Job Interview Questions and Answers

Tag: job

  • Describe the best job you’ve ever had?

    This is another question that’s not only designed to measure whether you’re a fit for the position and the company, but also to help the interviewer gauge how to best fit the job to your personality, skills and experience. Remember, there is flexibility in some positions, and companies are willing to work with people to maximize their efficiency.

    That’s why it’s important to be honest. But don’t be too honest. If the new job is for one thing, don’t answer the question with something opposite. For example, if the job is a technical position where you’ll be working in isolation, don’t answer with a non-technical job where you worked with a lot of people. Positions are flexible, but they can’t turn 180 degrees.

    Here are some examples of answers based on old jobs and the new job.

    Old – Mechanic, New – Garage Supervisor:
    “A few years ago I worked at a shop where the boss really trusted me. When he wasn’t around, I was in charge. I still had work to do, but I really enjoyed keeping an eye on things and making sure the shop ran smoothly.”

    Old – Software Developer, New – Software Sales:
    “I got a big kick out of solving problems, taking a blank sheet and turning it into software people can use. A salesman is on the other side of that, not only bringing solutions to people, but out in the field listening to people describe what they want. That turns into new features.”

    Old – Financial Advisor, New – Pizza Delivery (In a bad economy, sometimes people’s careers take a dive.):
    “Taking someone’s money, investing it, turning it into something more, that was the most fulfilling work I’ve done. It was exciting too! But it was also hard work. I’m not afraid of hard work.”

    Old – Car Salesman, New – Fishing Expedition Captain
    “What I loved most was getting to see all the newest models. I love cars! And then helping people get one for themselves…what a rush! To my thinking, a lot of the people who come out here will be on a boat, on this boat, for the first time. I’ll get to live that excitement through their eyes.”

    Some keys to keep in mind for the answer:

    • Relate specific experiences from a specific job
    • If possible, tie it into the new position
    • Don’t hesitate to include emotions – make your voice sound the “!”

  • Why Do You Want to Work Here?

    This is a question you should ask yourself during the job search. Why do you want to work at a company, why apply there? The answer might be perfect for the interview question. Equally as important, the answer guides your choice of companies and jobs. People are rarely happy in jobs that are nothing more than a pay check.

    Do research on the company to make sure you know about it – what is done there, the people, the environment, the owners or executive staff. Most of that information can be found on the company web site.

    Some good answers in this vain include:

    Learn from the executives:
    “In my career field the people who run this company are some of the best there are. I want to get into this environment so I can learn from their experience while working with them to make the company a success.”

    Personality match:
    “The environment here matches my personality. This is a company that likes creativity on the job. This is where I want to work.”

    Industry Leader:
    “My research showed me that your company is an industry leader. I saw some information on future projects here that got me excited – I want to be involved.”

    Even after all the research it may come down to nothing more than you need a job, you have to pay the bills. Then be honest about that, but spin it in a way that shows you will be an asset.

    “I have bills to pay, I need to work. I intend to work hard here so I can help the company and keep the job a long time.”

    A little humor doesn’t hurt.

    “I owe, I owe, so off to work I go. Look, people have to work. I need the money. You need a hard worker who can do the job and is willing to grow with the company. That’s me.”

    Beware of sounding desperate. The company is looking for employees to fill their needs. Good companies recognize that they have to fulfill employees needs too. Honesty is the best policy. If you need a job but don’t really intend to work hard, it will come out during the interview.

    The worst possible answer to this question we’ve ever heard? “Your office is next to the bank I intend to rob. I can study their security and the lay out during my breaks.”

  • Do you have questions about the job / company?

    Remember that a job interview isn’t a one way street. It’s also your assessment of the employer and job, as well as an opportunity to learn more about them. Be prepared for this question. Even if it isn’t asked, have some questions ready. What you ask shows the interviewer interest. A person who doesn’t bother to be curious about the job and company isn’t going to come across as interested.

    Some good questions to ask include:

    * How do you describe the job and its responsibilities?
    * Can you tell me about the owner, something that isn’t on the web site?
    * How many people work in the department, group or office?
    * Is there travel? If so, how much?
    * Is it possible that the company will pay for relocation?
    * What typical hours are expected in a work week? Is overtime expected on a regular basis?
    * What are the opportunities for growth and advancement?
    * Does the company pay for any ongoing education?
    * Are there examples of people who have moved upwards in the company?
    * What do you like about the job/company?
    * What don’t you like about it?
    * What things would you change if you could?
    * If I am offered the job, when would be the earliest you’d want me to begin work?
    * Can I tell you any other information about my qualifications?
    * What is the process from here – when will I hear from you and via what method?
    * What is the dress code?
    * Will there be additional interviews?
    * Do you have additional questions for me?

    Asking questions is a positive. It shows real interest in the job and the company. Not only will it reflect well during the interview, but it serves you well when making a decision. It may be hard to ask more questions after a long interview. But even if you’re itching to get out the door, take the time.

    Don’t ask questions that a candidate should know, such as information that can be found on the web site. Questions to avoid include:

    * What does the company do?
    * How long have you been in business?
    * Anything exciting happening around here?
    * Can you tell me about the history of the company?
    * Do I have the job?
    * Can I bring my pet snake to the office? (A job candidate actually asked this question.)