Trap questions sound safe, but can often lead candidates into giving potentially negative info. Below are some common examples of “trap” questions, and how to navigate them 👇
Can you explain a career gap?
Always be honest, but don't dwell on a negative if it’s there. Answer with minimally sufficient info, move on. Avoid diving into work conflicts, bad managers, and anything that paints you as difficult.
Long-term plans at the company?
HM's want to understand how long you'll stay. Instead of saying you want to promote in 2 years, or move to another group once you're in, focus your answer on adding value at a greater and greater scale. Talk about upskilling, adding responsibilities, and making larger company contributions.
What are your weaknesses?
This answer often shows your self-awareness and trustability...so give something real (but chose words carefully). Weakness can be worked on, so make sure to add what you're doing to improve.
Why this company?
This is a motive and general knowledge check. Do research, know the culture, and connect your passion to the corporate mission and/or the job. Highlight why you're motivated to create value.
FYI, these aren’t necessarily questions I use when interviewing, but that doesn’t mean someone else, or some other company, won’t.
Never hurts to have a brief response prepared, and sprinkling a few of these into a mock interview is never a bad idea.
You got this.