Interview Questions

Answering an interviewer's questions may be trickier than you think!

Following are some tips to better prepare yourself for your next interview.

1. Question: What is your greatest weakness?
A. I'm a perfectionist.
B. I'm not mechanically inclined, so if the copier breaks, don't call on me.
C. I'm a workaholic.

BEST ANSWER: B Why? The candidate displays a sense of humor, yet still answers the question without mentioning any job performance negatives. The perfectionist and workaholic response are common, but may leave the interviewer with doubts. Do they get too caught up in being perfect? Will they be a slave-driver to their staff and co-workers?

2. Question: How much money did you make at your last job?
A. $51,000 (the truth)
B. $60,000 (a fudged figure)
C. What is the range that this job pays?

BEST ANSWER: C Why? Answer A may sell your services short and the employer may question your exact level of skills and abilities. Lying (answer B) can get you in trouble and possibly fired, so never lie on a job application. The best approach is to get the employer to toss out the salary figure first, by responding with this question in C as your answer to theirs. This also preserves the most negotiating power when you're offered the job.

3. Question: Why did you leave your last job?
A. The company is too small for any advancement.
B. The company downsized, so I'm available.
C. I am looking for more challenges.

BEST ANSWER: All of the above. All of these could be legitimate reasons to move on. Stick as close to the truth as possible without offering anything negative about your employer / former employer.

4. Question: How would you describe your ideal job?
A. One that has nice people to work for.
B. One where I utilize my skills.
C. One that promotes from within.

CORRECT ANSWER: B Why? The best self- marketing strategy is to focus on the employer's needs and your desire to use your skills to their benefit.

To adequately prepare for an interview: research...research...research the company where you will be interviewing AND in answering the interviewer's questions be sure to include specific examples of your good performance at previous jobs.