Dated February 02, 2005
How does one handle a potentially lethal question like, "how long have you been looking for another position?"
Praneetha
Hyderabad
As you say, this can be a potentially fatal question! If you are currently unemployed and have been looking for a job for quite some time, try to minimise the 'time gap' by mentioning any other activities in which you have been involved. If you are a specialist and have been fussy, or determined to continue in that field, point this out provided it isn't at odds with the demands of the new role.
It is always better to answer this question with, "I just started looking". But this is not always possible, particularly if your résumé indicates you've been unemployed for the last six months or more. If you can't hide the fact that your job search has been taking a while, then state that you're being selective about whom you will work for. Of course, stating this might prompt the interviewer to ask, "What offers have you turned down?" which could land you in hot water if you haven't actually received any job offers! (It isn't a good idea to lie while answering this latter question.)
A bad economy and a crowded market are good reasons one might have trouble finding a job. However, be aware that many interviewers will only view this as an excuse.
"Wouldn't you be better off in another firm"? When faced with a comment like this what should one's response be?
Jeevan George
Kottayam
This is a rather flattering question that can be a good sign that the interviewer has high regard for you. What they're really asking is, "aren't you going to get bored here and move on?" You need to reassure them by throwing the flattery back at them, emphasising the appealing aspects of their company and showing that you know a lot about the organisation and the work they do. Answers such as, "I prefer smaller companies", "This company has good potential for growth", "I feel I can thrive best in an environment like this" or "I relish the challenge of turning the department around" are good examples. Quite often, questions like this can catch us off guard. If you counter it with a question such as "Why do you say that?", you can successfully buy yourself time to think while they answer or elaborate.
One of the panellists asked, "how do you handle rejection and criticism with equanimity''? What's the best answer?
Murali
Bangalore
Like it or not, rejection is a fact of life, especially when it comes to job search. No matter how skilled or experienced you are, a rejection or two (or more) is inevitable. The trick is to learn how to handle rejection, maintain a positive attitude and use the experience to your advantage.
Rejection should not make you doubt your self-worth and make you fall apart. Try not to take it personally, instead view it as a valued lesson learnt for the future and move on.
You had what you thought was a great interview. Your skills were right on target. But, you still didn't get the job. Time for a little research? Being passed over for a position may have nothing to do with you personally. For example, it's very possible that someone with a connection inside the hiring company got the job instead. It could also mean that someone else was a better fit.
Handling criticism well can be one of the greatest strengths. There are times when criticism is meant to make you a better professional. It can be useful and yes, constructive. Taking criticism in your stride with an open mind will make life that much easier personally and professionally. Learn to treat all criticism objectively. Only then can it be a learning experience.
Keep your head high and your outlook positive. Remember, every rejection is just another step on the road to getting an offer.
Some companies take a test wherein they ask you to write about your strengths. What should one focus on while describing oneself?
Prithvi
New Delhi
Write a positive statement you can say with confidence:
"My strength is my flexibility to handle change. As a service manager in my last job, I was able to turn around a negative working environment and develop a very supporting team. As far as weaknesses are concerned, I feel that my management skills could be stronger, and I am constantly working to improve them."
When confronted with such questions, remember the interviewer is looking for a fit. He is forming a picture of you based on your answers. A single line answer will probably not keep you from getting the job, unless of course it is something totally inane. Put your energy into your strengths statement -- what you have to offer.
The FAQ column deals with career concerns addressed to The C&K Management LTD. PO Box 2178, Secunderabad 500003 or emailed to faqs@cnkonline.com
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