General Interview Questions

These are general interview questions. Interview questions are a great way to practice by first writing down your answers and then practicing them.

Regardless of what the interviewer asks, they want to know how you solve problems and conflicts, how you make decisions, and how well you work in groups or on teams. They also want to know how you communicate verbally. Don’t worry, they are aware that you may be nervous and uncomfortable. It’s ok. Can you carry on a conversation and answer questions under pressure? if not, practice. Start with people you know well, and then talk with someone you don’t know, like a career coach, counselor, or teacher. Your life and work success are worth the effort.

Tell me about yourself.
1. Think about something you are interested in, passionate about, or particularly gifted in. Describe your interests, skills, and experience for the job you are applying. Be prepared to give examples of your successes. Write them down ahead of time and practice saying them. talk to yourself in the mirror and watch your expression. Smile! Practice with a friend or professional. Video tape yourself if needed. The underlying question you are answering is: “Why should we hire you?
 
2. Why do you want this job?
Make sure you understand the product or service. Think of something you like about the product, customer service, impact on the environment, etc. Give examples of your skills and experience that add value to the company or help them solve a problem. the employer wants to know that you will always portray a positive image of the company.
 
3. What do you expect to be doing 5 years from now?
Think about how you would like to grow with the company. Describe education, skills, or experience you would like to have in 5 years that would qualify you for a promotion in the company. explain how you could help the company by being in that position.
 
4. Tell me about a strength/weakness.
You will have no problem explaining your strengths related to the job after completing your portfolio. the weakness question is trickier. One way to answer the question is to discuss a skill or ability that you are weak in and how you compensate for it. example: i like to work independently on a problem or project, but i’ve learned the value of input from others. I’ve had success bringing in collaborators and working on a team when that is the best approach.
 
5. Describe a problem or conflict and how you solved it.
Think about how you solve problems, make decisions, and
resolve conflicts. Write down examples of each. Be ready to
describe a specific situation at work or school where you
resolved a conflict.
 
6. What do you know about…
Give examples of how and where you have used the skills
related to the job you want.
 
7. What would a former supervisor (or colleague) say about you?
Take a moment to think about words colleagues have used to
describe you. For example:
• You really think things through.
• The event you planned was well organized.
• You are an excellent leader.
Ask the interview panel for their names and business cards if possible. Repeat each name as you say hello. Ask a question about the position at the beginning or end of the interview, for example:
• What would a typical day look like?
• How would a person in this position spend most of their
  time?
• What is the biggest challenge your company is facing?
• What do you like best about working for this company?
 
Often, at the end of the interview, the panel will ask if you have anything you’d like to add. Be prepared to say something positive, add additional important information, or reiterate something that you would like to emphasize. Thank the interviewers for their time and attention. Ask when they expect to make a decision. Send a thank you letter in the mail if possible (you may also need to send an email or (fax) to each interviewer.
 
Stay away from discussing examples of problems that still have emotional impact. Seek professional help for finding ways to discuss difficult situations. Sometimes changing the words you use to describe an experience will help release its emotional hold on you. Avoid talking about your personal life, age, schedule, or religion unless it is relevant to the job. Interviewers sometimes ask illegal questions. employers say interviewees often give too much information.
 
From the book, Fire Up Your Profile For LifeWork Success, Copyright @ 2012, 2016 by Nancy J. Miller.
 

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