Interview Tips

Plan Ahead

1.       If possible find out as much about the company as you can before the interview.

2.       Look online for company pictures.  They might give you an idea of what the company dress code is.

3.       Be ready to talk about your experience and accomplishments.

4.       Bring extra copies of your resume, cover letter and reference sheet.

5.       Arrive at least 15 min early.

6.       Bring pen and paper.

Body Language

1.        Eye contact.

2.       Shake hands with interviewer when you enter the room.

3.       Sit straight in your chair.

4.       Speak Loudly.

Answering Questions

1.        Always use examples from your experiences.

2.       Keep answers skill/job related.  Do not talk about your hobbies or interests unless asked specifically.

3.        Try to be positive when you answer questions. 

4.       If you think you are having trouble with English keep your answers simple.

Questions to ask

1.        Don’t ask about money.

2.       Ask about possible advancement (shows that you want to work for the company for a long time)

3.       Ask about training opportunities if you think you might not have the correct skills.

4.       Ask when the hiring decisions will be made.

10 Most Common Interview Questions

1.        What are your weaknesses?

This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your   strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters, which I find very helpful."

2.       Why should we hire you?

Summarize your experiences: "With five years' experience working in the financial industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your company. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."

3.       Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening. For example, "I've selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices."

4.       Why did you leave your old job?

If you're unemployed, state your reason for leaving in a positive context: "I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which included me."

If you are employed, focus on what you want in your next job: "After two years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my experience."

5.       When are you most satisfied with your job?

Pick an situation that would also happen in the new job.

6.       What are your strengths?

Stay away from personal strengths and only talk about professional skills.  Make sure to use examples.

7.       Tell me about yourself.

For this question it is best to talk about yourself.  Do not give a detailed story of your past life.  Just explain why you are right for this job.

8.       What are your goals?

Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, "My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility."

9.       Do you work better with a team or alone?

If you can, be honest, but its best to choose the one that will be the situation at your new job.

10.   What motivates you?

For this question you should not say “money” use something like “doing a job well”  or “being the best at what I do”.