Facing an interview

Facing an interview—the Question game Anticipate questions that will be asked at most interviews O.K.Beena Finally it is time for the interview. It is the last step of the hiring process and the most important. This is where you get to exchange information, so that the interviewer and the interviewee find out if their needs match. First you have to answer the interviewer’s questions and then you have time to put your questions across and clarify any doubts that may be present in your mind. This process of answering and asking questions will not be difficult if you are prepared. Try to answer all questions, as best as you can Always be clear while answering. If you do not know the answer to a question or if you forget it at the moment, just tell the truth straight away than answering with yes and no or trying to elicit the answers from memory at that moment. Here are some common questions that you will have to answer in most interviews— Tell us about yourself (what are your strengths)? Be precise and concise while answering this question even though it is quite vague. Do not try to give your whole autobiography. Point out the best in you with regard to your skills, experience and personality but be honest. This should indirectly substantiate how you will be a good fit for the job. Above all, be truthful. What made you interested in our organization? This is the employer’s attempt to know whether you know the organization well. Always be prepared to answer this question. You should have gathered relevant information in advance about the organization that you have approached for a job. Why should we hire you over the others? The answer can reveal your confidence and goal-orientation. You can explain how your skills are crucial for the opening and how your high level awareness of the company would easily help you fit into the job and produce wonderful results.Citing instances where you have solved difficult issues in your previous organization will help here. What is your major weakness?Of course you should be truthful at this point too, but do not be overly negative. Quite often you can turn a weakness into a positive statement. For instance you can say," I am too involved in my work and I sometimes work till midnight to see that the job on hand is finished" or "I tend to ask questions until I am clear about an issue". Why did you leave the previous company? Badmouthing your current boss is the worst thing you can do in an interview. The interviewer knows that if you say this today the same thing will be said about him the next time at some other place. Even if your boss was a Satan, just say you had ideological differences and after much trial and error, you have agreed to disagree. You seem to be overqualified for the available opening? This is one among the many reasons given why you are not the person for the job. You can turn this objection into opportunity. 'You are correct in saying that I am overqualified for the post, but I think I'll start being productive for you that much faster; you will need much less effort to train me." If the objection is that you do not have any work experience, politely reply that you are confident that as long as you have the necessary skills and confidence and willingness to do a good work, you do not think experience actually matters. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? This is a question that can really trouble you. Do not panic. You can say five years seem to be a really long time and say what position you think you would be occupying in an year's time. You can also say that even though you are sure to put in sincere work, you can't really answer the question till after you have been in the field for some time. What salary do you expect? Answer this one very carefully. Try to avoid mentioning a fixed amount at the very first instance. Ask the interviewer, how much would he be willing to pay a person with your qualification, skills and experience. You can say you are well qualified and you have done a good job in your previous company and were paid a certain amount. If the interviewer specifies an amount that's not agreeable to you, say so immediately. He is sure to work out a better package for you, if you are the right person for him. These are only a few common questions. There are more which might be put across. The golden rule is to be precise and clear. Also, when in doubt, leave it out. Be simple and straightforward. Should you ask questions A final question that any good interviewer would ask is whether you have any questions to ask. Do not think it is rude or pushy to ask a question to the boss. Remember that you are not going to win any humility contests. The interviewer wants to know whether you are inquisitive and can come up with proper questions