Tell me about your self?I was born in Canton, Ohio and attended Lincoln High School. Ever since I was a teenager, I tinkered with computers. It was my hobby, my passion, and my way of learning. Like most kids I enjoyed computer games.
When my folks gave me a computer as a reward for making the honor roll my sophomore year, I mastered DOS, Windows, and WordPerfect within six months. I then went on to teach myself programming basics.
By the time I graduated high school, I knew I wanted to study programming. From that point on, everything fell in place. My life revolved around computing. By my junior year at Syracuse, I decided I wanted to work for a major software manufacturer. That is why I worked an internship last summer at FastTrack Software.
I now want to work for a major player so I can be at the forefront of breaking trends and new technology. When my college roommate told me his cousin, Elizabeth Anne Jones, got her start in your department, I hounded him until he helped me get a referral from Liz, to the employment agency, to you.
I am prepared to answer any questions you may have about my education and experience
Where will you be 5 years from now?In other words, in five years you hope to see yourself working with an employer in an increasingly responsible position, one that enables you to fully utilize your talents and work closely with your colleagues in solving important problems, and one that is very enjoyable; you see yourself taking on many new and exciting challenges that will help you grow professionally. And hopefully this will be with this employer
Describe a major goal for yourself recently?Ideally, this should be a professional goal, such as improved your time management practices, achieved new performance targets, or learned a new skill. A personal example can also be appropriate if it reinforces your pattern of accomplishments. For example, if you take a great deal of initiative and quickly move into leadership positions, you might use a personal example relating to your recent community work: organized a community walk-a-thon that raised $30,000 in matching funds to purchase new computers for the local library. Talk about the results of achieving your goal. This indicates you set realistic goals and that you focus on outcomes. Select an example that has interesting outcomes related to your efforts. The example should showcase your skills and abilities.
How long you been looking for a job? Since I'm currently employed, I occasionally pursue job leads that look interesting. Only within the last two months have I made a concerted effort to seek new employment. During that time I was invited to eight interviews and was a finalist with three companies. I recently turned down an offer with one company.
What would you like to accomplish here in the next five years?Reflect on your previous discussions about the company�its goals, its problems, its priorities. Make sure what you are saying is consistent with the vision of the organization. Focus on the bottom line issues, such as improving ROI, expanding markets by 20 percent, increasing market share by 10 percent, and opening new overseas markets.
What do you find most interesting about this job?You should focus on the nature of the work, the possible outcomes, the people you'll be working with, the knowledge and skills you will both use and gain, and your long-term interests
What do you do if your ideas are rejected? Indicate that you are not a quitter or someone who gets discouraged by rejections. You'll continue to sell your ideas as long as your bosses are open to new ideas. Try to give an example of how an idea that was initially rejected was later accepted because of your persistence and change in presentation. You might end with posing a related question to the interviewer: "How does your company encourage ideas from its employees? Does it reward those who contribute useful ideas?" These questions will give you an idea of the company's management and communication styles.
Have you ever worked with a difficult boss?If your answer is "yes," indicate how you best dealt with the situation. Were there certain things you did that kept you motivated and productive despite some of the negative aspects of the relationship?
What makes you angry? Avoid saying "Nothing"�no one will believe you. Show some passion here for what you really value in people, work, and companies. The best answer to this question, and one that stays on message, is this: "Not getting the work done according to expectations!" However, consider other options, such as "People who only think of themselves rather than others and the company's goals," ''Dishonest and devious people," "A company that lies to its employees," or "Injustice."
What would your colleagues say about you? I'm very well respected by my colleagues. They often turn to me for advice and leadership. In fact, when I first joined ABC Company, relations with colleagues were severely strained due to several personality conflicts. Everyone seemed busy at work, but no one talked to each other or smiled. I thought perhaps I made a mistake in taking the job since it was not an enjoyable place to work. However, within six weeks I saw a dramatic change in the atmosphere. People actually started talking with each other! I'm generally a very happy and out-going person who loves to schmooze but with a clear purpose in mind�getting the job done. I decided to meet everyone and ask their advice on several key issues. I was surprised with the response. As both my supervisor and colleagues will testify the change was largely due to my presence and efforts to develop a team approach in our division. My division within ABC Company is now one of
We all have weaknesses. What are some of your major weaknesses?I have a real weakness for chocolate that tends to go right to my waist! I'm watching my calories very carefully these days.
I've never been good with accounting. I'm glad this job doesn't involve accounting!I used to have difficulty following-up on my marketing calls. Once I started using this new contact manager program, I've been able to greatly improve my productivity. In fact, I'm not sure how I lived without it for so long!
What type of people do you find most difficult to work with?You should indicate that you manage to get along with most people, however difficult they may be. Note that you sometimes encounter difficult people, but you manage to successfully work through differences. If you can, give an example of a difficult person you managed to get along with that might also emphasize your people management skills. Keep your answer positive. Avoid the temptation of communicating negative attitudes toward others, however difficult they may be
What types of decisions do you prefer not to make?Show that you are generally decisive but mention that there are situations that give you time to pause or you are learning how to better make decisions. For example, "I sometimes have difficulty choosing between two equally good ideas" or "I used to have difficulty saying 'No' to people until I learned how to better set priorities."
How truthful and honest do you consider yourself?This is the time to share your philosophy on people and work. Let the interviewer know how much you value truthfulness and honesty in relationships. If you can, give an example of how these values have played an important part in your work and life. This also is a good time to expand on these values and address the whole issue of communications in the workplace�how important it is to have clear lines of communication and honest feedback on a regular basis. You might even raise some questions about the company's performance appraisal system. How does it work?
Ideally, what type of job are you really looking for?Your answer should directly relate to the position in question. However, you also may want to expand upon it by indicating your long-term career interest with the company. You would hope to move to other positions within the next five years. At this point, ask about the normal progression within the company for someone with your skills and experience. If all goes well, where would they expect you to be five years from now? What type of job would they like to see you in?
What is your biggest failure?My biggest failure was not being selected as a SEAL because I was diagnosed with night vision problems. When I was 18, all I wanted to be was a SEAL. But I'm glad I didn't, because I may have overlooked this exciting career in information technology.
When I was working at CL Advertising Associates, I lost the $10 million Jettler account after only six weeks on the job! I really felt bad�thought I would be fired. I was determined to get the account back, and I did it within six months. Today the account generates $25 million in sales and makes up one-third of CL Advertising Associates accounts. For that I won the 'Best Employee of the Year' award
What's the worst day you've ever had and how did you deal with it?It's time to play hero. Pick an example of a bad day in which you came to the rescue. An ideal bad day is one in which a problem was created by someone else�the boss, a colleague, or a customer�and you came in and solved it in a very innovative and decisive manner.
How long would you expect to stay with our company? I'm really looking for a long-term commitment with a company where I can fully utilize my skills and grow professionally In the past, most of my jobs were entry-level positions with small companies that did not offer many opportunities after a year or two. I've purposefully decided not to pursue opportunities with such companies again. My previous jobs where not good fits because I was uncertain what I really wanted to do with my life. I often took jobs that looked interesting but in reality were not compatible with my motivations and skills. I've had a long talk with myself; as well as a career counselor, which helped me better focus on what I really should be doing given my interests, skills, accomplishments, and goals. I see this job as a perfect fit for what I really want to do for at least the next five years.
What do you see as your major strengths for this job? Select three of your major qualities that you know are desired by the employer. Explain to the employer how your goals, skills, and accomplishments seem to be a perfect match for this job.
How important is job security?Your answer should indicate that you expect your job security to be linked to your performance. Also, use this question as an opportunity to acquire more information on how the company's performance appraisal system operates and how well the previous occupant of the position performed:
Since I've never really had job security, it really hasn't been important to me. I've always expected my job tenure would be tied to my performance. I also expect a company will reciprocate by setting clear performance goals and regularly evaluating performance. Could you explain how the performance appraisal system operates here at ABC Company? Also, what has been the average tenure of someone in this position? Could you tell me a little more about the previous person who held this position�his or her strengths and weaknesses?
What are the major reason for your success?Many years ago I learned an important lesson from Bob Nelson, who was my first supervisor and really became my most important mentor. One day he told me his secret to success: 'Look at each day as a new opportunity to be your very best. Set high goals, be honest, never say no, and work with people who share your passion for doing their best.' I've always remembered that bit of advice and try to live it every day. As Bob would tell you, I'm very self motivated, tenacious, and honest. I really love what I do and surround myself with people who share similar pas- sions. I really thrive in such an environment. Is this the type of environment I'm likely to find here at ABC Company? Can you tell me a little more about the characteristics of successful people in your company? What do you see as some of the key success factors for this position?
Why should we hire you? Give a one to two-minute summary presentation on why you are the perfect candidate. Talk about how your goals are the same as the company's goals; what demonstrated skills you have that are needed by the company; and how your past pattern of accomplishments will likely continue with this company. Finally, stress that you think this will be a great place to work and do so with enthusiasm. Let the employer know you really want the job
What do you do to improve your knowledge and skills in this field?
Focus on what additional training and learning you acquire on a regular basic. Employers want self-starters who understand the importance to being self-motivated and constantly up-to-date in their skills.
What attracted you most to this position? Focus your answer on the most attractive qualities�the company, the customers, the product, the challenge, and/or the ability to fully use your skills. Show enthusiasm as you answer this question. Let the employer know you really want the job.
What is your management style? Your answer should be in line with the organization's management style. Be sure you've researched this aspect of the organization prior to the interview. Know if this is a hierarchical, team-oriented, or fiat organization. If you are a command and control type entering a team-ori-
How much time do you think it will take before you will be up and running in this position?Ask for clarification about expectations. For example, will you go through an initial training period? Will you be setting initial performance goals with your boss? Who will you be working with at first? What responsibilities will you initially be given? When are you expected to begin operating solo? Based on responses to these questions, indicate to the interviewer that you expect to be fully prepared within the expected time period
What two things would you like to improve about yourself in the coming year?
Be careful with this question. This is another way to get at your weaknesses. It's not necessary to confess your shortcomings here or note your professional problems. Focus on something that is either irrelevant or tangential to the job, such as improving your golf score, losing ten pounds, doing more volunteer work, or acquiring a new skill such as public speaking
You appear overqualified for this job. Why should I hire you? If you are truly overqualified for the job, you may want to pass on it. Accepting a job that is beneath your qualifications will probably lead to dissatisfaction with the job. On the other hand, if you really want the job, outline why this job is so special to you. Show a great deal of enthusiasm in letting the employer know that this job really is the perfect fit for you; it's something you will really love doing.
We're considering two other candidates for this position. What is so special about you? Why should we hire you rather than someone else?Don't be distracted by the mention of two other candidates since you don't know anything about them and they could be fictitious. Focus on what strengths you bring to the table. These should be consistent with the four things most employers are looking for in candidates during, the job interview: competence, professionalism, enthusiasm, and likability. Remember, they are looking for chemistry between you and them. Be prepared to summarize in 60 seconds why you are the best candidate for the job. Also, let the employer know you want the job and you will enjoy working with them. A lack of interest in the job may indicate a lack of enthusiasm for the job and them.
Do you have any regrets? careful not to confess your weaknesses with this question. Focus any regrets on lost opportunities, such as ''I wish I would have moved to this city five years earlier," "I wish I would have completed my MBA right after leaving the Army," or "I wish I had learned about your company and applied for this position earlier."Alternatively, "No, I have no regrets. I always focus on the future and treat the past as an important learning experience
What things give you the greatest satisfaction? Assuming you've identified many of your accomplishments (those things you do well and enjoy doing), this should be an easy question to answer. Focus on employer-oriented or job-related experiences, such as "Seeing the results of my work," "Putting together projects that make a difference in people's lives," or "Finding cost-effective solutions to a very difficult problem."
How much time do you spend on the Internet each week?You may want to distinguish between personal and professional time on the Internet. If your current or previous job required using the Internet, explain what positive roles it played in your job. On the personal side, be careful how you answer this question. Spending lots of time on the Internet communicating with your family may be seen as a negative.
What kinds of Internet sites do you most frequently visit?Mention sites that indicate you are someone with substantive interests or someone with an unusual hobby that makes you unique, such as collecting 18th century compasses. This may lead to a very interesting conversation that further emphasizes your likability
What kind of salary are you looking for? How much do you want to make? What income do you expect? Answer:
Well, Mr. Andrews, at this point, I'm very flexible. If we determine there's a good fit here, I'm sure we'll be able to work out a very reasonable agreement. I'd appreciate it if we could just postpone those discussions for now; and once we agree on a fit, I'm sure we'll be able to work out the rest. Can you tell me more about the position? What are you looking for in the ideal candidate
sources:Haldanes
