❓ How to Answer Difficult Questions
These are the questions people with gaps, records, or complex backgrounds fear most. Click any question to see a model answer framework — then adapt it to your own situation.
📋 My Saved Answers
Save your best practice answers here to review before your interview. Print them to study offline.
💙 Interview Preparation Guide
Before the Interview
✓Research the company — what do they do? What are their values? Show you made an effort.
✓Prepare 3–5 examples of things you have done well — even from unpaid or voluntary work.
✓Plan your route and arrive 10 minutes early — not too early, not late.
✓Bring a printed copy of your CV even if you submitted it online.
✓Prepare 2–3 questions to ask them at the end — it shows genuine interest.
During the Interview
✓A firm handshake and eye contact makes a strong first impression.
✓It is okay to pause and think before answering. A 5-second pause shows thoughtfulness, not weakness.
✓Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Structure your examples clearly.
✓Be honest — but strategic. You do not have to volunteer information unless asked directly.
✓If you do not know something, say "That is a great question — I would find out by..."
The STAR Method Explained
When asked "Tell me about a time when..." always use STAR:
Situation — Set the scene briefly
Task — What was your role or responsibility?
Action — What exactly did YOU do?
Result — What was the outcome?
Example: "In my last job (S), I was responsible for closing the shop (T). One night the alarm would not set properly. I called my manager, stayed calm, and followed the emergency procedure (A). The issue was resolved and the premises were secured safely (R)."
Situation — Set the scene briefly
Task — What was your role or responsibility?
Action — What exactly did YOU do?
Result — What was the outcome?
Example: "In my last job (S), I was responsible for closing the shop (T). One night the alarm would not set properly. I called my manager, stayed calm, and followed the emergency procedure (A). The issue was resolved and the premises were secured safely (R)."
Disclosing a Criminal Record — Your Rights
Ireland: Under the Criminal Justice (Spent Convictions) Act, minor offences become "spent" after 7 years and do not need to be declared.
UK: The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act means many convictions become "spent" after a period. You do not have to disclose spent convictions to most employers.
USA: Rules vary by state. Many states have "Ban the Box" legislation preventing employers from asking about criminal records on application forms.
Always check your specific obligations before an interview. Support organisations can help you understand what you must or must not disclose.
UK: The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act means many convictions become "spent" after a period. You do not have to disclose spent convictions to most employers.
USA: Rules vary by state. Many states have "Ban the Box" legislation preventing employers from asking about criminal records on application forms.
Always check your specific obligations before an interview. Support organisations can help you understand what you must or must not disclose.
Support Organisations
🇮🇪 IASIO — Ireland
Reintegration services for people leaving prison. iasio.ie
🇬🇧 Nacro — UK
Employment support for people with convictions. nacro.org.uk
🇺🇸 Honest Jobs — USA
Jobs for people with criminal records. honestjobs.co
🌍 Tent Partnership
Jobs for refugees globally. tent.org