Answering the Questions!

• Listen carefully to the question.  There are 1001 interview questions all asking for the same basic information:  Do you have the skills for the job?  Can I supervise you?  Will you work well with others?  What's your work ethic and motivation?
  
• Be a STAR interviewee.  Answer the question.  Be clear, concise and to the point.  Do not ramble.  Do not answer with one word.  Your answer should focus on the following:  situation, task, action and results.
  
• Your answers should respond to the job ad, the skills required for the position, the needs of the department and information gained from researching the company. 
  
• You can draw your answers from your education, volunteer experiences, work experience, skills attained, personal traits and extra-curricular activities.
  
• Tell me about yourself.  Tell them about your skills.  Tell them about the value of your education.  Explain how you would be the perfect candidate for this position.  Talk about your strengths.  End on a positive note.  "I am glad to have this opportunity to interview with you."
  
• What qualifications do you have?  If the job description requires:  a degree in Business, strong written and verbal communication skills, good interpersonal skills, the ability to plan projects and experience with MS Word and Excel - you could say:  My degree is in Business Administration.  I attended school full-time while working 30 hours per week at XYZ Distributors as an Administrative Assistant.  Juggling school and work has prepared me for tackling many tasks or projects at the same time.  I have received top grades for my English papers and have written many letters using MS Word.  My past boss will tell you that I worked very well with the 25 sales associates in the office.  I have used Excel occasionally, but feel confident that I can get up to speed in no time.
  
• What is your greatest weakness?  This is a trick question.  You must give them something.  Nobody is perfect.  But you have to turn it around so it is not a problem.  For example, "When I write a letter or brochure, I want the perfect final product.  I rewrite the same sentence 10 times.  What I have learned to do is get input from co-workers I trust.  If they approve, I move on to the next task.

Do you have any questions?

This question signals the end of the interview.  This is a key moment to find out if the job is right for you.  Asking questions also demonstrates that you have an interest in the position.

Good questions to ask:

• What qualities would the best candidate have?
• What is the next step?
• When do you plan to make a selection?
• What would you want accomplished within the first two months?

Don't ask about salary, time-off or benefits. 

Don't ask questions that have been answered in the interview.

Come to the CRC for the following resources. 

• "Knock 'em Dead" a book with great answers to tough interview questions.
• "Quick Interview" a video on turning the interview into a job.

Videotape a mock interview. Determine if you would hire you!