First interview in 8 years

[DaveMyHat]

Hi, as you may have guessed from the title I am going to have my first interview in 8 years. It's on Monday. I'm trying to prepare myself a bit having been out of things for so long. I didn't expect to get any interviews so I'm quite excited.

I've been reading interview tips online and common interview questions. One potential question I am stuck on is "what is your greatest achievement/accomplishment?"

My honest answer I think would be when I dropped out of my MA and came home to look after my family. My mum was very sick, I had a school age sister and one brother who'd just finished school. I looked after the house and the three of them as best as I could and I got a job and spent my time running back and forth between the two. It was a very stressful time and I think I made the right decision to drop of my course. It wasn't an easy decision to make. But it's not professional and it sounds bad that I dropped out so I don't think it's an answer I can use. I really can't think of any work-related achievements. What do I do, make something up? Any ideas?

This question may not be asked but from what I've seen online it's quite a common one.

I think I have an answer to the opposite question, "what's your biggest weakness?". I'm terrible at public speaking and I am not great at delegating/take on too much.

[Isleepinahedgefund]

Before I launch into the feedback, good luck for the interview!

I'd advise you watch some prep videos on youtube, there are lots that will help you with how to answer common interview questions. You will do better if you are well prepared.

Regarding your greatest achievement, you're right that doesn't sound like much of an achievement. Did you pick up your MA later on? It has to end on a positive - I'm being brutally honest here, but it sounds like a bit of a sob story.

Re your weakness - choose something you have overcome - describe the weakness briefly and then describe in detail what you did to overcome it. Do not just say that you are bad at something, and also don't say that your weakness is being a perfectionist!

[Isleepinahedgefund]

Oh and don't make anything up. Lies fall apart very quickly and obviously when under pressure in an interview.

[username578999]

No don't make anything up but you sell yourself .
So if they ask you about work achievements say for example if you organised the filing you say you introduced a more efficient system for the department.
In my experience a question that is always asked is give examples of your strengths and weaknesses.
Remember sell yourself but do not say you have no weaknesses. If your not a expert at certain things related to the job say that but you are a fast learner .
Really good luck you can do this .