February 28, 2010
The secret to being able to answer job interview questions is simply a matter of understanding the process. The interviewers are essentially looking for evidence that the people that they are interviewing have the skills and experience. All you have to do to make sure that you get hired ahead of your competitors is to provide that evidence.
The first thing you need to do then in order to answer interview questions, prior to the interview itself, is to find out as much about the job as possible. Read the job description, if it is available, to make sure that you fully understand how the role fits into the organization and what specific tasks are involved. In particular, you need to think through how you can demonstrate you have the skills and experience required for the job. Remember that the skills, knowledge and experience that you have accumulated may transferred to a variety of situations. For example, think about working within a team. You may have experiences of working within a team that is vastly different from the position you are applying for, but nevertheless it is working within a team. Therefore, the issues of team working are the same.
Within the interview itself, in order to effectively answer interview questions you should talk about real, practical examples of your work and experiences. For example, when asked about how you might deal with a particular situation, try not be drawn into talking about hypothetical situations. Instead you should talk about actual real examples where you have dealt with similar situations.
You should be positive, and do not be afraid to talk about your achievements. However, do not go overboard and claim to have done more than you have and that the company you are currently working for would go under without you. So, be realistic and talk about your actual real useful talents.
By: Mark Daymond
About the Author:
If you are looking for that dream job then get ahead and learn how to answer job interview questions. Find out more at Job Interview Success.
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Plan your answers to job interview questions ahead of time so you’ll be ready to deliver them with confidence. Too many job seekers stumble through interviews as if the questions are coming out of left field. You can almost count on many of these job interview questions to be asked at your interview.
What Are Your Weaknesses?
This is 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.”
Why Should We Hire You?
Summarize your experiences: “With five years’ experience working in the financial industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your company. I’m confident I would be a great addition to your team.”
Why Do You Want to Work Here?
It is important that you answer with a statement that indicates you’ve given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is a job opening. The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you’ve given this some thought. For example, “I’ve selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices.”
What Are Your Goals?
Sometimes it’s best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, “My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility.”
Why Did You Leave (Or Why Are You Leaving) Your Job?
If you’re unemployed, state your reason for leaving in a positive context: “I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which included me.”
If you are employed, focus on what you want in your next job: “After two years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my experience.”
When Were You Most Satisfied in Your Job?
The interviewer wants to know what motivates you. If you can relate an example of a job or project when you were excited, the interviewer will get an idea of your preferences. “I was very satisfied in my last job, because I worked directly with the customers and their problems; that is an important part of the job for me.”
What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can’t?
What makes you unique? This will take an assessment of your experiences, skills and traits. Summarize concisely: “I have a unique combination of strong technical skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-friendly.”
What Are Three Positive Things Your Last Boss Would Say About You?
It’s time to pull out your old performance appraisals and boss’s quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else’s words: “My boss has told me that I am the best designer he has ever had. He knows he can rely on me, and he likes my sense of humor.”
What Salary Are You Seeking?
It is to your advantage if the employer tells you the range first. Prepare by knowing the going rate in your area, and your bottom line or walk-away point. One possible answer would be: “I am sure when the time comes, we can agree on a reasonable amount. What is the salary range you typically pay someone with my skills and background?”
If You Were an Animal, Which One Would You Want to Be?
Interviewers use this type of psychological question to see if you can think quickly. If you answer “a bunny,” you will make a soft, passive impression. If you answer “a lion,” you will be seen as aggressive. What type of personality would it take to get the job done? What impression do you want to make?
By: Carole Martin
About the Author:
Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor. Get a copy of her FREE 9-part “Interview Success Tips” report by visiting Carole on the web at The Interview Coach
Copyright (c) 2007 Carole Martin, The Interview Coach
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