The steps you need for a successful interview

1. Improving Job
Interviews Skills
Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew –1–

2. AGENDA
– Typical Job Interview
– Preparing for the Job Interview
– Appearance
– Prohibited Interview Questions
– Most Commonly-Asked Interview Questions
– Questions you can ask at the Job Interview
– Post-Interview Follow-Up
– If time permits…
• Job Interview Questions & Possible Answers
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3. The Transition 101 Model
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Are you prepared to do each one of these steps?
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4. Typical Job Interview
FIRMS ARE LOOKING FOR SOLUTIONS TO THEIR PROBLEMS THAT
REDUCE COSTS WHILE ADDING VALUE AT THE SAME TIME
YOU have to be the problem solver !!!!
Purpose of the typical job interview is to:
1.More closely screen a handful of applicants.
2.To learn more about you, your personality, your appearance, your demeanor.
3.To determine your ability to answer some stupid/hard questions.
•It is NOT about your paper…it is about YOU!!
Standard Format:
– Greetings and Small Talk to break the ice
– Interviewer gives brief overview of position and organization
– YOU ANSWER questions.
• (Work Experience, Strengths/Weaknesses etc. .YOU talk ..longest part of interview)
– YOU ASK questions
– Interviewer closes the interview and explains the next steps
– Be SURE to thank the interviewer for his/her time
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5. The 4 P’s of Job Interview
Preparation
Frustrating for an interviewer to have someone that they are talking to who
really does not know the company or the position they are applying for.
Practice
Candidates can often anticipate the kinds of questions -– if not the exact
questions -- Once you've determined the probable questions, practice with
someone or a mirror is recommended.
Personal Presentation
1.Dressing appropriately
“A smile is contagious; be a carrier!!”
2.Hand Shake
3.Not being nervous
4.Smiling
5.Eye Contact
Perceptive Questions
It's profoundly disappointing in interviews to get to the end and the
interviewer says, ‘Do you have any questions I can answer for you?' and you
say, ‘Nope, I think you answered them all,' and that's the end of it. It reflects
negatively on the candidate.
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6. Typical Job Interview
During the interview
•You should:
– Be enthusiastic and prepared
– Be knowledgeable about the organization (do your homework)
– Be confident and sell your skills
– Listen carefully and be interested
•The interviewer will try to determine the following traits:
– Achiever
– Productive
– Self-starter
– Contributor
– Quick Learner
– Easy Going
– Dependable
– Stable
– Responsible
Interviewer will try to determine if you possess the nine traits by asking you a
series of questions and observing your demeanor while you answer them.
Therefore, spend time preparing for the interview in order to make the best
impression.
Job Interview Presentation
Be able to –
Ron Drew –6
answer the question: “Why should I hire you?”

7. Preparing for the Job Interview
Memorizing good answers to typical interview questions isn’t enough preparation.
If three candidates are being interviewed for the same job and only one has spent several
hours researching the company/industry, who do you think stands the best chance?
•You should:
– Spend 3, 4 or more hours to become familiar with the company, products/services,
competitors, and the industry it operates.
– Be able to answer
• “Why do you want to work for us?”
• “What do you know about our company?”
• “How can you benefit our company?”
– If you do this, your odds of beating your competition increase dramatically.
•Do Research:
– Start researching a company by simply typing “Name of Company” in major
search engine like Google.com.
» www.411stocks.com
» www.businesswire.comk
» www.brint.com
» www.wetfeet.com
» www.hooversonline.com
» www.thomasregister.com
» www.reuters.com
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8. Preparing for the Job Interview
Topics to Research Know as many of these answers before the interview:
 How old is the company?  What are its short and long term goals?
 What are its products or services?  How has the company resolved
 Who are its customers? problems?
 Have there been recent employee
 Who are its major competitors?
layoffs?
 What are its reputation and industry
 Where is the company located?
standing?
(Multiple Locations?)
 What are its new products or services?
 What are the backgrounds of
 How large is the company? management?
 What training programs are offered?
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9. Preparing for the Job Interview
You cannot turn down a job you have not been offered!
There is ONLY 3 Real Interview Questions!!
1. Strengths Can you do the job?
2. Motivation Will you love the job?
3. Fit Can I stand working with you?
Interviewer asks:
What are your strengths? (strengths)
What are you looking to do? (motivation)
What sort of people do you like to work with? (fit)
This is tricky stuff !!!! Invest the time and make sure you answer the 3!!!!
The quality of your pre-interview research, preparation and rehearsal will strongly impact the
success of your interviews.
The more prepared you are, the better impression you will make.
Most unsuccessful interviews can be traced to lack of preparation, not lack of qualifications.
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10. Arriving for an Interview
On Time is LATE!!!!
 Arrive 15 minutes early (sit in your car if earlier!)
– Arrival announce, Interviewer Impressed
– Speaks volumes for reliability, dependable and sensitive to his/her
time being valuable
– Use the time to
• Gather your thoughts
• Use the Restroom
• Check your appearance
– If a company newsletter in waiting area, use it to add to company
information
– Treat the Receptionist with respect!!
 Set your clocks 20 minutes ahead
 TEST Drive and find the parking!
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11. Hiring Checklist
Departmental Leaders look for candidates who:
 Knows how to work well in a team  Makes a good impression with the
environment. entire team, not just the hiring
manager.
 Shows enthusiasm for the job.
 Makes a good impression with the
 Can understand the business organization’s customers.
mission behind department
initiatives.  Is highly intelligent and has excellent
problem-solving abilities.
 Has a strong work ethic.
 Has relevant experience and
 Can think creatively to solve education.
problems.
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12. Appearance
 Men
Ask About Dress Code
 Fingernails should be short and clean; manicured if Fingernails should be clean; manicured if possible.
possible. Choose subtle low-key over bright fashion colors for nail
 Hair should be clean, well groomed and freshly polishes.
trimmed. Use a dandruff shampoo, if necessary, and
always comb hair with your jacket off. Wear a suit or tailored dress in basic navy or gray.
Blouses should also be tailored and color coordinated.
 A navy blue or dark gray suit is appropriate for most Don’t wear big bows or ties.
positions. Be sure it's cleaned and pressed. Men
with stout builds should avoid three-piece suits.
Avoid exotic hairstyles and excessive makeup. Hair
 Shirts should be white, freshly laundered and well should be neat, clean and brushed with your jacket off.
pressed. Makeup should be light and natural looking.
 A quiet tie with a subtle design and a hint of red is Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances.
suitable for a first interview. Avoid loud colors and
busy designs.
Jewelry should be limited and subtle. Don’t wear
 Jewelry should be kept minimal. A watch and jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or
wedding or class ring are acceptable. Don't wear service organizations.
jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious
or service organizations. Use deodorant and avoid A closed toe pump that is color coordinated with your
colognes or fragrances completely.
outfit is appropriate for an interview. Avoid open-toed
 Shoes that are black and freshly polished (including shoes or sling-backs.
the heels) are a safe choice for an interview. Socks
should be black or blue and worn over the calf. For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the
 knees.
For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the
knees.
Maintain good eye contact.
 Maintain good eye contact.
Do not take portable phones or beepers into an
 Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview.
interview.
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13. Types of Job Interview
1. Sequential or “Beauty Parade”
2. Decision Makers Probably the least structured/
professional
3. Stamp-of-Approval – Executives or Peers
4. Presentations “You’re On”
5. Stress - Panels
6. Exit Interviews – Typically HR Follow-ups
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14. The Job Interview
Think about the following from start to end of interview:
 Do you want a glass of water, coffee or soda ? (Yes or No)
 Pay attention to your and the interviewer’s body language !
 If in an office, what does the interviewer’s office look like ?
 If in a group, know your audience.
 Eye to eye contact.
 Tell SHORT Stories, if appropriate
 Is/Are the interviewer(s) ORGANIZED or is it a SOCIAL EVENT ?
 ORGANIZED….interviewer runs the interview
 SOCIAL EVENT…you have to run the interview
 Know when to STOP talking ! (Answers should be 30-60 seconds)
 DO NOT repeat each question back to interviewer !
 To take notes OR NOT to take notes, that is the question.
 Watch the time !
 Get a business card
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15. The Job Interview
 First impressions can make you or break you – within 15 - 30 seconds.
 You must know and be able to state what your ideal work situation is.
 You must have your “Two-Minute Drill” down cold.
 You must be ready to discuss and illustrate your strengths (and weaknesses) at the drop of a hat.
Interview Impact
 If you don’t know, or can’t state why you are there, the interviewer won’t know either.
Areas Approximate Interview Impact
Attitude 40 percent
Image and Appearance 15 percent
Communication (verbal and nonverbal) 35 percent
Job Qualifications 10 percent
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16. Don’t do the Following at an Interview
 Exaggerate or make up anything
 Carry in an overcoat, umbrella, briefcase to an interview
 Sit before being asked
 Chew anything
 Smoke
 Fidget
 Interrupt
 Slouch or get “too” comfortable
 Mumble or shout or raise your voice at the end of sentences
 Talk too much on the same question (yada...yada...yada !!!)
 State your answer and stop
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17. Don’t do the Following at an Interview
 Answer with a simple “yes” or “no”
 Be negative about anything (prior job, manager, company)
 Show annoyance
 Play hard to get
 Curse...when an interviewer gets you comfortable...do NOT drop
the F..Bomb!!
 Project an attribute is desperation (Hire Me ...I Beg You!!) –or--
Imply the job is beneath you
 Ask about vacations, salary, bonuses, benefits, until after you
have a firm offer
 Accept an offer on the spot
 Complain about the parking or directions
 Space out / Zone out
 Do anything disgusting (pick at teeth or nose etc)
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18. Forbidden Interview Questions
Federal and State legislation prohibits employers from asking certain questions during
the interview. Not all employers are familiar with these laws.
What should you do if asked and illegal question? Experts say, if you want
the job you should ignore the violation and answer. Others recommend that you very
tactfully point out the question is illegal.
Questions employers are not supposed to ask:
1. What was your maiden name?
2. When were you born?
3. When did you graduate from high school?
4. What is your race?
5. Do you have physical or mental disabilities?
6. Do you have a drug or alcohol problem?
7. Are you taking any prescription drugs?
8. Would working on weekends conflict with your religion?
9. What country are you a citizen of?
10.Have you ever been arrested?
11.What language did you speak in your home when you were growing up?
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19. Forbidden Interview Questions
Employers usually obtain information sought by rephrasing them to legal ones in some cases:
Questions employers are not supposed to ask and Questions rephrased:
– What was your maiden name?  What is your Name?
– When were you born?  Are you over 18?
– When did you graduate from high school?  Did you graduate from high school?
– What is your race?  No questions about race are allowed !!
– Do you have physical or mental disabilities?  Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?
– Do you have a drug or alcohol problem?  Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?
– Are you taking any prescription drugs?  Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?
– Would working on weekends conflict with your religion?  Would you be able to meet the job’s requirement to
frequently work weekends?
– What country are you a citizen of?  Do you have the legal right to work in the USA?
– Have you ever been arrested?  Have you ever been convicted of a felony?
– What language did you speak in our home when you were growing up?  This job requires that you speak
[language]. Do You?
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20. Most Commonly-Asked Interview Questions
Most Commonly Asked Interview Questions Questions Commonly Asked of Recent College Most Popular Questions in 2012
o Why should I hire you? Students or Graduates o What is your vision of the ideal job
o Why do you want to work for this company? o What is your GPA? Do you feel it reflects and boss?
o What are your strengths and weaknesses? your true abilities? o Why are you searching for new
o What do you think determines a person’s progress with o How has your schooling (internships) employment?
a company? prepared you for this position? o What are your unique qualifications or
o What have you done to increase your personal o What was your favorite course in college experiences that separate you form
development? and why? other candidates?
o Are you happy with your career progress do date? o Why did you decide to attend X college? o Describe yourself.
o What are your career goals? Are you happy with your choice?
o
o What are your short and long term
Tell Me about Yourself. o What factors did you consider in goals?
o What is your most significant accomplishment? choosing your major? o What are the best and worst aspects
o Are you willing to take calculated risks? o How did your college experience change of our previous job?
o What are the things that motivate you? you? o What do you know about our
o What is the most difficult situation that you have ever
o What kind of grades did you have in company?
faced?
school? o What would your former boss and co-
o Why do you want to leave your present employer? Or
What have you been doing since your last position? o Why were your grades not very good in workers say about you?
o What jobs have you enjoyed the most and the least and school? o What are your strengths and
why? o Why didn’t you participate in internship weaknesses?
o What actions would you take if we hired you? programs while in school?
o Why did you want to get in to this field? o Why are you applying for a job unrelated
o What can you offer us that someone else can’t? to your internship experiences?
o How would your supervisor describe you? o Why are you applying for a job not
o Do you work better alone or as part of a team? related to your degree?
o What are your primary activities outside of work? o What extracurricular activities did you
o How do you handle people that you don’t get along participate in?
with? o If you had it to do over again, would you
o What makes you think you can handle this position? choose the same major?
o With what other companies are interviewing?
o What has been your greatest challenge?
o Explain the worst decision you have made.
Questions with this color need a lot of thought !!!
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21. Questions you can ask at the Interview
Good Questions to ask the Interviewer: (Pick 3-5 max per interview)
– Why is this position available?
– Is this a new position? How long has this position existed?
– How many people have held this position in the last 2 years?
– Who would be my supervisor? To whom would I report?
– Whom will I supervise?
– With whom will I be working most closely?
– What do you like about working for this company?
– What are the current plans for expansion or cutbacks?
– What kind of turnover rate does the company have?
– How financially sound is this company?
– What projects and assignments will I be working on?
– What happened to the person that held this position before? Was he/she
promoted, fired? Did he/she retire or accept an offer at another firm?
– What is this company’s culture? (Rigid and formal or relaxed and flexible?)
– What are the current problems facing the company (or my department)?
Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 21 –

22. Questions you can ask at the Interview
Good Questions to ask the Interviewer:
– What do you like most about working for this company? The least?
– What is the philosophy of the company?
– What do you consider to be the company’s strengths and weaknesses?
– What are the company’s long and short term goals?
– Describe the work environment.
– What attracted you (the interviewer) to this organization?
– Why do you enjoy working for this company?
– Describe the typical responsibilities of the position.
– What are the most challenging aspects of the position?
– Describe the opportunities for training and professional development.
– Will I receive any formal training?
– What is the company’s promotional policy? Are there opportunities for
advancement within the organization?
– What are the next steps in the process?
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23. Questions you do NOT ask at the Interview
– Questions relating to salary and benefits.
• Though these questions are very important, it is not a question that should be
brought up during any interview.
• At all times you should appear 100% committed to the interviewing company.
– Avoiding the self-serving questions.
• How did I do in the interview?
• What do you think of me?
• What do you think of my qualifications?
• You will know how well you did in the interview. A human resources
representative should give you an interview briefing after an offer is made, and
before you accept, to answer those questions. Questions are a vital part of the
interview, be sure you are prepared.
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24. Post-Interview Follow-Up
• A follow-up thank you to the interviewer is an important step in the interviewing
process, one that candidates often forget to take. It is not only proper business
etiquette, but it also makes you stand out. Write it ASAP after the interview.
• Send the “thank you” even if you do not want the job. Let the interviewer know in the
thank you. Ask the interviewer to keep you in mind for any other positions in the future.
• Also, follow-up with an information such as samples of proposals, code, RFP,
presentations, etc. if you are requested and legal. You can also follow-up with items not
related to the position, such as book names etc.
• Components of the Follow-Up Thank You
– Appreciation for the opportunity to interview, tour facilities, meet other employees, etc.
– Mention the day of interview and position which you interviewed.
– Express continued interest in the position and company.
– Re-emphasize your most important skills and qualifications and how you expect to contribute
to the organization.
– Include any information you forgot to mention in the interview, if necessary (be brief).
– Close the thank you with a comment about future contact with the employer
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25. Post-Interview Follow-Up
Sample Thank You:
Dear _________________:
I appreciated the opportunity to interview at [company] with you on Monday January 7, 2013. The
tour of the facilities and conversations with [company]’s staff gave me a clear overview of the role of
[position] at [company]. In particular, I was impressed with the state-of-art equipment in
[company]’s computer room and the exciting projects that are being introduced and executed at
[company].
The entire experience has confirmed my desire for employment as a [position] with [company]. My
experience along with the chemistry I see within your organization has and will prepare me well for
this position. Based on my interview, I think I would fit in well with the [company] staff.
Thank you again for the experience of getting to know your organization better. I would welcome the
opportunity to work for [company], and look forward to hearing from you in the next two weeks.
Sincerely,
***If you decided after interviewing that you DO NOT want the position, you may offer ***
Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the position of [position] on Monday January 7, 2013.
While I still would enjoy working for your company, after learning more about the position I realize
that I am searching for a more challenging position that better utilizes my skill and experience and
requires less travel. If you company has such a position, please let me know.
Follow-up letters are critical
 Within 24 hours
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 One page maximum length

26. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Usually first question, Good ice-breaker. Do not give useless information such as I
“Tell me about yourself” am married, my hobbies are yada yada yada. A great strategy is to ask: "What
area of my background are you most interested in?" Their response allows you to
tell them what they want to hear. Spend 2 minutes focus on work-related skills and
accomplishments. Mention 1 or 2 personal character traits and tell interviewer how
traits helped you accomplish a task. Don’t use old clichés “I am a team player” or
“I have excellent communication skills” unless you can prove it. For example: “I
would describe myself as a self-starter. At ABC Co., there was a problem with
routing delivery vehicles so I created a new system (give details but brief) that
reduced delivery time by 10 percent.”
“Why should we hire you? Why Take several minutes to answer this one incorporating your personality traits,
do you want this position” strengths, and experience in to the job you're applying for. Focus on how you can
benefit the company problems and concerns.
State 1 or 2 strengths that are work-related and tell the interviewer the story about
“What is your greatest strength when that strength helped you accomplish the task. For example: “I have the
(or strengths)?” ability to train and motivate people. At ABC Co., employee turnover was very high,
so I ….(give details on how you solved the problem)”
Don’t answer by saying you have no weaknesses! Confess a real weakness you
“What is your greatest weakness have, but choose one that isn’t particularly relevant to the job you’re seeking. Do
not answer with phony weaknesses such as “I’m a slave to my job”. You might
(or weaknesses)?” offer the title of a book you have read that helped you improve your shyness,
impatience, etc.
You can state you want a more challenging position, higher salary, or more
“Why do you want to/did you responsibility. Do not mention personal conflicts or bad-mouth. This will harm
leave your employer?” your chances of being offered the job. Show drive, ambition and motivation.
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27. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Don’t answer, “Because you advertised on Monster”. Indicate the most
“Why do you want to work for interesting aspects of the company such as “because it is on the cutting
this company” edge of technology” or “because you are the industry leader”. Your
research on the company should prepare you for the answer.
“What do you know about our If you answer “Not Much”, it will probably eliminate you. Do your research
company?” as mentioned. If you can not find information, call their offices and ask the
receptionist to send you information in the form of a brochure, etc.
Your answer should offer what you think are the most interesting aspects of
“Why do you want this position?” the position. More responsibility and opportunity, including higher salary,
are acceptable, but state them in a way that is not blunt as in “because it
pays more”. Something like, “The position offers more responsibility,
challenges and interesting opportunities, as well as higher salary,” is a good
answer.
“Do you work better alone or as
part of a team?” This depends on the job you are applying for. If the job requires you to
spend lots of time alone, then one answer if not vice versa. Never sound
too extreme one way or the other. A healthy balance is always best.
Significant amount of time alone while traveling but when in the workplace
worked well on numerous team projects and got alone well with others on
“What did your last supervisor
the projects.
criticize most about your
performance?” Good way to answer the question is to offer criticism you received that is not
very important or not directly related to the position you are applying for. In
fact, if you can state that you have already solved the problem and received
a higher mark, then say so.
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28. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Answer should state that you see yourself working at whatever job is 2 to 3
“Where do you see yourself in five levels above the job you are applying for if appropriate. Do NOT claim that
years” you will be “running the company” in 5 years. You may want to add you
understand promotions will be earned through hard work and not just
because of years of service.
If this applies, reasons should always by based on past employers’ failure to
“Why have you changed jobs so challenge you or give you enough opportunity for advancement. Do NOT
frequently?” state the past employer was incompetent, dumb or unfair. Mention that
your career goal is for “Long Term Employment” and stability much like a
new marriage or home.
If relocating was not an issue, the interviewer would not ask the question.
“Are you willing to relocate?” Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO could mean no job. Ask
questions like “when is it likely to occur”, “where relocate to” and would a
promotion be involved.
If traveling was not part of the job, the interviewer would not ask the
“Are you willing to travel?” question. Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO could mean
no job. Ask questions like “how much travel is involved" and “travel to
where”.
If this was not an aspect of the job, the interviewer would not ask the
“Are you willing to work question. Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO means no
overtime?” job. If your past jobs involved overtime, now would be the time to tell this to
the interviewer.
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29. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Most interviewers know that many candidates have been fired at least once and
“Have you ever been fired or almost always due to personality conflict with the boss or co-workers. So if the
asked to resign” answer is yes, answer the question honestly, but without attacking your former
boss. Do not sound bitter or defensive.
“How long have you been looking If this applies, state the economy or that you are being selective about whom you
and why haven’t you received an will work for. Of course the interviewer may ask, “What offers have you turned
down?” which could harm you if you have not received any offers. A bad economy
offer?” and a crowded market are good reasons. Be aware that many interviewers will still
hold this against you.
“What previously held job do you Trick question to determine if you enjoy the type of work the position you are
consider to be your favorite and applying for involves. Therefore the answer should be a job that is similar to the
why?” one you applying for. For example, if you are applying for a high-stress demanding
chaotic environment, don’t tell the interviewer you loved the job at ACME Co.
because of the mellow, low stress atmosphere.
“Would you choose the same How you answer this depends on whether you are trying to win a job related to
career if you could start over your career history or trying to enter a new field. No matter how much you despise
again?” the current career, do not admit this fact to the interviewer because it tells him/her
you consider work a drudge.
If this applies, moving frequently can harm you, but so can staying with the same
“Why have you stayed with the employer particularly if you have never been promoted or intellectually challenged
same employer for so long?” in years. Your answer should state something about having worked successfully
with many people inside/outside of the organization including different bosses and
co-workers as well as customers.
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30. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Depends on the type of company it is you are interviewing at. Start-up or highly-
“Do you consider yourself to be a competitive industry probably are looking for those willing to take risks. So offer a
risk-taker” risk you have taken in business. Well-established industry leaders, risk takers are
not as highly valued. Good rule of thumb is to put yourself somewhere in the
middle…you are neither too foolish nor overly cautious.
If this applies, never answer this with negative information such as “Not surprised
“Would your present employer be in the least” or “He’s been trying to shove me out for years”. Always say you are
surprised to know you’re job happy with your current job and you are simply looking to take on more challenge,
hunting?” opportunities and yes, salary.
The ONLY acceptable answer is “Very Well”. Don’t just make the claim, offer an
“How well do you handle change?” example of how well you coped with a major change (not minor) in the work
environment. How did you cope or adapt with a previous employer.
Do your research before the interview so you don’t ask too much or little. You may
“What salary are you expecting?” be asked to justify your worth, so be prepared to answer. (i.e. tell them how your
skills and experience will benefit the company)
Don’t claim you never had a dispute with a co-worker. Your interviewer will know
“How do you resolve disputes with you are lying. Best to answer about a dispute with a co-worker , how it was
resolved with a positive outcome. Focus on work-related issues not personal
Co-workers? How do you handle feuds. The answer should tell the interviewer you resolved the dispute on your
conflicts in the workplace?” own, and hopefully the other person and you are now friends or at least can work
together. Never say you resolved a dispute by using your boss. Employers get
sick of dealing with employee conflicts and want mature people that can resolve
conflicts.
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31. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions How you should answer
“Who was your favorite boss and 2 of the most difficult questions to answer unless you know what the
interviewer wants to hear. Employers are looking for contributors to the
why? Who was our least favorite company, improving job skills and making a contribution. For LEAST.
boss and why?” Instead of insulting or demeaning your past bosses by saying they “hogged
all the credit” or was “totally incompetent”, state you wished he had offered
you more feedback about job performance or provided more job training or
challenged you with more opportunities. The BEST Answer is using the
“What could you have done to same at LEAST only in the positive sense.
improve your relationship with
Again, refrain from stating negatives about your former boss. Put a positive
your least favorite boss?” spin on it by saying, if you had it to do over, you would have requested more
feedback regarding performance and requested more assignments.
“What book are you currently/or
last read? What were the last 3 Correct answer is to offer the title of a nonfiction book, preferably one that
books you read” the subject related to your career or business in general. If IT, an example
is “Internet for Dummies” or time management or technology books. Don’t
lie, the interviewer may have read the book and will ask questions.
“What is the last movie that you
saw?”
Don’t reply, “don’t have time to watch movies as I am completely devoted to
finding a job”. You will lose points. Select popular for general public not
controversial. Also don’t reveal you are obsessed with watching movies 3
or 4 times.
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32. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Recommend you do NOT disclose any other offers. Therefore, a good
“Are you considering offers from answer is to state you have no offers from other companies. (Of course, if
other employers” for some reason you feel you would have a better chance of getting the job
if you disclose, then do so) .
It is customary to give 2 weeks notice to the prior employer. Those in
“When can you start?” management are expected to give longer notice. Do NOT say you plan to
quit your present job without sufficient notice. The interviewer will assume
you will do the same to his/her company. Also, telling the interview you
can’t begin for a few months because you want to take some time off is not
a good idea.
“Why did you attend X college? Always say you are happy with your choice, even if you aren't. Do not say
Are you happy with your choice?” “it was the only place that would accept me”. No negative statements about
the school or professors. A good reason could be you liked the particular
program they offered, or it is known for offering a good education in your
particular major.
“Have you ever fired anyone?” If this applies, the interviewer does not want you to express either too much
indifference or too much sympathy for those you have had to fire. Tell the
interviewer how you discussed the person’s shortcomings several times and
tried to help improve, but as a last resort, you had no choice but to fire the
person.
“How do you motivate
There is NO simple way to motivate all people due to the vast number of
employees?” personality types and situations people work. Best answer tells that each
employee must be uniquely motivated. You should have several examples
of situations where you successful motivated employees.
Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 32 –

33. Interview Questions & Possible Answers
Questions Answer
Most people would respond with an answer avowing a deep commitment;
“What is your commitment to however a better answer would be to state that your commitment will grow
this job” as you get to know the company and the people in it.
Employers do not like to hire overqualified people because they won’t stay
around long. If you are overqualified, admit it, but also emphasis the
“Aren't you overqualified for this positive. Something like “Yes I am overqualified in some ways, however that
job?” doesn’t mean I’m completely overqualified. I feel that I have much to learn
in the area of X, which is a big part of this job and I know it will keep me
challenged…”
Don’t answer with “Oh yes, I enjoy 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, 50
“Are you opposed to doing a lot weeks a year”. Instead, try to assure the interviewer you aren't going to go
mad doing boring work as long as once you prove yourself additional tasks
of routine work?” requiring more brain power will be assigned.
“Do you have any questions?” YOUR TURN to ask the questions ….review prior slides….
Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 33 –

34. Questions ?????
Thank You…..Ron.Drew@Hotmail.com
And Good Luck !!!!
Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 34 –