Here are some questions that you may face in your next interview, along with tips on how -- and how not to answer them.
"Can you tell me a little about yourself?"
Do: Prepare
for this popular question -- which is often the first one asked -- by
developing an summary of your career. Include enough detail about your
pertinent skills, work experience, accomplishments and goals that the
hiring manager can quickly see what you bring to the table.
Don't: Give
your life story, discuss leisure pursuits or describe aspects of your
professional background that aren't relative to the position you're
interviewing for.
"Why do you want to join our company?"
Do: Walk into the interview with basics knowledge of the firm.
Read the company's website, marketing materials to gain a good grasp of
its mission, history, reputation and corporate culture. The more
information you collect, the more specific you can be about why you're
an excellent fit.
Don't: Answer in the context of your financial needs. Saying "I
hear you provide good pay and benefits" or "Frankly, I need a job" won't
score you any points.
"What's your biggest weakness?"
Do: View this as an opportunity to demonstrate your sincerity and
problem-solving prowess. Mention an area where you could improve and
the steps you've taken to do so.
Here's an example: "In the past, I sometimes overextended myself.
Reading time-management books has helped me, though. I've learned it's
OK to delegate and I volunteer for extra projects only when I'm caught
up on core responsibilities."
Don't: Offer a transparently fake flaw ("I care too much about my work!") or pretend to be perfect ("Weaknesses? None come to mind.").
"Where do you see yourself in five years?"
Do: Position yourself as an ambitious but flexible realist. You
also might emphasize your commitment to lifelong learning by mentioning
your interest in attaining advanced certifications.
Don't: For instance, boldly proclaiming you intend to be the
firm's next CEO when you're an entry-level accounting candidate
certainly shows drive, but it's not a practical five-year objective. In
addition, steer clear of fanciful daydreaming ("I'll be counting my
lottery winnings on a beach").
"Why are you looking to leave your current employer?"
Do: The interviewer is trying to figure out if you truly want the
position, or if you're looking for any way out of a bad job. As such,
what you like about the role you're seeking rather than gripe about the
one you hope to vacate. Make it clear you're chasing a great
opportunity, not running away from an unpleasant situation.
Don't: Speak ill of your current employer. Regardless of how
unhappy you are with your job or company, never act bitter or resentful
in an interview. Hiring managers seek candidates who are loyal,
positive-minded and team-oriented. They aren't inclined to hire people
they perceive to be potential headaches.
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