Tell me about you!
Keep your answer to one or two minutes; don't ramble. Use your resume summary
as a base to start.
What do you know about our company?
Do your homework before the interview! Spend some time researching the company.
Find out as much as you can, including products, size, income, reputation, image,
management talent, people, skills, history and philosophy. Project an informed
interest; let the interviewer tell you about the company.
Why do you want to work for us?
Don't talk about what you want; first, talk about their needs: You would like
to be part of a specific company project; you would like to solve a company
problem; you can make a definite contribution to specific company goals.
What would you do for us? What can you do for us that someone else can't?
Relate past experiences that show you've had success in solving previous employer
problem(s) that may be similar to those of the prospective employer.
What about the job offered do you find the most attractive? Least attractive?
List three or more attractive factors and only one minor unattractive factor.
Why should we hire you?
Because of your knowledge, experience, abilities and skills.
What do you look for in a job?
An opportunity to use your skills, to perform and be recognized.
Please give me your definition of a .... (the position for which you are being
interviewed).
Keep it brief -- give an actions- and results-oriented definition.
How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our firm?
Not long at all -- you expect only a brief period of adjustment to the learning
curve.
How long would you stay with us?
As long as we both feel I'm contributing, achieving, growing, etc.
Job Search Questions
Why haven't you found a new position before now?
Finding a job is easy; finding the right job is more difficult. (You are being
"selective.")
Had you thought of leaving your present position before? If yes, what do you
think held you there?
Challenge, but it's gone now.
What do you think of your boss?
Be as positive as you can.
Would you describe a situation in which your work was criticized?
Be as positive as you can.
What other types of jobs or companies are you considering?
Keep your answer related to this company's field.
Salary Questions
How much are you looking for?
Answer with a question, i.e., "What is the salary range for similar jobs in
your company?" If they don't answer, then give a range of what you understand
you are worth in the marketplace.
What do you know about our company?
Do your homework before the interview! Spend some time researching the company.
Find out as much as you can, including products, size, income, reputation, image,
management talent, people, skills, history and philosophy. Project an informed
interest; let the interviewer tell you about the company.
How much do you expect, if we offer this position to you?
Be careful; the market value of the job may be the key answer, e.g., "My understanding
is that a job like the one you're describing may be in the range of $______."
What kind of salary are you worth? Have a specific figure in mind ... don't be hesitant.
Experience and
Management Questions
You may be overqualified for the position we have to offer.
Strong companies need strong people. A growing, energetic company is rarely
unable to use its people talents. Emphasize your interest in a long-term association,
pointing out that the employer will get a faster return on investment because
you have more experience than required.
What is your management style?
(If you've never thought about this, it's high time you did.) "Open-door management"
is best ... And you get the job done on time or inform your management.
Are you a good manager? Give an example. Why do you feel you have top managerial
potential?
Keep your answer achievement- and task-oriented; emphasize management skills
-- planning, organizing, controlling, interpersonal, etc.
What do you look for when you hire people?
Skills, initiative, adaptability.
Did you ever fire anyone? If so, what were the reasons and how did you handle
it?
You have had experience with this and it worked out well.
What do you see as the most difficult task in being a manager?
Getting things planned and done on time within the budget.
What do your subordinates think of you?
Be honest and positive ... they can check your responses easily.
What is your biggest weakness as a manager?
Be honest and end on a positive note, e.g. "I don't enjoy reprimanding people,
so I try to begin with something positive first."
