You are feeling so confident walking into your interview.  You have a killer resume, done your research, dressed the part, even done a mock interview with a friend.  After the formalities the interview begins.  You breeze through the first few questions; you have prepared for this!  The questions are getting more specific and you are having to think on your feet.  Then the hiring manager throws a curveball at you.  “Tell me about a time when . . .”.  What situation do you bring up?  How do you answer the question so that you are presented in the best way possible?  Does your situation even go with the question?  Your head is spinning with ideas, but can’t seem to narrow your focus.

Don’t get caught in a mental frenzy during your next interview.  Take a moment to read through and think through answers to these 10 common “Tell me” interview questions.  Though the question might not be worded exactly the same, the situation theme will be the same.  Remember not to sell yourself short.  Admit to your shortcomings, but celebrate your successes.

1. Tell me about a typical day in your current job/situation.

2. Tell me about a responsibility you have enjoyed/a project that got you excited.

3. Tell me about the last time you disagreed with someone in a group project. What was the situation? How did you handle it?

4. Tell me about a time when you were able to overcome an obstacle or alter unfavorable circumstances. What was your specific role in attaining the outcome?

5. Tell me about a time when your performance didn’t live up to your expectations.

6. Tell me about something you did to improve operations at your last/current company.

7. Tell me about the most challenging “sale” you’ve made? (does not have to be a literal sale, can be a situation of persuasion or convincing to an alternate point of view).

8. Tell me about the three most important people in your work experiences who influenced you most.

9. Tell me about a time when circumstances for a project changed at the last minute and you were asked to work outside of normal hours. How did you feel about that?

10. Tell me about a time when you arrived for an appointment and the prospect was not able to meet with you. What did you do about it?