After spending untold amounts of time, money and effort on perfecting a resume, cover letter and application process, in comes the long-awaited call for an interview.

It is tempting to think of this as the job seekers’ final victory; after all, everyone has been saying the goal of a standout resume is getting that interview. However, now comes one of the most intimidating parts: securing the job by acing the interview.

Most interviews contain the predictable questions about job history, professional skills and educational background. But what happens when tougher questions come up?

For instance, what is the proper response when a potential employer says, “Tell me about your weaknesses?” How do you handle explaining what you learned serving snow cones for three years?

These questions sound tricky, but they don’t have to be frightening.

“I think preparation is key,” said Eric Wilson, Elliott School of Communication instructor. “Have a plan, think through some of those difficult things and have an idea of what you want to say.”

Thane Chastain, program manager for the Kansas Leadership Center, said he is a big believer in role-playing before an interview. This can help alleviate some nerves about going into a new place. However, the tough questions are not a trick – they serve a purpose.

“The dreaded questions really become a test of how we respond under pressure,” Chastain said.

He said it is important to avoid placing the potential employers and their company on a pedestal.

“Don’t feel like the place you’re going into is full of perfect people,” he said. “That person interviewing you has triggers, vulnerabilities and weaknesses, as well.”

Answering questions about skills gained from jobs in different fields doesn’t have to be difficult, either.

“Think about the base skills that translate,” Wilson said. “Look beyond the surface of those jobs and find the individual skills.”

Kim Kufahl, marketing manager in the Cooperative Education office, said it is also important to remember that answering questions negatively in an interview can be taken as a sign of disloyalty, a trait most employers seek to avoid.

“Don’t bad mouth your current or past job,” Kufahl said. “That’s an instant turn-off.”

Perhaps the most common tip given is to be honest. Effectively combatting a personal weakness can only be done if that weakness is honestly evaluated. Acknowledging personal shortcomings is the first step, but making efforts to improve those skills can set an interviewee apart from the pile of other applicants.

“For the most part, if a person can harness their vulnerabilities, that’s going to give them an edge,” Chastain said. “If they can own up to it, they can turn it into an asset.”