What they are really asking

This is a test of honesty and tact at the same time. The interviewer knows their company isn't perfect, and they know you've probably read something. They want to see whether you'll be straight with them and whether you can raise a sensitive point without sounding like gossip or an attack.

"Nothing, it all sounds great" is the weak answer. It suggests you either didn't research or aren't willing to be honest. The strong answer mentions one real, public concern, says it fairly, turns it into a question, and makes clear you're still interested. Stick to facts you could point to, not rumors from a friend of a friend.

A shape that works

One real point, fair framing, a question, your interest. Pick something mild and public: news coverage, reviews, a product problem. Say it neutrally, without drama. Ask how the company sees it or what has changed. Then close by saying why you're still keen, and if it fits, how you might help with that exact problem.

Model answers

Listen to how each answer is built, then make it yours.

Answer 1: a claims analyst in London, applying to Cobalt Lane Insurance
Answer 2: a mobile developer in Bangalore, applying to Halden Retail
Answer 3: a hotel front office manager in Seattle, applying to Sundara Hotels

Check yourself

1Why is "Nothing, it all sounds great" a weak answer?
2What does the developer do after mentioning the bad reviews?
3What kind of concern should you choose?

Practice · 3 min

Research a company you'd like to work for and find one mild, public concern, such as a news story or a pattern in reviews. Record an answer with the point, fair framing, a question and why you're still interested. Keep your tone curious, not critical.

Your recording stays on this device. Nothing is uploaded.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.