I suck at job interviews

[alarimer]

I have been interviewed 4 times in the last month, for four different jobs, so clearly my skills (on paper) are not the issue. I just can't seem to cross the finish line.

This one today was just horrible. It didn't help that the questions were overly vague. Right now I just feel kind of discouraged.

The thing is I do practice. I have come up with good answers to questions that interviewers typically ask. I just have not figured out how to answer question that appear to ask for skills I do not really have. Usually, in that case, the advice is to talk about skills you have or things you have done, that are comparable, even if it isn't exactly the same.

One question was on supervision, and I actually think I handled that one okay. I have not supervised other fulltime employees but I do supervise interns. We usually have one or two every summer. What I failed to do on this question was to come up with some concrete examples of problems solved, etc.

I try to prepare for interviews but I often anticipate the wrong questions.

[GreenPartyVoter]

1. I am so sorry *hugs* At least you have the nerve to get out there and try. I just

stay home and hide from the whole prospect of interviews and working. I just can't handle it. I just get all freaked out and eventually get sick and fired.

So I am really proud of you for trying!

[alarimer]

5. Thanks. I think this one was just bad for some reason.

Weird because I felt confident last night. That was before I heard the questions.

I wonder sometimes if I am reaching too high in my job search. My current job does not give me experience in certain areas and this particular interview seemed to be focused on those areas I lack. Or maybe the first question just threw me and it threw everything else off.

And of course I thought of better answers (or more complete ones) NOW long after it is over with. LOL

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

2. Write STAR stories

STAR - Situation, Task, Action, Result. "Result" answers the question "so what?". And when you answer that, ask again "so what?".

The more the better.

Then read them. Out loud. To the cat. To the garden gnome. To the wait staff at Olive Garden. Until they seem, well, normal.

4 interviews is a good start. Keep it up!

And look for job search support groups in your area. Some churches have them, and some synagogues. Generally speaking, you will not have to convert or get circumcised or anything like that.

Good luck.

:hi:

[alarimer]

6. Good idea.

Thanks

[NewJeffCT]

3. The problem is, a good answer

on supervisory skills for one person might not be good for another.

Try taking any situation where you helped an intern, or had an issue with an intern, and think of ways you encouraged the good work or discouraged the bad. Sometimes, what you think of as "matter of fact" can be kind of important in those situations.

And, I used to really suck at interviews and the way to get better is to just keep doing them. Maybe have a friend or two give you practice questions.

[Book Lover]

4. One thing that (I think) worked for me was reading books aimed at

people who were conducting the interviews - how to conduct an effective interview, what to look for in a good candidate, etc. Couldn't hurt to know what the person interviewing you has been taught to look for. Very best of luck!

[alarimer]

7. That is also a good idea.

Sometimes I can't really tell but this time the questions seemed to emphasize my weaknesses.

[astral]

8. They do like to ask surprise questions.

I just try to make sure I arrive all rested, relaxed and ready to go for the interview. Know what I can about the company, make sure I'd had breakfast and won't have to use the restroom too soon (!) and remember 2 things:
1. I am interviewing them to see if I want that position.
2. I can only tell them about what I know; I don't try to make up $hi+, so--

When they ask a question, take a breath and pause and let your mind remind you of what the question makes you think of. If you haven't got the exact experience the question asks for, being honest and able to articulate what you **do** know will carry you far.

If you don't have what they want you won't get the job, but you don't have to future trip about that during the interview.

Anyways, practicing interviewing does make it get easier!

[Old Troop]

9. I'm sorry too

But showing up at the interview in a jockstrap and a light coat of olive oil makes the tight assed suits nervous.

[alarimer]

12. Darn it! I knew I did something wrong.

Actually it was a phone interview, which is worse in some respects but better because I could wear what I want and no one would know.

[KG]

10. don't blame yourself. most interviewers haven't a clue.

[Liberal_in_LA]

11. Most people feel crappy after an interview. Keep trying.