How to face up to the monstrous job interviewer

Halloween is here, and kids are psyched for sugar rushes and scary costumes.However, year-round, job seekers face their own kind of trick or treat: the job interview.

And whether it’s in person or via video, you’ll probably find at least a few interviewers who behave like monsters.Scared? Don’t be.We’ve got your back.They’re the kind who blasts an endless stream of questions at you.

You find yourself trapped, either staring uncomfortably into a webcam or confined within the claustrophobic walls of a small conference room, your eyes fixed on a stark white wall.It’s unnerving, since you feel as if every word you say is met with skepticism.It’s as though your expertise and knowledge are constantly being called into question.

Each inquiry seems to sap a little more of your confidence and enthusiasm, leaving you feeling exhausted and demoralized.How to deal: “Answering question after question can be draining, but if you want to land the job, you have to get used to talking about yourself and selling yourself,” said LinkedIn career expert Catherine Fisher.“If you’re tackling tough questions about short tenures, career breaks or potentially confusing career moves on your resume, be proactive and address any possible questions head-on.

Share what you learned and how it helped inform where you want to go next.”But, “Don’t inflate,” said Will Sanders, founder and CEO of online recruiting firm Recruiting from Scratch.It’s not uncommon, and leaves job seekers in a bad place when they have to back up their claims.

“The manager will want to know if you actually understand what you are talking about.”This interviewer keeps you on edge.Between the strange questions, weird statements and funny jokes, you’re not sure who you are talking to or how detailed your answers should be.

The unpredictability baffles you.You’re not sure when they’re being serious, testing your ability to adapt to strange situations or if they’re checking for c...