How to Answer Interview Questions: 101 Tough Interview Questions by Peggy McKee Link to heading

Summary Link to heading

“How to Answer Interview Questions: 101 Tough Interview Questions” by Peggy McKee is a practical guide aimed at helping job seekers navigate the challenging process of answering interview questions effectively. The book is structured as a comprehensive list of common and difficult interview questions, along with detailed suggestions on how to craft successful responses. The main themes include preparation, presentation, and the importance of understanding the intent behind each question. McKee emphasizes the need for thorough preparation and provides strategic advice to help candidates reflect their skills, experience, and fit for the job.

Review Link to heading

Peggy McKee’s book is well-regarded for its straightforward and insightful approach to a critical aspect of job searching. Its strength lies in the clarity of the guidance provided, making it accessible to readers of all experience levels. Each question is paired with tailored advice that demystifies the intentions of interviewers, which can prove invaluable in high-pressure scenarios. However, some may feel that the book is heavily geared towards traditional corporate roles, and nuanced advice for creative or technical positions might be less comprehensive.

Key Takeaways Link to heading

  1. Preparation is Key: Understand the company and role you are applying for, and tailor your responses accordingly.
  2. Understand the Question’s Intent: Learn why interviewers ask certain questions to answer more effectively.
  3. Personal Branding: Use interviews as an opportunity to reinforce your personal brand and showcase your unique strengths.
  4. STAR Technique: Utilize the Situation, Task, Action, and Result technique to formulate clear and impactful responses.
  5. Adaptability: Be ready to address unexpected questions by practicing diverse scenarios.

Recommendation Link to heading

This book is highly recommended for job seekers who are preparing for interviews across various industries, especially those entering or transitioning in their careers. It is particularly valuable for individuals who need help in handling nerve-wracking interview situations or those who wish to improve their communication of their qualifications and experiences effectively. The practical advice McKee provides can help build confidence and competence in interview settings.