Those same questions keep coming up – in every interview.
They can be tough ones because they are about you and your
thinking process. Preparing for them ahead of time can save
you some grief during the interview.
What are your weaknesses?
The most dreaded question of all. Handle this question by
minimizing the weakness and emphasizing the strengths. Stay
away from personal qualities and concentrate on
professional traits: "I am always working to improve my
communication skills so that I can be a more effective
presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters which I find very
helpful."
Why should we hire you?
Prepare and know your product – YOU! Summarize your
experiences: "With five years' experience working in the
financial industry, and my proven record of saving the
company money, I could make a big difference in your
company. I am confident I would be a great addition to your
team."
Why do you want to work here?
The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates
you've given this some thought, and are not sending out
resumes just because there is an opening. Doing research
should give you plenty of reasons why you want to work
there. As an example, "I've selected key companies whose
mission statements are in line with my values, where I know
I could be excited about what the company does, and this
company is very high on my list of desirable choices."
What are your goals?
Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and
intermediate goals, and not lock yourself into the distant
future. Something like, "My immediate goal is to get a job
in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend
on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a
position of additional responsibility."
Why did you leave (are you leaving) your job?
This question is almost a certainty. If you are unemployed,
put you're leaving in a positive context: "I managed to
survive two down-sizings, but the third round was a 20%
reduction in force, which included me."
If you are employed, focus on what you want in your next
job: "After two years, I made the decision to look for a
company that is team-focused, where I can add my
experience."
When were you most satisfied in your job?
The interviewer wants to know what motivates you. If you
can relate an example of a job or project when you were
excited, the interviewer will get an idea of your
preferences. "I was very satisfied in my last job because I
worked directly with the customers and their problems; that
is an important part of the job for me."
What can you do for us that other candidates can't?
What makes you unique? This will take an assessment of your
experiences, skills and traits. What makes you stand out?
After your assessment, bring it all together in a concise
manner: "I have a unique combination of strong technical
skills, and the ability to build strong customer
relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge, and
break down information to be user friendly"
What are three positive things your last boss would say
about you?
It's time to pull out your old performance appraisals and
boss's quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself
through someone else's words: "My boss has told me that I
am the best designer he has ever had. He knows he can rely
on me, and he likes my sense of humor."
What salary are you seeking?
It is to your advantage if the employer tells you the
"range" first. Prepare by knowing the "going rate" in your
area, and your bottom line or "walk away" point. One
possible answer would be: "I am sure when the time comes we
can agree on a reasonable amount. In what range do you
typically pay someone with my background?"
There is no way of predicting which questions will be asked
in an interview, but by reviewing some of the "most common"
questions you will begin to focus on how to present
yourself in the most positive manner.
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Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor.
Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can.
Try her practice interview and pick up a copy of her FREE
9-part "Interview Success Tips" report by visiting Carole
on the web at http://www.interviewcoach.com
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