Let's talk about messing up. We're all human—at least most of us are 👽. It's natural to make mistakes. And I have a secret about the infamous interview question, "Tell me about a time when you made a mistake." As a hiring manager, I ask this question in 100% of my interviews. And guess what? I don't actually care about the mistake itself. Unless you pulled a Milton from Office Space🔥. I want to know if: 1. You own your mistakes. Did you take accountability and ownership of your mistake, working quickly to fix it? Or did you pass the blame to someone else while rushing to complete it without anyone noticing? 2. You take constructive feedback well. Did you welcome feedback, admit your mistake, and turn it into a learning moment? Or did you push back, disregard the advice, and defend your actions, regardless of their effectiveness? This question isn't really about the mistake. It's about taking accountability, owning your mistakes, and being receptive to constructive feedback. Remember, we can't learn if we don't mess up. It's all part of the process. What interview questions do you struggle with? Drop a comment below, and meet me here next Friday for the second edition of Insider Interview Tips. Stay curious, my friends! For solid interview training, check out my website and schedule some time to chat: www.eacuriouscoaching.com #interviewtips #interviewprep #careercoach #accountability #ownership #hiringmanagers
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You can only learn from your mistakes.. A few years ago, I walked into an interview feeling as prepared as I could be. I had rehearsed my answers, researched the company, and even practiced my handshake (yes, really!). But what happened during that interview taught me something far more valuable than I ever expected. As I sat across from the hiring manager, she asked me the usual questions, but then she threw me a curveball: "Tell me about a time you failed, and what you learned from it." I panicked. Failure isn’t exactly a topic most of us are eager to discuss, especially when we’re trying to present our best selves. But something in me decided to be honest. I told her about a time in a previous role where I had missed my targets, I shared how I initially came up with excuses, but eventually realized that there was no one or nothing to blame but myself and that I didn't set realistic expectations. It was a hard lesson, but one that made me better off in the long run. To my surprise, the hiring manager smiled. She said, “It’s refreshing to hear someone talk about failure with such self-awareness. That’s the kind of mindset we’re looking for here.” I walked out of that interview with a new understanding: Success in an interview isn’t about perfection. It’s about authenticity. It’s about showing that you can learn, grow, and adapt. So the next time you’re preparing for an interview, remember this: Don’t just focus on your successes. Embrace your failures, too—they might just be what set you apart. What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned in an interview? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments! #InterviewTips #CareerGrowth #Recruitment #Mindset PS. Don't mind the mess, was a bit of a hectic morning!
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Ever walked into an interview thinking you’ve got it all figured out, only to have your brain freeze the moment they ask the first question? Yeah… me too. Here’s what happened next—and why it changed everything." Let me tell you a quick story about Osama. A few years back, he walked into a big interview—nervous, but prepared. Research? Done. Answers? Practiced. Confidence? Well… it was there until the first question hit. Suddenly, it was like a fog rolled in. Every well-rehearsed answer felt like it disappeared into thin air. By the time they walked out, it was clear: the job wasn’t happening. But instead of sulking, that moment sparked something bigger. He dove deep into understanding what separates the people who succeed from those who just try. And here’s the truth—they cracked the code.Now, the same Osama helps professionals who’ve been in that same spot. Whether it’s learning how to speak with confidence, lead like a pro, or simply survive those high-pressure moments, they’ve got you covered. I’ve been through it, learned the hard lessons, and are ready to share what actually works. And if you don’t want to miss out on those insights (trust me, you don’t), follow along— Mastering Professional Communication: Learn how to speak so people actually listen. Leadership Skills: Lead your team with confidence, even if you’re still figuring it out yourself. Interview Strategies: Stop overthinking it and start owning it. I’ll show you how. Presentation Skills: Whether it’s a meeting or a big event, I’ll help you keep your audience engaged (and awake). Interpersonal Skills: Building better relationships at work isn’t magic; it’s a skill, and you can learn it. I’m not here to give you generic advice. Everything I share is based on real-world experience—things I’ve tried, tested, and know actually work. Whether you’re looking to move up in your current role or transition into something new, these are the skills that will set you apart. . . #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipSkills #CommunicationTips #PersonalBranding #SuccessMindset
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Answering” What’s your Weakness” Question in an Interview? The more you know yourself, the more you become comfortable with any questions. Being authentic and using your values, skills and knowledge and converting this into a more positive- reframed response. Your weakness is not necessarily the bad vices but the strength which you are not allowing to play in a beneficial way with others. Your weakness is your over-used strength. Example 1 I sometimes find it difficult to delegate responsibility when I feel I can finish the task well myself. However, when I became manager in my last role, it became critical I learn how to delegate tasks. To maintain this sense of control when delegating tasks, I implemented a project management system to oversee the progress of our projects. This system enabled me to improve my ability to delegate. Example 2: I can be timid when providing constructive feedback to colleagues or managers, out of fear of hurting their feelings. However, in my last role, one of my colleagues asked me to assist with reviewing his work and provide feedback for areas of improvement. Through my experience with him, I realized feedback can be both helpful and kind when delivered the right way. Since then, I have become better at offering feedback and I’ve realized that I can use empathy to provide thoughtful, productive feedback. Credit: Annapapalia@IG #interviewskills #careercoaching
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𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐦𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐲 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐡 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐢 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫! I was truly overwhelmed by the incredible response to my Ganesh Chaturthi offer where I helped two individuals with 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.(first come first serve basis) Both clients were well-qualified, but their confidence was shaken by the usual struggles—𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐬, 𝐭𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲’𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧. Here’s how we worked together to turn things around: 𝟏. 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 One of the biggest mistakes I see is trying to memorize answers. Instead, I taught them to turn their experiences into engaging stories that showcase their value. Tip: Think of a challenge you overcame in your job. How did you solve it? What did you learn? 𝟐. 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 In today’s job market, it’s not just about your skills—it’s about how well you fit the company’s culture. We focused on how to communicate their personal values and how they align with the company's mission. Tip: Research the company beforehand, understand their values, and weave them into your responses naturally. 𝟑. 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 Imposter syndrome can be crippling, but I gave them strategies to shift their mindset from “I hope they like me” to “I bring value and belong here.” Tip: Practice positive self-talk before the interview. Remind yourself of your achievements and that you're qualified to be there. Confidence is contagious! 𝟒. 𝐔𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐝 Instead of rambling, I taught them to structure their answers using STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This made their responses clear and impactful, showing not just what they did, but how they made a difference. Tip: When asked about challenges, break it down—what was the situation, what did you do, and what was the outcome? Need help preparing for your next interview? Let’s chat! #InterviewSuccess #ConfidenceBoost #Storytelling #PersonalBranding #CareerGrowth
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Last week, we highlighted how vital EQ is in leadership. But how do you show EQ in an interview? Let’s get into practical moves you can use right there in the room to make your EQ shine. 1. Listening Without Interrupting (and How to Do It) 🎧 What to Do: Practice active listening by staying quiet, even if you’re eager to answer. How to Use It: During the interview, let the interviewer fully finish their question. Then, pause for a beat before you start your answer. This not only shows respect but also gives you a moment to collect your thoughts and respond more meaningfully. 2. Handling Surprising Questions Calmly 🧘♀️ What to Do: Pause for two seconds, take a breath, and consider the question instead of jumping right in. How to Use It: If you get a curveball, don’t worry about having a perfect answer. Say, “That’s a great question; let me think about it for a moment.” It shows composure and lets the interviewer see you’re steady under pressure. 3. Self-Awareness Through Authentic Examples 💡 What to Do: Prepare one or two honest examples of challenges you’ve overcome or mistakes you’ve learned from. How to Use It: When asked about a time you handled a challenge or failed, share the lesson learned, not just the story. For example, “In that situation, I learned the importance of …,” which shows reflection and growth. 4. Asking Real Questions about Company Culture 🤝 What to Do: Prepare two questions that reveal interest in team dynamics, values, or the company's mission. How to Use It: Instead of generic questions like “What’s the team like?” ask, “How does the team handle conflicts or feedback? I’m interested in understanding how I can best fit in and support team goals.” This shows you’re thinking about integration and success for everyone. 5. Closing the Interview with Sincere Thanks 🙏 What to Do: Give a specific reason why you’re grateful for the interview. How to Use It: Instead of just saying, “Thank you for your time,” add something meaningful like, “I really appreciated learning about [specific point discussed], and I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to [something the company values].”
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People. 𝗪𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗣. I had a friend some time back who spent HOURS and HOURS preparing for the first hiring manager interview for a role. She did allll the things... ▶️Researched the company and industry on LinkedIn and in the press. ▶️Researched the person she was interviewing with. ▶️Learned inside info about the company's hiring process. All good things, right? I'd say so, except for one thing. 😩She spent so much time RESEARCHING that she forgot to be sure she could tell her own stories! ❌She couldn't explain how her past experience applied to the new role. ❌She couldn't show how she could solve the team's problems ❌She couldn't answer "Tell me about yourself" concisely! No surprise, she didn't get the next interview. Next time you're interviewing - don't make this mistake. 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗘. An hour or two with a good interview coach can make a huge difference. If that's not your cup of tea, practicing with an experienced interviewer who will give you HONEST feedback is the next best thing. And whatever you do - record it. 📽️ (The recording will be life-changing.) ❓❓❓𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬? ❓❓𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣? ------ Repost ♻️ if you found this helpful All my posts on one page at #workshouldfeelgood Click my name, follow me, and ring my 🔔 to get notified when I post. #careergrowth #jobsearch #careercoaching #leadership
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Ever worked with a colleague and thought, 'Did this person never emotionally graduate high school?' Yikes! This week, I’m sharing my favorite interview questions to ensure you’re surrounded by high EQ peers when you have the hiring power! Which question resonates with you the most? ❓ Tell me about a time when you received constructive criticism. How did you react, and what did you do with the feedback? ❓ Can you give an example of a time when you had to adapt your communication style to work effectively with someone different from you? ❓ How do you handle and recover from a professional setback or failure? ❓ Can you tell me about a time when you had to manage your own stress while leading a team through a challenging project? ❓ Describe a time when you had to advocate for a team member’s well-being or needs. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with these questions! #emotionalintelligence #EQ #hiringtips #interviewquestions #learninganddevelopment
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Day 5: Lately Finding Peace in Rejection 😌 In the professional journey, rejections can be tough to navigate. Remember, your value remains intact regardless of external feedback. It's crucial to view rejection as a stepping stone rather than a reflection of your capabilities. Interviews are a two-way street; you are also evaluating if the company aligns with your values. If a company fails to respect your time or provide constructive feedback, it may not be the right match for you. Silence post-rejection can be harder than rejection itself. However, it's essential to recognize that your worth isn't defined by missed opportunities. Patience is vital, but compromising your peace for a toxic workplace isn't worth the sacrifice. #contentwriting #hiringdilemma #postinterview #interviewprocess
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Interviewers rarely ask what they truly want to know. Here’s what they’re REALLY asking — and how to respond: ❓ They ask: "Why do you want to work here?" 👉 They really want to know: Do you understand the company’s mission and values and align with them? ❓ They ask: "How do you work with [a specific team]?" (e.g. engineering) 👉 They really want to know: Can you collaborate with specialized teammates, guide them toward shared goals, and treat their expertise with respect? ❓ They ask: "Tell me about a time you had a disagreement or challenging interaction at work." 👉 They really want to know: Can you handle conflict constructively and turn it into a win for the team? ❓ They ask: "Tell me about a time you had a setback or failure." 👉 They really want to know: How did you recover, learn, and apply those lessons moving forward? ❓ They ask: "What are your weaknesses?" 👉 They really want to know: Are you self-aware, and how do you work around traits that might hold you back? ❓ They ask: "Tell me about a time you had to deal with an underperforming teammate." 👉 They really want to know: Can you approach the situation with understanding and help them get back on track? ❓ They ask: "Tell me about a time you got critical feedback from your manager." 👉 They really want to know: Can you use constructive criticism to grow without becoming defensive? The key is to listen between the lines and answer the real question behind their words. Which of these questions has caught you off guard before? Let’s compare notes in the comments! ------------------------------- Repost ♻️ to share with others. And follow Josh Bob for more.
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Ever been to an interview and left with just one thought? (What did I do wrong?) You prepared well. Answered every question. Then… silence. No feedback. Just a polite rejection. But here’s the truth: Without feedback: → How do you grow? → How do you improve? Now, imagine this: You attend an interview, and instead of silence, you receive detailed feedback. They tell you what you did well. Maybe you nailed problem-solving or communication. But they also point out areas for improvement. You apply those insights, refine your skills, and next time—you land the job. For companies, it’s not just about rejecting candidates. Feedback leaves a positive impression and builds your employer's brand. For candidates: → It’s your roadmap to success. → Every “no” becomes an opportunity to grow. So, next time, don’t just walk away—ask for feedback. After all, rejection without direction doesn’t lead to progress. Repost ♻️ if you believe feedback is key to progress. P.S. Have you ever received interview feedback that changed the game for you? #interviewfeedback
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