Preparing the Interview
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The document provides a guide for preparing for job interviews, focusing on common interview questions such as weaknesses, strengths, motivations, salary expectations, and reasons for wanting to work at the company. It includes examples of how to effectively respond and emphasizes the importance of researching the company and preparing questions for the interviewer. The aim is to present oneself positively while demonstrating relevant skills and experiences that align with the job role.
Preparing the Interview
- 1. PREPARING THE INTERVIEW A Mock Interview Presentation
- 2. What is your greatest weakness? Turn a negative into a positive. Address Non Essential Skills: Example – Group Presentations In this case it will be critical to underscore your strength in one to one communication while providing an example of your difficulty with presentations to large groups. Example: I like to make sure that my work is perfect, so I tend to perhaps spend a little too much time checking it. However, I've come to a good balance by setting up a system to ensure everything is done correctly the first time. Discuss skills that you have improved upon during your previous job: You are showing the interviewer that you can make improvements, when necessary. Example: Being organized wasn't my strongest point, but I implemented a time management system that really helped my organization skills.
- 3. What is your greatest strength? Discuss attributes that will qualify you for the job. Describe the skills and experience that directly correlate with the job you are applying for. Example: I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve what could be difficult situations.
- 4. What motivates you? The interviewer is trying to understand the key to your being successful in the job he is interviewing for, and wants to make sure it's a good fit. Consider, in advance of interviewing, what actually does motivate you and come up with some specific examples to share during the interview. Example: I have always wanted to ensure that my company's clients get the best customer service I can provide. I've always felt that it's important, both to me personally, and for the company and the clients, to provide a positive customer
- 5. What are your salary expectations? Do your best not to bring up compensation until the employer makes you an offer. Tell the employer you'd like to know more about the responsibilities and the challenges of the job prior to discussing salary. Before your interview, research salaries (on O*Net for example) of the job title for which you are applying. That way you can offer a range based on your research.
- 6. If the people who know you were asked why you should be hired, what would they say? The interviewer wants to know what your perception is of what others think about your qualifications and abilities. Example Answer: I'm sure if you asked my friends that question they would say you should hire me because I have the skills outlined in the job description and I bring 10+ years of expertise to this position. Words they've used to describe me are: hard working, professional, trusted and a team player.
- 7. Why should we hire you? Give concrete examples of why your skills and accomplishments make you the best candidate for the job. Take a few moments to compare the job description with your abilities, as well as mentioning what you have accomplished in your other positions. Be positive and reiterate your interest in the company and the position.
- 8. Describe a difficult work situation / project and how you overcame it. Give concrete examples of difficult situations that actually happened at work. Discuss what you did to solve the problem. Keep your answers positive and be specific. Itemize what you did and how you did it. Prepare stories ahead of time that illustrate times when you have successfully solved a difficult situation.
- 9. Why do you want to work here? Be prepared and knowledgeable about the company. Spend some time researching the company (the About Us section of the web site is a good place to start) so you can talk about the benefits of working for this employer. Compare your goals with objectives of the company and the position, then reiterate why you would be an asset to the employer. Let the interviewer know what you can do for the company, if you get a job offer.
- 10. What did you like or dislike about your previous job? DON’T BE TOO NEGATIVE. Example: I enjoyed the people I worked with. It was a friendly and fun atmosphere and I actually enjoyed going into work each morning. I felt the leadership team was great as well. Example: One of the reasons I am leaving is that I felt I was not challenged enough at the job.
- 11. Where do you see yourself in five years? Be both honest and positive. If you don’t know for sure, answer in terms of in terms of how this job will fit with your future plans, otherwise the employer will think you are not the right person for the job. Example: I hope to start a career here with The Widget Company. My goal is to apply myself and learn this job well. Eventually I would like to receive additional training, take on more responsibility and earn a promotion.
- 12. Do you have any questions for me/us? Prepare several questions ahead of time. What are you looking for in the person you hire? How would you describe the responsibilities for this position? What does a typical work day consist of? How often will I be evaluated? How will the evaluations help me improve my performance? What do you like about working here? If I am offered the position, how soon would you want me to start? When can I expect to hear from you? Are there any other questions I can answer for you?