How to Answer Job Interview Questions About Mistakes

[Reyed Mia (Apprentice, DIU)]

How to Answer Job Interview Questions About Mistakes

How to Answer Job Interview Questions About Mistakes
The best way to answer this question is to talk about a specific example of a time you made a mistake. Briefly explain what the mistake was. However, it is important to quickly switch over to what you learned, or how you improved, after making that mistake. You might also explain the steps you took to make sure that mistake never happened again.

When talking about what you learned, try to emphasize skills or qualities you gained that are important for the job you're interviewing for. You might also explain that something you struggled with a long time ago has actually now become one of your strengths.

You want your example of a mistake to be honest. However, it's a good idea not to mention a mistake that would be critical for success in the new position. For instance, give an example from your last position that isn't specifically related to the job requirements for the new position.

It's also a good idea to mention something that is relatively minor.

Also avoid mentioning any mistakes that demonstrate a flaw in your character (for example, a time you got in trouble for fighting at work).

Sometimes a good mistake to mention is a team mistake. You do not want to place all the blame on your teammates, but you can say that you collectively made an error.


How to Prepare
You will likely get some sort of interview question about a past mistake or failure, so it is a good idea to go into each interview with an example of a mistake in mind. Before the interview, look over the job listing, and try to think of a mistake you have made in the past that is not too closely related to the requirements of the job.

Be sure to also think carefully about the positive spin you will put on the mistake. What did you learn from your error, and how will it make you an ideal candidate for this position?

Examples of the Best Answers
When I first became an assistant manager of a sales branch, I tried to take on everything myself, from the day-to-day operations of the branch to making all of the big sales calls. I quickly learned that the best managers know how to delegate effectively, so that work is done efficiently. Since then, I have won numerous awards for my management skills, and I believe a lot of this has to do with my ability to delegate effectively.

I am the kind of person who tries to learn and grow from every mistake. Years ago, a team I was working on failed to land a sale, and we were told it had to do in part with our ineffective visuals. Over the next six months, I spent much of my free time learning how to use various software programs to create enticing visual presentations. Since then, I am continuously praised for my visuals in meetings and sales pitches.


One thing I have learned from past mistakes is when to ask for help. I have learned that it is far better to ask for clarification and solve an issue right away, than be unsure. I know that your company emphasizes teamwork and the need to be in constant communication with one another, and I think my ability to ask (and answer) questions of my peers would help me fit in very well with your company culture.


Source: https://goo.gl/t5iSJm