Job Interview Answer: What Are You Currently Doing?

Felicia Mwende writes in an email to inquire on how to go about an interview question. “I went for a job interview that I am not sure went very well. How do you answer, ‘What are you currently doing when unemployed?’” Felicia writes.

This question is not as complicated as it may appear so don’t start fidgeting in your chair or biting your inner cheek trying to conceal panic as you ponder on a perfect way to answer, there is none! The recruiter or employer is trying to find out if there is something you have been doing that would add value to the job at hand.

Best Interview Answer

The important thing for every job interview answer is to always tell the truth and this one is no different. But even while being honest in your answer, be careful of the truths you tell. Melody Mwendwa, a professional Interview Coach at Corporate Staffing Services says the answers you give in an interview should be true and relevant to the job at hand.

“If you are currently unemployed but took on a side job selling second-hand clothes, this information would not be relevant in a senior Accounting job. Any part time or temporary jobs you may have been part of should add value to the job you seek,” says Melody.

That said, employers want to hire people who are familiar with what is going on in their respective professions and are doing something to improve their standing even when they are not employed. What does this mean? It means that for you give an impressing interview answer to this question, you need to have been doing something substantial that is keeping you relevant.

Staying Relevant For Your Next Interview

For example, you could take up a professional course in your field of study if you can afford it. You could also take part in a leadership or management training course and attend seminars or conventions in your related field. Some are offered at no charge at all, so you do not have to worry about the money.

This way, when an employer asks what you are doing when unemployed in a job interview, you can cite the courses or seminars you have been attending. And if you have upcoming ones mention that too. Also add how these are helping grow various skills needed for the job.

Just because you currently do not have a job does not mean that you stay and wait. Look for events near you that you can attend and meet employers in your field and stay updated on industry news such as the latest software for IT professionals and related.

Preparing for your next interview? Contact [email protected] for Interview Coaching.