☛ Be prepared to answer this and other tough interview questions by planning your answers ahead of time. This enables you to remain calm and not be thrown off by what might seem to be a "gotcha" or negative question.

☛ Remain calm, hold eye contact and answer the question directly and concisely. Do not stammer or act put off by the question.

☛ Describe briefly a situation in which a minor project or work effort did not turn out as planned. Own your part of the failure, do not blame it on others. This reflects your willingness to acknowledge when you have not worked up to your usual standards and to take responsibility for your own actions.

☛ Move on quickly to discuss how you rectified the situation and what you learned to prevent the problem from recurring. Demonstrating your ability to recognize a shortcoming and that you are able to turn negative situations into opportunities for learning and growth reflect traits most prospective employers value.