外企面试宝典

 

 

外企面试宝典

 

1. So, tell me a little about yourself.

You don’t need to explain everything from birth to present day. Relevant factsabout education, your career and your current life situation are fine.

 

2. Why are you looking (or why did you leave you last job)?

This should be a straightforward question to answer, but it can trip youup. Presumably you are looking for a new job (or any job) because you want toadvance your career and get a position that allows you to grow as a person andan employee. It’s not a good idea to mentionmoney here, it can make you sound mercenary. And if you are in the unfortunatesituation of having been downsized, stay positive and be a***rief as pos***leabout it. If you were fired, you’ll need a good explanation.But once again, stay positive.

 

3. Tell me what you know about this company.

Do your homework before you go to any interview. Whether it’***eing the VP of marketing or the mailroom clerk, you should know aboutthe company or business you’re going to work for. Has thiscompany been in the news lately? Who are the people in the company you shouldknow about? Do the background work, it will make you stand out as someone whocomes prepared, and is genuinely interested in the company and the job.

 

4. Why do you want to work at X Company?

This should be directly related to the last question. Any research you’ve done on the company should have led you to the conclusion that you’d want to work there. After all, you’re at the interview, right?Put some thought into this answer before you have your interview, mention yourcareer goals and highlight forward-thinking goals and career plans.

 

5. What relevant experience do you have?

Hopefully if you’re applying for this positionyou have bags of related experience, and if that’s thecase you should mention it all. But if you’re switching careers or tryingsomething a little different, your experience may initially not look like it’s matching up. That’s when you need a littlehonest creativity to match the experiences required with the ones you have.People skills are people skills after all, you just need to show how customerservice skills can apply to internal management positions, and so on.

 

6. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you?

Ok, this is not the time for full disclosure. If some people from yourpast are going to say you’re a boring A-hole, you don’t need to bring that up. Stay positive, always, and maybe have a fewspecific quotes in mind. “They’d say I was a hard worker” or even better “John Doe has always said I was the most reliable, creativeproblem-solver he’d ever met.”

 

7. Have you done anything to further your experience?

This could include anything from night classes to hobbies and sports. Ifit’s related, it’s worth mentioning. Obviouslyanything to do with further education is great, but maybe you’re spending time on a home improvement project to work on skills such asself-sufficiency, time management and motivation.

 

8. Where else have you applied?

This is a good way to hint that you’re in demand, without soundinglike you’re whoring yourself all over town. So, be honest and mention a few othercompanie***ut don’t go into detail. The factthat you’re seriously looking and keeping your options open is what theinterviewer is driving at.

 

9. How are you when you’re working under pressure?

Once again, there are a few ways to answer thi***ut they should all bepositive. You may work well under pressure, you may thrive under pressure, andyou may actually PREFER working under pressure. If you say you crumble likeaged blue cheese, this is not going to help you get your foot in the door.

 

10. What motivates you to do a good job?

The answer to this one is not money, even if it is. You should bemotivated by life’s noble pursuits. You wantrecognition for a job well done. You want to become better at your job. Youwant to help others or be a leader in your field.

 

11. What’s your greatest strength?

This is your chance to shine. You’re being asked to explain whyyou are a great employee, so don’t hold back and stay do staypositive. You could be someone who thrives under pressure, a great motivator,an amazing problem solver or someone with extraordinary attention to detail. Ifyour greatest strength, however, is to drink anyone under the table or get atop score on Mario Kart, keep it to yourself. The interviewer is looking forwork-related strengths.

 

12. What’s your biggest weakness?

If you’re completely honest, you may be kicking yourself in the butt. If yousay you don’t have one, you’re obviously lying. This is ahorrible question and one that politicians have become masters at answering.They say things like “I’m perhaps too committed to my work and don’t spendenough time with my family.” Oh, there’s a fireable offense. I’ve even heard “I think I’m too good at my job, it canoften make people jealous.” Please, let’s keep our feet on the ground. If you’re asked this question, give asmall, work-related flaw that you’re working hard to improve.Example: “I’ve been told I occasionally focus on details and miss the biggerpicture, so I’ve been spending time laying out the complete project every day to seemy overall progress.”

 

13. Let’s talk about salary. What are you looking for?

Run for cover! This is one tricky game to play in an interview. Even ifyou know the salary range for the job, if you answer first you’re already showing all your cards. You want as much as pos***le, theemployer wants you for as little as you’re willing to take. Before youapply, take a look at salary.com for a good idea of what someone with yourspecific experience should be paid. You may want to say, “well, that’s something I’ve thought long and hard about and I think someone with my experienceshould get between X & Y.” Or, you could be sly and say,“right now, I’m more interested in talkingmore about what the position can offer my career.” Thatcould at least buy you a little time to scope out the situation. But if you dohave a specific figure in mind and you are confident that you can get it, I’d say go for it. I have on many occasions, and every time I got veryclose to that figure (both below and sometimes above).

 

14. Are you good at working in a team?

Unless you have the I.Q. of a houseplant, you’ll always answer YES to this one. It’s the only answer. How cananyone function inside an organization if they are a loner? You may want tomention what part you like to play in a team though; it’s a great chance to explain that you’re a natural leader.

 

15. Tell me a suggestion you have made that was implemented.

It’s important here to focus on the word “implemented.” There’s nothing wrong with having a thousand great ideas, but if the onlyplace they live is on your notepad what’s the point? Better still, youneed a good ending. If your previous company took your advice and ended upgoing bankrupt, that’s not such a great exampleeither. Be prepared with a story about an idea of yours that was taken fromidea to implementation, and considered successful.

16. Has anything ever irritated you about people you’ve worked with?

Of course, you have a list as long as your arm. But you can’t say that, it shows you a***eing negative and difficult to work with.The best way to answer this one is to think for a while and then say somethinglike “I’ve always got on just fine with my co-workers actually.”

 

Use this question as a chance to show that you are a team player: “The only people I have trouble with are those who aren’t team players, who just don’t perform, who complainconstantly, and who fail to respond to any efforts to motivate them.” The interviewer is expecting a response focused on personality andpersonal dislikes. Surprise her by delivering an answer that reflects companyvalues

 

17. Is there anyone you just could not work with?

No. Well, unless you’re talking about murderers,racists, rapists, thieves or other dastardly characters, you can work withanyone. Otherwise you could be flagged as someone who’s picky and difficult if you say, “I can’t work with anyone who’s a Bronco’s fan. Sorry.”

 

18. Tell me about any issues you’ve had with a previou***oss.

Arrgh! If you fall for this one you shouldn’t be hired anyway. The interviewer is testing you to see if you’ll speak badly about your previous supervisor. Simply answer thisquestion with exteme tact, diplomacy and if necessary, a big fat loss ofmemory. In short, you’ve never had any issues.

 

The answer to 18 is completely wrong. I am a director at a major mediacompany’s interactive division. Our company is expanding and I am almost in aconstant state of hiring. I ask a variation of this question in every singleinterview and if a candidate has never had one issue or disagreement withanyone, (I stated a variation: I ask if it has happened with anyone in theworkplace) I peg them as a liar and reject them immediately.

 

I went well with my previou***oss. If there is an conflict, I will beopen mind and talk about facts. once decision is made, I execute it well.

 

19. Would you rather work for money or job satisfaction?

It’s not a very fair question is it? We’d all love to get paid aTrump-like salary doing a job we love but that’s rareindeed. It’s fine to say money is important, but remember that NOTHING is moreimportant to you than the job. Otherwise, you’re justsomeone looking for a bigger paycheck.

 

20. Would you rather be liked or feared?

I have been asked this a lot, in various incarnations. The first time Ijust drew a blank and said, “I don’t know.” That went over badly, but it was right at the start of my career when Ihad little to no experience. Since then I’ve realized that my genuineanswer is “Neither, I’d rather be respected.” You don’t want to be feared becausefear is no way to motivate a team. You may got the job done but at what cost?Similarly, if you’re everyone’***est friend you’ll find it difficult to maketough decisions or hit deadlines. But when you’rerespected, you don’t have to be a completebastard or a lame duck to get the job done.

 

21. Are you willing to put the interests of X Company ahead of your own?

Again, another nasty question. If you say yes, you’re a corporate whore who doesn’t care about family. If yousay no, you’re disloyal to the company. I’m afraid that you’ll probably have to say yes to this one though, because you’re trying to be the perfect employee at this point, and perfectemployees don’t cut out early for Jimmy’***a***all game.

 

it is situational. if you… ; if you …. Ethics and professionalism

 

 

 

22. So, explain why I should hire you.

As I’m sure you know, “because I’m great” or “I really need a job” are not good answers here.This is a time to give the employer a laundry list of your greatest talentsthat just so happen to match the job description. It’s also good to avoid taking potshots at other potential candidates here.Focus on yourself and your talents, not other people’s flaws.

 

23. Finally, do you have any questions to ask me?

I’ll finish the way I started, with one of the most common questions askedin interviews. This directly relates to the research you’ve done on the company and also gives you a chance to show how eager andprepared you are. You’ll probably want to ask aboutbenefits if they haven’t been covered already. A goodgeneric one is “how soon could I start, if Iwere offered the job of course.” You may also ask what you’d be working on. Specifically, in the role you’re applying for and how that affects the rest of the company. Alwayshave questions ready, greeting this one with a blank stare is a rotten way tofinish your interview. Good luck and happy job hunting.

 

ponder for a moment, and then ask your interviewer “what aspect of your job do you find most challenging”.

 

I would ask the interviewer, “Why do you like to work here?”

 

24. Where do you want to be in 5 to years?

 

They dont want to hear in the same job you are interviewing for.Ultimately, the HR people are searching for someone who can handle the job now,and has the potential to grow into a high level management job in the future.Do you have those goals too?

 

25. Would you rather work for a big company or a small one?

 

Favorite answer: I’d treat any company like itwas my own regardless. Total ownership of the situation can get you a long way.

 

General , the worst answer was “I don’t know.” I’ve since learned that “it depends,” with a couple of examples, is perfectly appropriate

 

 

 

 附带答案版本：

 

Don't discuss your goals for returning to school or having a family,they are not relevant and could knock you out of contention for the job.Rather, you want to connect your answer to the job you are applying for.

 

 

 

最佳答案

 

    * My long-term goals involvegrowing with a company where I can continue to learn, take on additionalresponsibilities, and contribute as much of value as I can.

 

    * I see myself as a topperforming employee in a well-established organization, like this one. I planon enhancing my skills and continuing my involvement in (related) professionalassociations.

 

    * Once I gain additionalexperience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management.

 

    * In the XYZ Corporation, whatis a typical career path for someone with my skills and experiences?

 

 

 

第一个问题一般都是这个 Tell me about yourself/ How would you describe yourself?

 

 

 

You walk into the interview room, shake hands with your interviewer andsit down with your best interviewing smile on. Guess what their first questionis? "Tell me about yourself." Your interviewer is not looking for a10-minute dissertation here. Instead, offer a razor sharp sentence or two thatsets the stage for further discussion and sets you apart from your competitors.

 

 

 

Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)说出你的卖点

 

 

 

Give them "your synopsis about you" answer, specifically yourUnique Selling Proposition. Known as a personal branding or a value-addedstatement, the USP is a succinct, one-sentence description of who you are, yourbiggest strength and the major benefit that a company will derive from thisstrength. Here is an example of a Unique Selling Proposition: "I'm aseasoned Retail Manager strong in developing training programs and lossprevention techniques that have resulted in revenue savings of over $2.3Millionfor (employer's name) during the past 11 years."

 

 

 

What a difference you've made with this statement. Your interviewer isnow sitting forward in her chair giving you her full attention. At this point,you might add the following sentence: "I'd like to discuss how I might beable to do something like that for you." The ball is now back in her courtand you have the beginnings of a real discussion and not an interrogationprocess.

 

 

 

    “Mybackground to date has been centered around preparing myself to become the verybest financial consultant I can become. Let me tell you specifically how I'veprepared myself. I am an undergraduate student in finance and accounting at_________ University. My past experiences has been in retail and highereducation. Both aspects have prepared me well for this career.”

 

 

 

首先要明确他们想了解的是哪方面的内容Do they want to know about your career so far, aboutyour hobbies or family life? If in doubt, ASK them to clarify what they wishyou to talk about. Then give a short factual answer, ending with "is thereanything else you'd like to know about me?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

* How would you describe yourself?

 

这个问题的答案应该是和他们的招聘广告上对于雇员的要求的基本一致，所以，看看你有哪些特质满足了他们的要求吧

 

      Try to think about what theinterviewers are looking for and keep this in mind as you answer interviewquestions. Remember the job advert? Were they looking for initiative, a goodcommunicator, someone with good attention to detail? Describe yourself in theseterms. Start with "I am.." and not with "I think..." or"I believe.." so that you sound self aware and confident.

 

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When you're interviewing for an internal position within your company,you may be asked what you will do if you don't get the job. The interviewerwants to know whether you are concerned about just the advancement opportunityor the company. 内部职位竞聘常会被问到如果你没有得到这份工作的话你将会怎么办的问题。

 

 

 

最佳答案

 

I am committed to this company and its advancement so, should I not beselected, I will work with and support whoever might get selected. However, Ido feel that my experience in the department and with the team would make methe best candidate

 

 

 

How would your boss describe you?

 

 

 

If you get the job, your interviewer may be your future boss so you needto answer this question carefully. Describe yourself as any boss would want tosee you. You might say:

 

 

 

"My boss would describe me as hard working, loyal, friendly andcommitted. He would say that I work well on my own initiative and deliver whathe wants on time and to a high standard".

 

 

 

Again, don’t use the term “I think my boss would say..” as it gives an element ofdoubt. Be positive and certain with the interview answer you give.

 

 

 

* What motivates you?

 

I am motivated by being around other positive people, we might question ifworking alone would suit them.

 

I am motivated by targets.

 

 

 

* What do you look for in a job?

 

 

 

This is really a question about suitability, though we've included ithere.

 

Remember the advert? Focus on the advert criteria and you won't go farwrong. For example, if the advert called for someone to lead others, you mightsay:

 

 

 

"I like a job where I can lead and motivate others and enjoy seeingimprovements in team performance".

 

 

 

If the advert called for a target-focused individual, you might say:

 

 

 

"I like having targets. They encourage me to stretch myself andbeat them!"

 

 

 

* What is your personal mission statement or motto?

 

 

 

Not everyone has one, but because you might be asked, think what yourswould be.

 

 

 

          "Just do it!"

 

          "Right first time,every time".

 

          "Less talk, moreaction".

 

          "Treat others asyou'd wish to be treated".

 

          "Fortune favoursthe brave".

 

          "Quality, quality,quality...".

 

 

 

      Our advice: This is one ofthose times when we ask candidates to explain their answers to our interviewquestions. So, whatever you say, it's likely you'll be asked to give a reasonor example so have one in mind. For most jobs, you want to sound positive andmotivated, but possibly not ruthless or inconsiderate.

 

 

 

 

 

* What do you enjoy most about what you do now?

 

 

 

"I really enjoy the technical nature of the job and the speed atwhich I'm able to fix faults. I get a lot of satisfaction from getting peopleback to work as soon as possible".

 

 

 

 If working as part of a team ismentioned as a requirement of the job, you might answer:

 

 

 

 "I really enjoy being partof a team. I like it when the team pulls together to achieve something andeveryone can take some credit".

 

 

 

* What do you enjoy least about your current role?

 

 

 

A good interview answer might go something like this:

 

 

 

"Actually, I enjoy everything about what I do. I suppose if I hadto give something up, it would be..."

 

 

 

 The 'something' depends on you,but it's best to mention something incidental to your job, like admin orpaperwork. So you might say:

 

 

 

  "I'm not sure (pause). Isuppose if I had to pick something to give up it would be paperwork. I knowit's important, and I do it well, but if someone else did if for me, that wouldbe great!"

 

 

 

* Why do you want to leave your current job/company?

 

 

 

 If you're applying for a moresenior job, you might answer:

 

 "I really enjoy what I do,but I'm ready for more responsibility and challenge which your job offers.Unfortunately, my current job/employer can't give me this."

 

 

 

      If this isn't the reason,use yours instead, but always be positive in your answers to tough interviewquestion

 

 

 

 

 

    * What do you think of yourcurrent boss?

 

 

 

  "My current boss is great.He sets the team challenging but realistic targets and motivates us to achieve them..."

 

 

 

  "My current boss is verygood. She deals with her team firmly but fairly and enjoys our respect becauseof this..."

 

 

 

      If your current boss is notgreat, and you are prepared to answer more interview questions about this, sayso, but do balance each criticism with a positive point. Remember the need toappear positive in your answers to interview questions. You might say:

 

 

 

"My current boss has strengths and weaknesses. He is very good atlistening to people but sometimes, in my view, doesn't deal withunderperformers firmly enough. This affects team morale sometimes..."

 

 

 

* What will you miss about your present job?

 

 

 

People is the best interview answer here. Say anything else and you're suggestingthe job you're applying for won't give you everything you had and more, andmight even leave you wanting!

 

As you think about answers to interview questions, always have in mindthe need to create a positive impression.

 

 

 

"Well I'm confident that the job you're offering will give meeverything I have now and more so I don't think I'll miss anything about thejob itself. But I'll miss some of the people of course..."

 

 

 

    * What can you tell me aboutXYZ Company?

 

 

 

 

 

      If you need to, start bysaying "Is it ok if I refer to my notes?". When you get the nod, offyou go.

 

 

 

      A good interview answershould include short factual statements covering such things as the Company'shistory, its products, staff numbers, turnover and future business objectives.Something like this is fine:

 

 

 

 "I believe the Company beganin 1967, with just one outlet, but now has 25. From what I've read, you sell A,B and C products across Europe and the States and have a turnover in excess of$5 million. You employ 125 staff. I beleive you hope to enter the Asian marketby 2010".   "I've done someresearch and can tell you more if you like".

 

 

 

You will likely hear "No, that's fine. Thank you."

 

 

 

 Your interviewers will beimpressed that you prepared and made notes and you're off to a good start.

 

 

 

    * What do you think XYZCompany can offer you?

 

 

 

      There are two bits to thisinterview question, the role and the Company. Mention both. You might say:

 

 

 

  "I'm told the Company has afirm commitment to individual training and development. This is great news forme because I'm keen to learn and advance in the Company. The role itselfappears challenging and rewarding which I'll find very motivating".

 

    * If you're successful, whatdo you think you'll be doing day-to-day?

 

 

 

      You might start by saying"I understand that I'll be...". Then you could talk about the mainrole, any other activities and any targets you expect to be given.

 

 

 

 What are yourstrengths/weaknesses?

 

 

 

IMPORTANT -- this common job interview question can be asked in manydifferent ways, such as "What qualities do you admire in others that youwould like to develop in yourself?"

 

 

 

Strengths should be easy enough to think about (keep the position inmind).

 

 

 

Talking about weaknesses can be harder but good interview answers arestill possible. Many people choose to mention something which they'verecognized as being a weakness but have overcome.

 

 

 

    "I'd like to be moreorganized, like one of my colleagues. She doesn't have to try. But because Idon't find it as easy as her, I use to-do lists and a diary to help mesuccessfully manage my work".

 

 

 

On a final note, it's much safer to highlight your lack of experience orknowledge as a weakness than a fault in your personality. Employers can alwaysgive you experience but few want to help you overcome shortcomings in yourpersonality! So avoid telling interviewers that you "get bored" or"too involved" or "frustrated"!

 

 

 

Why did you think you are suited to this job?

 

 

 

What they are really asking is "You know what we are looking for socan you tell us what you have done or what you have, that is relevant."

 

 

 

 Why should we give the job to youabove other applicants?

 

 

 

This is often our closing question. We want to know, in a nutshell, whyyou are the best candidate for the job. This is a chance to list your bestattributes as they relate to the vacancy. Don't be cocky, but don't be shy.\

 

 

 

 

 

* How well do you work under pressure?

 

 

 

“I know that all jobs involve some sort of pressure at some time.  I can work as well under pressure as I do atany other time but when I am busy, I prioritize activities so that my workloadis manageable.”

 

 

 

If the interviewers focus on other pressure, such as pressure to meettargets, dealing with difficult customers etc, give an appropriate reply,mentioning past situations where you have coped under such pressure.

 

 

 

* What sort of people do you find it difficult to work with?

 

 

 

“I am an easy going person who seems to get on with everyone. If I haveto pick a type of person that bothers me, it's the one who doesn't pull theirweight or isn't worried about the standard of their work because it reflectsbadly on the rest of the team.”

 

 

 

* Sell me this pen!

 

 

 

  In interviews for sales job, youmay hear this, believe us! In fact, one of us had a non-sales interview and wasasked this, unexpectedly. The object you are asked to sell could in fact beanything. Some interviewers like to see whether you focus on the benefits ofthe object or its features. The features of the pen might be that it's blue,with a roller ball and plastic coating. The benefits might be that it'sreliable, easy to hold and leak proof.

 

 

 

 

 

* What key skills do you think you need to be successful in this role?

 

 

 

You got this far because your job application form or resume or CVmatched the interviewers' criteria as specified in the job advert. Just expandon this in your job interview answers. List the skills you think are required,giving a little explanation as to why each is needed.

 

 

 

You might then be asked to give examples where you've used one or moreof these skills. These are behavioural interview questions.

 

 

 

 

 

* Where do you see yourself in five years time?

 

 

 

      This can be a difficult jobinterview question to answer, especially if you've not thought beyond gettingthis job!  When you answer, you want tosound ambitious enough to be motivated to do a good job, but not too ambitiousin case your interviewers think you're only using this job as a stepping stoneto something better.

 

 

 

I can be successful in this job and taken on additional responsibilitiesand be considered suitable for promotion.

 

 

 

* How does this job fit into your career plans?

 

 

 

      This is a similar jobinterview question to the one above really, except that it looks beyond fiveyears. Be realistic. You might say something like this if you're going for amiddle-management position:

 

 

 

"My ambition is to lead a department and be involved in strategicdecision-making at a senior level. I expect the role I'm applying for to giveme more experience of leading and some introduction to strategy so that I'mready for a senior role in a few years time".

 

 

 

* Where did you think you'd be at this stage in your life?

 

 

 

Avoid saying further than you are now! It's better to show you've met orexceeded your ambitions than fallen short of them. Tell the interviewers thatyou are happy with your life and career, but are looking for more challenge asyou like to stretch yourself to achieve more.

 

 

 

* If you could start again, what career decisions would you makedifferently?

 

 

 

 You're on sticky ground if youstart trying to think of hypothetical career changes that might have served youbetter in the past. Your answers to interview questions will suggest you're nothappy with the way things are and no-one wants to hire an unhappy person.

 

 

 

“I wouldn't change anything. I am happy with my career as it is now butwant fresh challenges.”

 

 "I'm not the kind of personwho looks back with regrets. I prefer to invest my energy lookingforward".

 

 

 

* How would you approach a typical project?

 

 

 

 If you're applying for a projectbased job, such as a project manager, you will be asked this job interviewquestion. Don't give a long winded answer, but try to demonstrate that youwould take into account the main components of effective project planning suchas:

 

 

 

      - Planning the schedulebackwards from completion

 

      - Working out what you needto get the job done effectively and on time

 

      - Budgeting -- costs, timeand resources

 

      - Allowing a contingency

 

 

 

 * How would you get the best frompeople?

 

 

 

      If you are applying for anymanagement role, it is highly likely you'll be asked this job interviewquestion. The kind of skills that we'd be looking for in a good applicant are:

 

 

 

      - Good communication

 

      - Teamwork skills

 

      - Recognizing what eachperson can bring

 

      - Setting a good example

 

      - Praising good performances

 

 

 

* Give us an example of how you have resolved conflict.

 

 

 

      As this is a behaviouralinterview question, you need to find an example of conflict that you haveresolved. The sort of skills you need to demonstrate in your interview answerare:

 

 

 

      - Fairness

 

      - Discussing problems withindividuals in private

 

      - Making sure you get to theroot of the problem

 

      - Finding a solution thateveryone will accept

 

 

 

* What did you look for when you hired people in the past?

 

 

 

      This is a general question.Don't think about specific skills of the job you are applying for. Thinkgenerally about the key attributes everyone looks for in a good applicant.Among others, these include:

 

 

 

      - Aptitude

 

      - Skills

 

      - Initiative

 

      - Flexibility

 

      - Commitment

 

 

 

 Do you work best by yourself oras part of a team?

 

 

 

 Most jobs require both, tovarying degrees.

 

 

 

  As with all answers to jobinterview questions, think about the position you are applying for. Are theinterviewers looking for a team worker? Did they mention this in the advert oris it implicit in the job description? If a team player is required, tell the interviewers that you work wellin a team. Give an example if you can. You might say:

 

 

 

  "I prefer to work in teams.I find that better decisions are reached when people work together and shareideas. Of course I'm happy to work alone when required too."

 

 

 

 If the job is mostly done alone,you might say:

 

 

 

"I work very well by myself because I'm self motivated, organizedand conscientious. I'm comfortable working in teams though and recognize thatthis is better in some situations".

 

 

 

* What kind of personality do you work best with and why?

 

 

 

  You will deal with manypersonalities in any job. If the interviewers know the people you'll be workingwith, they might have a personality in mind! It's hard for you to know thishowever so stick to a safe answer. You might say:

 

 

 

"I find I work well with almost everyone but who I work best withmight depend on the activity. If it's a project, I prefer to work with someonewho's practical and organized because this is important. If it's leading adiscussion, working with someone who's a good facilitator helps."

 

 

 

* How would you go about establishing your credibility quickly withinthe team?

 

 

 

Gaining credibility quickly is important. Make sure you listen, learn,question, understand. You might say: "That's a good question and I realizeit's important to gain credibility quickly. I believe the best way is to showyour colleagues that you respect their experience and want to learn from themas well as about them. You need to listen, ask the right questions and makesure you understand. If they can see you'll fit in early on, it helps".

 

 

 

* Tell me about a time where you had to deal with conflict on the job.

 

 

 

      This is a behaviouralinterview question.  If you can't thinkof an example, it's ok to say so. If that's the case, either say how you woulddeal with it, or use an example where someone you know dealt with conflictwell.

 

 

 

          Most interviewers would look for:

 

          o Getting both sides ofthe argument

 

          o Suggesting andagreeing compromise

 

          o Showing tactfulness

 

          o Showing empathy

 

 

 

* What irritates you about other people, and how do you deal with it?

 

 

 

      Personal conflict isinevitable in the workplace  Try not tosay that A or B irritates you. Instead, talk about the characteristics whichyou find hard, not the people. You might say:

 

 

 

  "I find I get on with mostpeople so it's not normally a problem. It's rather disappointing when peopledon't pull their weight I suppose and this has happened. In that instance Ispoke to the person in private, explained that they were letting the team downand asked them to make more of an effort. They did."

 

 

 

"Can you give me some idea of the salary you're expecting?"

 

is one of those job interview questions that can really get youtongue-tied.

 

What do you say? Usually, moments later, you realize you've accepted asalary far lower than you wanted. Although you were prepared to negotiate yoursalary, you panicked at the last minute and lost your nerve. As you leave theinterview room, your excitement at getting the job is tainted. You can't helpfeeling undervalued, even a little duped. Ask for too much and you risk lookingunrealistic, over confident, maybe even greedy. Ask for too little and you riskundervaluing yourself and your contribution, and ultimately being underpaid.For many of us, salary is one of the most important factors in taking a job,but it's often the hardest to deal with.

 

 

 

Nerves got the better of her and worried about sounding greedy, shesuggested a lower amount. When she was offered the job, there was the salaryshe suggested, right at the start of the offer letter. She wasn't surprised butshe was disappointed. So how can you avoid this happening to you?

 

 

 

 * Research is essential when itcomes to suggesting a reasonable salary. Take time to look though jobadvertisements for similar positions. Research the WWW or post a question in aforum or on Yahoo! Answers

 

 Research the Company too. A largeCompany, if asked, will probably have more scope to offer you a better benefitspackage than a smaller one

 

 

 

* Don't initiate salary discussions or say anything about pay duringyour job interview unless asked

 

 * If you're asked for a figure,suggest a range rather than an actual figure. This gives room to negotiate if afirm job offer is made during the job interview

 

* If you're offered the job and reach agreement on a salary, make surethe written job offer states this amount clearly

 

* And when it comes to the actual salary negotiation here are 6essential salary

 

 * The most important thing toremember when discussing your salary is that it is a negotiation. Like any formof bartering, the first figure you mention in the job interview probably won'tbe the figure you agree on. But it's a place to start.

 

* Be confident about what you're worth. Recognise that you're bringingsomething unique to the Company, and that you're worth the wage you'rerequesting. Even if you've only just finished school or college, you still havesomething unique to offer and it's important to bear that in mind as you thinkabout salary negotiation.

 

* Remember also that it's not easy finding the right person for a job.If you've impressed the interviewers enough to employ you, you have the upperhand and paying a little more to keep you isn't too big a deal. So ask for aslightly higher salary than you expect.

 

* If the job advertisement mentions a salary range, employers will beprepared to pay more for the right candidate. If you're a little uncomfortableasking for the top figure, choose one just above the mid-range. This gives the impressionthat you are worth a good wage and is a great place to start.

 

 Assuming an advertised salaryrange of $30,000 to $42,000, you might say this:

 

 "I'm expecting a salary inthe region of $38,000, based on my knowledge and experience".

 

* Remember that salary is not everything. If the salary is less than youhoped and the Company won't or can't go any higher, ask about other benefitswhich are important to you like training courses, financial help with furtherstudy and so on.

 

 

 

 

 

What specific goals, including those related to your occupation, haveyou established for your life?

 

 

 

 I want to be working for anexcellent company like yours in a job in which I am managing information. Iplan to contribute my leadership, interpersonal, and technical skills. Mylong-range career goal is to be the best information systems technician I canfor the company I work for.

 

 

 

3. How has your college experience prepared you for a business career?

 

 

 

 I have prepared myself totransition into the work force through real-world experience involving travelabroad, internship, and entrepreneurial opportunities. While interning with aprivate organization in Ecuador, I developed a 15-page marketing plan composedin Spanish that recommended more effective ways the company could promote itsservices. I also traveled abroad on two other occasions in which I researchedthe indigenous culture of the Mayan Indians in Todos Santos, Guatemala, andparticipate din a total language immersion program in Costa Rica. As you cansee from my academic, extracurricular, and experiential background, I haveunconditionally committed myself to success as a marketing professional.

 

 

 

4. Please describe the ideal job for you following graduation.

 

 

 

My ideal job is one that incorporates both my education and practicalwork skills to be the best I can be. Namely combining my education in financewith my working knowledge of customer service operations, entrepreneurialabilities, computer skills, and administrative skills. I want to utilize myanalytical expertise to help people meet their financial goals. This is exactlywhy I am convinced that I would be a very valuable member of the Merrill Lynchteam.

 

 

 

What influenced you to choose this career?

 

 

 

My past experiences have shown me that I enjoy facing and overcoming thechallenge of making a sale. Without a doubt, once I have practiced mypresentation and prepared myself for objections, I feel very confidentapproaching people I don't know and convincing them that they need my product.Lastly, I like sales because my potential for success is limited only by howmuch of myself I dedicate toward my goal. If any profession is founded onself-determinism, it surely must be sales.

 

 

 

At what point did you choose this career?

 

 

 

 I knew that I wanted to pursueinformation systems technology about my sophomore year in college. It was thenthat I realized that my hobby (computers) was taking up most of my time. Myfavorite courses were IT courses. I also realized that I was doing computer-orientedwork-study that I enjoyed so much I would have done it for free.

 

 

 

What specific goals have you established for your career?

 

 My goals include becoming aCertified Financial Advisor so I can obtain a better working knowledge offinancial research analysis, which would allow me contribute to my client baseas a better financial consultant since I would have that extra insight into thecompanies they are seeking to invest in. Also this is the foundation block toadvancing my career to portfolio manager or even branch office manager.

 

 

 

What will it take to attain your goals, and what steps have you takentoward attaining them?

 

 I've already done some researchon other workers at Merrill Lynch to see how they achieved similar goals. Iknow that Merrill Lynch encourages the pursuit and will reimburse for tuitionof a graduate degree. I plan on pursuing a MBA to give me an even moreextensive knowledge of business and financial analysis.

 

 

 

How did you handle a challenge?

 

 

 

    * During a difficult financialperiod, I was able to satisfactorily negotiate repayment schedules withmultiple vendors.

 

    * When the softwaredevelopment of our new product stalled, I coordinated the team which managed toget the schedule back on track. We were able to successfully troubleshoot theissues and solve the problems, within a very short period of time.

 

    * A long-term client was aboutto take their business to a competitor. I met with the customer and was able tochange how we handled the account on a day-to-day basis, in order to keep thebusiness

 

 

 

When you're asked what your greatest weakness is, try to turn a negativeinto a positive. For example, a sense of urgency to get projects completed orwanting to triple-check every item in a spreadsheet can be turned into astrength i.e. you are a candidate who will make sure that the project is doneon time and your work will be close to perfect.

 

 

 

Weakness

 

    * When I'm working on aproject, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete theproject well ahead of schedule.

 

    * Being organized wasn't mystrongest point, but I implemented a time management system that really helpedmy organization skills.

 

    * I like to make sure that mywork is perfect, so I tend to perhaps spend a little too much time checking it.However, I've come to a good balance by setting up a system to ensure everythingis done correctly the first time.

 

    * I used to wait until thelast minute to set appointments for the coming week, but I realized thatscheduling in advance makes much more sense.

 

 

 

Strength

 

    * When I'm working on aproject, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete theproject well ahead of schedule.

 

    * I have exceeded my salesgoals every quarter and I've earned a bonus each year since I started with mycurrent employer.

 

    * My time management skillsare excellent and I'm organized, efficient, and take pride in excelling at mywork.

 

    * I pride myself on mycustomer service skills and my ability to resolve what could be difficultsituations.

 

 

 

How well can you work in stressful situations?

 

 

 

    * Stress is very important tome. With stress, I do the best possible job. The appropriate way to deal withstress is to make sure I have the correct balance between good stress and badstress. I need good stress to stay motivated and productive.

 

    * I react to situations,rather than to stress. That way, the situation is handled and doesn't becomestressful.

 

    * I actually work better underpressure and I've found that I enjoy working in a challenging environment.

 

    * From a personal perspective, I managestress by visiting the gym every evening. It's a great stress reducer.

 

    * Prioritizing myresponsibilities so I have a clear idea of what needs to be done when, hashelped me effectively manage pressure on the job.

 

    * If the people I am managingare contributing to my stress level, I discuss options for better handlingdifficult situations with them.

 

 

 

What’s motivates you?

 

 

 

    * I was responsible forseveral projects where I directed development teams and implemented repeatableprocesses. The teams achieved 100% on-time delivery of software products. I wasmotivated both by the challenge of finishing the projects ahead of schedule andby managing the teams that achieved our goals.

 

    * I've always been motivatedby the desire to do a good job at whatever position I'm in. I want to excel andto be successful in my job, both for my own personal satisfaction and for myemployer.

 

   * I have always wanted to ensure that my company's clients get the bestcustomer service I can provide. I've always felt that it's important, both tome personally, and for the company and the clients, to provide a positivecustomer experience.

 

    * I have spent my career insales, typically in commission-based positions, and compensation has alwaysbeen a strong factor in motivating me to be the top salesperson at my prioremployers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Are You Passionate About?

 

 

 

    * One of my greatest passionsis helping others. When I was younger, I've enjoyed helping mom with householdrepairs. As I grew older, that habit grew and I desired to help others as well.I like helping people find solutions that meet their specific needs.

 

    * I'm passionate aboutpainting. I take an evening art class once a week and try to find time eachweekend to paint. Painting is a good way for me to relax and even though Idon't have much talent, I do it enjoy it.

 

    * I lost my father topancreatic cancer and ever since then, I have spent time volunteering to helpraise awareness and funding for cancer research. I volunteer for PanCan, theadvocacy group, and I'm part of their volunteer network. One of the things I'mpassionate is to assist in finding a cure, however I can.

 

    * I'm passionate about makinga difference. When I'm involved with a project at work I want to do my best toachieve success. I feel the same way about what I do in my personal life.

 

    * I'm an avid skier and I liketo spend weekends and vacations on the ski slopes.

 

 

 

"

 

Why do you want this job?

 

 

 

    * This is not only a fineopportunity, but this company is a place where my qualifications can make adifference. As a finance executive well versed in the new stock options law, Isee this position as made to order. It contains the challenge to keep me on mytoes. That's the kind of job I like to anticipate every morning.

 

    * I want this job because itseems tailored to my competencies, which include sales and marketing. As I saidearlier, in a previous position I created an annual growth rate of 22 percentin a flat industry. Additionally, the team I would work with looks terrific.

 

    * I well understand that thisis a company on the way up. Your Web site says the launch of several newproducts is imminent. I want be a part of this business as it grows.

 

    * Having worked through acollege business major building decks and porches for neighbors, thisentry-level job for the area's most respected home builder has my name on it.

 

    * As a dedicated technician, Ilike doing essential research. Being part of a breakthrough team is anexperience I'd love to repeat.

 

    * This job is a good fit forwhat I've been interested in throughout my career. It offers a nice mix ofshort- and long-term activities. My short-term achievements keep me cranked upand the long-term accomplishments make me feel like a billion bucks.

 

 

 

    * I want this job sellingtheater tickets because I'd be good at it. I'm good at speaking to people andhandling cash. I would like a job with regular hours and I'm always on time.

 

    * Although some companies arereplacing Americans with imported low-wage workers, you are standing tall. Thiscompany's successful strategies, good reputation and values make it heads andshoulders above its competition.

 

    * I'd fit right in as acounter clerk in your fine drycleaners. I have observed that the counter clerkposition requires competence at handling several activities in quick order --customer service, payments, bagging and phones. I like multitasking and, as ahomemaker, I have a lot of practice in keeping all the balls in the air.

 

    * The work I find moststimulating allows me to use both my creative and research skills. The buzz onthis company is that it rewards people who deliver solutions to substantialproblems。