by Bobby Coles

Created on: February 15, 2010   Last Updated: May 02, 2012

Honesty is always the best policy. When answering job interview questions, it is essential that you have forthright integrity and give full disclosure about any questions posed. An interviewer that is asking you a question, bear in mind, may already know the answer (or at least a version of the truth). This is a chance for you to show that you are willing to own up to any mistakes or imperfections. The key is to answer with sincere humility, but to also do so in a positive light rather than a negative one.

The interview process is busily weeding out unqualified or unfit candidates for hire. The person conducting the interviews is usually bored with the same old tired responses to questions, so you should make sure to stand out with your responses. Answering questions with honesty does not have to hurt your chances of getting the job. Many applicants come prepared to answer questions, and more often than not give the same responses as every other applicant.

To fend off this problem, be sure to give honest feedback, and do so in an engaging fashion. The interview process is also filled with many possibilities to win over the interviewer with your non-verbal communication, honesty, and confidence. If you are questioned as to why you are no longer employed with your last company, do not shy away from the question, or place all of the onus on someone else. Instead, own up to any part you may have had in being let go from the company. Tell the interviewer the circumstances (unless they are truly incriminating), and focus on what you learned from your last position, and what positive attributes you can carry forth from that experience.

If you really made some mistakes, it is high time to learn from them. They are only mistakes if we do not actively learn from them. Shift the focus away from the negative aspects of your last job, and steer towards the positive impact that you will have on this new company. The honesty you give will show the interviewer that you are a stand-up person, and that you have nothing to hide. Everybody deserves a clean slate, if they are willing to get their hands dirty and clean it themselves.

Answering job questions honestly will go a longer way than just rehashing the same old song and dance that so many of the other candidates will do. As you begin to answer questions honestly, quickly turn the answer into your own control and sell yourself with all of the other experience and educational background that you possess. Showcase your talents, and clearly state your objectives. Remember to keep honesty at the forefront, because the truth is so much easier to remember.

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