I know this might seem too simple, but the Three-Step Process is easy to remember and allows you to evaluate a question and devise a good answer. The technique is based on sound principles and has worked for thousands of people, so consider trying it.

The three steps are

Step 1. Understand what is really being asked. Most questions are designed to find out about your self-management skills and personality. While they are rarely this blunt, the employer's real question is often:

	Can I depend on you?
	Are you easy to get along with?
	Are you a good worker?
	Do you have the experience and training to do the job?
	Are you likely to stay on the job for a reasonable period of time and be productive?

Ultimately, if the employer is not convinced you will stay and be a good worker, it won't matter if you have the credentials—he or she won't hire you.

Step 2. Answer the question briefly. Acknowledge the facts, but present them as an advantage, not a disadvantage. There are many interview questions that encourage you to provide negative information. The classic is, "What are your major weaknesses?" Obviously, this is a trick question, and many people are just not prepared for it. A good response is to mention something that is not very damaging, such as "I've been told I am a perfectionist, sometimes not delegating as effectively as I might." But your answer is not complete until you continue with Step 3.

	Step 3. Answer the real concern. Base your answer on the key skills you have. Give examples to support your skills statement. For example, an employer might say to a recent graduate, "We were looking for someone with more experience in this field. Why should we consider you?" Here is one possible answer:
	"I'm sure there are people who have more experience, but I do have more than six years of work experience, including three years of advanced training and hands-on experience using the latest methods and techniques. And because my training is recent, I am open to new ideas and am used to working hard and learning quickly."
	In the example from Step 2 (about your need to delegate), a good skills statement might be, "I have been working on this problem and have learned to allow my staff to do things, making sure they have good training and supervision. I've found that their performance improves, and it frees me up to do other things." Whatever your situation, learn to use it to your advantage. It's essential to communicate your skills during an interview, and the Three-Step Process lets you answer problem questions while showcasing those skills. It works!

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