12 Interview Questions
1) Tell me something about yourself:
This question is aimed at finding out what kind of person you are, not merely about your job skills. You may wish to mention your personal strengths, interests and abilities.
(2) Have you ever done this kind of work before:
You should never say "no" to this type of question. Since no two jobs are the same, what the interviewer wants to know is whether you can learn to do that job in a reasonable amount of time. Mention transferable skills and all of the experiences you have had that makes it likely that you can learn quickly to do the duties required in this specific job. Discuss your education/training in relation to the job, any relevant non-paid experiences, and how quickly you have learned that type of work in the past.
(3) Why do you want to work here:
When an interviewer asks you why you wish to work for their company, they are attempting to learn whether you will be satisfied with your job and likely to stay. It is also a way to see whether or not you have done any research on the company, know it enough to really want to work there, rather that just wanting to work anywhere. To reassure the interviewer, mention as many positive features about the job, company or organization as you can.
(4) Why did you leave your last job:
When the interviewer asks you why you left your last job or why you want to leave your present job, they are trying to determine whether you had difficulties that may also arise with them.
In describing your last job, say as many positive things as you can abou t it even if it had many undesirable features--all jobs do. Try not to say anything negative about the company or the supervisor, only that your needs did not fit with the job. Be evasive, if possible, for if you criticize the company or supervisor, the interviewer will view you as someone who is likely to do the same to them if you are hired by their company. On the other hand, they will regard you as appreciative and pleasant if they hear you speaking in a positive way about a company you left and will feel that you are likely to be appreciative and pleasant regarding the job for which for you are interviewed.
(5) What kind of salary are you expecting?
When you are asked about your salary requirements in an interview, the interviewer is attempting to determine whether your expectations are too high for them. Of course, you want as much as the company is willing to pay. However, by naming a salary at this stage of the hiring process, you can only harm yourself. The wisest course is to remain negotiable until you have been offered a position.
(6) Why should we hire you instead of someone else:
When you are asked this direct question, the interviewer is asking you, in a sense, to make their decision for them. If you have to hesitate or can think of only one or two reasons, then they will feel that the reasons are not too obvious or not sufficient. You should quickly list your skills and positive characteristics.
(7) How much were you absent from your last job:
This question is to determine whether you are dependable. Discuss your past attendance record and give assurance of your future reliability.
(8) When are you available for work:
Try to answer as soon as possible. Many factors may be causing your hesitation about committing yourself, but now is not the time to mention them. If you express hesitation now, you may not get a job offer. Whether it is because you are uncertain about wanting the job, have scheduling problems, or are waiting to hear about other job opportunities, wait until you are actually offered the position to discuss your concerns.
(9) What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses:
Try to highlight your most positive attributes (i.e., skill, reliability, experience, enthusiasm...) Make sure to use examples to illustrate your positive qualities and how they apply to work. Do not describe any weaknesses that may be essential to performing effectively on the job, and avoid making negative comments. Talk about things which you have improved and the steps you took to do so.
(10) What five words would you say describe you best:
When asked to select words to describe yourself, select only positive aspects.
(11) What was your last employer's opinion of you:
The best answer to the general question about your last employer's opinion of you is to have an open letter of recommendation from your last employer, which you can then summarize and show to the interviewer. If you do not have such a letter list the positive things they would say about you. Suggest that the interviewer contact your employer, and express your assurance that they will speak highly of you. Supply the interviewer with a list of references, including phone numbers.
(12) What are your long-range goals:
The interviewer is trying to find out whether this position fits in with your long term plans. The items to stress are that you like the company/organization, you hope to become a valuable employee, and that you hope you will be in a role which challenges you and enables you to make an effective contribution to the company.
Even if you know beforehand that the organization has opportunities for advancement and encourages it, be cautious about making statements concerning your desire for promotion. Excessive enthusiasm for advancement can be misinterpreted as dissatisfaction with the job you are starting in or as future problem competition.
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