1. THE DIRTY DOZEN
A wide variety of questions may be asked during interviews. Most of them can be
anticipated. You can be sure you'll be asked at least some of them.
This list consists of the twelve most common interview questions. Prepare your answers
to these questions and practice saying them.
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
3. Why did you leave your old job?
4. Why do you want to work for us?
5. What did you like/dislike about your old job?
6. What kind of salary are you looking for?
7. What do you know about our company?
8. Why should we hire you?
9. What did you think of your old boss?
10. What are your long-range goals?
11. Do you like to work overtime?
12. What was your favorite/least favorite class in college?

2. SAMPLE ANSWERS TO DIFFICULT OUESTIONS
You will be more confident about the interview if you practice good responses to difficult
questions, if you are well prepared, you might even be disappointed if the interviewer
doesn't ask any "tough questions."
Here is a list of the most commonly-asked questions, with suggested responses, to
prepare you for almost anything!
Note: Some questions may have more than one purpose.
Interviewer's Purpose
and Questions Consider When Answering
Is the person prepared? Organized and concise?
1. Tell me about yourself. Answer in about two
minutes. Avoid details, don't
ramble. Touch on four areas:
-born/raised
-education/military
background
-work experience
-current situation
2. Did you bring your resume? Yes. (Be prepared with 2-3
extra copies.)
3. What do you know about our organization? Talk about products, services,
history, and people-especially
any friends that work there.
4. According to your definition of Be prepared with your
definition of
success, how successful have you success, and then respond,
using
been so far? specific examples of
achievements.

3. Is this person mature and self-aware?
5. In your current or last position, what Give one or two
accomplishment
were your most significant accomplishments? statements.
in your career so far?
6. Had you thought of leaving your present "No job is perfect. Yet, there
are
position before? pluses in every position."
Refer to positive
aspects of the job, and what
you learned.
If yes, what do you think held you there?
7. Would you describe a few situations in Give only one, and tell how
you have corrected or plan
which your work was criticized?
to correct your work.
8. If I spoke with your previous boss, what Be consistent with what you
think the boss would say.
would he or she say are your greatest strengths
and weaknesses? Position the weakness in a
positive way (refer to #11).
9. How would you describe your personality? Keep our answer short and
relevant to the job and the
organization's culture.
10. What are your strong points? Present three. Relate them to
that particular company and
job opening.
11. What are your weak points? Don't say you have none, but
give one that is really a
"positive in disguise." "I am
sometimes impatient and do
all the work myself when we
are working against tight
deadlines."

4. 12. How did you do in school? Emphasize your best and
favorite subjects. If your
grades were average or
below, talk about leadership
activities or jobs you took to
finance your education.
Is the person motivated? What are his/her values, attitudes? Is there a fit?
13. In your current or last position, Refer to your satisfiers for
likes.
what features did you like most? Be careful with dislikes; give
only one and make it brief.
Least?
14. What do you look for in a job? Relate your preferences and
satisfiers/ dissatisfiers to the
job opening.
15. How long would it take you to "Not long, because of my
experience,
make a meaningful contribution to our firm? my transferable skills and
ability to learn."
16. How long would you stay with us? "As long as I feel that I'm
contributing, and that my
contribution is recognized."
17. If you have never supervised, Be honest. If you don't want to
how do you feel about assuming those supervise, emphasize that you can
responsibilities? contribute more as an individual
player. If you want to supervise, say
so, and be enthusiastic. Highlight
earlier experiences when you had the
opportunity to lead others.
18. Why do you want to become a supervisor? "To grow and develop
professionally, to help others
develop, to build a team, and to share
what I have learned."
19. What do you see as the most difficult task "Getting things planned and
done
in being a supervisor? through others, and dealing
with different personalities."

5. Show how you have done
this in the past.
20. Why are you leaving your present job? Refer to a difference in style
or opinion. Never
personalize or be negative.
Keep it short.
Stick to one response; don't
change answers during the
interview.
21. Describe what would be an ideal working Refer to your job preferences and
environment. satisfiers; relate them to that
particular company and job.
22. How would you evaluate your, present firm? Be positive. Refer to the
valuable experience you have
gained. Don't
mention any negatives.
23. Do you prefer working with figures, or with Be aware of what the job
requires
words? and position your answer in
that context.
24. How would your co-workers describe you? Refer to your strengths and
skills.
25. What do you think of your boss? If you like him or her, say so
and tell why. If you don't
like him or her, find
something positive to say.
26. Why do you want to work in a company Refer to job preferences and
satisfiers
of this size? Of this type? Explain how this size or type
of company works well for
you, using examples
from the past if possible.
27. If you had your choice of jobs and Refer to job preferences.
Acknowledge
companies, where would you go? that no job is perfect. Say
that this job and this
company is very close to
what best suits you.

6. 28. Why do you want to work for us? You would love to be part of
a company project; solve a
company problem. You like
what you've learned about the
company; its policies, goals,
and management.
I've researched the company
and friends tell me its' a good
place to work.”
29. What was the last book you read? Think this through.Your
answer
Movie you saw? Sporting event you attended? should be compatible with
the company culture and the
image of yourself you're
trying to present.
30. What are you doing, or what have you Talk about formal courses
done to reach your career objectives? And training programs; also
promotions you've actively
sought.
31. What was wrong with your last company? Choose your words carefully.
Don't be negative. Say that
no company is perfect; it had
both strengths and
weaknesses.
32. What kind of hours are you used to working? "As many hours as it takes to
get the job done." Then ask,
“What is an average working
day or week here?”
Does the person match job and criteria?
33. What would you do for us? Relate past success in solving
problems which are similar to
those
of the prospective employer.
34 .What has your experience been in Give examples of
accomplishments
supervising people?
35. Are you a good supervisor? Draw from your successes.
Give an example.
Why do you feel you have management

7. potential? "Because I have been told
that I have management
potential in my
evaluations; I know what
skills are necessary to be a
manager, and know that I
have them."
36. Did you ever fire anyone? If so, what If you haven't then say so, but
were the reasons, and how did you add that you could do it, if
handle it? necessary.
37. How have you helped your company? Refer to accomplishments
38. What is the most money you ever accounted for? Refer to accomplishments. If
you
Largest budget responsibility? haven't had budget
responsibility, say so, but
refer to an accomplishment
that demonstrates similar
skills.
39. Describe some situations in which you Refer to accomplishments.
have worked under pressure or met deadlines. Everyone has had a few of
these pressure situations.
40. In your present position, what problems Refer to accomplishments.
have you identified that had previously been
overlooked?
41. Give an example of your creativity. Refer to accomplishments.
42. Give examples of your leadership abilities. Draw examples from
accomplishments.
43. What are your career goals? Talk first about doing the job
for which you are applying,
and then talk about long-
range plans.
44. What position do you expect to have "A position similar to the one
we're discussing or the next
in two years? step up."

8. 45. What are your objectives? Refer back to question 43 on
goals.
Keep answers fairly general.
Short range: Be more
specific; talk about particular
skills you want to master,
growth opportunities, maybe
having more responsibilities,
or moving into management.
How does the person handle stress? What is their confidence level?
46. Why should we hire you? Relate a past experience
which represents success in
solving problems which may
be similar to those- of the
prospective employer.
47. You may be overqualified or "A strong company needs a
strong
too experienced for the position we person.'
have to offer.
"Experienced people are at a
premium today."
An employer will get faster
return on investment because
you have more experience
than required.
48. Why haven't you found a new "Finding the right job takes
time. I'm
position before now? not looking for just any job."
49. If you could start again, what No need to be too self-
revealing.
would you do differently? "Hindsight is 20/20;
everyone would
make some changes, but I've
learned and grown from all
my decisions."
50. How much do you expect, if we Be careful. If you don't know the

9. offer you this position? market value, return the
question by
saying that you would expect
a fair salary based on the job
responsibilities, your
experience,
and skills, and the market
value of the job. Then ask
what salary range
has been set for the job. If
you know the market value of
the job, that may be the key
answer. "My understanding
is that a job like the
one you're describing may be
in the range of $___.____
Is that in your ball park?”
What is this person's market value?
51. What kind of salary are you worth? Ask more about specific
responsibilities of the job.
This will tell you how
important the job is to
the company and its
willingness to pay. When the
interviewer opens the
discussion of salary, you will
be in a
much better position to
determine what the job is
worth to both the employer
and you.
Delay all mention of money
until the end of the interview.
If they insist on knowing
your desired salary, quote a
range.
52. What other types of jobs or companies "I'm looking at similar
positions in
are you considering? several companies." You
don't have to be specific.

10. WINNING QUESTIONS TO ASK
Interview etiquette requires that you, as the applicant, allow the interviewer to direct and
control the first part of the interview. The interviewer takes the lead in asking the
questions about your work experience, education, skills and attitude.
However, at some point, the interviewer will turn to you and ask d you have any
questions. You must be ready with questions that demonstrate your business judgment
and maturity.
Here are some questions that may be appropriate to ask. Review these questions before
each interview and decide which ones apply to your situation.
1. Why was this position created?
2. What would be my primary duties initially? How will these change over
time?
3. Tell me how this job fits in with other jobs.
4. What is the most difficult part of the job?
5. Why did the previous person in this position leave?
6. What are the expectations of the supervisor?
7. What freedom would I have in getting the job done?
8. Describe the type of person who does well in this organization/office/unit.
9. How would you describe the management style of the company as a whole?
10. Can you tell me how my performance will be evaluated?
11. What do you see as my greatest strengths and weaknesses in terms of this
position?
12. When will you be making your decision to fill this job?

11. INTERVIEW FOLLOW-UP
At the close of an interview, most people assume they have done all they can and that, at
this point, the interviewer makes a 'Yes' or 'No' hiring decision. However, most
interviewers either decide 'No, or 'Maybe' at the end of an interview. They are undecided
and usually schedule more interviews with other candidates.
Since a job offer seldom comes during the first interview, follow-up is important.
Following up after an interview can keep you in the running and make the difference in
getting a job offer. Turn the interviewer's indecision to your advantage by doing these
things:
1. TAKE GOOD NOTES
Immediately after the interview, write down what you discussed, why you are good for
the job, and any possible objections you think the interviewer may have about your
background. Keep good notes on every interview. Then use this information when you
follow up with a letter or a phone call.
2. DECIDE WHETHER TO CALL OR WRITE
Send a standard thank you note after every interview, even when you are not interested or
unqualified for the job. Use your energy in a creative follow-up effort only when there is
a high probability of receiving an offer for a job that you want. Call if urgency is a key
factor. Write if they will not be hiring someone immediately.
3. TAKE THE EMPLOYER'S PERSPECTIVE
Ask yourself questions like these: Did I show that I can do the job? Do they see me
fitting into their group? Am I compatible with the supervisor? What contributions can I
make? What concerns do they have? What should we have discussed, but didn't? Use
the insights you gain from these questions to organize what to say in your follow-up.
4. DRAFT A BRIEF FOLLOW-UP LETTER
Include some of these points in your letter: (a.) Express your interest. (b.) Show positive
'matches' between what they want and what you have to offer. (c.) Refer to previous
experiences or education. (d.) Volunteer further information. (e.) Ask for clarification
regarding anything that came up in the interview. (f.) Offer to provide references. (g.)
Justify a reason to get together again.
5. REVIEW THE LETTER WITH YOUR COACH
Have an objective, third party read your letter to see if it says what you intended.

12. INTERVIEW FOLLOW-UP (continued)
6. MAIL THE LETTER TWO DAYS AFTER THE INTERVIEW
Mailing it on the same day makes you appear too anxious. Later than two days, you not
only lose impact, you may lose the job.
7. MAKE A FOLLOW-UP CALL
Two days after the person gets your letter, call to express your interest in the job,
introduce a new point or two about your qualifications, and arrange a second meeting.
FOLLOW-UP LETTER
Effective follow-up can help you get a job offer. Follow-up may even result in the
position being tailored to your strengths.
If nothing more, the interviewer may refer you to someone else:
You cannot afford to not follow-up on interviews.
Study the sample letter and phone call on the next few pages before following up.

13. SAMPLE FOLLOW-UP LETTER
MATT CLARK
2031 King Street
Atlanta, GA 30339
(404) 751-6733 Home
(404) 856-0047 Messages
January 16, 2005
Ms. Linda Baker
Executive Editor
Blossom Publishers, Inc.
8116 Armour Street
Atlanta, GA 30339
Dear Ms. Baker:
Thank you for taking time to interview me for your Assistant Editor's position.
After listening to what you need done, it seems to me that there may be some ways to
organize the editing process to allow tracking procedures to flow more smoothly. I think
some of my ideas may be of immediate benefit to your company. I like the idea of being
able to make a contribution right away.
Feel free to call my prior supervisor, Bill Rosenberg, about my editing experience and
work habits. His number here in Atlanta is 404-621-9600.
I am very interested in this position and look forward to speaking with you again. I will
call soon.
Sincerely,
Matt Clark

14. SAMPLE FOLLOW-UP CALL
Matt Clark: Hello. This is Matt Clark calling for Linda Baker.
Secretary: Will Ms. Baker know the nature of your call?
Matt Clark: Yes, she will. I met with her last week and am following up by telephone
on correspondence we had from that meeting.
Secretary: One moment while I connect you.
Linda Baker: This is Linda Baker.
Matt Clark: Ms. Baker. This is Matt Clark. You and I met last week to talk about
your Assistant Editor position. Can you talk now, or have I caught you in
a meeting?
Linda Baker: Matt Clark? Sure, I remember. I'd be glad to talk.
Matt Clark: Great. The reason I'm calling is to let you know how interested I am in
working for you, I’ve thought a lot about our discussion and have several
suggestions of ways that I can organize the editing process to make it
easier to track the status of each job. I'd like to schedule a meeting and
share my ideas to see if they make sense to you.
Linda Baker: Well, Matt, you've got my curiosity up. Let's sit down and take a look at
what you've come up with. How about this afternoon at 2:30?
Matt Clark: You bet. I'll meet you at your office.

15. INTERVIEW DO'S & DON'TS
* Do research the company * Don't neglect appearance
* Do prepare questions to ask * Don't give limp handshakes
* Do practice your answers * Don't lack energy
* Do bring paper and pen * Don't be rude
* Do bring an extra resume * Don't be too familiar
* Do be on time * Don't emphasize money
* Do dress appropriately * Don't be indecisive
* Do Maintain Eye Contact * Don't be unprepared
* Do wait to be seated * Don't criticize anyone
* Do Be Positive * Don't name drop
* Do be honest * Don't make excuses
* Do show you're a team player * Don't be too aggressive
* Do ask about the next step * Don't talk too much
* Do ask for a business card * Don't take a friend with
you (even if you're just
picking up an application)
* Do send a follow-up letter *Do follow-up by telephone