Questions you can expect to be asked at a job interview
Once you have found the perfect job, you fill out an application and then it is time to play the waiting game. If the potential employer is interested in the qualities you have to offer, they will contact you for an interview. The interview process may seem intimidating but it doesn't have to be.
The interview will consist of a question and answer segment. It is up to you to wow the interviewer with your responses. Think ahead of time about possible answers to the questions that will be asked. Come up with answers that will set you apart from the rest of the applicants.
Some questions may seem like no-brainers. You must be willing to look past that question and find a way to let your creativity shine through. This is an opportunity to sell yourself and get that job you truly desire. Although no two jobs or interviews will be the same, there are some questions that are universal.
This is a question when honestly matters. If there is a shift that you can't work, tell the truth about it. You should be upfront about your needs so that there are no surprises later on. Many people have flexible schedules. If this is the case for you it is best to set a schedule anyhow. If you say that you will be able to work anything, you could be setting yourself up for trouble later on. Overtime is nice on occasion but it can get old when you are being taken advantage of.
This is a not a yes or no question. You should go into detail about what you have done to prepare you to this job. Include any special skills or training that have helped to prepare you for this position. Tell of good experiences or honors earned. List your qualifications for this job.
This is the time to truly sell yourself. Focus on your positive qualities. Mention the fact that you are a quick learner or that you are self-motivated. Let your personality shine through your answers. Tell them why they should give you a chance. More importantly, why should they pay you?
This is a very broad question that has many opportunities for good answers. Use past examples in which you were able to overcome obstacles. Speak of how you dealt with angry customers, handled deadlines, and excelled in inspections. Think of real life experience outside of work. There are lots of everyday situations with in-laws, friends, and pressures that help prepare us for employment situations. Use those to your benefit.
Okay, so things aren't going well for you right now. The truth may be that your relationship is failing, you have nowhere to live, and if you don't get this job you won't be able to survive. These are details best left out. Instead, think of what life would be like if you did have it together. How would you succeed in the company? State your long-term goals. Be positive but avoid being overly aggressive.
When answering questions, maintain eye contact. Smile and be enthusiastic. If you act bored and uninterested, than can count against you. Regardless of the questions that are asked, give your best possible answers. Put your best foot forward and hope for the best. Once you have put yourself in the light and are shining above the rest, the only thing left to do is to wait and see what happens.
