"Why
do you want to work here?"
You preparation include
researching the company. Describe the key company’s attributes and manage
your response that you believe the company can provide you with a stable and
happy work
environment.
"What
kind of experience do you have for this job?"
Leverage on
this chance to position your strength against the key requirements of the job.
Most interviewers are interested in candidates who can contribute quickly to the
needs of the business, particularly in the first six months. Probe to establish
company critical urgency and
interest.
"What
did you like/dislike about your last job?"
Be observant
during initial discussion to search for opportunities to reinforce your positive
strength. DO NOT CRITICISE PREVIOUS EMPLOYERS. Avoid negative and long
answers.
"Why
are you leaving your present position?"
Be logical and
composed even if you are leaving under challenging situation. Try to project
positive feelings. Answers may include: "While I enjoy the stability of the
job, I may miss the opportunity to develop my potential to the fullest."
"Your company’s reputation and market leadership fit my search for
the ideal environment to exhibit my talent and
experience."
"How
long would you stay with the company?"
Your reply might
be: "I would really like to settle down with this company. As long as I am
growing professionally, there is no reason for me to make a
move."
"How long
would it take you to make a contribution to our
company?"
Important to qualify this question first; i.e.
In what area does the company need a rapid contribution? Or, do you have a
special project in mind you will want me to get involved
with?
"What
would you like to be doing three years from now?"
The
safest answer contains a desire to be regarded and a true professional and team
player.
"What
are your biggest accomplishments?"
Keep your answers
job-related, a number of achievements should spring to mind. Do not exaggerate.
You might begin your reply with: "Although I feel my biggest accomplishments are
ahead of me, I am proud of my involvement with..... We did it with hard work,
concentration, and an eye for the bottom line." Always remember to quantify your
achievements.
"Can
you work under pressure?"
Whenever you are asked one of
these, provide a brief yet comprehensive answer and seize the opportunity to
sell yourself. For example, you could say: "Yes, I usually find it stimulating.
However, I believe in planning and time management in order to reduce
panic.
"How much
money do you want?"
Generally, companies have salary
ranges for every job; so giving an ill considered answer can reduce your
job-offer chances to zero. The solution? Try: "Currently/in my last job my
package is S$ xxxxxx, however, there are element of risk involved and lack
structured benefits. I'm interested in this opportunity and I will seriously
consider any reasonable offer you care to make
me."
What are
you looking for in your next job?"
You must say what you
want in terms of what you can give to your employer. The key word in the
following example is "contribution": "My experience at XYZ PLC has shown that I
have a talent for motivating people. This is demonstrated by ... I am looking
for an opportunity to continue that kind of contribution, and a company where I
can develop in a professional
manner."
"Describe
the most difficult problem you've had to deal with."
This
is a favourite tough question. It is designed to probe your professional
profile; specifically, you're analytical skills: "Well, I always follow a
five-step format with a difficult problem. One, I stand back and examine the
problem. Two, I recognize the problem as the symptom of other, perhaps hidden,
factors. Three, I make a list of possible solutions to the problem. Four, I
weigh both the consequences and cost of each solution, and determine the best
solution. And five, I go to my CEO/Director/Manager, outline the problem, make
my recommendation, and ask for advice and approval." Then give an example of a
problem and your
solution.
"What
would your references say?"
You have nothing to lose by
being positive. If you demonstrate how well you and your boss get along, the
interviewer does not have to ask, "What do you dislike about your current
manager?"