Let’s face it folks, when it comes to interviewing there are a few sure things. The interviewer wants to find out more about you, see how you perform under pressure and know that you’ve done your homework and know about the company. Were you on time? If the meeting was in person, did you dress appropriately? There will, of course, be questions you don’t anticipate but if you do your homework in advance you will be much better equipped to not only answer the obvious but also to impress with your answers to the unanticipated questions.
Generally interviews begin with “get to know you” questioning. Spend time ahead of the interview considering your responses to the most of obvious of questions:
• Tell me about yourself? The interviewer already knows your name and he/she is staring at your resume. Keep this response limited to your professional qualities and attributes and limit the personal banter. Where you are from, where you got your education, what your professional interests are and your experience are all relevant as are professional achievements.
• What’s your greatest strength/weakness? This question gives you a great opportunity to really show the interviewer who you are. You need to be your biggest supporter and respond with confidence (without being too cocky). Play up your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. A great response would be, “I am exceptionally organized and keep great notes. Doing so led me to identify trends in my last position which were costing the company too much money. We were able to change some processes and save the company money. My greatest weakness is that I am a perfectionist which can, at times, slow me down.” Make sure your responses to all questions are always honest.
• Why did you leave your last position? It is extremely important to never speak negatively of your previous employers. If you left your last job because your boss was impossible to get along with or because you were upset over not being promoted, saying so to a future employer will almost certainly limit your chances of getting hired. A potential employer needs to know that you are a team player, that you’re not difficult to get along with when things don’t go your way and that you are planning on staying for a while. A good response would be, “My career goal is to find a position which allows me to grow as an individual while contributing to a team. I left my last position to stay in line with my objectives.
• Why do you want to work here? “Because I need a job” is not an appropriate response to this question. Understand the position and be familiar with the company prior to the interview so that you will have a more appropriate response. “I am looking for a career that will build on my previous experience and education and in which I can contribute to a team. I have spent a lot of time learning about XYZ Company and I am very interested in joining your team because…
• What are your salary expectations? It is never a good idea to discuss numbers during a job interview. You may feel trapped if this question comes up which is exactly why it’s a good idea to think of it ahead of time and be prepared. A suggestion would be to simply let the interviewer know that you haven’t considered an exact number but that you have the experience and education required in the job requisition and therefore would be satisfied with the customary range of pay for this field.
• If selected, when can you start? If you are still employed, it is necessary for you to give the appropriate notice at your current job. You may not think this is important if you have a poor relationship with your current employer but to the interviewer it shows a positive attitude and respect. If you have vacations or appointments scheduled which will affect a start date, be sure to let the interviewer know of your plans. If at all possible, limit these requests.
Now, in addition to considering these questions prior to your interview, also spend time researching the company. Spend time reading their webpage to find out where their headquarters is, who the management is, understand their business lines. Be prepared with a list of questions that are relevant to your employment that you can ask in your interview. A hiring manager wants to see that this position not only provides a paycheck to you but also excites you. They want to know you are motivated and have an interest in the company and your duties on the job. Asking your own questions creates a conversation atmosphere and will most certainly lead to a more positive interview experience.
