Career Talk JDR

Most interviewers hiring for permanent positions have a series of questions designed to hear how you present yourself and how you would be perceived by executives and peers in their organization.  Here are some of the basic questions we see most often:

Give me a brief overview of yourself and why we should hire you and/or tell me about yourself:

Have ready and prepared a concise, organized presentation of professional achievements and accomplishments outlining significant results.  This should be just a few minutes and must also briefly describe your qualifications for the job you are interviewing for and what interests you about their business.  Practice this in a mirror with a smile on your face.  After about two or three minutes, ask the interviewer if he or she would like you to elaborate on anything in particular.

What salary do you need?
Be prepared to state that you are flexible here, and do not just state a figure.  Being open on salary is important; it’s fine to state that you are currently making a base of X plus bonuses and benefits, but re-iterate that the position is the most important criteria for you. Ask what this position typically pays at their organization.

Why did you leave your last 3-5 employers?
The interviewer wants to know if you have had any problems, how forthright you are and, to see if they are likely to be just another stopgap on your resume.  Do not criticize former employers; just be direct about each scenario.

What are you best at?
You must have done sufficient research so that you can tailor your reply to the companies’ corporate goals, objectives, mission statement and/or current challenges; give at least one example that fits one of these categories.

What was your biggest mistake?
We have all made mistakes; it is how we recover from them that counts.  Be positive and up-front about how you would improve or do things differently next time.

Which posts were collaborative and team-based and which were individual?

Be sure to have a good mix of examples and show adaptability and agility, depending on the circumstances.  Concisely state great success with descriptions of times you have worked both alone and in a group.

Why do you want to work here?
Again, your research is important to answer clearly and with enthusiasm.  Show the interviewer your passion for their business and interest in their specific company.

What else should we know about you?
The employer may be looking for evidence of your job skills outside of your professional life or to see what you may have left out.  Some humor here can be good; it’s okay to site passion for non-work related items, but be sure they demonstrate analytical and creative interests that show an interviewer that you are a balanced, yet career-minded individual.  Sports interest can show teamwork and competitiveness, but keep your answers brief.  Then, circle back and ask if there is anything specific that they are interested in.