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Improving Job Interviews Skills Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 1 –
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Aug 11, 2014

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Improving Job Interviews Skills

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 1 –

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AGENDA

– Typical Job Interview

– Preparing for the Job Interview

– Appearance

– Prohibited Interview Questions

– Most Commonly-Asked Interview Questions

– Questions you can ask at the Job Interview

– Post-Interview Follow-Up

– If time permits…

• Job Interview Questions & Possible Answers

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 2 –

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The Transition 101 Model

Are you prepared to do each one of these steps?

AngerAnger

Help Me!!Help Me!!

StressStress

ReliefRelief

New FriendsNew Friends

FoundationFoundation

Onboarding Plan

Get a Job Offer

Networking+ LinkedIN

ResumeCover Letter

Interview

Layoff/Quit/Fired

Elevator Speech

Marketing Plan

No Plan = 2 strikes to No Plan = 2 strikes to startstart

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 3 –

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Typical Job InterviewFIRMS ARE LOOKING FOR SOLUTIONS TO THEIR PROBLEMS THAT

REDUCE COSTS WHILE ADDING VALUE AT THE SAME TIMEYOU have to be the problem solver !!!!

Purpose of the typical job interview is to:1.More closely screen a handful of applicants. 2.To learn more about you, your personality, your appearance, your demeanor.3.To determine your ability to answer some stupid/hard questions.

•It is NOT about your paper…it is about YOU!!

Standard Format:– Greetings and Small Talk to break the ice– Interviewer gives brief overview of position and organization– YOU ANSWER questions.

• (Work Experience, Strengths/Weaknesses etc. .YOU talk ..longest part of interview)– YOU ASK questions – Interviewer closes the interview and explains the next steps – Be SURE to thank the interviewer for his/her time

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 4 –

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The 4 P’s of Job InterviewPreparation

Frustrating for an interviewer to have someone that they are talking to who really does not know the company or the position they are applying for.

Practice Candidates can often anticipate the kinds of questions -– if not the exact questions -- Once you've determined the probable questions, practice with someone or a mirror is recommended.

Personal Presentation1.Dressing appropriately2.Hand Shake3.Not being nervous4.Smiling5.Eye Contact

Perceptive Questions It's profoundly disappointing in interviews to get to the end and the interviewer says, ‘Do you have any questions I can answer for you?' and you say, ‘Nope, I think you answered them all,' and that's the end of it. It reflects negatively on the candidate.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 5 –

““A smile is contagious; be a carrier!!”A smile is contagious; be a carrier!!”

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Typical Job InterviewDuring the interview

•You should:– Be enthusiastic and prepared– Be knowledgeable about the organization (do your homework)– Be confident and sell your skills– Listen carefully and be interested

•The interviewer will try to determine the following traits:– Achiever– Productive– Self-starter– Contributor– Quick Learner– Easy Going– Dependable– Stable– Responsible

Interviewer will try to determine if you possess the nine traits by asking you a series of questions and observing your demeanor while you answer them. Therefore, spend time preparing for the interview in order to make the best impression.

Be able to answer the question: “Why should I hire you?”

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 6 –

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Preparing for the Job InterviewMemorizing good answers to typical interview questions isn’t enough preparation.

If three candidates are being interviewed for the same job and only one has spent several hours researching the company/industry, who do you think stands the best chance?

•You should:– Spend 3, 4 or more hours to become familiar with the company, products/services,

competitors, and the industry it operates.– Be able to answer

• “Why do you want to work for us?” • “What do you know about our company?” • “How can you benefit our company?”

– If you do this, your odds of beating your competition increase dramatically.

•Do Research:– Start researching a company by simply typing “Name of Company” in major

search engine like Google.com. » www.411stocks.com» www.businesswire.comk» www.brint.com» www.wetfeet.com» www.hooversonline.com» www.thomasregister.com» www.reuters.com

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 7 –

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Preparing for the Job Interview

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 8 –

How old is the company?

What are its products or services?

Who are its customers?

Who are its major competitors?

What are its reputation and industry

standing?

What are its new products or services?

How large is the company?

What are its short and long term goals? How has the company resolved

problems? Have there been recent employee

layoffs? Where is the company located?

(Multiple Locations?) What are the backgrounds of

management? What training programs are offered?

Topics to Research Know as many of these answers before the interview:

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The quality of your pre-interview research, preparation and rehearsal will strongly impact the success of your interviews.

The more prepared you are, the better impression you will make.

Most unsuccessful interviews can be traced to lack of preparation, not lack of qualifications.

Preparing for the Job Interview

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 9 –

You cannot turn down a job you have not been offered!You cannot turn down a job you have not been offered!

There is ONLY 3 Real Interview Questions!!There is ONLY 3 Real Interview Questions!!

1. Strengths Can you do the job?

2. Motivation Will you love the job?

3. Fit Can I stand working with you?

Interviewer asks:

What are your strengths? (strengths)

What are you looking to do? (motivation)

What sort of people do you like to work with? (fit)

This is tricky stuff !!!! Invest the time and make sure you answer the 3!!!!

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Arriving for an Interview

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 10 –

Arrive 15 minutes early (sit in your car if earlier!)– Arrival announce, Interviewer Impressed– Speaks volumes for reliability, dependable and sensitive to his/her time

being valuable – Use the time to

• Gather your thoughts• Use the Restroom• Check your appearance

– If a company newsletter in waiting area, use it to add to company information

– Treat the Receptionist with respect!!

Set your clocks 20 minutes ahead

TEST Drive and find the parking!

On Time is LATE!!!!

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Hiring Checklist

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 11 –

Knows how to work well in a team environment.

Shows enthusiasm for the job.

Can understand the business mission behind department initiatives.

Has a strong work ethic.

Can think creatively to solve problems.

Makes a good impression with the entire team, not just the hiring manager.

Makes a good impression with the organization’s customers.

Is highly intelligent and has excellent problem-solving abilities.

Has relevant experience and education.

Departmental Leaders look for candidates who:

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AppearanceAsk About Dress Code

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 12 –

Fingernails should be short and clean; manicured if possible.

Hair should be clean, well groomed and freshly trimmed. Use a dandruff shampoo, if necessary, and always comb hair with your jacket off.

A navy blue or dark gray suit is appropriate for most positions. Be sure it's cleaned and pressed. Men with stout builds should avoid three-piece suits.

Shirts should be white, freshly laundered and well pressed.

A quiet tie with a subtle design and a hint of red is suitable for a first interview. Avoid loud colors and busy designs.

Jewelry should be kept minimal. A watch and wedding or class ring are acceptable. Don't wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations. Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances completely.

Shoes that are black and freshly polished (including the heels) are a safe choice for an interview. Socks should be black or blue and worn over the calf.

For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.

Maintain good eye contact.

Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview.

Men

Fingernails should be clean; manicured if possible. Choose subtle low-key over bright fashion colors for nail polishes.

Wear a suit or tailored dress in basic navy or gray. Blouses should also be tailored and color coordinated. Don’t wear big bows or ties.

Avoid exotic hairstyles and excessive makeup. Hair should be neat, clean and brushed with your jacket off. Makeup should be light and natural looking.

Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances.

Jewelry should be limited and subtle. Don’t wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations.

A closed toe pump that is color coordinated with your outfit is appropriate for an interview. Avoid open-toed shoes or sling-backs.

For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.

Maintain good eye contact.

Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview.

Woman

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Types of Job Interview

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 13 –

1. Sequential or “Beauty Parade”

2. Decision Makers Probably the least structured/ professional

3. Stamp-of-Approval – Executives or Peers

4. Presentations “You’re On”

5. Stress - Panels

6. Exit Interviews – Typically HR Follow-ups

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The Job Interview

Think about the following from start to end of interview: Do you want a glass of water, coffee or soda ? (Yes or No) Pay attention to your and the interviewer’s body language ! If in an office, what does the interviewer’s office look like ? If in a group, know your audience. Eye to eye contact. Tell SHORT Stories, if appropriate Is/Are the interviewer(s) ORGANIZED or is it a SOCIAL EVENT ?

ORGANIZED….interviewer runs the interview SOCIAL EVENT…you have to run the interview

Know when to STOP talking ! (Answers should be 30-60 seconds) DO NOT repeat each question back to interviewer ! To take notes OR NOT to take notes, that is the question. Watch the time ! Get a business card

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 14 –

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The Job Interview

First impressions can make you or break you – within 15 - 30 seconds.

You must know and be able to state what your ideal work situation is.

You must have your “Two-Minute Drill” down cold.

You must be ready to discuss and illustrate your strengths (and weaknesses) at the drop of a hat.

If you don’t know, or can’t state why you are there, the interviewer won’t know either.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 15 –

Interview ImpactAreas                                                       Approximate Interview ImpactAttitude                                                         40 percent

Image and Appearance                                  15 percent

Communication (verbal and nonverbal)           35 percent

Job Qualifications                                          10 percent

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Don’t do the Following at an Interview Exaggerate or make up anything Carry in an overcoat, umbrella, briefcase to an interview Sit before being asked Chew anything Smoke Fidget Interrupt Slouch or get “too” comfortable Mumble or shout or raise your voice at the end of sentences Talk too much on the same question (yada...yada...yada !!!) State your answer and stop

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 16 –

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Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 17 –

Answer with a simple “yes” or “no” Be negative about anything (prior job, manager, company) Show annoyance Play hard to get Curse...when an interviewer gets you comfortable...do NOT drop

the F..Bomb!! Project an attribute is desperation (Hire Me ...I Beg You!!) –or--

Imply the job is beneath you

Ask about vacations, salary, bonuses, benefits, until after you have a firm offer

Accept an offer on the spot

Complain about the parking or directions

Space out / Zone out

Do anything disgusting (pick at teeth or nose etc)

Don’t do the Following at an Interview

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Forbidden Interview QuestionsFederal and State legislation prohibits employers from asking certain questions during the interview. Not all employers are familiar with these laws.

What should you do if asked and illegal question? Experts say, if you want the job you should ignore the violation and answer. Others recommend that you very tactfully point out the question is illegal.

Questions employers are not supposed to ask:1. What was your maiden name?2. When were you born?3. When did you graduate from high school?4. What is your race?5. Do you have physical or mental disabilities?6. Do you have a drug or alcohol problem?7. Are you taking any prescription drugs?8. Would working on weekends conflict with your religion?9. What country are you a citizen of?10.Have you ever been arrested?11.What language did you speak in your home when you were growing up?

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 18 –

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Questions employers are not supposed to ask and Questions rephrased:

– What was your maiden name? What is your Name?

– When were you born? Are you over 18?

– When did you graduate from high school? Did you graduate from high school?

– What is your race? No questions about race are allowed !!

– Do you have physical or mental disabilities? Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?

– Do you have a drug or alcohol problem? Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?

– Are you taking any prescription drugs? Can you perform [specific tasks pertinent to the job description]?

– Would working on weekends conflict with your religion? Would you be able to meet the job’s requirement to frequently work weekends?

– What country are you a citizen of? Do you have the legal right to work in the USA?

– Have you ever been arrested? Have you ever been convicted of a felony?

– What language did you speak in our home when you were growing up? This job requires that you speak [language]. Do You?

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 19 –

Employers usually obtain information sought by rephrasing them to legal ones in some cases:

Forbidden Interview Questions

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Most Commonly-Asked Interview QuestionsMost Commonly Asked Interview Questions

o Why should I hire you?o Why do you want to work for this company?o What are your strengths and weaknesses?o What do you think determines a person’s progress with

a company?o What have you done to increase your personal

development?o Are you happy with your career progress do date?o What are your career goals?o Tell Me about Yourself.o What is your most significant accomplishment?o Are you willing to take calculated risks?o What are the things that motivate you?o What is the most difficult situation that you have ever

faced?o Why do you want to leave your present employer? Or

What have you been doing since your last position?o What jobs have you enjoyed the most and the least and

why?o What actions would you take if we hired you?o Why did you want to get in to this field?o What can you offer us that someone else can’t?o How would your supervisor describe you?o Do you work better alone or as part of a team?o What are your primary activities outside of work?o How do you handle people that you don’t get along

with?o What makes you think you can handle this position?o With what other companies are interviewing?o What has been your greatest challenge? o Explain the worst decision you have made.

Questions Commonly Asked of Recent College Students or Graduates

o What is your GPA? Do you feel it reflects your true abilities?

o How has your schooling (internships) prepared you for this position?

o What was your favorite course in college and why?

o Why did you decide to attend X college? Are you happy with your choice?

o What factors did you consider in choosing your major?

o How did your college experience change you?

o What kind of grades did you have in school?

o Why were your grades not very good in school?

o Why didn’t you participate in internship programs while in school?

o Why are you applying for a job unrelated to your internship experiences?

o Why are you applying for a job not related to your degree?

o What extracurricular activities did you participate in?

o If you had it to do over again, would you choose the same major?

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 20 –

Most Popular Questions in 2012o What is your vision of the ideal job

and boss?o Why are you searching for new

employment?o What are your unique qualifications or

experiences that separate you form other candidates?

o Describe yourself.o What are your short and long term

goals?o What are the best and worst aspects

of our previous job?o What do you know about our

company?o What would your former boss and co-

workers say about you?o What are your strengths and

weaknesses?

Questions with this color need a lot of thought !!!

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Questions you can ask at the InterviewGood Questions to ask the Interviewer: (Pick 3-5 max per interview)

– Why is this position available?– Is this a new position? How long has this position existed?– How many people have held this position in the last 2 years?– Who would be my supervisor? To whom would I report?– Whom will I supervise?– With whom will I be working most closely?– What do you like about working for this company?– What are the current plans for expansion or cutbacks?– What kind of turnover rate does the company have?– How financially sound is this company? – What projects and assignments will I be working on?– What happened to the person that held this position before? Was he/she

promoted, fired? Did he/she retire or accept an offer at another firm?– What is this company’s culture? (Rigid and formal or relaxed and flexible?)– What are the current problems facing the company (or my department)?

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 21 –

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Good Questions to ask the Interviewer:– What do you like most about working for this company? The least?– What is the philosophy of the company?– What do you consider to be the company’s strengths and weaknesses?– What are the company’s long and short term goals?– Describe the work environment.– What attracted you (the interviewer) to this organization?– Why do you enjoy working for this company?– Describe the typical responsibilities of the position.– What are the most challenging aspects of the position?– Describe the opportunities for training and professional development.– Will I receive any formal training?– What is the company’s promotional policy? Are there opportunities for

advancement within the organization?– What are the next steps in the process?

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 22 –

Questions you can ask at the Interview

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Questions you do NOT ask at the Interview– Questions relating to salary and benefits.

• Though these questions are very important, it is not a question that should be brought up during any interview.

• At all times you should appear 100% committed to the interviewing company.

– Avoiding the self-serving questions.• How did I do in the interview?

• What do you think of me?

• What do you think of my qualifications?

• You will know how well you did in the interview. A human resources representative should give you an interview briefing after an offer is made, and before you accept, to answer those questions. Questions are a vital part of the interview, be sure you are prepared.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 23 –

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Post-Interview Follow-Up• A follow-up thank you to the interviewer is an important step in the interviewing

process, one that candidates often forget to take. It is not only proper business etiquette, but it also makes you stand out. Write it ASAP after the interview.

• Send the “thank you” even if you do not want the job. Let the interviewer know in the thank you. Ask the interviewer to keep you in mind for any other positions in the future.

• Also, follow-up with an information such as samples of proposals, code, RFP, presentations, etc. if you are requested and legal. You can also follow-up with items not related to the position, such as book names etc.

• Components of the Follow-Up Thank You– Appreciation for the opportunity to interview, tour facilities, meet other employees, etc.– Mention the day of interview and position which you interviewed.– Express continued interest in the position and company.– Re-emphasize your most important skills and qualifications and how you expect to contribute

to the organization.– Include any information you forgot to mention in the interview, if necessary (be brief).– Close the thank you with a comment about future contact with the employer

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 24 –

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Sample Thank You:Dear _________________:I appreciated the opportunity to interview at [company] with you on Monday January 7, 2013. The tour of the facilities and conversations with [company]’s staff gave me a clear overview of the role of [position] at [company]. In particular, I was impressed with the state-of-art equipment in [company]’s computer room and the exciting projects that are being introduced and executed at [company].

The entire experience has confirmed my desire for employment as a [position] with [company]. My experience along with the chemistry I see within your organization has and will prepare me well for this position. Based on my interview, I think I would fit in well with the [company] staff.

Thank you again for the experience of getting to know your organization better. I would welcome the opportunity to work for [company], and look forward to hearing from you in the next two weeks.Sincerely,

***If you decided after interviewing that you DO NOT want the position, you may offer ***Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the position of [position] on Monday January 7, 2013.

While I still would enjoy working for your company, after learning more about the position I realize that I am searching for a more challenging position that better utilizes my skill and experience and requires less travel. If you company has such a position, please let me know.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 25 –

Follow-up letters are critical Within 24 hours One page maximum length

Post-Interview Follow-Up

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Questions

“Tell me about yourself”

“Why should we hire you? Why do you want this position”

“What is your greatest strength (or strengths)?”

“What is your greatest weakness (or weaknesses)?”

“Why do you want to/did you leave your employer?”

AnswerUsually first question, Good ice-breaker. Do not give useless information such as I am married, my hobbies are yada yada yada. A great strategy is to ask: "What area of my background are you most interested in?" Their response allows you to tell them what they want to hear. Spend 2 minutes focus on work-related skills and accomplishments. Mention 1 or 2 personal character traits and tell interviewer how traits helped you accomplish a task. Don’t use old clichés “I am a team player” or “I have excellent communication skills” unless you can prove it. For example: “I would describe myself as a self-starter. At ABC Co., there was a problem with routing delivery vehicles so I created a new system (give details but brief) that reduced delivery time by 10 percent.”

Take several minutes to answer this one incorporating your personality traits, strengths, and experience in to the job you're applying for. Focus on how you can benefit the company problems and concerns.

State 1 or 2 strengths that are work-related and tell the interviewer the story about when that strength helped you accomplish the task. For example: “I have the ability to train and motivate people. At ABC Co., employee turnover was very high, so I ….(give details on how you solved the problem)”

Don’t answer by saying you have no weaknesses! Confess a real weakness you have, but choose one that isn’t particularly relevant to the job you’re seeking. Do not answer with phony weaknesses such as “I’m a slave to my job”. You might offer the title of a book you have read that helped you improve your shyness, impatience, etc.

You can state you want a more challenging position, higher salary, or more responsibility. Do not mention personal conflicts or bad-mouth. This will harm your chances of being offered the job. Show drive, ambition and motivation.

Interview Questions & Possible Answers

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 26 –

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Questions

“Why do you want to work for this company”

“What do you know about our company?”

“Why do you want this position?”

“Do you work better alone or as part of a team?”

“What did your last supervisor criticize most about your performance?”

AnswerDon’t answer, “Because you advertised on Monster”. Indicate the most interesting aspects of the company such as “because it is on the cutting edge of technology” or “because you are the industry leader”. Your research on the company should prepare you for the answer.

If you answer “Not Much”, it will probably eliminate you. Do your research as mentioned. If you can not find information, call their offices and ask the receptionist to send you information in the form of a brochure, etc.

Your answer should offer what you think are the most interesting aspects of the position. More responsibility and opportunity, including higher salary, are acceptable, but state them in a way that is not blunt as in “because it pays more”. Something like, “The position offers more responsibility, challenges and interesting opportunities, as well as higher salary,” is a good answer.

This depends on the job you are applying for. If the job requires you to spend lots of time alone, then one answer if not vice versa. Never sound too extreme one way or the other. A healthy balance is always best. Significant amount of time alone while traveling but when in the workplace worked well on numerous team projects and got alone well with others on the projects.

Good way to answer the question is to offer criticism you received that is not very important or not directly related to the position you are applying for. In fact, if you can state that you have already solved the problem and received a higher mark, then say so.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 27 –

Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“Where do you see yourself in five years”

“Why have you changed jobs so frequently?”

“Are you willing to relocate?”

“Are you willing to travel?”

“Are you willing to work overtime?”

AnswerAnswer should state that you see yourself working at whatever job is 2 to 3 levels above the job you are applying for if appropriate. Do NOT claim that you will be “running the company” in 5 years. You may want to add you understand promotions will be earned through hard work and not just because of years of service.

If this applies, reasons should always by based on past employers’ failure to challenge you or give you enough opportunity for advancement. Do NOT state the past employer was incompetent, dumb or unfair. Mention that your career goal is for “Long Term Employment” and stability much like a new marriage or home.

If relocating was not an issue, the interviewer would not ask the question. Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO could mean no job. Ask questions like “when is it likely to occur”, “where relocate to” and would a promotion be involved.

If traveling was not part of the job, the interviewer would not ask the question. Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO could mean no job. Ask questions like “how much travel is involved" and “travel to where”.

If this was not an aspect of the job, the interviewer would not ask the question. Therefore the only acceptable answer is “YES”. NO means no job. If your past jobs involved overtime, now would be the time to tell this to the interviewer.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 28 –

Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“Have you ever been fired or asked to resign”

“How long have you been looking and why haven’t you received an offer?”

“What previously held job do you consider to be your favorite and why?”

“Would you choose the same career if you could start over again?”

“Why have you stayed with the same employer for so long?”

AnswerMost interviewers know that many candidates have been fired at least once and almost always due to personality conflict with the boss or co-workers. So if the answer is yes, answer the question honestly, but without attacking your former boss. Do not sound bitter or defensive.

If this applies, state the economy or that you are being selective about whom you will work for. Of course the interviewer may ask, “What offers have you turned down?” which could harm you if you have not received any offers. A bad economy and a crowded market are good reasons. Be aware that many interviewers will still hold this against you.

Trick question to determine if you enjoy the type of work the position you are applying for involves. Therefore the answer should be a job that is similar to the one you applying for. For example, if you are applying for a high-stress demanding chaotic environment, don’t tell the interviewer you loved the job at ACME Co. because of the mellow, low stress atmosphere.

How you answer this depends on whether you are trying to win a job related to your career history or trying to enter a new field. No matter how much you despise the current career, do not admit this fact to the interviewer because it tells him/her you consider work a drudge.

If this applies, moving frequently can harm you, but so can staying with the same employer particularly if you have never been promoted or intellectually challenged in years. Your answer should state something about having worked successfully with many people inside/outside of the organization including different bosses and co-workers as well as customers.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 29 –

Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“Do you consider yourself to be a risk-taker”

“Would your present employer be surprised to know you’re job hunting?”

“How well do you handle change?”

“What salary are you expecting?”

“How do you resolve disputes with Co-workers? How do you handle conflicts in the workplace?”

AnswerDepends on the type of company it is you are interviewing at. Start-up or highly-competitive industry probably are looking for those willing to take risks. So offer a risk you have taken in business. Well-established industry leaders, risk takers are not as highly valued. Good rule of thumb is to put yourself somewhere in the middle…you are neither too foolish nor overly cautious.

If this applies, never answer this with negative information such as “Not surprised in the least” or “He’s been trying to shove me out for years”. Always say you are happy with your current job and you are simply looking to take on more challenge, opportunities and yes, salary.

The ONLY acceptable answer is “Very Well”. Don’t just make the claim, offer an example of how well you coped with a major change (not minor) in the work environment. How did you cope or adapt with a previous employer.

Do your research before the interview so you don’t ask too much or little. You may be asked to justify your worth, so be prepared to answer. (i.e. tell them how your skills and experience will benefit the company)

Don’t claim you never had a dispute with a co-worker. Your interviewer will know you are lying. Best to answer about a dispute with a co-worker , how it was resolved with a positive outcome. Focus on work-related issues not personal feuds. The answer should tell the interviewer you resolved the dispute on your own, and hopefully the other person and you are now friends or at least can work together. Never say you resolved a dispute by using your boss. Employers get sick of dealing with employee conflicts and want mature people that can resolve conflicts.

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 30 –

Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“Who was your favorite boss and why? Who was our least favorite boss and why?”

“What could you have done to improve your relationship with your least favorite boss?”

“What book are you currently/or last read? What were the last 3 books you read”

“What is the last movie that you saw?”

How you should answer

2 of the most difficult questions to answer unless you know what the interviewer wants to hear. Employers are looking for contributors to the company, improving job skills and making a contribution. For LEAST. Instead of insulting or demeaning your past bosses by saying they “hogged all the credit” or was “totally incompetent”, state you wished he had offered you more feedback about job performance or provided more job training or challenged you with more opportunities. The BEST Answer is using the same at LEAST only in the positive sense.

Again, refrain from stating negatives about your former boss. Put a positive spin on it by saying, if you had it to do over, you would have requested more feedback regarding performance and requested more assignments.

Correct answer is to offer the title of a nonfiction book, preferably one that the subject related to your career or business in general. If IT, an example is “Internet for Dummies” or time management or technology books. Don’t lie, the interviewer may have read the book and will ask questions.

Don’t reply, “don’t have time to watch movies as I am completely devoted to finding a job”. You will lose points. Select popular for general public not controversial. Also don’t reveal you are obsessed with watching movies 3 or 4 times.

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Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“Are you considering offers from other employers”

“When can you start?”

“Why did you attend X college? Are you happy with your choice?”

“Have you ever fired anyone?”

“How do you motivate employees?”

AnswerRecommend you do NOT disclose any other offers. Therefore, a good answer is to state you have no offers from other companies. (Of course, if for some reason you feel you would have a better chance of getting the job if you disclose, then do so) .

It is customary to give 2 weeks notice to the prior employer. Those in management are expected to give longer notice. Do NOT say you plan to quit your present job without sufficient notice. The interviewer will assume you will do the same to his/her company. Also, telling the interview you can’t begin for a few months because you want to take some time off is not a good idea.

Always say you are happy with your choice, even if you aren't. Do not say “it was the only place that would accept me”. No negative statements about the school or professors. A good reason could be you liked the particular program they offered, or it is known for offering a good education in your particular major.

If this applies, the interviewer does not want you to express either too much indifference or too much sympathy for those you have had to fire. Tell the interviewer how you discussed the person’s shortcomings several times and tried to help improve, but as a last resort, you had no choice but to fire the person.

There is NO simple way to motivate all people due to the vast number of personality types and situations people work. Best answer tells that each employee must be uniquely motivated. You should have several examples of situations where you successful motivated employees.

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Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions

“What is your commitment to this job”

“Aren't you overqualified for this job?”

“Are you opposed to doing a lot of routine work?”

“Do you have any questions?”

AnswerMost people would respond with an answer avowing a deep commitment; however a better answer would be to state that your commitment will grow as you get to know the company and the people in it.

Employers do not like to hire overqualified people because they won’t stay around long. If you are overqualified, admit it, but also emphasis the positive. Something like “Yes I am overqualified in some ways, however that doesn’t mean I’m completely overqualified. I feel that I have much to learn in the area of X, which is a big part of this job and I know it will keep me challenged…”

Don’t answer with “Oh yes, I enjoy 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, 50 weeks a year”. Instead, try to assure the interviewer you aren't going to go mad doing boring work as long as once you prove yourself additional tasks requiring more brain power will be assigned.

YOUR TURN to ask the questions ….review prior slides….

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Interview Questions & Possible Answers

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Questions ?????

Job Interview Presentation Ron Drew – 34 –

Thank You…[email protected] And Good Luck !!!!