Sales consultant interview questions and answers
- 1. 1 40 interview questions & answers FREE EBOOK: sales consultant
- 2. 2 Based on: Top 10 sales consultant interview questions and answers Updated To: Top 40 sales consultant interview questions and answers On: Mar 2017
- 3. 3 This ebook consists of two parts: - Part I: Top 40 sales consultant interview questions and answers (pdf, free download) - Part II: Top 12 tips to prepare for sales consultant interview
- 4. Top materials for job interviews: In this document, you can refer to materials for a sales consultant interview such as: sales consultant situational interview, sales consultant behavioral interview, sales consultant interview thank you letter… Other useful materials for a successful sales consultant interview: 1. Ebook: Job Interview Questions &Answers by Bob Firestone Download link: click here, full ebook review click here 2. https://www.slideshare.net/jobguide247/12-steps-to-prepare-job- interview , 3. interviewquestions360.com/free-ebook-145-interview-questions-and- answers 4. http://interviewquestions68.blogspot.com/p/top-14-mistakes-in-job- interviews.html 4
- 5. 1. Tell me about yourself as sales consultant? It seems like an easy interview question. It's open ended: ”I can talk about whatever I want from the birth canal forward. Right?” Wrong. What the hiring manager really wants is a quick, two- to three- minute snapshot of who you are and why you're the best candidate for this position. Related post: Tips to answer question: tell me about your self? 5 http://interviewquestions68.blogspot.com/2017/03/tips-to-answer-tell-me-about- your-self.html So as you answer this question, talk about what you've done to prepare yourself to be the very best candidate for the position. Use an example or two to back it up. Then ask if they would like more details. If they do, keep giving them example after example of your background and experience. Always point back to an example when you have the opportunity. "Tell me about yourself" does not mean tell me everything. Just tell me what makes you the best and fit the job requirements
- 6. 2. How do you keep up to date on your target market? Even if the target market of their last job is totally different than that of the one they’re interviewing for, this will show you their ability to find and keep up to date with relevant trade publications and blogs. 6
- 7. 3. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time as sales consultant? What the interviewer really wants is to see that you’ve thought about your future, and gauge your ambition. They also want to verify that this isn’t just a stop gap position. Although all of your answers should be tailored to the organization and position you’ve applied for, this is especially the case with this question. If you’re going for an entry level position, for example, Related post: Tips to answer question: what about your career goals? 7http://interviewquestions68.blogspot.com/2017/03/tip-to-answer-what-about-your- career.html explain how you’d like your career to progress (e.g. ‘I’d like to progress to a Senior Software Engineer’ or ‘I see myself being a team leader…’). If you’re going for a more senior position, explain how you’d be looking to move the company forward. Have a look at their business strategy or corporate objectives before the interview, and explain how you can help in achieving them.
- 8. 4. What are the Most Important Sales Skills? Not everyone can handle sales. You need to have the right attitude and abilities. At your job interview, the interviewer will be looking for your sales skills, and the aspects of the process that help close deals. An example of a good answer includes “The ability to recognize both verbal and non-verbal cues to adapt the sales strategies you implement to impress the prospective buyer.” 8
- 9. 5. What is your greatest weakness as sales consultant? "What are your weaknesses" is one of the most popular questions interviewers ask. It is also the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters, which I find very helpful." Related post: Tips to answer question: What is your greatest weakness? 9 http://interviewquestions68.blogspot.com/2017/03/tips-to-answer-your- greatest-weakness.html
- 10. 5. What is your greatest weakness? (continue…) Tips to answer this question: • Show that you are aware of your weakness and what you have done to overcome it. • Show that you are “self-aware” and that you have the ability to take steps to improve yourself. • Don’t you DARE answer with the cliche “I’m a perfectionist” answer or any other such answer that the hiring manager can see right through. • Don’t highlight a weakness that is a core competency of the job. (Know the job description “inside and out”.) • Don’t dodge this question. 10
- 11. 6. What is your sales process, given a qualified lead? How many contacts do you make on a qualified lead? -Look for logical steps including building a relationship and asking about the prospect's needs as the first two steps -Average number of contacts should be 12 -Ask for the different types of contacts they make to qualified prospects 11
- 12. 7. What is your greatest strength as sales consultant? This is your time to shine. Just remember the interviewer is looking for work related strengths. Mention a number of them such as being a good motivator, problem solver, performing well under pressure, being loyal, having a positive attitude, eager to learn, taking initiative and attention to detail. Whichever you go for, be prepared to give examples that illustrate this particular skill. 12 Related post: Tips to answer question: What is your greatest strength? http://interviewquestions68.blogspot.com/2017/03/tips-to-answer-your-greatest- strength.html
- 13. 8. In your last position, how much time did you spend cultivating customer relationships versus hunting for new clients, and why? Certain companies and roles call for people better at farming or hunting, but look out for a person who performs one of these tasks to the exclusion of the other. Both are vital to selling well 13
- 14. 9. Why did you leave your last job? Here you will need to be careful as there are many possible answers you could use, just remember to NEVER talk negatively about any prior or current employer to a potential employer. No one wants to think that in a few years’ time you could be saying the same about them. A possible reason could be to say you were looking for better opportunities, for you to grow professionally, or you were looking for the chance to work abroad. 14 https://www.slideshare.net/jobguide247/top-12-ways-to-make-money-2017 Useful material: Top 16 ways to make money forever
- 15. 10. What Do You Dislike About Sales? Any time you are asked to provide a negative trait about the position you are applying for, you should tread carefully. An example of an answer that effectively resolves the question is, “Walking away from a sale when I know the prospect could benefit from our solution.” This answer shows you know that there are times where you need to walk away and show that you understand that sales is about solutions. 15
- 16. 11. Why should we hire you? This is a differentiation question. What you want to tell them is: they'd be crazy not to they hire you. Focus on them: You need to only share how you meet almost all the criteria they seek, and also have two to three additional abilities that they might not even know they need…yet. They need to know you are a candidate who can not only meet their needs now, but will also be valuable for where they want to go in the future. 16
- 17. 11. Why should we hire you? (con…) Are they likely to need another skill set as they grow as a company? Or maybe you have skills that you noticed are in another job description they are looking to fill? You can help out with those deliverables until they find someone (or be a backup to the person they hire). Have you been down a path already that they are currently starting? Having “lessons learned” to offer them is a very strong plus for a job candidate. 17
- 18. 12. How do you expect to close sales? How do you know when a buyer is ready to buy? What closing principles do you follow? What closing techniques work best for you? -Does the candidate mention of the importance of body language? Some answers to "what closing principles do you follow" include: -Do not attempt to close until the buyer is ready -When you propose a close, be silent until the buyer responds -After the sale is made, quit selling -Should be able to describe three different closing techniques 18
- 19. 13. What is your greatest accomplishment? This is somewhat similar to the “what is your greatest strength?” question and can be handled along the same lines. You want to pick an accomplishment that shows you have the qualities that the company puts value in and that are desirable for the position you’re interviewing for. The fact is you may have several accomplishments you could pick from. Pick one that will have the most impact. 19 https://www.slideshare.net/jobguide247/top-12-skills-for-career-success Useful material: Top 12 skills for career success
- 20. 13. What is your greatest accomplishment? (continue) Tips to answer this question: - Talk about an accomplishment that exhibits how you will be a perfect fit for the company and for the position you’re interviewing for. - Try and show some genuine passion when you’re talking about your accomplishment. - Don’t fall into the trap of thinking your accomplishment is “too small”. The fact is, relating a small accomplishment that is inline with “what the company values” can be more powerful than an unrelated accomplishment. 20 Useful material: Top 9 ways to become a millionaire http://careersecretsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/top-9-ways-to-become- millionaire.html
- 21. 14. Give an example of when you initiated/created a new sales/marketing technique and enjoyed the results? Review your sales history carefully, with an eye to answering these types of queries. Prepare your answers, and consult with colleagues. If you have any paperwork to show, such as product description, potential earning power of product, thank you letters, bring them to the interview. 21
- 22. 15. What can we expect from you in your first 90 days? Ideally the answer to this should come from the employer: they should have plans and expectations for you. But if you're asked, use this general framework: • You'll work hard to determine how your job creates value -- you won't just stay busy, you'll stay busy doing the right things. • You'll learn how to serve all your constituents -- your boss, your employees, your peers, your customers and suppliers and vendors... 22
- 23. 15. What can we expect from you in your first 90 days? (con…) • You'll focus on doing what you do best -- you'll be hired because you bring certain skills, and you'll apply those skills to make things happen. • You'll make a difference -- with customers, with other employees, to bring enthusiasm and focus and a sense of commitment and teamwork... • Then just layer in specifics that are applicable to you and the job. 23
- 24. 16. What is your psychology of selling? This is where you demonstrate your understanding of the entire structure of selling. Focus on your view of selling as a professional service directed at showing the customer how your product or service meets their needs and improves their lives. 24
- 25. 16. Continue… Prepare a concise sales interview answer that highlights your knowledge of how to communicate and build rapport with a client, ask the right questions, identify and understanding the client's values, motives and needs, offer the appropriate solutions, handle objections and close the sale. Include adapting to different personality types and using persuasive communication skills. 25
- 26. 17. What are your salary expectations? When completing your preparations for the interview, always have this question in the back of your mind. Have a look at the average salary for someone in this industry, area, and who possesses similar skills to yourself, and you should get a basic idea. But remember: this is only the first interview. You haven’t been offered the job. There’s no need at this stage to be try and begin negotiations. Giving a broad salary range will usually be enough to move on, but be prepared to back it up if you need to. Just don’t be tempted to sell yourself short. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at our average salary checker. Right answer: A broad (but realistic) answer e.g. ‘I‘m looking for a starting salary somewhere between £25,000 and £30,000’ Wrong answer: ‘I’m not sure. How much are you on?’ Useful material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/10-tips-to- negotiate-your-starting-salary 26
- 27. 18. How will you introduce yourself to the customer ? Customers are the backbone of an organization. As a sales person, you should know how to handle their queries in a proper way. While introducing yourself to the customer, also introduce your company. For example, “My name is Meera. I am working with CareerRide Info. We are an online magazine and we help create awareness about various career options for our site visitors.” Be gentle and try to pay attention to the needs of the customer rather than focusing on your skills. 27
- 28. 19. Do you have any questions? Around 75 percent of job seekers will say “Nope, I think that’s everything” to this question. Terrible response. This question gives you a fantastic opportunity to stand out from the crowd and show your knowledge and passion for the company or organization you are interviewing for. Always have a few questions prepared and have one based around something you found during your company research phase. 28 Tips to answer this question: • Focus your questions on the company and what you can do for them. • Ask about something you’ve discovered in your company research. This will show your passion and knowledge of the company. Useful material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/top-questions-to- ask-employer-after-job-interview
- 29. 19. Do you have any questions? (continue) • Ask if there is any reason the hiring manager wouldn’t hire you. (This can be a little daunting to ask BUT can really pay off. It allows you to address something they may be thinking in their head but haven’t brought up.) • Never say “No, I think I’m good.” Always have questions ready! 29 • Don’t focus your questions on yourself and what you can get from them. (i.e. • Don’t ask questions that you could easily find the answer to. • Don’t ask about time off and benefits too early in the process. • Don’t ask how soon you can start applying for other positions in the company.
- 30. 20. What role does social media play in your selling process? Social selling is becoming more important in all industries. If the candidate has not used social channels to research prospects or look for leads in the past, make sure they have a willingness to learn. 30
- 31. 21. Are you a team player? Almost everyone says yes to this question. But it is not just a yes/no question. You need to provide behavioral examples to back up your answer. A sample answer: "Yes, I'm very much a team player. In fact, I've had opportunities in my work, school and athletics to develop my skills as a team player. For example, on a recent project…" Emphasize teamwork behavioral examples and focus on your openness to diversity of backgrounds. Talk about the strength of the team above the individual. And note that this question may be used as a lead in to questions around how you handle conflict within a team, so be prepared. Useful material for magic lovers: http://magictricksa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/14-secrets-to-become-famous- magician.html 31
- 32. 22. Are you uncomfortable making cold calls? Any interview questions about your discomfort in sales should always be responded to with a “no” without any elaboration. If you are uncomfortable, reevaluate whether the position is right for you. 32
- 33. 23. What challenges are you looking for in this position? A typical interview question to determine what you are looking for your in next job, and whether you would be a good fit for the position being hired for, is "What challenges are you looking for in a position?" The best way to answer questions about the challenges you are seeking is to discuss how you would like to be able to effectively utilize your skills and experience if you were hired for the job. You can also mention that you are motivated by challenges, have the ability to effectively meet challenges, and have the flexibility and skills necessary to handle a challenging job. You can continue by describing specific examples of challenges you have met and goals you have achieved in the past. http://singingtipsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/15-secrets-to-become-famous- singer.html Useful material for singing lovers: 33
- 34. 24. How do you present a new product for a client? They will want to view an actual presentation. If you have experience in sales, you will have a few of these available; select the most interesting, unusual or successful. It would be best to research the areas within the industry you are applying, so that you can speak intelligently about their products and potential client base. It would be wise to know as much as possible about the particular industry. 34
- 35. 25. What experience do you have in this field? Hopefully if you're applying for this position you have bags of related experience, and if that's the case you should mention it all. But if you're switching careers or trying something a little different, your experience may initially not look like it's matching up. That's when you need a little honest creativity to match the experiences required with the ones you have. People skills are people skills after all, you just need to show how customer service skills can apply to internal management positions, and so on. http://guitartipsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/14-secrets-to-become-pro- guitarist.html Useful material for guitar lovers: 35
- 36. 26. What do you think are the most important skills for sales success? Put a number on the skills so that you can structure your sales interview answer around this. For example: "I think the 3 most important sales skills are ..." Rather than referring to specific sales techniques focus on competencies and abilities that every successful salesperson needs, such as: the ability to adjust your approach to different people and situations 36
- 37. 27. Why do you want to work with us? Useful material for piano lovers: http://pianotipsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/14-secrets-to-become-pro- pianist.html 37 More likely than not, the interviewer wishes to see how much you know about the company culture, and whether you can identify with the organization’s values and vision. Every organization has its strong points, and these are the ones that you should highlight in your answer. For example, if the company emphasizes on integrity with customers, then you mention that you would like to be in such a team because you yourself believe in integrity.
- 38. 28. What are the important traits a candidate needs to succeed in a sales job? These are a few traits that candidates need to have to succeed in sales profession - - They have to be highly confident. A sales person should maintain a high confidence level and convince the customers. - They should have the ability to persuade a customer to buy a product. They should have an effective communication skill and should be passionate about their profession. - They should set goals and should be focused in order to achieve their targets. 38
- 39. 28. Continue… - A sales person should be well disciplined. They meet people from different walks of life. They should be polite and should try to avoid conflict with the customers. 39
- 40. 29. Tell me a suggestion you have made that was implemented in this field? It's important here to focus on the word "implemented." There's nothing wrong with having a thousand great ideas, but if the only place they live is on your notepad what's the point? Better still, you need a good ending. If your previous company took your advice and ended up going bankrupt, that's not such a great example either. Be prepared with a story about an idea of yours that was taken from idea to implementation, and considered successful. 40 Do you love running? This is a useful running material for you: http://runningsecrets247.blogspot.com /2017/04/free-ebook-18-running- secrets.html
- 41. 30. What role does content play in your selling process? Again, it’s not necessarily a deal breaker if the salesperson doesn’t actively share and engage with content on their social media accounts, but they should at least want to start doing so. 41
- 42. 31. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or professor? How was it resolved? Note that if you say no, most interviewers will keep drilling deeper to find a conflict. The key is how you behaviourally reacted to conflict and what you did to resolve it. For example: “Yes, I have had conflicts in the past. Never major ones, but there have been disagreements that needed to be resolved. I've found that when conflict occurs, it helps to fully understand the other person’s perspective, so I take time to listen to their point of view, and then I seek to work out a collaborative solution. For example . . .” Focus your answer on the behavioural process for resolving the conflict and working collaboratively. 42
- 43. 32. How do you move on from a rejection? Rejections are common within sales jobs, and one of the primary reasons that most personalities could not handle sales roles. Try to downplay how hard you take rejections, but feel free and be honest about a technique you use to handle rejection or answer with something like, “I simply move on to the next prospect, because a rejection is simply a sign that the individual was not yet ready for our solution.” 43
- 44. 33. Tell me what you know about this company? Do your homework before you go to any interview. Whether it's being the VP of marketing or the mailroom clerk, you should know about the company or business you're going to work for. Has this company been in the news lately? Who are the people in the company you should know about? Do the background work, it will make you stand out as someone who comes prepared, and is genuinely interested in the company and the job. 44 Useful material: 24 books must read in your lifetime http://careersecretsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/24-books-must-read-in-your- lifetime.html
- 45. 34. It is said that Smile and Patience are two vital aspects of a sales job. What is your opinion ? Yes, it is absolutely right. You should have a pleasant personality in order to impress your customer. Make sure that you talk to them with a smile on your face. It will create a friendly atmosphere between you and your client. Your one smile can make them feel comfortable. Having patience is another important aspect of a sales job. You meet customers with different attitude each day. Attend to their queries patiently. Do not express any sort of dissatisfaction. Always remember, having patience will give good results at the end. 45
- 46. 35. What do you know about us? Follow these three easy research tips before your next job interview: 1. Visit the company website; look in the “about us” section and “careers” sections 2. Visit the company’s LinkedIn page (note, you must have a LinkedIn account — its free to sign up) to view information about the company 3. Google a keyword search phrase like “press releases” followed by the company name; you’ll find the most recent news stories shared by the company 46
- 47. 35. What do you know about us? (con…) Remember, just because you have done your “homework”, it does not mean you need to share ALL of it during the interview! Reciting every fact you’ve learned is almost as much of a turn off as not knowing anything at all! At a minimum, you should include the following in your answer: 1. What type of product or service the company sells 2. How long the company has been in business 3. What the company culture is like OR what the company mission statement is, and how the culture and/or mission relate to your values or personality 47 Do you love freelance jobs? Here are number 1 freelance site in the world: Freelancer.com
- 48. 36. What is the definition of sale ? To sell anything, you need to sell your skills first. What do you understand from this statement? A business or an activity that involves selling of goods and services is known as sales. Sales is the final stage in marketing and it involves 4 Ps (place, product, price and promotion). You are the one who increases the number of customers by convincing and persuading them to buy a product or service. Mention your skills because the interviewer might be eager to know them. Also, rate your skills which are required in the field of sales. 48
- 49. 37. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you? Ok, this is not the time for full disclosure. If some people from your past are going to say you're a boring A-hole, you don't need to bring that up. Stay positive, always, and maybe have a few specific quotes in mind. "They'd say I was a hard worker" or even better "John Doe has always said I was the most reliable, creative problem-solver he'd ever met." 49 Useful material: 12 principles to success in life http://careersecretsa2z.blogspot.com/2017/03/12-principles-to-success-in- life.html
- 50. 38. How do you rate your expertise in retail field? Retail selling means to sell goods and products to the consumers through different channels of distribution. You should have some knowledge about your own performance. For example, on the scale of 0 – 10 - 0 to 3 = poor - 3 to 5 =average - 5 to 8 = good - 8 to 10 = outstanding 50
- 51. 39. What major challenges and problems did you face? How did you handle them? With this question, the interviewer is trying to understand how you handle issues and problems. - Can you figure out solutions and workarounds when there is a problem? - How adept are you at problem- solving? - Do you enjoy a challenge, or do you get nervous when there's a glitch? 51 Do you love body art? $1 trial for over 30k Unique Tattoo Designs. For more detail, please visit: http://tattoodesigns68.blogspot.com/ 2017/04/30k-tattoo-designs.html
- 52. 40. How do you research prospects before a call or meeting? What information do you look for? Neglecting to use LinkedIn to research clients is not a viable option in today’s sales environment. Ensure that candidates are searching for personal commonalities in addition to professional information so they can tailor their communication as much as possible. Looking into company trigger events would be the cherry on top. 52
- 53. Top 12 job tips for sales interview (details in next page) 53
- 54. Tip 1: Do your homework You'll likely be asked difficult questions during the interview. Preparing the list of likely questions in advance will help you easily transition from question to question. You'll likely be asked difficult questions during the interview. Preparing the list of likely questions in advance will help you easily transition from question to question. 54 Spend time researching the company. Look at its site to understand its mission statement, product offerings, and management team. A few hours spent researching before your interview can impress the hiring manager greatly. Read the company's annual report (often posted on the site), review the employee's LinkedIn profiles, and search the company on Google News, to see if they've been mentioned in the media lately. Related material: http://interviewquestionsaz.blogspot.com/2013/07/job-interview- checklist-40-points.html
- 55. Tip 2: First impressions When meeting someone for the first time, we instantaneously make our minds about various aspects of their personality. Prepare and plan that first impression long before you walk in the door. Continue that excellent impression in the days following, and that job could be yours. Therefore: • Never arrive late. • Use positive body language and turn on your charm right from the start. • Switch off your mobile before you step into the room. • Look fabulous; dress sharp and make sure you look your best. • Start the interview with a handshake; give a nice firm press and then some up and down movement. • Determine to establish a rapport with the interviewer right from the start. • Always let the interviewer finish speaking before giving your response. • Express yourself fluently with clarity and precision. 55
- 56. Tip 3: The “Hidden” Job Market Many of us don’t recognize that hidden job market is a huge one and accounts for 2/3 of total job demand from enterprises. This means that if you know how to exploit a hidden job market, you can increase your chance of getting the job up to 300%. In this section, the author shares his experience and useful tips to exploit hidden job market. 56 Here are some sources to get penetrating into a hidden job market: Friends; Family; Ex-coworkers; Referral; HR communities; Field communities; Social networks such as Facebook, Twitter…; Last recruitment ads from recruiters; HR emails of potential recruiters… Related material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/9-tips-to-tap-into-the- hidden-job-market
- 57. Tip 4: Overcome “job interview nervous“ Job interview nervous is one of the first reasons why you fail in job interviews. 57 Related material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/top-11-ways-you-can- zap-your-job-interview-nerves
- 58. Tip 5: Do-It-Yourself Interviewing Practice There are a number of ways to prepare for an interview at home without the help of a professional career counselor or coach or a fee-based service. You can practice interviews all by yourself or recruit friends and family to assist you. 58
- 59. Tip 6: Tailor your story to the job Applying your story to a specific employer or job is the next step. Lining up the stories that apply to the opportunity at hand is critical. Put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes and pose the questions you would ask. Which stories are relevant to this job interview? Think about personal stories that show how you handled change, made choices under pressure, or learned lessons from mistakes and failures. You should also think about stories you can tell in the interview that reveal your skill set. 59 Learning and appreciating your story is a prerequisite to any interview process. Don’t rely on your ability to think on your feet. Anticipate the questions and have answers at the ready. In the end, this is about making a great and memorable impression that demonstrates competency and ability.
- 60. Tip 7: Dress for Success Plan out a wardrobe that fits the organization and its culture, striving for the most professional appearance you can accomplish. Remember that it's always better to be overdressed than under -- and to wear clothing that fits and is clean and pressed. Keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview -- and if possible, brush your teeth or use mouthwash. 60 Related material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/top-10- tips-to-dress-for-job-interview-success
- 61. Tip 8: Arrive on Time for the Interview -- and Prepared for Success There is no excuse for ever arriving late for an interview -- other than some sort of disaster. Strive to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow yourself time to get settled. Arriving a bit early is also a chance to observe the dynamics of the workplace. 61 The day before the interview, pack up extra copies of your resume or CV and reference list. If you have a portfolio or samples of your work, bring those along too. Finally, remember to pack several pens and a pad of paper to jot notes. Finally, as you get to the offices, shut off your cell phone. (And if you were chewing gum, get rid of it.)
- 62. Tip 9: Focus more on what you can do for the company, rather than what they can do for you At the beginning of the job interview process, someone has to assume the role of the seller, and someone has to be the buyer. You're the seller at this early stage of the process. As the interview progresses you will eventually be asked: Do you have any questions for us? It’s a bad idea to say, no, I can’t think of anything. It’s also a bad idea to have a grocery list of interview questions a mile long. Appropriate Job Interview Questions to Ask Your Interviewers • How would you describe a typical day in this position? • In my first 90 days on the job, what’s my first priority? • What is one of the most difficult challenges facing your department? • Is this a new position, or am I replacing someone? • What’s the company’s strategy for generating new business? • What is your management style like? 62
- 63. Tip 10: Bring examples of your work Use the power of the printed word to your advantage. As an executive recruiter, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been called by a hiring manager after an interview, and told how impressed they were with one of my candidates who brought examples of their work. Most job seekers fail to do this in preparing for a job interview. This one job interview tip alone will set you apart from other candidates. Idea: Some job seekers bring a copy of their most recent written evaluation to the interview. Obviously, you should only do this if your evaluation is outstanding. The power of the printed word applies here as well. If you share your strengths with your interviewers, it's duly noted. If one of your bosses said those same things about you...it's gospel. Another great example of your work is any chart or graph that illustrates specifically how you saved the company time or money...or how you made the company money. 63
- 64. Tip 11: Ask questions Do not leave the interview without ensuring that you know all that you want to know about the position. Once the interview is over, your chance to have important questions answered has ended. Asking questions also can show that you are interested in the job. Be specific with your questions. Ask about the company and the industry. Avoid asking personal questions of the interviewer and avoid asking questions pertaining to politics, religion and the like. 64 Useful material: https://www.slideshare.net/jobsearchtipsa2z/top-questions-to- ask-employer-after-job-interview
- 65. Tip 12: Follow up and send a thank-you note Following up after an interview can help you make a lasting impression and set you apart from the crowd. Philip Farina, CPP, a security career expert at Manta Security Management Recruiters, says: "Send both an email as well as a hard-copy thank-you note, expressing excitement, qualifications and further interest in the position. Invite the hiring manager to contact you for additional information. This is also an excellent time to send a strategic follow-up letter of interest." 65 Related material: http://interviewquestionsaz.blogspot.com/p/top-interview-thank- you-letter-samples.html and http://interviewquestionsaz.blogspot.com/p/10-things-to-do-after-job-interview.html
- 66. Other job interview materials: Below are other useful materials from: topinterviewquestions.info • 440 behavioral interview questions • Top 36 situational interview questions with answers • 95 management interview questions with answers • Top 30 phone interview questions with answers • 290 competency based interview questions • 45 internship interview questions • Top free 14 cover letter samples • Top free 16 resume sample • Top 15 ways to search new jobs • Second interview • Job interview checklist 40 points • Top 15 tips for interview preparation • Top questions to ask employer during interview • Top 58 interview written test examples • Top 38 job interview best best practices • Top 12 job interview case study samples • 15 interview followup email examples • 28 job interview guide, interview thank letter samples and job interview process • 14 job interview tips for candidate with no experience 66
- 67. Other job interview materials: Below are other useful materials from: topinterviewquestions.info • 29 powerpoint presentation examples, 15 interview role play examples • Free ebook: 145 interview questions and answers pdf download • Top 10 biggest/strengths weaknesses in job interview • How to answer question: tell me about your self? • Top 12 tips for dress code (clothes, attire) • 25 job interview do's and don'ts • 7 interview assessment forms, 27 interview advices • Top 20 closing questions/ closing statements • 9 interview evaluation forms/interview rating forms • 12 interview group/panel discussion tips • How to do interview introduction? • 18 scenario questions, 23 screening questions • Top 4 common interview rounds and how to prepare • 45 Fresher sales interview questions and answers 67
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