Job Interview

Where you are looking for a job now or preparing yourself for your future dream job, it is important to build up on your job interview skills. Here are some tips and common job interview questions.

Tips:

Prepare

Prepare a response so you are ready for the question "What do you know about our company. Know the interviewer's name and use it during the job interview. If you're not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.

Get Ready

Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.

Be On Time

Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.

Stay Calm

During the job interview, try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention - you will be embarrassed if you forget the question!

Show What You Know

Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for.

Follow Up

Always follow-up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the position. If you interview with multiple people send each one a thank you note.

Don’ts:

Don't chew gum during the interview.

Don't rely on your application or resume to do the selling for you. No matter how qualified you are for the position, you will need to sell yourself to the interviewer.

Don't be soft-spoken. A forceful voice projects confidence.

Don't act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment.

Don't say anything negative about former colleagues, supervisors, or employers.

Don't ever lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and succinctly. And don't over-answer questions.

Don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself that showcase your talents, skills, and determination. Give examples.

Don't bring up or discuss personal issues or family problems.

Don't answer cell phone calls during the interview, and do turn off (or set to silent ring) your cell phone and/or pager.

Don't inquire about salary, vacations, bonuses, retirement, or other benefits until after you've received an offer. Be prepared for a question about your salary requirements, but do try and delay salary talk until you have an offer

Most Common Questions:

1. What is your greatest strength?
2. What is your greatest weakness?
3. How do you handle stress and pressure?
4. Describe a difficult work situation / project and how you overcame it.
5. Why are you leaving or have left your job?
6. Why do you want this job?
7. Why should we hire you?
8. What are your goals for the future?
9. Tell me about yourself.

1. What should you do first in a job interview?

2. When the interviewer asks why you left your previous job, how should you answer?

3. How should you respond when the interviewer says you are overqualified?

4. What should you do when the topic of salary and benefits comes up?