QUESTIONS TO PREPARE FOR
Think about your answers to questions you're likely to be asked. To help you consider answers ahead of time, we're listing some of the probable questions:
"Tell me about yourself."
With what you've learned about the company and the position, plan an answer that emphasizes your experience and accomplishments in terms of the position to be filled. Don't be modest and do take credit for your successes.
You can use this same question to get the interviewer talking about his own needs, by answering him, "I'll be happy to tell you about my qualifications, but there's so much to cover that I'd like to know more about the position and your company so I can answer more specifically." Then, depending upon what the interviewer says, you can modify your planned response to put even greater emphasis on relating your experience and qualifications to his requirements.
"What are your goals?"
This is a very popular question because well-thought-out goals show maturity and a commitment to your profession or business. Your goals should be both long and short range; ambitious but realistic.
"What is your greatest strength?"
Again, answer the question in terms of the position to be filled. State your greatest strength and support your claim with illustrations of past accomplishments.
"What is your greatest weakness?"
This is a loaded question because negatives usually won't score pluses for you on the interviewer's evaluation sheet. Offer a job related minor shortcoming or a "positive-negative" such as, "I've been accused of being a workaholic." Or, "I've been kidded about being a perfectionist."
"Why do you want to leave your job?"
Be sure you have a good answer to this question before going on an interview. Your reason for leaving might be because of corporate changes, lack of opportunity or recognition, insufficient authority, or unsatisfactory earnings. If appropriate, you might say, "I wasn't thinking of changing jobs. I'm not unhappy where I am, but I was told this was an opportunity worth discussing."
If you were terminated, or are leaving because of a personality conflict, be very careful not to make negative statements about former employers or colleagues. Explain the situation as factually and briefly as possible. Then to turn what might be a negative into a positive you might add, "Despite that problem, I really feel I learned a great deal in that job and from that company, and I'm sure I could put that experience to work for you effectively."
"What salary are you asking for?"
You should avoid discussing compensation on the first interview unless you're actually offered the job and want to accept it. If the interviewer asks specifically what your salary requirements are, your answer should be, "What I'm really looking for is the right career opportunity. I'm sure you'll make me a fair offer if you want to hire me."
If you are pressed for a specific figure, describe your current compensation and then add, "I believe on the basis of what I've accomplished I'd be entitled to some increase, but I'd rather hear what you think I'm worth to your company."
Questions You Should Ask
Questions that boost the interviewer's ego and give you an insight into general company morale are: "Why do you like working here?" Or, "Are there any major company problems that might affect your decision to stay here or my decision to work here? After all, I'm looking for a long-term relationship."
Questions to avoid. Until the job is offered, do not ask questions about fringe benefits, vacations, retirement or, of course, salary.
