20 tricky interview questions and how to answer them

Introduction

Tricky questions test your reaction under pressure. Here is how to handle them with confidence.

Questions about yourself

1. "Tell me about yourself"

The trap: Getting lost in personal details.

Strategy: Present > Past > Future (2 minutes max)

Sample answer:
"Currently a project manager at X, I manage teams of 10 people on IT projects. Before that, I developed my technical expertise over 5 years as a developer. I am now looking to move into a more strategic role, which brings me to this position with you."

2. "What is your biggest weakness?"

The trap: Being too honest or giving a disguised strength.

Strategy: Real weakness + corrective actions

Sample answer:
"I tend to be a perfectionist, which sometimes made me miss deadlines. I have learned to prioritize better and accept 'good enough' in order to meet deadlines."

3. "Why should we hire you?"

The trap: Being arrogant or too modest.

Strategy: 3 strengths aligned with the position

Sample answer:
"Three reasons: my 7 years of experience in your sector, my fluency in the three languages you are looking for, and my proven ability to deliver projects on time - 95% of my projects were delivered on schedule."

Questions about experience

4. "Tell me about a professional failure"

The trap: Denying any failure or blaming others.

Strategy: STAR + lessons learned

Sample answer:
"I underestimated the complexity of a system migration, which caused a 3-week delay. I learned a valuable lesson: always build in a safety margin and consult the technical team upfront. Since then, I have not experienced any significant delays."

5. "Why did you leave your last job?"

The trap: Criticizing the former employer.

Strategy: Positive reasons focused on the future

Sample answer:
"I learned a great deal at X, but I reached a plateau in my development. This position offers broader responsibilities that match my ambitions."

Sensitive questions

6. "Where do you see yourself in 5 years?"

The trap: Seeming like you want the recruiter's job.

Sample answer:
"I want to deepen my expertise in this field and eventually take on managerial responsibilities. What matters most to me is to keep learning and contributing meaningfully."

7. "Why is there a gap in your CV?"

Strategy: Honest + positive framing

Sample answer:
"I took a sabbatical year to train in machine learning and travel. I came back with new skills and renewed motivation."

8. "What are your salary expectations?"

Strategy: Range based on market data

Sample answer:
"Based on my research and experience, I am targeting a range between 120,000 and 140,000 CHF. I remain open to discussion depending on the overall package."

9. "Are you willing to work overtime?"

The trap: Saying yes unconditionally or refusing outright.

Sample answer:
"Absolutely, when the project requires it. I have often stayed late to meet important deadlines. That said, I also believe in efficiency and long-term balance."

10. "What do you think of your former manager?"

The trap: Criticizing or being overly complimentary.

Sample answer:
"They were a demanding manager who taught me a lot. We did not always agree, but those discussions helped me grow."

Behavioral questions

11. "How do you handle stress?"

Sample answer:
"I break the problem down into manageable tasks, prioritize, and communicate if I need support. Exercise also helps me maintain a good balance."

12. "Describe a conflict with a colleague"

Strategy: Real conflict + constructive resolution

13. "How do you handle criticism?"

Sample answer:
"I see it as an opportunity for improvement. I ask for concrete examples to fully understand and work on the points raised."

Surprising questions

14. "If you were an animal, which one would you be?"

Strategy: Choose an animal with professional qualities

15. "Sell me this pen"

Strategy: Ask questions about the person's needs, then propose solutions

Conclusion

The key is to prepare concrete examples and remain authentic. Practice makes the difference!