Hypothetical Interviews
Employers will sometimes “put” you in a work situation to test your problem solving skills. You must be able to think on your feet and analyze the situation while keeping in mind the company's culture and values.
Don’t concentrate so much on what your final answer is but that you show a logical thought process in developing your answer. There is sometimes no “one” right answer but there are definitely wrong ones.
Steps to problem solving:
1. Gather relative information
2. Evaluate your information
3. Prioritize the information
4. Propose and weigh possible solutions
5. Choose and propose your solution
6. Discuss how you would evaluate the effectiveness of your solution
Examples:
How would you handle it if a co-worker confided in you that they have seen another employee stealing from the company?
What would you do if 2 out of 3 people did not show up for their shift?
What would you do if your supervisor asked you to do something that you felt was unethical? Do you feel it is unethical to charge two different prices for the same service?
Stress Interviews
If you feel that you are being interrogated rather than interviewed you might be in a “stress or direct interview.” The employer may be interested to see how you handle pressure. They will ask direct questions that will put you on the spot. The trick is to stay calm and composed while addressing their concern or answering the question.
Examples:
The recruiter makes you wait 10 minutes.
Why is your GPA not higher?
I don’t know if you have what it takes for this position. (Then silence)
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