A. Exploring your Background Questions

"Tell me about yourself."
Answer these questions in terms of the qualifications required of the position.
Keep responses concise and brief and avoid being derogatory or negative about previous jobs and bosses. "Tell-me-about-yourself" means, "Tell me about your qualifications." Prepare a one to two minute discussion of your qualifications. Start with education and discuss your experiences. Describe your performance (in raises, promotions, innovative designs, sales volume, increased profits, etc.)

"What are your greatest strengths?"
Interviewers like to hear abstract qualities. "Loyalty, willingness to work hard, eagerness, fast-learner, technical skills, politeness, and promptness", expressed in concrete terms are good examples. Avoid the simple generalization "I like people". It's not a good answer.

"What are your greatest weaknesses?"
Don't be intimidated. The interviewer probably wants reassurance that hiring you won't be a mistake. This is not the time to confess all of your imperfections. Do not state "not being able to go to work on Mondays", or "coming in late", etc. Present your weaknesses as a positive, i.e., "Sometimes I work too hard to make sure things are done accurately".

B. Personality Questions

"What do you do in your spare time?" Workaholics are not always the best employees. Present yourself as a well-rounded person. Your answer gives you dimension. Name some hobbies.

C. Motive Questions

Answer motive questions enthusiastically. Show the interviewer that your are interested in the position and that you really want the job. Remember to maintain eye contact and be sincere.

"How can you contribute to this company?"
Be positive and sell! Bringing strong technical skills, enthusiasm, and desire to complete projects correctly and efficiently are good responses. Cite CAB achievements.

"Why should I hire you for this position?"
Explain your qualifications and how they "fit" the available position. Address your interest in the job and the field and why its work that you enjoy. Emphasize your ability to successfully perform the duties required.

"Why do you want to work for our firm?"
Make a compliment about what the company does, its location, or its people. Other positive remarks might be about the company's product or service, content of the position or possibilities for growth or advancement. Research about the company is important here.

"Where do you hope to be in five years?"
Use conservative growth positions that clearly show you plan to be there in five years and that their investment in you will pay. Be sure that you know what can and cannot be achieved by the ideal candidate in the position. Never tell the interviewer that you feel you'll be more successful than they are. But do show a strong desire for career progression.

"What interests you most about this position?"
"Teasing" the interviewer with a truthful one or two-word answer such as, "the challenge" or "the opportunity", will force them to ask you to explain. Here again, you have a chance to demonstrate your knowledge of the company. Cite similarities from your CAB statements.

"How long do you plan to be with this company?"
As with marriage, most employers expect a till-death-do-us-part attitude, but they can be equally attracted to the candidate with ambition and candor. "As long as I continue to learn and grow in my field", is a reasonable response.

"What are your career goals?"
Your answer should depend on a specific time frame:

Short term - "I want to be the best in my current position, while learning additional responsibilities. This, in itself, will assure my commitment to the firm and raise me to the next level of responsibility and promotion. I see myself wanting to stay technical but learn the necessary skills to lead people and projects."

Long term - "After proving my abilities, I see myself in a firm with the possibility of moving into a level of management that allows me to keep my skills sharp.'

"What are you doing to achieve your goals?"
"I look at continued learning as the key to success. I continue my education, as you see from my resume, by taking company educational courses, when offered, and college courses. I also read trade publications and magazines to keep me informed about the current and future directions in my field. When possible, I participate in professional organizations in my field."

D. Job Satisfaction Questions

"Why did you leave your previous employer?"
NEVER speak poorly about a former employer. Be pleasant, be positive and be honest. Your answer will probably be checked. Mention your desire to work for a more progressive company that offers more growth opportunities and recognition.

"What did you like most about your previous job?"
An employer can evaluate the type of worker you will be by the items you choose. Cite specifics. You are also providing clues about the environment that you seek. What you liked most can include a strong teamwork atmosphere, high-level of creativity, attainable deadlines. What you liked least should include any situations that you are unlikely to encounter in your new position.

"Why are you looking for another job?"
Again, be positive. "I have to say that I have really enjoyed my years at ______ Corporation. There are a lot of good people over there. But I am looking for a more progressive organization with greater opportunities for career growth, and recognition. I am looking for a team to join where I can make real contributions."

"What do you think your employer’s obligations are to you?"
Interviewers listen for employees who want a positive, enthusiastic, company atmosphere, with the opportunity to advance. Such a person, they surmise, has motivation and staying power.

"Are you applying for any other jobs?"
In your answer, show that your search is geared for similar positions. This demonstrates a well-defined, focused objective. Make it known that your talents are applicable to other businesses and that you have explored ways to maximize your potential and are serious about finding the perfect opportunity. Don't give an indication that you are just shopping.