Ouch! Talk about tough interview questions! Uncomfortable? Yes. But possible? Certainly. As a recent college graduate, you will discuss your achievements in college as a way to show the transferability of your skills to the world of work. Some candidates will prepare their "business case" by discussing their ability to perform well in an academic environment. Grades may reflect an individual's potential performance in a job, but it is not guaranteed. Since you will probably be asked about your grades during an interview, it makes sense to craft an answer beforehand to address any obstacles within your academic record.

Not everyone graduates with an exceptional GPA. Never apologize for less than stellar grades or blame others for poor performance; this could lead the hiring manager to believe you don’t feel confident in your abilities or don’t take responsibility for your actions. A better strategy is to try to present a complete picture of your candidacy by discussing your grades within the context of your other accomplishments in college. For example, if you were a B student, but also held a leadership role in your fraternity or worked 30 hours a week to finance your education, let the hiring manager know about these successes. Hiring managers are looking for candidates that are energetic, motivated, and eager to learn. Grades will not be the only factor influencing their hiring decision. Authenticity in the interview goes a long way. By discussing grades as just one part of your college experience, you will position yourself as a candidate with self awareness, determination, and a well-rounded approach to work and life.