the introductory presentation allows you to positively influence the course of the conversation.
Another factor for many successful job interviews is the skillful handling of difficult questions.
Modern storytelling
In our coaching sessions, we check the applicant’s story for so-called “collateral damage.”
What does this mean? Separation from a former employer and/or a prolonged period of unemployment usually leads to reaction patterns that can have a negative impact on the job interview.
Sometimes it is anger at the ex-boss...sometimes it is self-doubt or a damaged sense of self-esteem...occasionally it is a deeply felt injustice.
Often, applicants fail to truly transform these feelings into something positive.
Re-evaluate your own history
In our coaching sessions, we support you in the functional reinterpretation of your experiences. In other words, you learn to reevaluate your own story.
Dealing with "weaknesses" proactively
Dealing with "weaknesses" proactively In the application presentation, difficult questions are addressed proactively and aggressively. This allows future employers to understand how the applicant constructively addresses experiences from previous employment relationships.
Even negative experiences become opportunities for personal development.
In preparation for the interview, you'll practice the individual elements of your application presentation repeatedly. The end result is an impressive, positive story that, combined with professional presentation techniques, leads to exceptionally high success rates.
Questions and more detailed answers for your job interview
1. Tell me about yourself.
This question is designed to get to know your personality, professional background and suitability for the position.
Answer:
"I'd like to give you an overview of my career. After completing my studies/training in [field], I began my [first professional position(s), where I gained valuable experience in [relevant area]. There, my focus was on [main tasks], which enabled me to develop skills such as [key competencies].
As my career progressed, I was able to further specialize at [other professional position(s), particularly in [important area]. This experience allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, as I learned [e.g., how to solve complex problems, work in a team, or develop leadership skills].
What particularly appeals to me about the position you're advertising is [reference to the advertised position], as it allows me to optimally utilize my skills while simultaneously gaining further valuable experience. I look forward to working with you to contribute to [company goal or area]."
2. Why did you apply to us?
Here the HR manager wants to find out how well you can identify with the company and the advertised position.
Answer:
"I specifically applied to you because your company stands for [e.g., innovation, sustainability, customer focus] – values that are very important to me personally. I have researched your products/services and your corporate culture and am impressed by [e.g., your commitment to a specific area, your growth, your market positioning].
The advertised position perfectly matches my previous experience in [department] and simultaneously offers me the opportunity to develop further in [new challenge]. I'm particularly interested in the opportunity to take on [specific tasks or areas of responsibility]. I'm convinced that my skills and commitment can add real value to your company."
3. What knowledge and skills do you bring to the position?
The focus is on your qualifications for the position.
Answer:
"I bring a broad range of knowledge and skills that qualify me for this position. These include [technical skills, e.g., project management, specific expertise] that I have successfully applied several times in my professional career to date.
In addition, I have developed [e.g., soft skills such as teamwork, strong communication skills, problem-solving skills]. A concrete example: In my last project at [company], I successfully mastered [specific challenge] by [explaining steps to the solution].
Thanks to my structured approach to work, my commitment, and my ability to quickly familiarize myself with new topics, I can fully meet the requirements of this position."
4. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Here we will check whether you have long-term goals and how these are compatible with the company.
Answer:
"In five years, I see myself in a position where I have been able to further develop both my professional and personal skills. I would like to actively contribute to the success of your company through my work and ideally take on more responsibility, whether in managing projects, leading a team, or deepening my expertise in [specific area].
It's important to me to work long-term for a company that shares my values and goals, and I see great potential here to grow together with you."
5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
The focus is on your self-reflection and authenticity.
Answer:
"My strengths include, above all, my [e.g., analytical thinking, communication skills, resilience]. For example: In my last position, I was able to solve a problem through [concrete action] that had a positive impact on [e.g., efficiency, results, collaboration].
One weakness I'm actively working on is [e.g., perfectionism, excessive personal responsibility]. However, I've learned to manage these better by [e.g., prioritizing tasks, accepting help from colleagues]. It's important to me to continuously work on my weaknesses and learn from every challenge."
6. How do you deal with criticism?
Here the HR manager wants to know how you receive and implement feedback.
Answer:
"I see criticism as a valuable opportunity for personal development. I actively listen to understand the perspective of the other person and try to derive concrete action steps to improve my work.
For example, in one project, I received feedback that I could communicate my results more clearly. I then started [e.g., structuring presentations, providing regular updates], which had a positive impact on team collaboration."
7. Why should we hire you?
This is where your ability to sell yourself and present your suitability convincingly will be tested.
Answer:
"I am convinced that with my skills and experience, I can make a valuable contribution to your company. My [e.g., extensive knowledge in the area of XY, my success in project implementation] particularly qualify me for this position.
Furthermore, I am characterized by [e.g., reliability, a structured approach to work, and the ability to maintain an overview even in stressful situations]. My goal is to not only meet your expectations, but to exceed them by [e.g., providing innovative solutions, working effectively in a team].
I see myself as a committed employee who is a good fit for your company, not only professionally but also personally.”
Clever questions to ask in an interview:
Questions are an excellent opportunity to job interview Show interest and commitment. This not only helps you make a better impression on the potential employer, but also provides you with important information to help you decide whether the position is truly a good fit for you. Useful follow-up questions can often arise from the job advertisement or from your personal priorities. These could concern aspects such as management style, work atmosphere, areas of responsibility, or development opportunities.
Here you will find a structured list of possible questions that you can ask, organized by subject area:
1. Information about the advertised position
Why is this position currently vacant?
How has the job description for this position changed in recent years?
What expectations do you have of someone in this position?
What typical mistakes have previous employees in this position made that I can avoid?
2. Corporate culture and working environment
How would you describe the corporate culture?
What do you personally value most about working at this company?
How would you characterize the leadership style of my direct supervisor?
How does collaboration within the team work?
3. Responsibilities and development opportunities
What tasks or areas of responsibility are most important in this position?
What skills are particularly important to be successful in this position?
Are there any examples of employees in your company who have been promoted in recent years? If so, what were the reasons for these promotions?
What training or continuing education opportunities are available for new employees?
4. Practical aspects and procedure
What is the typical training process for this position?
What can I expect in the first 90 days after starting work?
Is there time after the interview to get to know the workplace or the team?
How is working time recorded in your company?
5. Corporate strategy and challenges
What current challenges or projects are the company focusing on?
What will the strategic development of your company look like in the next few years?
Which values are particularly important to you when working in your company?
6. Application process
What is the further process in the application process?
Is there a rough timeline for the decision to fill the position?
If there were a second interview, who would be sitting across from me?
Do you still have doubts about my suitability for this position that I can dispel during this interview?
Tips for your queries
Individualize your questions: Focus on the job advertisement, the information already provided during the interview, and your personal interests.
Listen carefully: Do not ask questions that have already been answered, as this signals disinterest or inattention.
Write down your questions: Write down questions during preparation or during the interview so you don't forget anything and make a professional impression.
Well-thought-out follow-up questions show that you have not only prepared for the interview, but are also seriously interested in the position and the company.