The Top Five Questions We Hate to Answer

You've spent hours proofreading your resume, agonizing over which blazer to wear to your interview and preparing yourself for any question that might be thrown at you. Things are sailing smoothly when the hiring manager throws a curve ball and asks a tough interview question that leaves you looking like a deer caught in the headlights. Learn five of the most hated interview questions, and find out how to answer them.

1. "Can You Tell Us About Yourself?"

In social situations, answering this question is easy, and your response could include many topics. In a professional environment, this is a tricky interview question that should be handled with care. Don't tell the interviewer about your significant other, children, pets, hobbies or vacation plans. Keep your answer to this question strictly professional by focusing on the work experience, educational background and job skills you possess that relate to the position. Keep your answer brief; about one minute in length is sufficient.

2. "What Is Your Biggest Weakness?"

This interview question is commonly asked, and your response to it is critical. Telling the interviewer that you don't know what your weaknesses are shows that you are not self-critical, and saying that you have none may make you seem arrogant. Interviewers want to know that you are self-aware and willing to work on your flaws. Mention a weakness that does not relate too directly to the position, and give examples of how you're working to improve it.

3. "What Do You Know About Our Company?"

Employers want to know if you made an effort to learn about their organization, so research each company before heading to an interview so you'll be prepared to answer this interview question. Interviewers may ask you what you know about the organization's background or plans for the future. According to Glassdoor, one of the 50 most common questions asks candidates to name the firm's CEO, a seemingly easy interview question that allows employers to quickly weed out applicants who can't provide basic information about the firm.

4. "Why Are You the Best Candidate for the Job?"

While this explicit interview question is seemingly straightforward, its directness requires you to know the position description well. Explain to the interviewer why he should hire you by listing each requirement on the job description and relating it to your specific job skills, work experience and education. Provide direct examples of your achievements to support your reasons.

5. "Do You Have Any Questions?"

At the end of your interview, expect the hiring manager to turn the tables. Don't say "No" when asked if you have questions. Use this opportunity to learn more about the job duties and the organization. Passing on this question makes you appear uninterested in the job and unprepared for the interview.

Hiring managers often ask difficult interview questions just to see how you react. Companies want to hire employees who are confident, able to handle themselves in stressful situations and capable of thinking quickly. Be prepared for these five questions, and learn how to answer them with ease to prove you are the best candidate for the job.

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