You're sitting in a job interview, nerves on edge, trying to impress the interviewer with your skills and expertise. Suddenly, a question catches you off guard, and you find yourself scrambling for the perfect response. We've all been there! We asked you to showcase your moments of brilliance and celebrate the power of a clever response – and would now like to thank everyone who entered the contest.
During the past month, we’ve been intrigued by your honesty and many tips – and now it’s time to announce our winner!!!
Congratulations to @KunalBansal
We were all very impressed with your insights!!
Winning Entry: Be Authentic, Comfortable and Interview the Interviewer 🧑🏻💻
In my last interviews, which consisted of mainly three rounds - Technical, Managerial, and HR - I experienced a moment that truly showcased the power of a clever response.
After successfully demonstrating my technical competence in the 1st round, I moved on to the managerial interview with the practice lead.
The discussion was focused on my understanding of business processes, technical expertise, and experience with previous organizations to which I answered authentically and confidently with some cross-questions, establishing my credibility and expertise.
I never hesitated to use the whiteboard to explain my understanding of any topic. (off-course taking permission to use it and wiping board at the end)
As the 45 mins interview drew close, the practice lead asked the classic question: Do you have any questions for me? (This moment can significantly impact the interview outcome, and I seized the opportunity to make a lasting impression.)
I asked some smart questions about the overall practice strength, org-structure, project pipeline, team dynamics, and my potential role and responsibilities.
By visualising myself in the position already and expressing genuine curiosity, I showed my sincere interest in the organisation, intending to understand how the team is structured, the types of projects handled, and how well I would fit into the team.
I also asked if I needed to prepare for any specific skills before joining.
Lastly, I asked him about his overall professional journey, fostering a positive and engaging conversation and we closed the interview on a very positive note followed by an offer.
Bottom line: If we can genuinely interview the interviewer, it showcases intent, confidence, knowledge, and authenticity which leaves a strong impression and reinforces genuine interest in joining the team and org.
Feel free to add comments share your views or any suggestions.
Thank you.
By @KunalBansal (SAP Champion and CX Architect)
Let me also highlight two other entries that received many kudos by community members.
2nd Place Entry: Turning Stress into Success!!
Few questions during the interviews looks so simply but it’s really difficult to answer sometimes. One of such question I faced during an interview is,
What is your greatest strength?
At my last job, we had a major project deadline approaching, and the team was feeling the pressure. Sensing the tension, I jokingly suggested we should start a 'Survivor: Office Edition' to see who could last the longest without coffee. Everyone laughed, and it broke the ice. It inspired me a bit and I organized a spontaneous 'innovation hour' where we brainstormed creative solutions. One idea was so good it saved us hours of work. So, my greatest strength I should say turning stress into success with a bit of humour and some unconventional thinking.
By @bhavinvyas
3rd Place Entry: My Most Clever Response in a Job Interview
Many moons ago, one of my managers gave me this great piece of advice. He told me at any job interview, when they ask you at the end of the interview, "do you have any final questions" you ask this:
Is there anything about me or my background that wouldn't make me a good fit for this job?
After asking that, I have always received a job offer except one time. It's a great question, and I hope you use it successfully like I did.
By @TammyPowlas
As the winner, @KunalBansal will receive an SAP merchandise voucher worth 40 euros!
A big shout out to all the great entries! All contest participants will be given the “Clever Interviewee” badge for your community profile in the coming days.
@KunalBansal @Hemalatha6 @Florian @Sarfaraz_Shaikh @adripb @swapson @sneha_nayak
@bhavinvyas @TammyPowlas @NRamya @MichaelZalewski @Dharini_1912
Congrats once again to @KunalBansal
SAP Community Team
Keen to take part in the next contest? Stay tuned to our Coffee Corner!
