Job Interviews: Series One

Job interviews can be a stressful time however it does not have to be so. I have interviewed with a number of companies during my career and if you believe in yourself and are confident in your skills then you have nothing to worry about. If you stop to think about the interview process and you have a scheduled interview, then you have made the first cut which is good news. Now all that remains is to sell yourself. If you take the time to prepare and know what you want then you can land the job that you have always wanted. During an interview you may be asked a wide variety of questions. Those questions are designed to both provide the company information not only about your skill but also to demonstrate how well you think on your feet. Always listen to the question and understand the question before you answer. Be honest and answer the question, you never know if you may be asked later in the interview to expand upon an answer.

Common Difficult Questions

1. What is your biggest weakness?
   Here one should be honest. For example, if you fall short in a particular area then explain yourself and address what you have done to better yourself. For example, additional school, training courses, and etc. If one states I have no weakness this may tend to be seen as avoiding the question. Everyone has a weakness.
2. Why should we hire you?
   Be sure you research the company and understand the job of which you are seeking. Provide and example where you were instrumental in your past and present this achievement as a positive aspect that you can bring to the job.
3. Why do you want this job?
   Again, research the company and match your goals with the company.
4. Tell me about yourself?
   It is best to discuss your strongest skills and work history. Do not simply repeat your resume rather expand on this detail and keep your response to five minutes or less.
5. Why are you leaving your previous job?
   I cannot stress enough to keep this professional. Never state the negative rather discuss how you want to enhance your career.

Tips

1. Work on your appearance and make a good impression.
2. Act with confidence
3. Smile
4. Be courteous.
5. Be ready to discuss your values and how this will benefit the company.

Once you complete the initial interview you should show interest by possibly asking, what are the next steps or what is the time frame? At this point simply listen and thank the individual for their time. A quick simple letter mailed after the interview within 24 hours will help you to be remembered.

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3. Interview With Steve Smith
4. Interview With Wally McClure