2. right signalsright signals
When you are being interviewed it is veryWhen you are being interviewed it is very
important that you give out the right signals. Youimportant that you give out the right signals. You
should always look attentive - so do not slouchshould always look attentive - so do not slouch
in your chair. Never lie to anyone in an interview,in your chair. Never lie to anyone in an interview,
your body language and tone of voice or theyour body language and tone of voice or the
words you use will probably give you away -words you use will probably give you away -
classic body language giveaways includeclassic body language giveaways include
scratching your nose and not looking directly atscratching your nose and not looking directly at
the other person when you are speaking tothe other person when you are speaking to
them.them.
3. If you have a moustache youIf you have a moustache you
may want to consider shaving itmay want to consider shaving it
off - people with moustachesoff - people with moustaches
can be perceived as beingcan be perceived as being
aggressive. You can always growaggressive. You can always grow
it again once you have got theit again once you have got the
job.job.
4. Factors that can Cost you theFactors that can Cost you the
Interview/JobInterview/Job
Being unprepared for the interview - youBeing unprepared for the interview - you
should always prepare thoroughly beforeshould always prepare thoroughly before
any interview (this will also make you feelany interview (this will also make you feel
more confident at the interview).more confident at the interview).
Poor/limp handshake - always a bit of aPoor/limp handshake - always a bit of a
no-no.no-no.
5. Saying unfavourable things about previousSaying unfavourable things about previous
employers - the employer will be wonderingemployers - the employer will be wondering
what you will say about them when youwhat you will say about them when you
leave their employment.leave their employment.
Not being able to communicate clearly andNot being able to communicate clearly and
effectively.effectively.
6. Being aggressive or acting in aBeing aggressive or acting in a
superior way - nobody like this sosuperior way - nobody like this so
please don't do this.please don't do this.
Making excuses for failings.Making excuses for failings.
7. Job Interview AfterthoughtsJob Interview Afterthoughts
If you're not getting the job offers you desire thenIf you're not getting the job offers you desire then
you need to look carefully at your interviewyou need to look carefully at your interview
performance. You should try and get as muchperformance. You should try and get as much
feedback as possible from the people who havefeedback as possible from the people who have
interviewed you. If you have been unsuccessful ininterviewed you. If you have been unsuccessful in
obtaining a job ring up the interviewer and askobtaining a job ring up the interviewer and ask
them where they think you fell down and how theythem where they think you fell down and how they
think you could do better. Once you have gotthink you could do better. Once you have got
feedback you can modify your interview techniquefeedback you can modify your interview technique
and hopefully do better at the next interview.and hopefully do better at the next interview.
8. List of interview questions relating to theList of interview questions relating to the
new job / companynew job / company
Why do you want this job?Why do you want this job?
What qualities do you think will be requiredWhat qualities do you think will be required
for this job?for this job?
What can you contribute?What can you contribute?
Why do you want to work for this company?Why do you want to work for this company?
What do you know about this company?What do you know about this company?
9. What interests you about our product (orWhat interests you about our product (or
service)?service)?
What can we (the new company) offer thatWhat can we (the new company) offer that
your previous company cannot offer?your previous company cannot offer?
You have not done this sort of job before.You have not done this sort of job before.
How will you cope/succeed?How will you cope/succeed?
Why should we employ you?Why should we employ you?
How long do you think it would be beforeHow long do you think it would be before
you were making a significant contributionyou were making a significant contribution
to the team/company?to the team/company?
How ambitious are you?How ambitious are you?
10. Would you compete for my job?Would you compete for my job?
What do you like and dislike about the job weWhat do you like and dislike about the job we
are discussing?are discussing?
What are you looking for in a new job?What are you looking for in a new job?
What would you like to avoid in your nextWhat would you like to avoid in your next
job?job?
Are you too old for this job?Are you too old for this job?
Are you too young for this job?Are you too young for this job?
You may be over qualified for this position?You may be over qualified for this position?
Are you prepared to relocate?Are you prepared to relocate?
Are you willing to travel?Are you willing to travel?
What level of salary are you looking for now?What level of salary are you looking for now?
11. List of interview questions relating to the newList of interview questions relating to the new
job / companyjob / company
These interview questions relate to almost anyThese interview questions relate to almost any
type of job. Please note that an interviewertype of job. Please note that an interviewer
may also ask questions that relate to themay also ask questions that relate to the
specific position that you are applying for.specific position that you are applying for.
Why do you want this job?Why do you want this job?
What qualities do you think will be required forWhat qualities do you think will be required for
this job?this job?
What can you contribute?What can you contribute?
12. Why do you want to work for this company?Why do you want to work for this company?
What do you know about this company?What do you know about this company?
What interests you about our product (orWhat interests you about our product (or
service)?service)?
What can we (the new company) offer thatWhat can we (the new company) offer that
your previous company cannot offer?your previous company cannot offer?
You have not done this sort of job before.You have not done this sort of job before.
How will you cope/succeed?How will you cope/succeed?
13. Why should we employ you?Why should we employ you?
How long do you think it would be beforeHow long do you think it would be before
you were making a significant contributionyou were making a significant contribution
to the team/company?to the team/company?
How ambitious are you?How ambitious are you?
Would you compete for my job?Would you compete for my job?
What do you like and dislike about the jobWhat do you like and dislike about the job
we are discussing?we are discussing?
14. What are you looking for in a new job?What are you looking for in a new job?
What would you like to avoid in your next job?What would you like to avoid in your next job?
Are you too old for this job?Are you too old for this job?
Are you too young for this job?Are you too young for this job?
You may be over qualified for this position?You may be over qualified for this position?
Are you prepared to relocate?Are you prepared to relocate?
Are you willing to travel?Are you willing to travel?
What level of salary are you looking for now?What level of salary are you looking for now?
15. List of interview questionsList of interview questions
relating to your current /relating to your current /
previous jobprevious job
16. How much does your last job resembleHow much does your last job resemble
the one you are applying for?the one you are applying for?
What are the differences?What are the differences?
17. What do you think of the last companyWhat do you think of the last company
you worked for?you worked for?
Why did you join your previousWhy did you join your previous
company?company?
18. Did they live up to your expectations?Did they live up to your expectations?
Why are you leaving now?Why are you leaving now?
Explain the organizational structure inExplain the organizational structure in
your last company and how you fittedyour last company and how you fitted
into it?into it?
19. What did you think of yourWhat did you think of your
manager/supervisor?manager/supervisor?
How did you get on with your previousHow did you get on with your previous
manager/supervisor, coworkers andmanager/supervisor, coworkers and
subordinates?subordinates?
What did you do on a day to day basis?What did you do on a day to day basis?
Did you increase sales or profits in your lastDid you increase sales or profits in your last
job?job?
20. Have you reduced costs at your lastHave you reduced costs at your last
company?company?
Did you feel you progressed satisfactorilyDid you feel you progressed satisfactorily
in your last job?in your last job?
What problems did you encounter in yourWhat problems did you encounter in your
last job?last job?
What annoyed you about your last job?What annoyed you about your last job?
What did you earn in your last job?What did you earn in your last job?
21. Career related interview questionsCareer related interview questions
Why did you choose a career in …?Why did you choose a career in …?
Why are you changing careers?Why are you changing careers?
What are your career goals?What are your career goals?
How long have you been looking for a newHow long have you been looking for a new
job?job?
Do you prefer to work in a small, medium orDo you prefer to work in a small, medium or
large company?large company?
22. What would your ideal job be?What would your ideal job be?
Are you considering any other positions atAre you considering any other positions at
the moment?the moment?
If you have changed jobs a lot you may beIf you have changed jobs a lot you may be
asked how long you would stay in the newasked how long you would stay in the new
job.job.
Have you ever been fired?Have you ever been fired?
How often are you off sick?How often are you off sick?
What will your referees say about you?What will your referees say about you?
23. List of interview questionsList of interview questions
relating to yourelating to you
24. List of interview questions relating toList of interview questions relating to
youyou
How would you describe yourself?How would you describe yourself?
How would others describe you?How would others describe you?
Do you consider yourself successful?Do you consider yourself successful?
What was your greatest success?What was your greatest success?
How did you achieve it?How did you achieve it?
What has been your biggest failure?What has been your biggest failure?
How could you improve yourself?How could you improve yourself?
25. Are you a leader?Are you a leader?
How do you handle criticism?How do you handle criticism?
What sort of manager are you?What sort of manager are you?
What makes a good manager?What makes a good manager?
Do you work well with others? Or are you aDo you work well with others? Or are you a
loner?loner?
Do you need other people around toDo you need other people around to
stimulate you or are you self-motivated?stimulate you or are you self-motivated?
Are you accepted into a team quickly?Are you accepted into a team quickly?
Can you act on your own initiative?Can you act on your own initiative?
26. How do you run a meeting?How do you run a meeting?
What motivates you?What motivates you?
What management style gets the bestWhat management style gets the best
results out of you?results out of you?
Do you know how to motivate otherDo you know how to motivate other
people?people?
Are you competitive?Are you competitive?
Are you aggressive?Are you aggressive?
27. What do you dislike doing?What do you dislike doing?
Do you feel you are ready to take onDo you feel you are ready to take on
greater responsibilities?greater responsibilities?
Can you work under pressure?Can you work under pressure?
How many hours are you prepared toHow many hours are you prepared to
work?work?
Do you mind working for someone olderDo you mind working for someone older
than yourself? Younger than you? Of thethan yourself? Younger than you? Of the
opposite sex?opposite sex?
What interests do you have outside work?What interests do you have outside work?
28. Answering interview questions -Answering interview questions -
what questions might you be asked?what questions might you be asked?
Before attending an interview you should thinkBefore attending an interview you should think
about your responses to the following questions.about your responses to the following questions.
Your answers may depend on the job orYour answers may depend on the job or
company in question, so you should go throughcompany in question, so you should go through
your responses just before each interview.your responses just before each interview.
Why do you want this job?Why do you want this job?
Think carefully about this question. Stress theThink carefully about this question. Stress the
positive aspects which have attracted you topositive aspects which have attracted you to
applying for this position. Do not mention theapplying for this position. Do not mention the
negative aspects of your current job or the job innegative aspects of your current job or the job in
question.question.
29. What qualities do you think will beWhat qualities do you think will be
required for this job?required for this job?
Their advertisement for the job may help youTheir advertisement for the job may help you
a little bit, but you should also think of thea little bit, but you should also think of the
other qualities that may be required. Theseother qualities that may be required. These
may include leadership ability, supervisorymay include leadership ability, supervisory
skills, communication skills, interpersonalskills, communication skills, interpersonal
skills, problem solving, analytical skills, etc.skills, problem solving, analytical skills, etc.
What can you contribute?What can you contribute?
This is your chance to shine. Tell them aboutThis is your chance to shine. Tell them about
your achievements in your previousyour achievements in your previous
position(s) which are relevant to the newposition(s) which are relevant to the new
position you are applying for.position you are applying for.
30. Why do you want to work for this company?Why do you want to work for this company?
Emphasise the positive reasons why you wantEmphasise the positive reasons why you want
to join their company, but avoid aspects suchto join their company, but avoid aspects such
as more money or shorter hours. These wouldas more money or shorter hours. These would
not endear you to a prospective employer.not endear you to a prospective employer.
What do you know about this company?What do you know about this company?
This is your chance to impress the interviewerThis is your chance to impress the interviewer
with your knowledge of their company. Givewith your knowledge of their company. Give
them a run down of their products/services,them a run down of their products/services,
sales figures, news, company figures,sales figures, news, company figures,
customers, etc.customers, etc.
31. What interests you aboutWhat interests you about
our product (or service)?our product (or service)?
Again, your research into theAgain, your research into the
company should aid you in answeringcompany should aid you in answering
this question.this question.
32. What can we (the new company)What can we (the new company)
offer that your previous companyoffer that your previous company
cannot offer?cannot offer?
Tread carefully here! Again do notTread carefully here! Again do not
mention money. Stress opportunitiesmention money. Stress opportunities
for personal growth, new challenges,for personal growth, new challenges,
etc.etc.
33. You have not done this sort of jobYou have not done this sort of job
before.before.
How will you cope/succeed?How will you cope/succeed?
Say that you are the sort of person whoSay that you are the sort of person who
aims to succeed at everything you do andaims to succeed at everything you do and
that you are very determined and will dothat you are very determined and will do
whatever it takes to get the job done.whatever it takes to get the job done.
34. Why should we employ you?Why should we employ you?
The answer to this question will be basedThe answer to this question will be based
on your previous experience andon your previous experience and
achievements which relate to theachievements which relate to the
company. At the end you could add thatcompany. At the end you could add that
you think there is a good fit between youyou think there is a good fit between you
and the job, and do ask the interviewer forand the job, and do ask the interviewer for
their opinion.their opinion.
35. How long do you think it would be beforeHow long do you think it would be before
you were making a significantyou were making a significant
contribution to the team/company?contribution to the team/company?
If you think that you could contribute fromIf you think that you could contribute from
day one then say so. Then turn theday one then say so. Then turn the
question round on them and say how soonquestion round on them and say how soon
would they expect it.would they expect it.
36. How ambitious are you? WouldHow ambitious are you? Would
you compete for my job?you compete for my job?
Depending on the position you areDepending on the position you are
applying for you may want to sound fairlyapplying for you may want to sound fairly
ambitious, but do not look as if you areambitious, but do not look as if you are
after the interviewer's position.after the interviewer's position.
37. What do you like and dislike aboutWhat do you like and dislike about
the job we are discussing?the job we are discussing?
Likes: stress things such as a newLikes: stress things such as a new
challenge or the opportunity to bring freshchallenge or the opportunity to bring fresh
experience to the company. Dislikes:experience to the company. Dislikes:
Imply there is nothing to dislike about theImply there is nothing to dislike about the
job, which is why you are so interested.job, which is why you are so interested.
38. Why did you choose a career in …?Why did you choose a career in …?
Be positive about your reasons. If youBe positive about your reasons. If you
have changed careers make a logicalhave changed careers make a logical
argument as to why you did so.argument as to why you did so.
39. Why are you changing careers?Why are you changing careers?
This question will only be asked if you areThis question will only be asked if you are
making a radical change in your career. Alwaysmaking a radical change in your career. Always
stress the positive aspects of the change ratherstress the positive aspects of the change rather
than the negative aspects of your previousthan the negative aspects of your previous
career - you do not want to come across ascareer - you do not want to come across as
someone who is moving just because you hatesomeone who is moving just because you hate
your old career. Say why you think you will beyour old career. Say why you think you will be
good in the new career - this should come fromgood in the new career - this should come from
your experience and achievements, stress theyour experience and achievements, stress the
transferable skills you have, such as leadershiptransferable skills you have, such as leadership
ability, etc.ability, etc.
40. How much does your last job resemble the oneHow much does your last job resemble the one
you are applying for? What are theyou are applying for? What are the
differences?differences?
The interviewer is trying to see how wellThe interviewer is trying to see how well
you would fit in to the position you areyou would fit in to the position you are
applying for. So you should stress theapplying for. So you should stress the
similarities rather than the differences.similarities rather than the differences.
When it comes to discussing theWhen it comes to discussing the
differences it will help your case if you candifferences it will help your case if you can
show that either you have done somethingshow that either you have done something
similar in the past or that you can quicklysimilar in the past or that you can quickly
pick up the new skills.pick up the new skills.
41. What do you think of the lastWhat do you think of the last
company you worked for?company you worked for?
You should stress the positive aspects ofYou should stress the positive aspects of
your last company saying that they were ayour last company saying that they were a
good company to work for. Tell themgood company to work for. Tell them
about the training you received or the workabout the training you received or the work
related experience you gained.related experience you gained.
42. Why did you join your previous company? DidWhy did you join your previous company? Did
they live up to your expectations? Why are youthey live up to your expectations? Why are you
leaving now?leaving now?
Always be positive about your reasons forAlways be positive about your reasons for
joining and leaving a company. Be very carefuljoining and leaving a company. Be very careful
that you do not say anything negative about yourthat you do not say anything negative about your
present employer. If you do, the new companypresent employer. If you do, the new company
will wonder what you will say about them whenwill wonder what you will say about them when
you leave. You might want to stress that you areyou leave. You might want to stress that you are
looking for a new challenge and that you feellooking for a new challenge and that you feel
that the company who is interviewing you fits thethat the company who is interviewing you fits the
bill!bill!
43. Explain the organisational structure inExplain the organisational structure in
your last company and how you fittedyour last company and how you fitted
into it?into it?
This sort of question may be used to find outThis sort of question may be used to find out
whether your old job is at a comparable level towhether your old job is at a comparable level to
your new job. If the new job being discussedyour new job. If the new job being discussed
would be a step up the ladder you will need towould be a step up the ladder you will need to
show that you are ready for a more demandingshow that you are ready for a more demanding
position. You may be able to show that you haveposition. You may be able to show that you have
already had many of the responsibilities and thealready had many of the responsibilities and the
necessary skills which would be required for thenecessary skills which would be required for the
next step.next step.
44. How long have you been lookingHow long have you been looking
for a new job?for a new job?
If you have been unemployed for a longIf you have been unemployed for a long
time this may be a rather tricky question totime this may be a rather tricky question to
answer. But be honest. If you have beenanswer. But be honest. If you have been
away on holiday or done some voluntaryaway on holiday or done some voluntary
work you could mention this.work you could mention this.
45. Do you prefer to work in a small,Do you prefer to work in a small,
medium or large company?medium or large company?
Remember where you are! If the companyRemember where you are! If the company
interviewing you is a small to mediuminterviewing you is a small to medium
sized company say that you enjoy a closesized company say that you enjoy a close
atmosphere with a good team spirit. At aatmosphere with a good team spirit. At a
large company say that you enjoy thelarge company say that you enjoy the
stability of working for a large andstability of working for a large and
established company.established company.
46. What are you looking for in a new job?What are you looking for in a new job?
Make sure your answer fits in with theMake sure your answer fits in with the
company who is interviewing you. Acompany who is interviewing you. A
suitable reply would be that you aresuitable reply would be that you are
looking for a new job where you can applylooking for a new job where you can apply
your existing skills and learn new ones.your existing skills and learn new ones.
47. What would your ideal job be?What would your ideal job be?
Again, remember where you are! DescribeAgain, remember where you are! Describe
the job in terms of the criteria they havethe job in terms of the criteria they have
used to describe their job. An ideal jobused to describe their job. An ideal job
might include things like challenging work,might include things like challenging work,
a fair rate of pay for the job, nicea fair rate of pay for the job, nice
colleagues, good career prospects, goodcolleagues, good career prospects, good
team atmosphere, opportunity to learnteam atmosphere, opportunity to learn
new skills, apply old skills, etc.new skills, apply old skills, etc.
48. Are you considering any other positionsAre you considering any other positions
at the moment?at the moment?
If you are say so, but do not give too manyIf you are say so, but do not give too many
details away - it will weaken yourdetails away - it will weaken your
negotiating position later. If you do notnegotiating position later. If you do not
have any other job offers at the momenthave any other job offers at the moment
just say that you have a few irons in thejust say that you have a few irons in the
fire.fire.
49. What did you think of yourWhat did you think of your
manager/supervisor?manager/supervisor?
Say that he/she was the sort of personSay that he/she was the sort of person
you could learn from and youyou could learn from and you
communicated well, which meant that thecommunicated well, which meant that the
task in hand was completed on time.task in hand was completed on time.
50. What did you do on a day to day basis?What did you do on a day to day basis?
Stress the positive things you did includingStress the positive things you did including
your achievements. Even if some or muchyour achievements. Even if some or much
of it was paperwork, you can still showof it was paperwork, you can still show
your interest in the way it was tackled.your interest in the way it was tackled.
51. Did you increase sales or profits in yourDid you increase sales or profits in your
last job?last job?
This question is only relevant for seniorThis question is only relevant for senior
managers or sales people. If you have increasedmanagers or sales people. If you have increased
sales and/or profit then do not be afraid to shoutsales and/or profit then do not be afraid to shout
about it. If you have not increased sales say whyabout it. If you have not increased sales say why
not, e.g. general downturn in the market, etc. Itnot, e.g. general downturn in the market, etc. It
might then be a good idea to mention anmight then be a good idea to mention an
achievement in a previous job if yourachievement in a previous job if your
performance was better there.performance was better there.
52. Have you reduced costs at your lastHave you reduced costs at your last
company?company?
If you have reduced costs say so -If you have reduced costs say so -
companies are always looking for ways tocompanies are always looking for ways to
reduce costs.reduce costs.
53. How would you describe yourself? /How would you describe yourself? /
How would others describe you?How would others describe you?
Pick your best attributes andPick your best attributes and
achievements from your career.achievements from your career.
Do you consider yourself successful?Do you consider yourself successful?
You should say you do. Pick some workYou should say you do. Pick some work
related achievements that are in line withrelated achievements that are in line with
the position that you are discussing.the position that you are discussing.
54. What was your greatest success? How didWhat was your greatest success? How did
you achieve it?you achieve it?
You should pick an achievement which isYou should pick an achievement which is
related to their needs.related to their needs.
55. What has been your biggest failure?What has been your biggest failure?
Try to pick a failure which you were laterTry to pick a failure which you were later
able to correct or something that is notable to correct or something that is not
really important.really important.
How could you improve yourself?How could you improve yourself?
Do not mention anything negative aboutDo not mention anything negative about
yourself - the interviewer is looking for ayourself - the interviewer is looking for a
chink in your armour.chink in your armour.
56. Did you feel you progressedDid you feel you progressed
satisfactorily in your last job?satisfactorily in your last job?
If you progressed faster than normal youIf you progressed faster than normal you
should say so. If growth was not as goodshould say so. If growth was not as good
as expected then be careful how youas expected then be careful how you
phrase this.phrase this.
57. Are you a leader?Are you a leader?
State how you have successfully acted asState how you have successfully acted as
a leader, giving examples of youra leader, giving examples of your
successes.successes.
58. How do you handle criticism?How do you handle criticism?
Your answer should be along the followingYour answer should be along the following
lines: "I always think that it is important tolines: "I always think that it is important to
get feedback on how I am performing soget feedback on how I am performing so
that I can improve any areas which mythat I can improve any areas which my
manager/supervisor highlights. Do youmanager/supervisor highlights. Do you
have regular staff appraisals and a staffhave regular staff appraisals and a staff
development plan?"development plan?"
59. What sort of manager are you? / WhatWhat sort of manager are you? / What
makes a good manager?makes a good manager?
You should say that it is someone whoYou should say that it is someone who
listens to other people and can delegatelistens to other people and can delegate
whilst maintaining overall control of thewhilst maintaining overall control of the
task at hand, bringing in the project ontask at hand, bringing in the project on
time and to budget. Good planning skillstime and to budget. Good planning skills
are essential.are essential.
60. Do you work well with others? Or areDo you work well with others? Or are
you a loner?you a loner?
Some jobs mean that you have to workSome jobs mean that you have to work
very closely with other people whilst othervery closely with other people whilst other
jobs mean that you are largely working onjobs mean that you are largely working on
your own, so you need to say that you areyour own, so you need to say that you are
happy in both situations.happy in both situations.
61. Do you need other people around toDo you need other people around to
stimulate you or are you self-motivated?stimulate you or are you self-motivated?
You need to say that you are self-motivated.You need to say that you are self-motivated.
Are you accepted into a team quickly?Are you accepted into a team quickly?
Hopefully you can answer a resounding "Yes"Hopefully you can answer a resounding "Yes"
to this question.to this question.
Can you act on your own initiative?Can you act on your own initiative?
You should say that you can. You could askYou should say that you can. You could ask
how much responsibility you would have.how much responsibility you would have.
62. How do you run a meeting?How do you run a meeting?
You could say that you must start with anYou could say that you must start with an
agenda and stick to it. You could add thatagenda and stick to it. You could add that
you would try to get the views and ideasyou would try to get the views and ideas
from everyone present, working in an airfrom everyone present, working in an air
of co-operation. If people moved off at aof co-operation. If people moved off at a
tangent you would bring them back to thetangent you would bring them back to the
item being discussed.item being discussed.
63. What motivates you?What motivates you?
Our suggestions are career growth,Our suggestions are career growth,
opportunity to learn new skills, good co-opportunity to learn new skills, good co-
workers, etc.workers, etc.
64. What management style gets theWhat management style gets the
best results out of you?best results out of you?
Try and think about how you have reacted toTry and think about how you have reacted to
different managers and which factors havedifferent managers and which factors have
motivated you. Do not say too much in reply tomotivated you. Do not say too much in reply to
this question, because if your answer isthis question, because if your answer is
contrary to the management style of thecontrary to the management style of the
company they will not be keen to employ you!company they will not be keen to employ you!
65. Do you know how to motivate otherDo you know how to motivate other
people?people?
Hopefully you can say "Yes", and say thatHopefully you can say "Yes", and say that
you have to find out what motivates ayou have to find out what motivates a
person and give them recognition for a jobperson and give them recognition for a job
well done. You should always give themwell done. You should always give them
encouragement and help them whenencouragement and help them when
required.required.
66. Are you competitive?Are you competitive?
Your answer depends on the sort of job you areYour answer depends on the sort of job you are
doing. If you will be working as part of a teamdoing. If you will be working as part of a team
you will need to show that you can work in theyou will need to show that you can work in the
best interests of the team and not just for yourbest interests of the team and not just for your
own benefit.own benefit.
67. Are you aggressive?Are you aggressive?
If you mean by this someone who gets thingsIf you mean by this someone who gets things
done, then the answer is "Yes". You need todone, then the answer is "Yes". You need to
defuse the implications of this question.defuse the implications of this question.
68. What do you dislike doing?What do you dislike doing?
Say that you are prepared to do whatever itSay that you are prepared to do whatever it
takes to get the job done well and on time andtakes to get the job done well and on time and
try to do disagreeable things first to get themtry to do disagreeable things first to get them
out of the way rather than putting them off.out of the way rather than putting them off.
69. What problems did you encounter in your lastWhat problems did you encounter in your last
job? What annoyed you about your last job?job? What annoyed you about your last job?
Stick to the problems that you were able toStick to the problems that you were able to
solve, i.e. "I had problem X, which I latersolve, i.e. "I had problem X, which I later
managed to resolve by doing Y". Showmanaged to resolve by doing Y". Show
that you are a person who can solvethat you are a person who can solve
problems rather than someone who letsproblems rather than someone who lets
things get on top of them.things get on top of them.
70. What would you like to avoid in your next job?What would you like to avoid in your next job?
You need to be positive here and say that thereYou need to be positive here and say that there
is nothing in particular that you would like tois nothing in particular that you would like to
avoid.avoid.
71. Do you feel you are ready to take on greaterDo you feel you are ready to take on greater
responsibilities?responsibilities?
Show how you have progressedShow how you have progressed
throughout your life and how you havethroughout your life and how you have
accepted and taken on responsibility foraccepted and taken on responsibility for
the actions of yourself and others. If youthe actions of yourself and others. If you
have not really had many work relatedhave not really had many work related
responsibilities you can mention otherresponsibilities you can mention other
responsibilities you have had outsideresponsibilities you have had outside
work.work.
72. Can you work under pressure?Can you work under pressure?
You need to say that you can. You couldYou need to say that you can. You could
ask how much pressure the job involves.ask how much pressure the job involves.
73. How many hours are youHow many hours are you
prepared to work?prepared to work?
You would be prepared to work theYou would be prepared to work the
necessary hours to get the job done onnecessary hours to get the job done on
time.time.
74. Do you mind working forDo you mind working for
someone older than yourself?someone older than yourself?
Younger than you? Of theYounger than you? Of the
opposite sex?opposite sex?
Here you can say that you are prepared toHere you can say that you are prepared to
work with anyone.work with anyone.
75. What are your career goals?What are your career goals?
Link in your goals with the company whoLink in your goals with the company who
is interviewing you.is interviewing you.
76. How did you get on with yourHow did you get on with your
previous manager/supervisor,previous manager/supervisor,
co-workers and subordinates?co-workers and subordinates?
Hopefully you can say that you got on wellHopefully you can say that you got on well
with everyone.with everyone.
77. Have you been responsible forHave you been responsible for
implementing ISO9000/BS5750 or Totalimplementing ISO9000/BS5750 or Total
Quality Management (TQM)?Quality Management (TQM)?
If you have, state how you implemented itIf you have, state how you implemented it
successfully. If you have not, you will need tosuccessfully. If you have not, you will need to
show that you are used to working to companyshow that you are used to working to company
quality standards or that you have a methodicalquality standards or that you have a methodical
approach to carrying out work.approach to carrying out work.
78. What interestsWhat interests
do you have outside work?do you have outside work?
Your hobbies and interests can tell anYour hobbies and interests can tell an
employer a lot about you, includingemployer a lot about you, including
whether you are sociable or solitary, andwhether you are sociable or solitary, and
whether you can take on 'leadership' roles.whether you can take on 'leadership' roles.
So you should think about which interestsSo you should think about which interests
will paint the right picture of you given thewill paint the right picture of you given the
position you are discussing.position you are discussing.
79. If you have changed jobs a lot you mayIf you have changed jobs a lot you may
be asked how long you would stay in thebe asked how long you would stay in the
new job.new job.
You should state that you are looking for aYou should state that you are looking for a
long-term opportunity where you can learnlong-term opportunity where you can learn
and develop.and develop.
You could then ask them if this applies to theYou could then ask them if this applies to the
job being discussed.job being discussed.
80. Have you ever been fired?Have you ever been fired?
If you have, you will need to handle thisIf you have, you will need to handle this
question with great care. Try and putquestion with great care. Try and put
yourself in as favourable light as possibleyourself in as favourable light as possible
without being too dismissive. If you havewithout being too dismissive. If you have
later been able to correct any deficiencylater been able to correct any deficiency
which resulted in you being fired youwhich resulted in you being fired you
should tell the interviewer.should tell the interviewer.
81. Are you too young for this job?Are you too young for this job?
"No, I do not think so!" is the answer you"No, I do not think so!" is the answer you
should give and then state the reason why youshould give and then state the reason why you
are not too young. If you have a lot ofare not too young. If you have a lot of
experience gained in a short time, say so.experience gained in a short time, say so.
You may be over qualified for thisYou may be over qualified for this
position?position?
Tell them that you feel that your extraTell them that you feel that your extra
experience would enable you to make a biggerexperience would enable you to make a bigger
contribution sooner than someone with lesscontribution sooner than someone with less
experience.experience.
82. Are you too old for this job?Are you too old for this job?
Tell them that you feel that your extraTell them that you feel that your extra
experience would enable you to make aexperience would enable you to make a
bigger contribution to their companybigger contribution to their company
sooner than someone younger and lesssooner than someone younger and less
experienced.experienced.
83. Are you prepared to relocate?Are you prepared to relocate?
If you are, say so. If you do not want toIf you are, say so. If you do not want to
move then you do not have to accept themove then you do not have to accept the
job - try and come across as someonejob - try and come across as someone
who is positive.who is positive.
84. Are you willing to travel?Are you willing to travel?
Again if you are, say so. You want toAgain if you are, say so. You want to
sound positive, so find out how muchsound positive, so find out how much
travelling is involved before you turn downtravelling is involved before you turn down
the job.the job.
85. How often are you off sick?How often are you off sick?
This can be a difficult question to answer if youThis can be a difficult question to answer if you
are frequently off sick or you have justare frequently off sick or you have just
recovered from a prolonged period of illness. Ifrecovered from a prolonged period of illness. If
you have generally enjoyed good health andyou have generally enjoyed good health and
this period of illness is not typical then youthis period of illness is not typical then you
should say so.should say so.
86. What did you earn in your last job?What did you earn in your last job?
You have to be very careful when answering this questionYou have to be very careful when answering this question
because once an interviewer knows your current salary they willbecause once an interviewer knows your current salary they will
try and fix your next remuneration based on this figure. Thistry and fix your next remuneration based on this figure. This
may be satisfactory if you only wanted a modest rise in salarymay be satisfactory if you only wanted a modest rise in salary
and your current salary is in line with their salary range, but,and your current salary is in line with their salary range, but,
what if your current salary is substantially lower than the rate forwhat if your current salary is substantially lower than the rate for
the job, or if you want a substantial salary rise? In these casesthe job, or if you want a substantial salary rise? In these cases
you would be best advised to say that you do not really want toyou would be best advised to say that you do not really want to
prejudice yourself by being too high or too low. Ask if you canprejudice yourself by being too high or too low. Ask if you can
discuss this later after the responsibilities for the job have beendiscuss this later after the responsibilities for the job have been
discussed; you may also want to ask them what the range fordiscussed; you may also want to ask them what the range for
the job is (if you do not already know).the job is (if you do not already know).
87. What level of salary are you looking for now?What level of salary are you looking for now?
Be very careful when you answer this question - youBe very careful when you answer this question - you
do not want to appear to be greedy. If you aredo not want to appear to be greedy. If you are
applying for a specific vacancy you could ask themapplying for a specific vacancy you could ask them
what the salary range is. Once they have answeredwhat the salary range is. Once they have answered
you could say "I think my experience would place meyou could say "I think my experience would place me
at the top end of your range, don't you?" If they askat the top end of your range, don't you?" If they ask
you this question fairly early on in the interview youyou this question fairly early on in the interview you
could delay answering by saying "It is hard to discusscould delay answering by saying "It is hard to discuss
salary without first knowing a little bit more about thesalary without first knowing a little bit more about the
job and the responsibilities."job and the responsibilities."
88. What will your referees say about you?What will your referees say about you?
Say that you expect excellent references.Say that you expect excellent references.
89. Difficult questionsDifficult questions
If you cannot answer a question you mightIf you cannot answer a question you might
reply with "That's an interesting question -reply with "That's an interesting question -
how would you tackle it?"how would you tackle it?"
90. Fantasy questionsFantasy questions
These sort of questions can be veryThese sort of questions can be very
difficult to answer. Such questions mightdifficult to answer. Such questions might
include: "What would you do if you woninclude: "What would you do if you won
the National Lottery?" You should give thethe National Lottery?" You should give the
answer, which in your opinion will give youanswer, which in your opinion will give you
the best chance of getting the job.the best chance of getting the job.
91. Interview question what are yourInterview question what are your
strong pointsstrong points
It is important to prepare in advance forIt is important to prepare in advance for
the interview question what are yourthe interview question what are your
strong points. If you've already listed yourstrong points. If you've already listed your
strengths when preparing your CV /strengths when preparing your CV /
resume, coming up with three answersresume, coming up with three answers
shouldn't be too difficult.shouldn't be too difficult.
92. But be careful. The interviewer is asking you toBut be careful. The interviewer is asking you to
sell yourself, but at the same time, they do notsell yourself, but at the same time, they do not
want to hear you being arrogant. And while theywant to hear you being arrogant. And while they
may want to know about your personality (if youmay want to know about your personality (if you
are over confident they will certainly learnare over confident they will certainly learn
something about you), do remember that this issomething about you), do remember that this is
still an interview situation, so your answers muststill an interview situation, so your answers must
be relevant to the job in question. In other words,be relevant to the job in question. In other words,
don't get too personal.don't get too personal.
93. So how do you go about answering theSo how do you go about answering the
interview question what are your stronginterview question what are your strong
points? The general recommendation is topoints? The general recommendation is to
prepare at least three answers and toprepare at least three answers and to
relate them to the organisation and therelate them to the organisation and the
vacancy. This means you need to tailorvacancy. This means you need to tailor
your answers. Ensure there is truth inyour answers. Ensure there is truth in
what you say, but do not be too honest,what you say, but do not be too honest,
especially it makes you sound like a lessespecially it makes you sound like a less
than ideal candidate.than ideal candidate.
94. Here are some suggested responses and theHere are some suggested responses and the
reasons why they might work in interviews forreasons why they might work in interviews for
certain kinds of jobs.certain kinds of jobs.
"I am confident and outgoing""I am confident and outgoing"
This is a response that says something aboutThis is a response that says something about
your personality, but if you are applying for a roleyour personality, but if you are applying for a role
where you need to relate to a lot of people -where you need to relate to a lot of people -
particularly the public - it will serve yourparticularly the public - it will serve your
purposes. However, if the vacancy involvespurposes. However, if the vacancy involves
consultation, it might be better to say "I haveconsultation, it might be better to say "I have
good interpersonal skills", as this implies thatgood interpersonal skills", as this implies that
you are able to listen to people as well.you are able to listen to people as well.
95. "I enjoy a challenge""I enjoy a challenge"
Be careful with this. It is an excellent response ifBe careful with this. It is an excellent response if
the vacancy requires problem solving, orthe vacancy requires problem solving, or
servicing of some kind, working to tightservicing of some kind, working to tight
deadlines or project completion. It will obviouslydeadlines or project completion. It will obviously
not be helpful if the job is less dynamic andnot be helpful if the job is less dynamic and
involves a larger amount of regular, less excitinginvolves a larger amount of regular, less exciting
duties - the employer might be concerned thatduties - the employer might be concerned that
you will become bored. You could always qualifyyou will become bored. You could always qualify
it to offer a more balanced response: "I enjoy ait to offer a more balanced response: "I enjoy a
challenge, but I'm also happy completing regularchallenge, but I'm also happy completing regular
tasks." Then it illustrates that you're flexible andtasks." Then it illustrates that you're flexible and
responsive to different work situations.responsive to different work situations.
96. "I'm a strong team leader""I'm a strong team leader"
Clearly, this is appropriate if the job involvesClearly, this is appropriate if the job involves
managing people. It's a good idea to show thatmanaging people. It's a good idea to show that
you know what leading a team involvesyou know what leading a team involves
(although this will no doubt come up in other(although this will no doubt come up in other
questions too). So, "I'm a strong team leaderquestions too). So, "I'm a strong team leader
with the ability to motivate others" and "I'm awith the ability to motivate others" and "I'm a
strong team leader who leads by example"strong team leader who leads by example"
represent stronger answers. Draw on your ownrepresent stronger answers. Draw on your own
understanding of your management skills plusunderstanding of your management skills plus
the job description to decide what you'll saythe job description to decide what you'll say
here.here.
97. "I am ambitious""I am ambitious"
This is a very strong answer and youThis is a very strong answer and you
should use it with care. In the wrongshould use it with care. In the wrong
situation, it can sound hard-headed andsituation, it can sound hard-headed and
the employer may wonder whether you'llthe employer may wonder whether you'll
compete too fiercely with your colleagues,compete too fiercely with your colleagues,
or even your superiors. However, in aor even your superiors. However, in a
sales role it might be perfect, especially ifsales role it might be perfect, especially if
you focus your response a little more: "Iyou focus your response a little more: "I
am ambitious and aim to exceed targets".am ambitious and aim to exceed targets".
98. "I am dedicated and hard working""I am dedicated and hard working"
You're on safe ground here, as this can beYou're on safe ground here, as this can be
true whatever your individual workingtrue whatever your individual working
style. It's not the most exciting answer, butstyle. It's not the most exciting answer, but
when presented alongside two others thatwhen presented alongside two others that
are more individual, it should offerare more individual, it should offer
reassurance to the interviewer.reassurance to the interviewer.
99. "I am a good communicator""I am a good communicator"
Again, this is a win-win answer.Again, this is a win-win answer.
Be prepared to expand, though: specifyBe prepared to expand, though: specify
whether you have strong writing skills, arewhether you have strong writing skills, are
good at explaining difficult ideas in agood at explaining difficult ideas in a
simple way, or perform well at importantsimple way, or perform well at important
meetings.meetings.
100. "I work well without supervision""I work well without supervision"
A majority of employers would be pleasedA majority of employers would be pleased
to hear this, providing the vacancy is at ato hear this, providing the vacancy is at a
level where they'd normally expect you tolevel where they'd normally expect you to
need a degree of supervision. But beneed a degree of supervision. But be
careful not to sound as if you prefer tocareful not to sound as if you prefer to
work without supervision, as this maywork without supervision, as this may
sound as if you risk coming into conflictsound as if you risk coming into conflict
with your supervisor or manager. A saferwith your supervisor or manager. A safer
option might be to state "I work well with oroption might be to state "I work well with or
without supervision".without supervision".
101. "I enjoy learning through my work""I enjoy learning through my work"
Again, this is a safe answer. TheAgain, this is a safe answer. The
interviewer might then ask how you haveinterviewer might then ask how you have
done this in the past, so be ready to givedone this in the past, so be ready to give
details of some hands-on learning ordetails of some hands-on learning or
special training you've experienced, and tospecial training you've experienced, and to
say why you enjoyed it.say why you enjoyed it.
102. And finallyAnd finally
These examples show that whenThese examples show that when
preparing an answer to the interviewpreparing an answer to the interview
question what are your strong points, it isquestion what are your strong points, it is
important to consider whether yourimportant to consider whether your
responses could be taken the wrong way.responses could be taken the wrong way.
Put yourself in the interviewer's shoes -Put yourself in the interviewer's shoes -
you can then ensure that the potential foryou can then ensure that the potential for
a negative interpretation is removed.a negative interpretation is removed.