How To

Categorize Interview Questions

You can probably find more books, articles, and blogs on the subject of job interviews than on virtually any

other topic. I would like to focus, however, on the 20% of the

interview that’s going to create 80% of your value. I simply want to talk about how to respond to questions.

So let’s get right to it!

During an interview, your responses will fall into one of three categories.

Your ability to classify your response into one of these three categories and then give a specific example is the #1 thing that will help you create

the most value for yourself.

Category #1 This is the bulls-eye.

If you’re asked whether or not you have experience in a specific area, and you do, simply give a specific example of exactly when/where

you have done this type of work.

Category #2 Why it’s ridiculous to say NO.

If you’re asked whether or not you have experience in a specific area, and you don’t, first acknowledge that you have not had the specific experience.

It’s important to let the interviewer know you heard them properly.

Then give the specific example of what you’ve done that’s similar.

The key here is to be absolutely sure that the interviewer will truly see your example as something similar. If they don’t, you’re going to lose credibility.

Category #3 When you don’t have experience.

This can be an area in which you can create a lot of value for yourself compared to your competition.

In this situation, acknowledge that you don’t have experience.

Instead of having it end there, transition into giving an example of a time

when you were faced with an issue where you had no prior experience. Specifically describe your methodology for solving problems

when you don’t have prior experience.

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