When I spoke at the CFA Career Day this month, the participants asked many tough questions. One was how to answer the interview question
Tell me about a time when you failed.
No one likes to talk about failures. To admit failure is to be weak, right?
Nope. This question is a great opportunity for you to toot your horn.
First, choose a mistake you have made in your past. Preferably not an enormous mistake and preferably one in your more distant past.
Second, describe your mistake and what you learned from it.
Third, give an example of how more recently, you handled a similar situation differently and share the results.
The point of this question is to determine the candidates ability to learn and grow professionally. Show that you’ve learned and developed during your 5, 10, 20+ years of experience. Be prepared for this question and you will have an edge on your competition.
The Hiring Room 