A lot of people know how to write a resume and talk their way into an interview. But when they get into the make or break dialogue, they stumble upon tough questions. Below, Grunty offers some advice on approaching the tough questions that interviewers like to throw at job applicants :

• Why did you leave your last job?
  Real answer : It sucked.
  Your answer : I felt my talents and abilities were underutilized.

• What are your biggest weaknesses?
  Real answer : I can't concentrate for more than five minutes, hate all forms of authority and tend to fall asleep at my desk.
  Your answer : I'm a workaholic. I just don't know when to put down my work.

• You don't seem to hold on to a job long. Why should we think you'll stay here any longer than you've stayed elsewhere?
  Real answer : My employers have always had a hang-up about keeping only competent employees.
  Your answer : I'm at a point in my career where I am tired of moving around. I really want to feel part of a team, a long-term enterprise, where I can make a contribution.

• How do you handle change?
  Real answer : I deal with it everyday, unless I'm out of clean underwear.
  Your answer : I think everyone knows that today the only constant is change. I thrive on it.

• Are you a risk taker?
  Real Answer : I have unprotected sex with strangers.
  Your answer : I think it's important to take risks, but don't think you should be reckless. I like to take calculated risks.

• How do you get along with others?
  Real answer : Fine, as long as they stay the fuck out of my face.
  Your answer : I think the interpersonal dynamics of the workplace can be among the most satisfying aspects of any job.

• What does the word success mean to you?
  Real answer : It means that I don't have to drag my sorry ass out of bed to kiss yours.
  Your answer : Success, for me, would be knowing I am making a difference working with a team of people to make a more profitable enterprise.

• What does the word failure mean to you?
  Real answer : It means I continue to collect unemployment insurance.
  Your answer : Failure? I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean. That word is not in my vocabulary.

• Do you get along with your current boss?
  Real answer : I get along fine, considering what kind of a malicious person he is.
  Your answer : I don't think I'd call him a boss; he's been more of a mentor to me.

• Do you ever get angry with co-workers?
  Real answer : I don't get angry, I get even.
  Your answer : Nothing angers me more than to see a co-worker not pulling his weight, goofing off or stealing. Yes, sometimes I do get angry with co-workers.

• Can I contact your references?
  Real answer : Sure, but they won't know who I am.
  Your answer : Some of them are out of the country right now. Maybe I can arrange to have them contact you.

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