Interview Questions
Sample interview questions are very helpful when preparing for the interview. It is best to review these questions and write out answers. You will not bring the answers with you to the interview but the process of thinking about it and writing the answers will help the answers come to mind quickly when one of the below questions or a variant of one of these is asked of you.
When you go in for a job interview, I think a good thing to ask is if they ever press charges.
~ Jack Handy
Introductory Questions
What do you know about our company?
Research the company you are interviewing with. Look at recent news, company history, and know well what the company does.
Why do you want to work here?
This is your time to give a quick summary of your qualificiations along with what intersets you about the company.
Tell me about yourself.
Prepare a quick one minute description of your experience, qualifications, values, and objectives.
General Questions
In what areas do you see the most room for improvement?
Answer this question honestly but there are some areas you should avoid. Do not list the following as areas for improvement: communication, attitude,
What are some recent goals you have set for yourself?
Answer this question by talking about some specific acomplishments you have made and tasks you have performed in previous positions.
Would you classify yourself as a risk taker? Why?
Quantify your answer to this question. Do not answer yes or no. Explain why you feel the way you do. If you are not much of a risk taker, you could, for example, tell how you value consistent growth and how you respect the stewardship placed upon the position. If you are a risk taker you could talk about how you value innovation and the need to press forward and achieve the impossible which requires a company to accept some risk but also talk about how you mitigate that risk through careful controls, good planning, and a progressive implementation.
Please describe your experience for me.
Answer this question by talking about some specific acomplishments you have made and tasks you have performed in previous positions.
Describe your optimal working environment.
This question is very broad. Based on the interview so far you can use this time to explain in more detail how certain aspects of the company fit your optimal company. Some possible topics are your working style, responsibility and authority, team interaction, work-life balance, and maintaining a healthy workplace stress level.
In the last year, what have you done to enhance your skill set?
Your answer to this question will be very unique. Think about all the things you have done in your spare time. Have you gone to any seminars or conferences, volunteered or joined any professional groups, or even read blogs and articles. Show the interviewer that you are well rounded and that you have a passion for the work you do.
Tell me of some good advice you have given.
Think about the different projects and tasks you have worked on and somewhere along the line your input was needed to move forward. If there is something that was particularly crucial or inspiring, mention that.
What is your greatest strength?
When listing your strength, cite examples that will stick. This is an excellent time to tell a story of a time when you demonstrated that strength.
What motivates you?
Some good things to talk about are a challenge, making a difference, having and meeting goals, support of co-workers, etc..
How would you define success?
This question is a way the company measures your alignment with their culture. Make sure you have familiarized yourself with their values. Craft a statement that includes some of these values. NOTE: If you do not adhere to the values the company believes in the company might not be a good fit for you.