Answering Interview questions

When they ask you for example: "what is going on in the markets? "

Should you provide a very technical answer? showing that you are very prepared but making the risk of bringing the interview to a more difficult level.

Or

You should keep the answer simple? letting them know that maybe you are not that prepared but this would keep the interview simple, avoiding the risk of receiving difficult questions.

2 Comments
 

In my experience, you should always be prepared, especially if it is a question you know you will be asked. Being informed on current events, no matter the situation is very important and shows you have a genuine interest.

Generally, you should only provide a sufficient answer to a question. If you start rambling on about things you have little knowledge about, the interviewer may probe for more, and you will have nothing else to add. Often though, I have had interviewers probe for more information or ask more difficult questions. I would take it as far as I could. When I simply don't know a question, I would say so. The interviewer would then step in and help. I have never had this backfire on me because they do not expect you to know everything (unless it is something very basic).

I think it is better to come of as prepared. Don't try to give a basic answer for the purpose of not getting drilled--that just reflects poorly on you. Do some research and make a genuine effort.

Pro tip: Whenever I miss a question or the interviewer steps in to explain further, I always mention it in the "thank you" email. I say something along the lines "I appreciate you walking me through ABC...I now have a better understanding of so and so." I think it shows that you learned and take initiative to improve. I'm not an interviewer--but I have never got a bad response doing this.

 

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