Because so many employers have their “pick of the litter” job candidates are finding the interview process a lot more thorough.  Below are a few tips on how to get prepared and how to avoid going on the defensive:

1. Know your weaknesses. This may sound easier than it is.  While some of us are able to identify and admit to our weaknesses, there is a significant portion of us who refuse to acknowledge that there are some areas where they are lacking.  A word of caution, even if you don’t recognize your weaknesses, others will.
2. Prepare to deal with objections.  Employers hesitant to hire you will bring up perceived weaknesses as the reasons for their hesitation. Be prepared to address these objections. Maybe you don’t have as much experience as they prefer, or maybe you don’t have a certain skill. Whatever the case is, you need to prepare to address these objections and you can only do that if you are aware of your own weaknesses.
3. Don’t become defensive.  This is where being humble and flexible comes in handy. If the employer says something that offends you, such as questioning your expertise level in an area where you think you’re more than competent, simply point out how you in fact are very competent in that area.  The best way to do this is by showing them concrete examples of accomplishments in the area where they have doubt.