Pre-interview: Answers to Prepare
Remember: The company you are interviewing with is looking for someone to solve their problems. Be prepared to answer all questions in a business context. The following are typical interview questions you should be ready to answer.
What can you offer us?
Be sure you know about the position they have in mind before you try to answer. Then you can relate some of your past experiences where you have succeeded in solving problems that appear similar to those of your prospective employer.
What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
By now you should be able to tick off 3 or 4 key strengths that are relevant to their needs. Have them written out on a cheat sheet. Your weaknesses should be a strength, which if over-done could be viewed as a weakness.
In your recent position, what were some of your most significant accomplishments (or what have you done that you're most proud of)?
Be ready to describe three or four of them in detail. Where possible, try to relate to the nature of the new challenges you might be facing. Stay away from events that are too far in the past.
How much financial responsibility have you had to account for?
You can answer this in terms of your budget or head-count or the size of the project or sales that you directed.
What has been your supervisory experience?
Be specific-and feel free to refer to those over which you had influence, such as a task force or a matrix organization.
Which do you like working with figures or words?
Answer honestly.
How do you hold up under pressure or deadlines?
I can handle it. Is it a way of life in the business world.
Do you think you are cut out better for staff work or line work?
I can handle either one, and my preference depends a lot on the specific position, the manager I would be working for, and the challenges in the position.
In your most recent position, what problems have you identified that had previously been overlooked?
Keep your answer brief and don't brag unduly.
Work History
Be prepared to discuss current duties and responsibilities.
Education Degree, courses studied/GPA
Do you know how to get your transcripts, if needed?
Terminations, long periods or unemployment, reasons for leaving previous employers.
Be honest and keep your answers brief.