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The interview part of an application process is potentially the most important aspect of whether you will get the job or won’t. This said, there are a number of areas where applicants mess up and find themselves passed over for the position. While there are hundreds of tips that an applicant should heed when interviewing for a position they want to get; one of the most important-and perhaps, less known-is that of answering with more than just a no or a yes or a one-word answer. We tell you why this is ineffective in getting the job you want, and how you should approach any questions that might be answered in one word-to get the job.
Though the question asked may only seem to require a yes or no; your interviewer is looking for more when they ask you the question. They are giving you interview questions to get a comprehensive idea of your personality, skills, and experience; and use each question as a lead off for beginning a discussion towards these ends. This said, never answer in a one word answer. Instead, you need to be able to do the following with your answer:
1. Quantify: No matter what question the interviewer asks you, they want to know about results. So, if they asked have you ever come across a personnel issue in which you have to fire someone; do not just say yes or no. Instead, tell them what the situation was and how you brought about positive results.
2. Money: Though you may not think every question that is addressed to you in an interview is about money-employers have a one track mind, they have to. This said, if it applies-and most all does-add in the fact that by your positive actions, you saved the company or entity a certain amount of money, or that you helped them achieve profits of a certain percentage.
3. Analyze: One of the most valuable things that an interviewer looks for in your answers to their questions is that you are able to listen to their question and be able to analyze it to get them exactly the answer they are looking for. Do not disappoint them. This makes them look at you as a potential employee who can take direction, analyze it for optimum efficiency, and offer the finished product to them.
4. Ask Questions to Clarify: Make sure that if you do not understand the question or need clarification, that you ask questions regarding their questions. The first aspect to this is adequately and actively listening to your employer throughout the entire interview, but once you have made sure to do this-and there is still confusion, ask questions. This makes you look like you take initiative and are committed to finding the best solution to a problem or a task; and not just assuming you understand or know what you are doing.
5. Listen: Lastly, and this is closely tied to every other aspect of this discussion; but you must actively listen in an interview to make sure that your answers are as optimized as possible for winning an interview. Otherwise, you fall victim to asking something that has already been explained or just not comprehending their questions or company values.
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