INTERVIEWING: Follow Up Questions

Whenever you answer a job interview question, you should expect the hiring manager to ask a follow up. As such, you should practice your follow up answers as frequently and with as much thought as you practice your regular answers.

Here are a few of the most common job interview questions and their just-as-frequently-asked follow up questions:

Job Interview Question: Why did you leave your last job?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: Why wouldn't the same thing happen if we hired you?


Job Interview Question: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: You didn't mention (fill in the gap), which is something this company is expanding into. If we hire you, will you be leaving us within the next 5 years?


Job Interview Question: What's your biggest weakness?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: Interesting. That's the same answer I've heard from everyone else I've interviewed for this job. Now what's your REAL weakness?


Job Interview Question: What's your biggest strength?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: You didn't mention (fill in the blank), and that's a major part of the job. Why should we hire you if that isn't one of your strengths?


Job Interview Question: How do you handle conflict?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: You seem to know how to handle conflict. Why do you find yourself involved in conflict so often?


Job Interview Question: What makes you qualified for this job?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: I've talked to other candidates who have the same skills as you. Why should we hire you instead of someone else?


Job Interview Question: Are you currently employed?

Follow Up Job Interview Question: If you're looking for a job while you have a job, why wouldn't I think you'd do the same to us if we hire you?


IN THE CARAVAN: Prepare for job interview follow up questions, like those above, as completely as you do for your other interview questions.

NEXT THURSDAY: Forcing an Interview

Check out last Thursday's first, second and third posts on handling employment gaps in interviews.

Want more Interviewing advice? Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!

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