1- Preparing yourself for the interview
2- Doing practice interviews
3- The most often asked questions at an interview
4- What you should bring up at an interview
5- The dynamics of a job interview
6- Understanding the stresses facing the interviewer
THE MOST OFTEN ASKED QUESTIONS
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
Talk about the parts of your background that relate to the job and make sure you have the qualitative and quantitative facts to support your presentation. Interviewers use this question not only for the actual information you will supply, but as a means of assessing your style and poise. By and large, they are not interested in hearing a lot of details about your childhood days. If the interviewer asks about your non-work interests and hobbies, respond with enthusiasm.
WHAT TYPE OF POSITION ARE YOU INTERESTED IN?
Make sure that you are interested in the position for which you are there to interview; otherwise the company will think you are not seriously committed to what they have to offer.
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FIVE YEARS FROM NOW?
Take one of these responses and expand upon it: “Where could I be?” “What programs do you have?” “In the same company, but with more responsibility.” Rosemary Bowman, staff specialist for Mountain Bell, advises: “Don’t say you want to be president of the company – this tells me that you’re unrealistic and haven’t really studied the firm. Instead, take the time to learn about the company structure and then select several company positions you might plausibly achieve in five years.”
Never, EVER, say, “I want to own a business of my own.” Hiring and training a new employee costs thousands of dollars – you want to assure the interviewer that if hired you plan on sticking around and making the investment pay off.
Employers like goal-oriented workers. Saying you have no idea what you’ll want in five years may score negative points. Offer reasons to support your ambitious plans. Maybe you plan on obtaining a post-graduate degree or some other accomplishment to help you achieve your goals.
ARE YOU WILLING TO TRANSFER?
You cannot predict the future. Unless you have serious, permanent reasons that make it impossible for you to ever move, it is best to respond with a “yes.”
WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS?
Accept this invitation to sell yourself by citing specific assets you know the employer desires. Be ready with at least three examples, along with supporting accomplishments that relate to the position for which you are interviewing. Interviewers like to hear abstract qualities – loyalty, willingness to work hard, politeness and promptness – expressed in concrete terms. Avoid the simple generalization. If you are good at something, say so and then back it up with an example. “I am very good with people – because of that ability I have been able to establish my current very profitable team and maintain it with the lowest turnover rate in the entire company.”
WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES?
Nobody is perfect. Don’t be intimidated; don’t be flip. You do have weaknesses, and if you can’t think of any to share, it may demonstrate that you have no real insight into yourself. However, this is not the time to bare your soul and confess all of your imperfections. Be ready with at least two examples of strengths phrased as weaknesses, such as, “I tend to get really involved at work and think about it at home,” “I’m too hard on myself when I make mistakes,” or “I sometimes have a difficult time delegating and tend to do all the work myself.” Make sure that you do not bring up a weakness that would disqualify you from the job (e.g., a salesman who hates to travel or a controller who hates details).
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF….?
Your solution to whatever problem posed by the interviewer is not really as important as maintaining a positive attitude. Be inventive enough to have several possibilities. Ask questions to clarify the situation, and show you are aware of various possible mitigating variables.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK FOR OUR COMPANY?
Respond with one or two positive personal statements related to the company, such as “I like working with a dynamic organization,” or “I have always wanted to be with an industry leader.”
WHY SHOULD THE COMPANY HIRE YOU?
This is one of the most often-asked questions. If you are not ready to answer any other question, this is the one to make sure you are prepared for. Summarize your experience and accomplishments in a concise manner, just like you did in the Experience section of your resume, and direct them toward the job and its requirements.
WHY ARE YOU LEAVING OR DID LEAVE YOUR PREVIOUS EMPLOYER?
Never bad mouth a previous employer or use negative clichés. By all means, be honest and use positive reasons. For example, you are seeking greater advancement opportunities; looking for a better financial package; want to relocate to a warmer climate; or want the challenge of new and greater responsibility. If you were terminated, put it in the best possible light. For example: “We had a difference of opinion on a particular matter (be specific). I have learned a great deal from that experience which I can use effectively here.” You do not want to appear to be a person who constantly moves from job to job, every time something goes a little wrong. Use reasons that the interviewer can relate to and identify with.
WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR PREVIOUS JOB?
Here is another opportunity to talk about your strengths that will be of value to the company. Be specific, talk about something you’ve accomplished. “I loved taking a concept and turning it into reality. For example, I was responsible for successfully developing a new merchandising program for all of our stores that would be directed more towards non-food items.” Be aware of the fact that you are giving the interviewer clues as to your strengths and weaknesses and about the type of atmosphere and projects that you like. The example above would be devastating for a person interviewing for a position where they could not have the opportunity to develop conceptual models.
YOU HAVE A WEAK FORMAL EDUCATION.
Turn the liability into an asset. Point out the training on the job and the real-life education you have had. Try not to be too strong or defensive, as it is very possible that the interviewer does have a strong formal education, and you don’t want to make any statement that will attack the value of their training. A good answer, if true, could include your track record in positions where you have worked alongside or over people with stronger academic credentials.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Highlight pastimes that would be an asset to the job you seek. Companies are looking for well-rounded individuals, and your outside activities reflect a whole other side to you. They also give added insights into your likes and aptitudes. For example, if you enjoy working with your home computer, you may be very analytical and enjoy cerebral challenges.
WHAT TYPE OF SALARY DID YOU HAVE IN MIND?
Try to deal with this question at the end of your interview, not the beginning. Let the employer decide that they want you first and make sure you want them. If this is one of the first questions, try to stall by suggesting that you would like to discuss the job itself first. I have counseled many people to wait until the end of the interview to discuss salary. Literally, there are many jobs that I personally would do and accept subsistent wages for in order to get the job, and others for which I would not accept for a million dollars a year. Judge the company and position before pinning yourself to a figure to see what you think the position is worth.
When you get around to discussing salary, make sure that you suggest a range rather than a specific figure. If you are asked what salary you were previously making, be honest – this is an easily verified answer. If the amount you were making was low but had exceptional benefits or other perks that were important to you, do not forget to mention them. Do not neglect to investigate the fringe benefit package. Often times it is better to have an extensive benefit package and a lower salary than have to pay excessive amounts for your family’s insurance, etc.
SILENCE.
You have finished your answer, waiting on the next question, and there is none. Instead, there is just plain silence. You feel uncomfortable – did you leave something out of the last answer? Do they want you to elaborate? Under no circumstances say anything else. Once you have answered the question, relax. Some interviewers use this technique to see how you can handle stress. If you have some questions to ask and the time is passing by quietly, take control and, with poise, ask your question.
PERSONAL QUESTIONS.
These are questions you do not really have to answer. You could tell the interviewer that the question is off limits or illegal, but this will likely antagonize them and leave you without a job offer. Usually, they have an underlying, not necessarily insidious, motive for asking. For example, “What does your husband do?” may translate into “Might your husband’s employer ask your family to relocate some time in the future?” Unless you are incensed by the nature of the question (in which case you should not answer it), it is best to honestly reply. If you decide that you don’t want to work for a company that asks that type of question, you do not have to accept the position. If you do not answer, you may never get the chance to say no. I do not suggest that you answer demeaning questions or put up with disgusting or impolite behavior. You don’t want to work for any company that condones or allows that type of activity. Just excuse yourself and leave.
DISCRIMINATORY QUESTIONS.
These are hybrids of the personal questions and are even more insidious. Questions like “Are you planning on getting married and having children in the future?” In response, simply ask a question like “Is that a prerequisite for this position?” Chances are, the interviewer will reconsider pressing the question, and you will both be out of the situation gracefully.
Other questions that might be asked:
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS JOB AND THIS COMPANY?
WHAT IS YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR?
WHAT WERE THE MOST DIFFICULT PROBLEMS YOU FACED?
HOW DID YOU DEAL WITH THEM?
WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT-TERM GOALS?
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR IN YOUR CAREER?
WHAT WERE YOUR BEST SUBJECTS IN SCHOOL?
YOUR BACKGROUND SUGGESTS THAT YOU ARE OVER-QUALIFIED FOR
THE POSITION – WHY WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED?
YOUR BACKGROUND SUGGESTS THAT YOU ARE UNDER-QUALIFIED FOR
THE POSITION – WHY DO YOU THINK YOU CAN HANDLE THE JOB?
WHAT IS YOUR MANAGEMENT PHILOSPHY?
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN PEOPLE?
HOW DO YOU HANDLE FIRING PEOPLE?
WHAT OTHER JOBS OR COMPANIES ARE YOU CONSIDERING?
ARE YOU CREATIVE?
THE MOST OFTEN ASKED QUESTIONS
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
Talk about the parts of your background that relate to the job and make sure you have the qualitative and quantitative facts to support your presentation. Interviewers use this question not only for the actual information you will supply, but as a means of assessing your style and poise. By and large, they are not interested in hearing a lot of details about your childhood days. If the interviewer asks about your non-work interests and hobbies, respond with enthusiasm.
WHAT TYPE OF POSITION ARE YOU INTERESTED IN?
Make sure that you are interested in the position for which you are there to interview; otherwise the company will think you are not seriously committed to what they have to offer.
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FIVE YEARS FROM NOW?
Take one of these responses and expand upon it: “Where could I be?” “What programs do you have?” “In the same company, but with more responsibility.” Rosemary Bowman, staff specialist for Mountain Bell, advises: “Don’t say you want to be president of the company – this tells me that you’re unrealistic and haven’t really studied the firm. Instead, take the time to learn about the company structure and then select several company positions you might plausibly achieve in five years.”
Never, EVER, say, “I want to own a business of my own.” Hiring and training a new employee costs thousands of dollars – you want to assure the interviewer that if hired you plan on sticking around and making the investment pay off.
Employers like goal-oriented workers. Saying you have no idea what you’ll want in five years may score negative points. Offer reasons to support your ambitious plans. Maybe you plan on obtaining a post-graduate degree or some other accomplishment to help you achieve your goals.
ARE YOU WILLING TO TRANSFER?
You cannot predict the future. Unless you have serious, permanent reasons that make it impossible for you to ever move, it is best to respond with a “yes.”
WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS?
Accept this invitation to sell yourself by citing specific assets you know the employer desires. Be ready with at least three examples, along with supporting accomplishments that relate to the position for which you are interviewing. Interviewers like to hear abstract qualities – loyalty, willingness to work hard, politeness and promptness – expressed in concrete terms. Avoid the simple generalization. If you are good at something, say so and then back it up with an example. “I am very good with people – because of that ability I have been able to establish my current very profitable team and maintain it with the lowest turnover rate in the entire company.”
WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES?
Nobody is perfect. Don’t be intimidated; don’t be flip. You do have weaknesses, and if you can’t think of any to share, it may demonstrate that you have no real insight into yourself. However, this is not the time to bare your soul and confess all of your imperfections. Be ready with at least two examples of strengths phrased as weaknesses, such as, “I tend to get really involved at work and think about it at home,” “I’m too hard on myself when I make mistakes,” or “I sometimes have a difficult time delegating and tend to do all the work myself.” Make sure that you do not bring up a weakness that would disqualify you from the job (e.g., a salesman who hates to travel or a controller who hates details).
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF….?
Your solution to whatever problem posed by the interviewer is not really as important as maintaining a positive attitude. Be inventive enough to have several possibilities. Ask questions to clarify the situation, and show you are aware of various possible mitigating variables.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK FOR OUR COMPANY?
Respond with one or two positive personal statements related to the company, such as “I like working with a dynamic organization,” or “I have always wanted to be with an industry leader.”
WHY SHOULD THE COMPANY HIRE YOU?
This is one of the most often-asked questions. If you are not ready to answer any other question, this is the one to make sure you are prepared for. Summarize your experience and accomplishments in a concise manner, just like you did in the Experience section of your resume, and direct them toward the job and its requirements.
WHY ARE YOU LEAVING OR DID LEAVE YOUR PREVIOUS EMPLOYER?
Never bad mouth a previous employer or use negative clichés. By all means, be honest and use positive reasons. For example, you are seeking greater advancement opportunities; looking for a better financial package; want to relocate to a warmer climate; or want the challenge of new and greater responsibility. If you were terminated, put it in the best possible light. For example: “We had a difference of opinion on a particular matter (be specific). I have learned a great deal from that experience which I can use effectively here.” You do not want to appear to be a person who constantly moves from job to job, every time something goes a little wrong. Use reasons that the interviewer can relate to and identify with.
WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR PREVIOUS JOB?
Here is another opportunity to talk about your strengths that will be of value to the company. Be specific, talk about something you’ve accomplished. “I loved taking a concept and turning it into reality. For example, I was responsible for successfully developing a new merchandising program for all of our stores that would be directed more towards non-food items.” Be aware of the fact that you are giving the interviewer clues as to your strengths and weaknesses and about the type of atmosphere and projects that you like. The example above would be devastating for a person interviewing for a position where they could not have the opportunity to develop conceptual models.
YOU HAVE A WEAK FORMAL EDUCATION.
Turn the liability into an asset. Point out the training on the job and the real-life education you have had. Try not to be too strong or defensive, as it is very possible that the interviewer does have a strong formal education, and you don’t want to make any statement that will attack the value of their training. A good answer, if true, could include your track record in positions where you have worked alongside or over people with stronger academic credentials.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Highlight pastimes that would be an asset to the job you seek. Companies are looking for well-rounded individuals, and your outside activities reflect a whole other side to you. They also give added insights into your likes and aptitudes. For example, if you enjoy working with your home computer, you may be very analytical and enjoy cerebral challenges.
WHAT TYPE OF SALARY DID YOU HAVE IN MIND?
Try to deal with this question at the end of your interview, not the beginning. Let the employer decide that they want you first and make sure you want them. If this is one of the first questions, try to stall by suggesting that you would like to discuss the job itself first. I have counseled many people to wait until the end of the interview to discuss salary. Literally, there are many jobs that I personally would do and accept subsistent wages for in order to get the job, and others for which I would not accept for a million dollars a year. Judge the company and position before pinning yourself to a figure to see what you think the position is worth.
When you get around to discussing salary, make sure that you suggest a range rather than a specific figure. If you are asked what salary you were previously making, be honest – this is an easily verified answer. If the amount you were making was low but had exceptional benefits or other perks that were important to you, do not forget to mention them. Do not neglect to investigate the fringe benefit package. Often times it is better to have an extensive benefit package and a lower salary than have to pay excessive amounts for your family’s insurance, etc.
SILENCE.
You have finished your answer, waiting on the next question, and there is none. Instead, there is just plain silence. You feel uncomfortable – did you leave something out of the last answer? Do they want you to elaborate? Under no circumstances say anything else. Once you have answered the question, relax. Some interviewers use this technique to see how you can handle stress. If you have some questions to ask and the time is passing by quietly, take control and, with poise, ask your question.
PERSONAL QUESTIONS.
These are questions you do not really have to answer. You could tell the interviewer that the question is off limits or illegal, but this will likely antagonize them and leave you without a job offer. Usually, they have an underlying, not necessarily insidious, motive for asking. For example, “What does your husband do?” may translate into “Might your husband’s employer ask your family to relocate some time in the future?” Unless you are incensed by the nature of the question (in which case you should not answer it), it is best to honestly reply. If you decide that you don’t want to work for a company that asks that type of question, you do not have to accept the position. If you do not answer, you may never get the chance to say no. I do not suggest that you answer demeaning questions or put up with disgusting or impolite behavior. You don’t want to work for any company that condones or allows that type of activity. Just excuse yourself and leave.
DISCRIMINATORY QUESTIONS.
These are hybrids of the personal questions and are even more insidious. Questions like “Are you planning on getting married and having children in the future?” In response, simply ask a question like “Is that a prerequisite for this position?” Chances are, the interviewer will reconsider pressing the question, and you will both be out of the situation gracefully.
Other questions that might be asked:
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS JOB AND THIS COMPANY?
WHAT IS YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR?
WHAT WERE THE MOST DIFFICULT PROBLEMS YOU FACED?
HOW DID YOU DEAL WITH THEM?
WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT-TERM GOALS?
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR IN YOUR CAREER?
WHAT WERE YOUR BEST SUBJECTS IN SCHOOL?
YOUR BACKGROUND SUGGESTS THAT YOU ARE OVER-QUALIFIED FOR
THE POSITION – WHY WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED?
YOUR BACKGROUND SUGGESTS THAT YOU ARE UNDER-QUALIFIED FOR
THE POSITION – WHY DO YOU THINK YOU CAN HANDLE THE JOB?
WHAT IS YOUR MANAGEMENT PHILOSPHY?
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN PEOPLE?
HOW DO YOU HANDLE FIRING PEOPLE?
WHAT OTHER JOBS OR COMPANIES ARE YOU CONSIDERING?
ARE YOU CREATIVE?
