Monday, March 8, 2010

Are you prepared for these interview questions?

When you go to an interview, it could be hard to imagine what kind of questions you may be asked, right? Well maybe. There are some questions that are almost always asked. The questions are really not trade secrets, but how you answer them may make the difference.

1) Are you sure you want to move here? Not only should you be ready for that question in how you answer it, but have you asked your spouse and family? Have you researched the necessary community facilities that are critical to your family? Be sure that you have done some research on the community before the interview.

2) Tell me about yourself? Have you thought about that? In just how much detail do you want to go in? Tell them about your background as far as it may relate to the necessary skills and experiences to the position. You may also want to add some of your outside of work activities, such as coaching duties, or industry association responsibilities. Those may show some good initiative and work ethic. This is a good practice question to go over with your Ag 1 Source recruiting consultant in your interview preparation.

3) So, how did you accomplish that sales growth? Or, save the company money as you indicate on your resume? You should be prepared to back up what you say on your resume. Know just what all steps you took to achieve what you indicate that you have done.

4) What are your weaknesses? This one will catch most interviewees just about every time. You are well prepared to answer how much you have accomplished, and talk about all the good things. Now, how do you explain that you’re not good in some area? Think about that beforehand.

5) So, what salary are you seeking? This is a hard one and really shouldn’t be asked by a hiring manager, however they sometimes do. Answer too high and you possibly eliminate yourself. Answer too low and maybe you passed up some salary that you could have had. The best answer here is: “I tell you what, when you decide that you want to hire me, then I’ll consider your best offer.” That leaves room for some negotiation. You both get a chance to evaluate the value of your potential contribution.

Remember that the key thing that you must convey in your interview is your potential value contribution to the company. The interviewer must see that you have the ability to attain the results, and be that person that can do that better than any other applicant they are interviewing. Proper preparation for your interview should help limit you from stumbling on a question. An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure!