INTERVIEW PREPARATION: 15 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why do you want to work for ABC Company?
2. How are you qualified to perform the job you are applying for?
3. Are you prepared to start immediately?
4. How much money are you looking to make?
5. What are your two greatest accomplishments? Why?
6. What is your biggest disappointment? Why? (Hint - never answer this
"honestly" - for instance, when replying that you were deficient in
your previous company's software, you say:
"Because I was deficient in learning the company's new software,
I learned it in a week by staying after-hours, and actually
became the company trainer." -- Positive, confident answers get jobs !
7. What are your goals / path / purpose, and what events have had the most effect on
your life? Why? -- At some point, the employer will want to get a feel for your
personality in order to see if you're dedicated, enthusiastic, and will fit in well with Tom,
Shirley, and others who already work for the ABC company.
8. Describe your work habits (e.g. how you get organized and set priorities,
how hard you work). Will you work late or attend
9. How do you deal with irate customers? -- The employer will want to know that you are a
diplomatic solution resource to customers. In this challenged economy, value-added
sales /service, customer retention and development of new business is the primary focus.
10. The job candidate who serves to please the customer and generate revenue is the most
valuable employee to the prospective employer.
11. What are your two greatest strengths as a problem solver?
12. What are your number one and number two areas for improvement? -- Be careful not
to dwell on this !!! Your goal is to talk about your strengths and what you can bring to the
table. If you say that you have an area of improvement, make it an area where you're
already skilled. For instance, you say: "Because I'm already proficient in Microsoft Excel,
I should have no problem learning how to assist the Controller in putting together a budget.
13. How "computer-literate" are you? -- If you're not, check with your local library and
get some affordable computer training or you'll be counted as obsolete and useless !
14. What are your reasons for being interested in a career with ABC Company? Don't
say, "I'm not sure but I'm willing to learn and do anything." Tell the employer about
your skills, what you can do, why you are assuredly the most qualified candidate
this side of the Mississippi !
15. Why are you considering leaving your previous position? Why were you
dismissed from your last company? Never say, "I had philosophical differences with
my previous employer" or "I was fired because I was continually late," or anything that will
cause the prospective employer to disapprove of your actions. Say, "I am seeking a new
challenge," or "I was downsized, but my boss was extremely disappointed to lose a
person at my skill level ... " Use this opportunity to boast about your capabilities.
For professional resume and business writing,
contact Write Resume Service at: (847) 806-6619
For career coaching, contact Carl Schumacher,
Executive Recruiter and Career Coach at: (630) 847-6401