 |
1. Tell me about yourself.
Since this is often the opening question
in an interview, be extra careful that you don't
run off at the mouth. Keep your answer to a minute
or two at most. Cover four topics: early years,
education, work history, and recent career experience.
Emphasize this last subject. Remember that this
is likely to be a warm-up question. Don't waste
your best points on it.
|
2. What do you know about
our organization?
You should be able to discuss products or services,
revenues, reputation, image, goals, problems, management
style, people, history and philosophy. But don't
act as if you know everything about the place. Let
your answer show that you have taken the time to
do some research, but don't overwhelm the interviewer,
and make it clear that you wish to learn more.
3. Why do you want to work for
us?
The deadliest answer you can give is "Because
I like people." What else would you like-animals?
Here, and throughout the interview, a good answer
comes from having done your homework so that you
can speak in terms of the company's needs. You might
say that your research has shown that the company
is doing things you would like to be involved with,
and that it's doing them in ways that greatly interest
you. For example, if the organization is known for
strong management, your answer should mention that
fact and show that you would like to be a part of
that team. If the company places a great deal of
emphasis on research and development, emphasize
the fact that you want to create new things and
that you know this is a place in which such activity
is encouraged. If the organization stresses financial
controls, your answer should mention a reverence
for numbers.
4.What can you do for us that someone else can't?
Here you have every right, and perhaps an obligation,
to toot your own horn and be a bit egotistical.
Talk about your record of getting things done, and
mention specifics from your resume or list of career
accomplishments. Say that your skills and interests,
combined with this history of getting results, make
you valuable. Mention your ability to set priorities,
identify problems, and use your experience and energy
to solve them.
5. What do
you find most attractive about this position? What
seems least attractive about it?
List three or four attractive factors of the job,
and mention a single, minor, unattractive item.
6.What do you look for in a job?
Keep your answer oriented to opportunities at this
organization. Talk about your desire to perform
and be recognized for your contributions. Make your
answer oriented toward opportunity rather than personal
security.
7. How long would
it take you to make a meaningful contribution to
our firm?
Be realistic. Say that, while you would expect to
meet pressing demands and pull your own weight from
the first day, it might take six months to a year
before you could expect to know the organization
and its needs well enough to make a major contribution.
8. How long would you stay with
us?
Say that you are interested in a career with the
organization, but admit that you would have to continue
to feel challenged to remain with any organization.
Think in terms of, "As long as we both feel
achievement-oriented."
9.
Why are you leaving (did you leave) your present
(last) job?
Be brief, to the point, and as honest as you can
without hurting yourself. If you were laid off in
an across-the-board cutback, say so; otherwise,
indicate that the move was your decision, the result
of your action. Do not mention personality conflicts.
Remember that your references are likely to be checked,
so don't concoct a story for an interview.
Common Acceptable Reasons for Leaving:
- Looking for a new challenge
- Current employer is downsizing
- Current employer is relocating
- Advancement opportunities are very limited
with current employer
- Business is poor and the company's financial
situation is looking insecure
- Relocating to be with a significant other
10. Why aren't you earning more at your age?
Say that this is one reason that you are conducting
this job search. Don't be defensive. |
Need Help?