Totally stumped?

With Deb KoenCareers consultant

The zinger, the poser ... It's that dreaded question that seems to come out of left field in an interview. It's one thing to present your achievements, but the ultimate challenge comes in dealing with a question that you have no good answer to or would rather not have been asked. To avoid a ‘rabbit in the headlights’ response, anticipate potential stumpers and keep cool when they present themselves.

Everyone has their own most dreaded questions, but stumpers tend to fall into one of two categories: either totally open-ended or probing a sensitive area. Open-ended questions leave you wondering where you might possibly begin. Enquiries such as “Tell me about yourself,” and “Why should we hire you?” are perfect examples. But these questions also present the perfect invitation to shine. Before heading to an interview, settle on three key points you want to make. Then respond to open-ended questions with success stories to highlight your key messages.

For those questions to which it seems there is no good answer, remember that your approach to the question is as important as the specific content of your response. “Why did you lose your last job?” may be a sensitive subject. But preparing an honest yet concise and positive explanation can help. And illegal questions, such as “Are you married?” or “How old are you anyway?” are best met with a curious and non-defensive question in reply, such as “Why do you ask?”. This lets the interviewer put underlying concerns on the table.

Anticipating difficult questions allows you to plan your responses. Once in the interview, remember that impressions are formed more by tone and nonverbal cues than by specific words. Even if you need a little time to respond, an upbeat tone and open body language will show your interest and enthusiasm.

Use the closing moments and a friendly follow-up letter to express your interest and reaffirm important considerations. Regardless of the difficulty of the question, the approach you take in the preparation, delivery and follow-up will let you shine throughout the process.