This great article seems to sum up nicely the questions that are really being asked in every interview.
Acing your response to an interview question requires pivoting off your basic answer to reinforce your strengths, motivation or fit – depending upon the true underlying question. If you don’t answer the question, you get an F. If you simply answer it, you get a C or maybe a B. An A, and ultimately getting the job in most cases, requires more.
- Can you do the job?
- Will you love the job?
- Can we tolerate working with you?
(Strengths, motivation, and fit.)
But what happens when you’re responding to questions from someone who hasn’t been trained in interviewing? Take charge in a way that makes them feel good about themselves and what they uncover about you. To do this successfully, follow three simple steps: Think – Answer – Bridge
Think before opening your mouth.
Answer the question asked.
Bridge to answer the true underlying question
Bridging is an art. You must connect the dots between your response to the question asked and the answer to the underlying true question (strengths, motivation, or fit). Bridge too far and your audience can’t make the leap. Find a link – a connection – and use it to get from where you are to where you need to be.
Check out the rest of the article with some great thoughts on acing your next interview here.
I do think recruiters ask themselves: If I present you to my client, will you make me look good?
And hiring managers are asking themselves: If I hire you will you make me look good?