Top 6 Career Change Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
Although every individual takes due time and consideration to select a career path that he or she will enjoy and experience substantial growth in, it so happens at times that the career in question does not meet expectations. Perhaps the pay scale is poor, or you’re just not enjoying the work you do. Other career options might appear more viable, and you might decide to move to one that looks the most interesting. But would you be able to explain all this succinctly and diplomatically to an interviewer when you apply for the new job? To ensure that you’re equipped to handle such a conversation, here are the top six career change interview questions you may be asked.
Why should we hire you?
Keep in mind that you might have considerable work experience, but that is in your field. For the interviewer, you are a fresher. In other words, it is a risky gambit for the company to take, as your competence with the job in question is unknown. So, bring to light whatever experience that is relevant to the job in question.
What is your understanding of this job description?
For this, you will need to study and gather information on the company, as well as have complete knowledge of the role you’re applying for. If there is a detail you don’t know or understand fully, do express that you’re keen to learn.
Why did you pick this career?
This is a tricky question, since simply expressing your excitement and love for the new career option will not be enough. Bring up some of your previously acquired skills that are relevant to this job, and use them as an illustration explaining why you chose this career path.
Why are you wishing to go for a change in career?
This is a question asked to determine whether you know for sure what you’re looking for in your new career. Even if you lost interest in your previous job or the pay was just not good, do not say so. Say instead that you felt you had reached a saturation point of sorts in your chosen career, and now wish to employ the skills you gained to this new job.
What is the guarantee that this job is not just experimental for you?
A candidate, who seems flighty and temperamental when choosing career options, is not an investment a company will consider making. As an aspirant, profess your enthusiasm and passion for the new job, and explain how it would be a perfect fit for you, to convince the interviewer that you are here to stay.
What are the skills that make you suitable for this job?
By asking this, the interviewer is gauging the amount of training and assistance you will require if they hire you. While answering the question, make sure you put forth a fair amount of knowledge and qualifications you possess, as well as any courses you may have taken that are relevant.
While these are the main questions you need to prepare yourself for, always remember to exude confidence and self-assurance so that the interviewer knows you’re sure of your decision to change careers. Good luck!
Summary
Once you can convince the interviewer regarding your decision in a career change interview, half of the game is won. Preparing for questions regarding the reason for the career change, relevant skills suited to the new job, your comprehension of the new job profile, among st others, will indeed help you shine through!
Reshali Balasubramaniam
Head of HR, HR Counselor and adviser at https://jobpal.lk and EFutureTech Systems. Submit your resume online and be contacted by prospective employers.