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Congratulations! You've landed an interview, a tough hurdle in finding a job. It means your resume stood out among countless others. Now comes the nerve-wracking part - the actual interview. Sure you're jittery. It's natural. But there are steps you can take to minimize those feelings by being prepared.
Preparation means anticipating interview questions. Here are some frequently asked questions. Remember, each question presents an opportunity to sell yourself.
Tell me about yourself?
- Before going in to any interview, prepare a two-minute bio and rehearse it until you're comfortable.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- The interviewer wants to hear how your strengths match the needs of their firm. Have two or three strengths in mind before an interview. It's best to speak of one or two and offer examples of how you used them, and how you learned them. Tread lightly on conceit. Turn weaknesses into strengths and tell the interviewer how you are working to improve this weakness. For example: 'I've gotten a bit rusty in my hands-on production skills since becoming manager. Now I spend my time....'
Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Employers are looking for ambition. You don't want to come off as a threat. Instead, say how you'd like to gain a solid foundation of skills for the position you are being considered, so that you are better prepared for other career paths the company will offer in the future.
Why should I hire you?
- Employers are looking for you to understand the company's needs. State how you think you can help company growth, solve a problem or add to its strengths.
Why do you want to work here?
- The interviewer is looking for enthusiasm. Convey your interests to key components of the job, or being part of an important project. Tell the interviewer you like the company's size, aggressive market stance or creative business.
- Now that the interviewer has concluded with his/her questions, you can breathe again. Don't exhale yet. It's your turn to ask the questions. What, no questions? If you don't have any questions, the interviewer will likely be left with these impressions of you:
- You're not really interested in the position or the organization.
- You're so lazy you couldn't be bothered to put any thought into it.
- You're so desperate you'll go anywhere.
- This is another opportunity to 'sell' yourself. Prepare a few questions ahead of time. Always be positive. Questions asked should focus on gaining more information about the job, such as who held the position prior, or how many people report to the boss?
Example Questions
- What projects will I be involved with in the first few months?
- How does your company stand apart from its competition?
- How do you see the future of this industry?
- I noticed in your annual report that your firm has made several acquisitions. Will this aggressive business stance continue?
And last but certainly not least: Good luck and don't forget to say thank you in a note.
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