Ten Common Interview Questions
With some strategy suggestions taken from the book
The Accelerated Job Search by Wayne D. Ford, PhD
1. Tell me about yourself ?
The most often asked question in interviews. You need to have a short statement prepared in your mind. Be careful that it does not sound rehearsed. Limit it to work-related items unless instructed otherwise. Talk about things you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the position you are interviewing for. Limit the response to a few minutes.
2. What experience do you have in this field ?
Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have specific experience, get as close as you can.
3. What do co-workers say about you?
Be prepared with a quote from co-workers. Either a specific statement or a paraphrase will work, “Jill Clark, a co-worker in PTB, is always saying I am the hardest worker she has ever known.” It is as powerful as Jill having said it at the interview herself.
4. What do you know about this organization (department, unit, team, etc.)
This question is one reason to do some research before the interview.
5. What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year ?
A wide variety of activities can be mentioned as positive self-improvement. Be ready to mention some. (internal courses, outside classes, books, seminars offered by the organization, etc.)
6. Why should we hire you ?
Point out how your assets meets what the department/unit needs. DO NOT MENTION any other candidates to make a comparison.
7. What irritates you about co-workers ?
This is trap question. Think “real hard” but fail to come up with anything that irritates you. A short statement that you seem to get along with people is great.
8. Tell me about a suggestion you have made ?
Have a good one ready. Be sure and use a suggestion that was accepted and was then considered successful. One related to the type of work applied for is a real plus.
9. What is your greatest strength ? (refer
also to core competencies listed in March and April issue of
UN Special )
Numerous answers are good, just stay positive. A few good
examples:
- Your ability to prioritize
- Your problem-solving skills
- Your ability to work under pressure
- Your ability to focus on projects
- Your professional expertise
- Your positive attitude
- Your ability to work in a team
10. Tell me about your ability to work under pressure.
Give an example that relates to the type of position applied for.
And one more
11. If you were hiring a person for this job, what would you look for ?
Be careful to mention traits that are needed and that you have.