Interview Basics (Ninth In A Series Of 12): Questions

Aside from answering the questions from the interviewer, be prepared to ask some of your own questions.  You should have in advance a list of questions in various categories that you can ask. 

These questions are usually related to the company/industry you are interviewing for.  While most questions are acceptable, try to avoid questions that talk about scandals, rumors or complex legal issues.  Also, don't start a salary or benefit package negotiation during your interview - it is too early to start talking about these issues.

Think of questions that will show the interviewer your interest in the company and the position you are seeking. 

Interview Basics (Eighth in a Series of 12): Weaknesses

In addition to the classic question of what are your stengths, the dreaded, what are your weaknesses question is asked.  So how do you answer this question without self-inflicting yourself?

First of all, don't make your weakness personal traits.  These kinds of weaknesses are usually difficult to overcome.  When replying to this question, you must understand what are your current professional weakness(es) and how do you plan to rectify these.  Are you a bit lacking in IT skills?  Are you not as confident in your presentation skills as you should be?  These weaknesses can be overcome with the proper training and education.

Also, when revealing weakness, you should also have a plan on how to resolve or correct your weakness.  You can say something like, "My weakness is public speaking and presentation.  I don't feel as confident as I should, but I recently joined Toastmasters to overcome my weakness."

In the above admittance of weakness, you stated how you are resolving your weakness.  So, even though you have some weaknesses, you can or will tackle them.

Interview Basics (Seventh in a Series of 12): Strengths

One of the things that you need to point out to the interviewer is your strengths.  And I am not just talking about the generic answers that most interviewees come up with.  For example, "I am a hard worker", or "I am dependable".  Those are good attributes to have, but doesn't necessarily show why you deserve to get the job.

Instead let the interviewer know your professional strengths.  You can refer to interview basics number six for some pointers.

Some additional strengths may include areas of creativity, business procedural skills (presentation, negotiation) and specific-knowledge skills. 

Remember employers are looking for someone who has "above the rest" strengths so make it a point to let them know your special strengths.

Interview Basics (Sixth in a Series of 12): Past Experience

When mentioning your skills, expertise, knowledge and other relevant facts, you are selling yourself to a potential employer.  As part of this sell, you must demonstrate why they should "buy" your product - in this case you.

If you have worked in a specific field or worked on projects, you can base your current skills on your past.  You must give supporting evidence of why you are experienced in a given area. 

You can include milestones, education, on-hands experience, apprenticeships and/or internships (just to name a few) to give you credibility.  Without these basis', potential employers cannot match the relevant points to any past experience.

Imagine mentioning you are an expert in the field of finance.  Sure you have a business or financial background, but what makes you an expert?  Sure your previous job was in finance, but does that qualify you as an expert?  You need to give yourself credibility by showing your past success and back- up the statements you make.

Interview Basics (Fifth in a Series of 12): Get To The Point

When you reply to questions, remember this is not a conversation with a friend.  Get to the point of the answer and don't ramble on.  Avoid using multiple conjunctions, "and, "and," "and."  While it is important to completly answer the questions, focus on the quality of the reply rather than the lenght of the reply. 

Use the three-phase method when answering the questions.

(1) acknowledge the question
(2) generalizing the question
(3) your answer

You can read more here about the three-phases of responding to a question.

Interview Basics (Fourth in a Series of 12): First Impressions

There is a widely known saying that first impressions are really important.  While in some cases if we don't make a good first impression we have an opportunity to make a good second impression.  However, in an interview - there is no second chance.

Here are some tips to make a good first impression at your interview.

• Body language:  Stand tall and confident.  Don't slouch or seem too comfortable during the interview (you are not in your living room). 
• Gestures:  Be aware of any bad habits or gestures you make.  Don't play with your hair, pen or anything else that gets the attention of the interviewer.  Utilize use of good gestures with your hands, and head, such as nodding and have a friendly smile.
• Handshake:  Always shake hands with a firm grip. 
• Voice:  Speak with clarity.  Don't speak too fast or babble continuously.  Use effective pause and pitch.
• Attire:  Most interviews require a suit and tie (well, women don't need to wear a tie). If you are unsure, then it is a good idea to wear a suit and tie.  When choosing the color of your suit, a dark neutral color is recommended.  Blue is the most popular.  Avoid bright colors or suits that have patterns.  For women (and men) avoid wearing an over-abundance of jewerly and accessories.  Make sure to groom well also.
• Scents:  Don't overuse perfumes or colognes.  Wearing a light amount to no scents is recommended.

All in all, think about the first impressions you want to make in any situation.  When you first meet your in-laws, going to church, meeting the President and so on...

Interview Basics (Third in a Series of 12): Arrive Early

There is a saying that my dad used to say - "It is better to arrive two hours early than 1 minute late"

I have kept this advice, well not so much when I was younger, but as an adult I always try to arrive plenty of time in advance for any appointment.

As for the job interview, arriving early has many benefits.  Give yourself at least 15 - 30 minutes before the scheduled interview to arrive.  Expect the unexpected, such as, traffic delays or difficulty in finding the location.  In some office buildings, it could take 10 minutes or more from the entrance to the interview area.

Some benefits include, arriving early you have a chance to relax and focus on presenting yourself in the best way possible.  You also have a chance to look around and get a sense of the working environment.  You could also pick up a brochure or other reading materials related to the company.  Every little bit helps in this competitive job market.

If the unfortunate happens and you are going to be late, try to let the company know that you are running late.  If you are late by a few minutes, apologize, but don't go into too much detail - just gain your composure and begin your interview with confidence.

Interview Basics (Second in a Series of 12): Research the Company

When you go to an interview, make sure you do your research about the company. 

This company you are interviewing for may be your home for years to come, so it is vital that you know at least the basics of the company.  It will also help you determine if you really want to work for this company.  There may be some areas that the company does business in that goes against your personal views. 

By doing the research it can also help you with the interview process by letting your perspective employer know that you are knowledgable about the company.  This knowledge can be a positive factor for the employer in determining to hire you.

Some of the things you will want to know are:

• Company history
• Names of high-ranking executives
• Knowledge of key locations (Headquarters, plant, warehouse, etc...)
• Products and/or services the company offers
• Alliances and partnerships
• Milestones
• Future plans

It doesn't take long to acquire this information.  By spending a little amount of time doing this research can benefit you in making the decision to wanting to work at the company and also helping you through the interview process.

Interview Basics (First in a Series of 12): Practice

Practice may not make perfect, but it definitely helps.

Practice involves all the preparatory elements of preparing for an interview.  Looking at current trends keeps you up-to-date.  Especially for those who are changing careers or jobs in mid to late career stages.  It is good to know the current trends in CV development as well. 

Once you have done your homework you can practice by imagining going through the interview.  Think about how you are going to start and finish.  Think about possible questions that the interviewer may ask you and how you will respond to those questions. 

Another important aspect is self-visual presentation.  How will the interviewer judge your appearance and manner?  Do you have some habits that would offend or bother someone?  Practicing in front of a mirror can help.  Videotaping yourself can reveal even more about your appearance and mannerisms.  If possible have a peer or a professional agency put you through a mock interview with feedback.