The purpose of a stress interview is to see how you conduct
yourself when faced with pressure and how quickly you can think on
your feet. Questions are often designed to simulate the
stressors that you may face on the job. The interview may be
filled with interruptions, random changes and carefully worded,
sometimes unrelated, questions. Your answers may be
challenged, and you will be required to really prove
yourself. The key is to maintain your composure and
confidence in your abilities and accomplishments. Do not let
your guard down, no matter how casual the interviewer may
become. Use every question or comment, no matter how
unrelated, as a chance to highlight your positive
characteristics.
You don't seem like a very driven person. How are
you going to handle this job?
Don't panic! First, clarify that you are very driven.
Next, provide examples that show just how driven you are!
Remember, stay positive. An interview is not the time to
discuss your failures and difficulties in an effort to be
straightforward and honest. Keep the dialogue on selling your
strengths.
Do you have a problem fetching coffee for the management
team?
Stay calm. An interviewer may be asking this question for
three reasons. One, serving coffee to a high maintenance boss
may be part of your job everyday. Second, the interviewer may
be testing your reaction. Third, the interviewer wants to
know if you are one who will roll up your sleeves and do whatever
it takes to help the firm succeed. Answer now, evaluate
later. Emphasize that you are a team player, flexible and
ready to do what it takes to get the job done. Provide an
example to back this up.
What do you think I should ask you?
Do not allow yourself to become so enthralled with the question
that you fail to listen to what the interviewer is asking of
you. In this case, simply think of some of the interview
questions you reviewed. What does this position and company
desire? If it is an analytically and team-oriented
individual, you may want to suggest a question based on your
teamwork and analytical abilities.