Go into each interview with the goal of getting an
offer. The impression you create will ultimately determine your search
success. It is important to know that employers use different styles
of interviewing that may include interviewing you individually or
using a panel.
Use this checklist as a guide for preparing for an interview:
• Research the company
• Review interview questions (see next page)
• Prepare your image (proper dress, demeanor)
• Practice answering typical interview questions (see next page)
• Arrive on time
• Respond succinctly to questions asked
• Listen well
• Be enthusiastic, interested, confident
• Avoid discussing details of your personal life
• Avoid salary discussions early into the interview process
• Establish next steps at the end of the interview
• Send a thank-you letter
• Follow-up by phone
Post Interview:
Take a good objective look at how you performed in the interview.
Identify areas of where you performed well and areas to improve.
Follow up with a thank-you card and phone call within a week or two.
The 12 Most Common Tough Questions Job Interviews Ask
1. Q: Tell me about yourself.
A: Respond in a way that assures the interviewer that you are well
adjusted, stable, and positive.
2. Q: What can you do for us?
A: Stick to facts and figures if at all possible. Point to past
accomplishments or forecast future capabilities.
3. Q: What are your strengths?
A: Tailor your answer to meet the needs of the employer.
4. Q: What are your limitations?
A: Think about transforming your answer and the question into a
strength (examples given in our workshop).
5. Q: What do you want?
A: Be prepared to respond with answers that reveal a desire to do the
kind of work the position requires.
6. Q: What do you see yourself doing in five years?
A: Focus on your skills as they would relate to the company.
7. Q: What is your reason for seeking this position? What was wrong
with your last job/present job?
A: NEVER criticize your last boss or any previous employer, it WILL
cost you.
8. Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Think ACTION! Don’t establish a perception of passiveness.
9. Q: How would you handle [some realistic problem situation]?
A: Emphasize that you would seek out facts, look at precedents, use
your knowledge and experience, etc. to make a decision and act.
10. Q: What would you like to know about us?
A: Always ask some intelligent questions. This may be what makes the
final impression.
11. Q: Why have you been unemployed for so long?
A: Long periods of unemployment are suspect. Be prepared with an
answer that focuses on the present and what you have to offer.
12. Q: Do you think you are overqualified for this job?
A: Suggest that this firm is a better opportunity…that you have
potential to become even more valuable to them, etc. Just reassure
them that you are not planning to leave prematurely. |