tough interview questions

How would your friends describe you?

Bite-sized video advice guide with Davina Forbes, Recruiter for PR and Communications Jobs
 
This is a question that can be asked in a number of different ways. “If I asked your boss to describe you, what would he/she say?”, “Tell me 3 words your friends would use to describe you”. This is a great chance to highlight personality traits that will help you excel at the role you're interviewing for.  



Not got time for a video? Check out the main points below...

Highlight your personality
"This question is used to get an idea of your personal qualities and character traits and how they might relate to the job you’re applying for. "

Be honest and think about it
"It’s important not to give a contrived answer like, “They’d say I’m a perfectionist”, but rather identify some of your actual character traits and balance them against the job description.

Here's a good example
So, for a PR communications role, you might say: “They’d describe me as flexible. I think that’s always helped me to deal constructively with criticism of my writing.”

And remember, for any interview…

1. Make sure you do your research beforehand, not only on the company but also your interviewer. Check out their LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook profiles.
2. Try to find out the dress code of the organisation you’re interviewing at, if it’s a creative agency where the staff dress casual you don’t want to turn up suited and booted.
3. Come with your own questions for the interviewer, not only will this impress them and show your interest in the role, but it will also make the decision making process easier for you should you receive an offer.
4. Plan your journey in advance, being late for an interview even by a few minutes is the ultimate sin and could well be a big factor in the decision making process for your prospective employer.