Common Interview Question: "Tell Me About a Time When You Overcame a Challenge"
Among the most common interview questions, employers often ask this one to understand the situations you've faced and how you've overcome or resolved them. This is one of the most complicated questions for most candidates in an interview. Answering it can be difficult, as the interviewer expects you to discuss a problem with the hiring manager and how you resolved it. This is also an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
There are many ways to tackle this challenge, and preparing in advance for the question gives you the confidence to provide better answers. One method is to structure your response around the following points:
- Think of a relevant challenge: It should be professional in nature and not a trivial event.
- Explain how you overcame the challenge: The potential employer wants to know how you approached the challenge, including the actions you took throughout the process. Use specific details to describe what you did to manage the situation.
- Tailor your response to the job requirements: Ensure that your answer aligns with the responsibilities sought by the employer. Take the time to review the job description before the interview.
- Focus on the outcome and the lessons learned: Recruiters are often impressed by candidates who can turn difficulties into opportunities. Reflect on how you made the most of the challenge and what you learned from it.
- Be honest: Never try to describe a situation that doesn't exist. Be honest about your past difficulties and avoid giving the impression that you've had an easy career.
Good luck!
