How to Answer an Interviewer

Compiled By: Ridham Shah

This is dedicated to Knowledge, Courage and Confidence; the most needed qualities to succeed in any human challenge, especially getting a job.

General Guidelines

Know yourself Find out what employer wants, show them how you can help them to get that. Find out what an employer wants the most in his ideal candidate, and then show how you meet those qualifications. In other words, you must match your abilities, with the needs of the employer. You must sell what the buyer is buying. To do that, before you know on what to focus in your answers, you must find out what is the need... what they are looking for. And the best way to do that is to ask few questions yourself. Always be Confident, upbeat and positive. Never be negative. Give time yourself to know what you are and what suits you! Use these answers shown here as a reference guide only, and don't be afraid to include your own thoughts and words. Rehearse your answers frequently, and they will come to you naturally in interviews. You will see how to bring this as you read the first two questions of this guide. But how you accomplish it, you must remember this strategy above all: before telling them your qualities, you must get some idea of what the employer wants most. Once you know what they want, you can then present yourself as the perfect key that fits the lock of that position. Turn weaknesses into strengths Think before you answer. A pause to collect your thoughts. Never talk for more than 3-4 minutes straight.

In your daily routine, try to become more optimistic. Try putting a positive approach on events and situations you would normally look negatively. This is to turn you into sharpen your selling skills, be optimistic, "can do" people. You will slowly slowly raise your level of attractiveness by daily practicing to be more optimistic. Keep an interview diary. Right after each interview note WWR-WWW (what went right, and what went wrong) what could have gone a little better, and what steps you should take next with this contact. Then take those steps. Don't be like most of the humanity who say they will follow up on something, but never do.

How to Answer An Interviewer Compiled by: Ridham Shah

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About this Guide

You may feel that the following questions are matching up with the questions exactly you are asked during interviews. This guide is designed to be as specific and realistic as possible. But important is that you need to familiarize yourself with the main strategies behind each answer. If you do this and then present yourself, I am sure that you're going to do very well.

Good luck...Have a great Job Hunting!

Ridham Shah

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Question 1

Tell me something about yourself

Almost all interviews begin with this question. Many people start saying their life story, explaining their ancient history or personal matters. ANSWER: Start with the present and tell why you are well qualified for the position. Remember that you need to match your qualifications with what the interviewer is looking for. In other words you must sell what the buyer is buying. This is the single most important strategy in job hunting. Before you answer this or any question it's imperative that you try to uncover interviewer's greatest need, want, problem or goal. To do so, make you take these two steps: 1. Do all the homework before the interview to uncover person's wants and needs (The specific needs of the company) 2. If you dont know about the job description, ask for a complete description of what the position entails. You might say: Could you guide me more about the most important priorities of this position? All I know is what I (heard from the placement manager, read in the mail, etc.) Example: "I was born in Ahmedabad, and attended St Xaviers High School. Ever since I was a teenager, I love talking to people, discussing different topics with my friends, giving presentations, participating in quizzes, debates, etc. It was my hobby, my passion, and my way of learning. Like most kids I enjoyed games as well. I then went on to teach myself selling / marketing skills. By the time I graduated, I knew I wanted to study marketing. From that point on, everything fell into place. My life revolved around studying management fundas. During my first year, I decided to make my career in public relations / media / branding / marketing management and that is why I had an internship last summer at . I now want to work for a major player so I can be at the forefront of breaking trends.

Then, ALWAYS follow-up with a second and possibly, third question, to draw out his needs even more. Surprisingly, it's usually this second or third question that reveals what the interviewer is most looking for. You might ask simply, "And in addition to that Sir, I know this will theat do?" or, "Is there anything else you see as essential to success in this position, like? (Here you can tell them your domain knowledge related to the position) This process is not easy at first try, because it is easier simply to answer questions, but only if you uncover the employer's wants and needs will your answers make the most sense.

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After uncovering what the employer is looking for, be sure to illustrate with specific examples of your responsibilities and especially your achievements, all of which are geared to present yourself as a perfect match for the needs he has just described.

Question 2

What are your strengths?

Be prepared; dont come across as to be an arrogant of egoistic personality. This question seems like winning a medal, neither is this a time to show off. ANSWER: From Question 1, you know the wants and needs of your interviewer and you know how to do this, your key strategy is to first uncover your interviewer's greatest wants and needs before you answer questions. You should have a list of your greatest strengths. You should also have, a specific example or two, which illustrates your strengths, an example chosen from your most recent and most impressive achievements. You should, have this list of your greatest strengths and corresponding examples from your achievements so well committed to memory that you can recite them anytime. Then, once you uncover your interviewer's greatest wants and needs, you can choose those achievements from your list that best match up. As a general guideline, the 10 most desirable traits that all employers love to see in their employees are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Honesty...integrity...a decent human being. Likeability...positive attitude...sense of humor. Good communication skills. Dedication...willingness to walk the extra mile to achieve excellence. Definiteness of purpose...clear goals. Enthusiasm...high level of motivation. Confident...healthy...a leader. A proven track record as an achiever...especially if your achievements match up with the requirements. Intelligence...management "savvy". Good fit with corporate culture...someone to feel comfortable with...a team player who meshes well with interviewer's team.

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Question 3

What are your weaknesses? Where do you see some improvement in yourself?

Mind well - this can be an eliminator, designed to shorten the candidate list. Any of your weakness or fault will give you a failure for the interview. ANSWER: Disguise strength as a weakness. Example: I sometimes push my people too hard. I like to work with a sense of urgency and everyone is not always on the same wavelength. This strategy is better than admitting a flaw, but it's so widely used; it is transparent to any experienced interviewer. You can tell any of your weakness not connected with your working style, assure the interviewer that you can think of nothing that would stand in the way of your performing in this position with excellence. Then, quickly review you strongest qualifications and put it in front of your interviewer. Nobody's perfect, but based on what you've been told about the position make an outstanding match. Everything in your background shows you have both the qualifications and a strong desire to achieve excellence in whatever you take on. So I can say in all honesty that I see nothing that would cause you even a small concern about your abilities or strong desire to perform this job with excellence. if you don't yet know enough about the position to talk about such a perfect fit Instead of confessing a weakness, describe what you like most and like least, making sure that what you like most matches up with the most important qualification for success in the position, and what you like least is not essential.

Question 4

Tell me about something you did wrong in past and now feel ashamed of What is your biggest failure?

Some interviewers ask this question on the chance you admit to something, but if not, at least theyll see how you think on your feet. Some unprepared candidates, flustered by this question, unburden themselves of guilt from their personal life or career, perhaps expressing regrets regarding a parent, spouse, child, etc. All such answers can be disastrous. ANSWER: This is the indirect way to know about your weakness so never confess regret, as with faults and weaknesses. But dont seem as if youre king of this world either.

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Say you have no regrets, then add a principle or habit you practice regularly for healthy human relations. About your daily routine life Pause for reflection, as if the question is never been asked to you before. Then say, You know, I really cant think of anything. I normally practice one habit that helps me a great deal in this regard. At the end of each day, I mentally review the days events and conversations to take a second look at the people and developments Im involved with and do check them. Sometimes I see things that do need more follow-up ...or whatever I also like to make each person feel like a member of my team. Ive found that if you let each team member know you expect great performancesif you work hard to set an example yand if you let people know you appreciate and respect their feelings, you wind up with a highly motivated group, a team thats having fun at work because they strive to achieve their goals rather than confessing regrets on their past.

Question 5

Looking silently with no reaction

If you are unprepared for this silent question, you will probably not handle it right and possibly blow the interview. Thank goodness most interviewers dont do this. Its normally used by those determined to see how you respond under stress. You answer a question and then, instead of asking another, suddenly he just stares at you with silence. You wait, becoming bit uneasy, and there he sits, silent as if he doesnt believe what youve just said, or perhaps making you feel that youve done a big mess up or you dont know about interview etiquettes. When you get this silent treatment after answering a particularly difficult question, most unprepared candidates rush in to filling the void of silence, viewing uncomfortable silences as an invitation to clear the previous answer might has caused some problem. And thats what they do expecting more and more information, sometimes irrelevant and often damaging, because they suddenly start playing with your words. But since the candidate doesnt know anything, he just keeps talking, showing how confused he is by the interviewers unmovable silence. ANSWER: The silent treatment is to afraid you and doubting your confident answer. If your interviewer pulls it, keep quiet yourself for a while and then ask, with politeness, Is there anything else I can fill in on that point? Whatever you do, dont let the silence take you over into blue, because you could easily talk yourself out of the position when you know about the requirements of your interviewer.

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Question 6

Why should I hire you?

This can be a killer question, if you stammer the means youve blown it. ANSWER: By now you can see how critical it is to apply the overall strategy of uncovering the employers needs before you answer questions. If you know the employers greatest needs and desires, you will not have to do leg work to answer this question, it will give you a big leg over other candidates because you will give him better reasons for hiring you than anyone else is likely toreasons tied directly to his needs. These should be consistent with the four things most employers are looking for in candidates during the job interview: competence, professionalism, enthusiasm, and likability. Remember, they are looking for chemistry between you and them. Whether your interviewer asks you this question or not, you will have to tell them indirectly. This is the most important question of your interview because he must answer this question favorably in is own mind before you will be hired. So help him out! Walk through each of the positions requirements as you understand them, and follow each with a reason why you meet that requirement so well. Example: As I understand your needs, you are looking for someone who can manage the sales and marketing. You need someone with a strong background in sales and marketing. a) If you are a fresher: I have attended seminars, got training in .. Area during of my studies, Ive worked for 2 months in .. Company for doing project. I believe that I know the right methods, principles, and successful management techniques to get the best out of it b) If you have relevant experience: I have build my career in this area from almost years. I am handling this department from duration, My track record has been fabulous throughout, The sale has never gone down, It is appreciated by the senior management, I know the market segments and have worked on different strategies, I know almost all the people in our industry, etc. You also need someone who can expand your distribution channels. In my prior post, my innovative promotional ideas we achieved double. Im confident I can do the same for you. I believe I have exactly the experience you need. In the last years, Ive increased our order from Rs.to Rs (if you know the profit), and now were the countrys second leading marketer, etc., etc., It is your best opportunity to sell more than your competition.

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Question 7

I am sorry but I think you are overqualified for this position

The employer may be concerned that youll dissatisfy / disappoint and leave. ANSWER: Dont object this; dont view this as youre defeated. Its time for a new way to think about this situation, seeing advantages instead of drawbacks. Example: Like any marketplace, its subject to demand and supply. So overqualified can be a relative term, depending on how tight the job market is. And right now, its very tough competition. (tell them something about the market scenario) I understand your concern and accept that. I also believe that there could be very positive benefits for both of us in .. (tell them your strengths) Because of my unusually strong experience / knowledge in ., I could start to contribute right away, perhaps much faster than someone whod have to be brought along more slowly. Theres also the value of all the training / years of experience. Youd be getting all the value of that without having to pay an extra for it. With someone who has yet to acquire that experience, hed have to gain. I could also help you in many things for example (Admin, liasoning, how to hire, train, motivate, etc.) When it comes to knowing how to work well with people and getting the most out of the things done, you company would gain all this, too. From my side, there are strong benefits, as well. Right now, I am unemployed. I want to work, very much, and the position you have here is exactly what I love to do and is best at. Ill be happy doing this work and thats what matters most to me, a lot more that money or title. Most important, Im looking to make a long term commitment in my career now. Ive had enough of job-hunting and want a permanent spot at this point in my career. I also know that if I perform this job with excellence, other opportunities cannot help but open up for me right here. In time, Ill find many other ways to help this company and in so doing, help myself. I really am looking to make a long-term commitment.

Please note that the main concern behind the overqualified question is that you will leave your new employer as soon as something better comes your way. Anything you can say to demonstrate the sincerity of your commitment to the employer and reassuring him that youre looking to stay for the long-term.

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Question 8

Where do you see yourself after five years?

The reason interviewers ask this question is to see if youre settling for this position, using it as a stopover until something better comes along or they could be trying to judge your level of ambition. If youre too specific, i.e., naming the promotions you someday hope to win, youll sound arrogant. If youre too vague, youll seem aimless. ANSWER: Reassure the interviewer that youre looking to make a long-term commitmentthat this position entails exactly what youre looking to do and what you do extremely well. As for your future, you believe that if you perform your job with hard work and full of dedication, future opportunities will take care of themselves. Example: I am definitely interested in making a long-term commitment to my next position. Judging by what youve told me about this position, its exactly what Im looking for and what I am very well qualified to do. In terms of my future career path, Im confident that if I do my work best, opportunities will open up for me. Its always been that way in my career, and Im confident Ill have similar opportunities here also. "In five years I hope to be working with an employer in an increasingly responsible position that enables me to utilize my talents and work closely with my colleagues in solving important problems. I see myself taking on new and exciting challenges in an enjoyable environment and hopefully this will be with your company."

Question 9

What is your dream job?

This is often asked by an interviewer who thinks you may be overqualified, by posing his objection directly. So hell use this question instead, which often gets a candidate to reveal that, indeed, he or she is looking for something other than the position at hand. ANSWER: The only right answer is to describe what this company is offering, being sure to make your answer believable with specific reasons and sincerity. Remember that if youre coming from a company thats the leader in its field or from a glamorous or much admired company, industry, city, position or college your interviewer and his company may well have an a Complex object. This anxiety could be there even though youve done nothing to inspire it. You must go out of your way to relieve such anxiety, even if its not expressed, by putting their virtues what youre looking for, providing credible reason for wanting these qualities. If you dont express genuine enthusiasm for the firm, its culture, location, industry, etc., you may fail to answer this Complex objection and, as a result, leave the interviewer suspecting that a hot shot like you, coming from a moon, just wouldnt be happy at an unknown manufacturer based on earth. So always match the requirements with your expectations.
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Question 10 Why do you want to work in our company?

This question is to check whether youve done any homework about their company. If you havent, you lose. If you have, you win. ANSWER: This question is your opportunity to hit the ball out of the ground, thanks to the study and research you should do before any interview about that company. Best sources for researching your target company: annual reports, the corporate newsletter, your faculties / placement officer advertisements, articles about the company in press, etc

Now, you can answer the question, tell the interviewer about his companys strengths and shut his mouth.

Question 11 What are your career objectives?

The interviewer is trying to find out the level of your desperation ANSWER: Prepare for this question by thinking of how you can position yourself? Describe them why youre looking for something more (challenge, responsibility, etc.) You can talk about your employment possibilities youre actually exploring. But do this with a light touch, speaking only in general terms. You dont want to seem manipulative or copy cat. Talk about what you enjoy, skills that are natural to you, realistic problems or opportunities you'd expect in this particular job or industry, and what you hope to learn from those experiences. Avoid mentioning specific time frames or job titles. Example: I'd like to stay in a marketing area no matter what happens. I am keen to build my career in marketing / branding / financial services / banking sector and I believe that this is somehow in my blood. I've been good at sales and I look forward to do the same in future.

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Question 12 How is your college / Institute? How about your Director / Faculties? Do they teach well? How was the placement last year? How about your placement manager?
Interviewer sometimes makes it almost irresistible to open up. DONT ANSWER: Remember: Be positive, never be negative. Focus on good points, no matter how charmingly youre invited to be critical. Your interviewer has no business with any of these points and he is not going to solve any of your problems either. He wants to find out how loyal and positive you are, whether you like something in institute or not, dont criticize them if youre pressed hard to do so. This question is your opportunity to demonstrate your loyalty to those you work with. You should share your best moments with your faculties / classmates / your project experience / time with your seniors.

Question 13

Which kind of books have you read?

As in all matters of your interview, never fake familiarity you dont have. Yet you dont want to seem like a duffer who hasnt read a book since 90s. ANSWER: Unless youre up for a position in academia or as book critic, youre not expected to be a library lion. But it wouldnt hurt to have read a handful of the most recent and influential books in your profession and on management. Consider it part of the work of your job search to read up on a few of these leading books. But make sure they are quality books that reflect favorably upon you, nothing that could even remotely be considered superficial. Finally, add a recently published bestselling work of fiction by a world-class author and youll pass this question with flying colors.

Question 14 Would you lie for the company?

This another question that pits two values against one another, in this case loyalty against integrity. Try to avoid choosing between two values, giving a positive statement which covers all bases instead. Example: I would never do anything to hurt the company... If aggressively pressed to choose between two competing values, always choose personal integrity. It is the most prized of all values.

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Question 15 Can you work under pressure?

An easy question, but you will to make your answer believable. ANSWER: Absolutely (And prove it with examples; say that you accomplished some assignments/projects under severe pressure.)

Question 16 What makes you angry / uncomfortable? What you dont like?
ANSWER: Give an answer thats suited to both your personality and the management style of the firm. Here, the homework youve done about the company and its style can help in your choice of words. Examples: If you are a reserved person and/or the corporate culture is coolly professional: Im an even-tempered and positive person by nature, and I believe this helps me a great deal in keeping my department running smoothly, harmoniously and with a great spirit. I believe in communicating clearly whats expected, getting peoples commitment to those goals, and then following up continuously to check progress. If anyone or anything is going off track, I want to know about it early. If, after that kind of open communication and follow up, someone isnt getting the job done, Ill want to know why. If theres no good reason, then Ill get impatient and angryand take appropriate steps from there. But if we have good and motivated people to strive for excellence and then follow up constantly, it almost never gets to that situation. If you are aggressive by nature and / or the question on working life / working style You know what makes me angry? People who (the fill in the blanks with the most objectionable traits for this position)people who dont pull their weight, who are negative, people who lieetc.

Question 17 What if we cant offer you more money at this stage?

This is a negotiation stage; activate your entire antenna. Dont give them the impression that only money is important to you or may not be important for you. Yet you want to explain why your salary may be a little below industry standards, dont give them a signal to feel that youll work anything for money.

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ANSWER: You like to make money, but other factors are even more important. If it is differing a lot than what you have been told, then you need to understand that the interviewer is testing you offering you a silly amount. In this case tell them straightly that you expect at least (give them a range e.g. if you have been told that the offer is of 2 Lakhs per annum then give them a range between Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 18,000) Example: Making money is also important to me, one reason Im here is because Im looking to build my career which makes me grow both - as a professional and as an individual. Throughout my life, whats been even more important to me is doing my work dedicatedly I am assigned for, to do at the kind of company like yours would be honour. At this stage, I would at least expect that I should get (Now be prepared to be specific about what remuneration would you like to get, matching them as closely as possible to the company can offer)

Question 18

Who has inspired you in your life and why?

BEWARE: Signals here are of unpreparedness and irrelevance. If you take time to answer, it seems youve never been inspired. If you tell them about your high school teacher, then youve wasted an opportunity to present qualities of your great value to the position, to the company or may be an industry. ANSWER: Have few people in mind - Leaders in the industry, from history or anyone else who has been your mentor. You can take an example of some one from your family as well. Be prepared to give examples of how their words, actions or teachings have helped inspire your achievements. As always, prepare an answer which highlights qualities that would be highly valuable in the position you are seeking.

Question 19 What changes would you make if you come on board?

Watch out! This question can derail your candidacy faster than a bomb on the tracks and just as you are about to be hired. Reason: No matter how bright you are, you cannot know the right actions to take in a position before you settle in and get to know the operations strengths, weaknesses key people, financial condition, methods of operations, etc. If you spring at this temptingly baited question, you will probably be seen as someone who shoots trendy. Moreover, no matter how comfortable you may feel with your interviewer, you are still an outsider. No one, including your interviewer, likes to think that an outsider is going to come in, turns the place upside down and across-the-board.

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ANSWER: You, of course, will want to take a good hard look at everything the company is doing before making any recommendations. Example: Well, I wouldnt be a very good if I diagnose anything before knowing more about it. As I hope you will hire me, Id want to take a look at everything youre doing and understand why its being done that way. Id like to have in-depth training to get a deeper grasp of what you feel youre doing right and what could be improved. From what youve told me so far, the areas of greatest concern to me are (Tell them that initially youre concerned for your performance, your team, your target. Then reaffirm how your experience in meeting similar needs elsewhere might prove very helpful) But be careful before commenting anything about the company.

Question 20 How can we take you? You dont have much experience as were looking for
The interviewer mostly likes the candidate, but generally doubts taking you. This could be a make-or-break question. ANSWER: Here the concern is not that you are not experienced, but rather that your knowledge or experience is light in one area. Before going into any interview, try to identify the weakest aspects of your candidature from this companys point of view. Then prepare the ANSWER you possibly can to shore up your defenses. To pass this question with flying colors, you are going to rely on your master strategy of uncovering the employers requirements and then matching them with your strengths. Since you already know how to do this from Question 1, you are in a much stronger position. More specifically, when the interviewer asks for it, you should 1. 2. Explain that your strength may be indeed being greater than your resume indicates because (highlight your strengths again) When this strength is added to your other strengths, its really your combination of qualifications thats most important.

Then review the areas of your greatest strengths that match up most favorably with the companys most urgently requirements. First, youre giving your interviewer more possibilities in the area of his concern. But more importantly, youre shifting his focus away from this one, isolated area and putting it on the unique combination of strengths you offer, strengths which tie in perfectly with his requirements and showing him how passionately you can do it.

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Question 21 Are you willing to relocate or travel?

Answer with a flat NO and you may shut the door for this opportunity. Before saying NO, study the terms and conditions for relocating. First find out where you may have to relocate and how much travel may be involved. Then respond to the question. If theres no problem, say so enthusiastically. If you do have a reservation, there are thoughts on how to handle it. One advises you to keep your options open and your worries to yourself in the easy going, by saying, no problem. Your strategy here is to get the best offer you can, then make a judgment whether its worth it to you to relocate or travel. Why to kill the opportunity before it has chance to flourish into something really special? If youre a little desperate, share your concerns. Possibly they may agree to that, but remember that your concerns should be genuine. You might wish but you accepting the change that would knock on the door because youre relocating or traveling. The second way to handle this question is to voice a hesitation, but emphasize that youd be open to relocating (or traveling) for the right opportunity. Doing so is risky; you may have to lose the opportunity. The answering strategy you may choose depends on how eager you are for the job. If you want to take no chances, choose the first approach. If you want to play a little harder-to-get in hopes of generating a more tempting offer, choose the second. Try to convince them explaining your comfort with the location you wish to work for and tell them that you can perform better at this place, but you have no issue to relocate at some point of time. "I'd prefer to be based here, but it's certainly a possibility I'd be willing to consider." At last, When you feel that relocating to a place is not worthy, its NO, tell them clearly that you would prefer working at place more comfortably and give a choice to the interviewer to decide whether to take you for a specific location or to take your competitor, who might have agreed on relocating.

Question 22 Tell me something about your creativity (analytical skillmanaging ability, etc.)
Your hesitation may seem as if youre having a hard time remembering the last time you were creative, analytical, etc. ANSWER: Remember from Question 2 that you should commit to memory a list of your greatest and most recent achievements, ever ready on the tip of your tongue.

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If you have such a list, its easy to present any of your achievements in light of the quality the interviewer is asking about. For example, you got right analysis for your companys product launch, something you contributed or coordinated during your studies or internship could be used as an example of creativity, or analytical ability, or your ability to manage.

Question 23 What makes you to worry about? What do you fear of?
Admit to worrying and you could sound like a loser. Saying you never worry sounds like Suzuki Samurai. ANSWER: Redefine the word worry / fear so that it does not reflect negatively on you. Example: I wouldnt call it worry or fear, but I am a strongly goal-oriented person. So I keep turning over in my mind anything that seems to be keeping me from achieving those goals, until I find a solution. Thats part of my firmness, I suppose.

Question 24 What was the toughest challenge youve ever faced? What are your greatest achievements to date?
Giving an example from so early in your life that doesnt score many points for you at this stage of your career. If you have any achievements convert it to your challenge, then tell them politely, dont jump on the floor. If you are not definite, try to relate achievements you describe is relevant to the job you're interviewing for. Also, be careful that your answer doesn't sound as if the best is behind you. Mention something great that you've achieved, but clearly communicate your belief that the best is yet to come. ANSWER: I'm proud that I graduated with highest CGPA we have a batch of 60 students and getting highest was very tough or I won trophy in national level competitions in , there were all trained and experienced candidates, (present something like this). I believe the reason I got through it all was my dedication and passion; I never even let myself visualize anything but finishing it with all my efforts and do things on time. So I firmly believe, as a professional, in the importance of a positive outlook." This is an easy question if youre prepared. Have a recent example ready that demonstrates either: 1. Explain any instance on a quality most important to the job at hand; or 2. An example on a quality that is always in demand, such as leadership, initiative, managerial skill, persuasiveness, courage, persistence, intelligence, integrity, etc.

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Question 25 You have such a strong family background, why dont you start a business? Have you ever considered starting your own business?
If you say yes and elaborate enthusiastically, you could be perceived as loose balloon in a larger company, Also too much enthusiasm in answering yes could provoke the fear of a small company indicating that you may plan to go out on your own soon, perhaps taking some key accounts or trade secrets with you. On the other hand, if you answer no, never you could be perceived as a securityminded drone who never dreamed a big dream. ANSWER: Again its best to: 1. Judge this companys corporate culture before answering and 2. Be honest (which doesnt mean you have to vividly share your future plans). In general, if the corporate culture is that of a large, formal, military-style structure, minimize any indication that youd love to have your own business. You might say, Oh, I may have given it a thought once or twice, but I wish to build my career in large organizations like yours. Thats where I have excelled and where I want to be. If the corporate culture is closer to the free-wheeling, everybodys-a-deal-maker variety, then emphasize that in a firm like this, you can virtually get the best of all worlds, the excitement of seeing your own ideas and plans take shape combined with the resources and stability of a well-established organization. Sounds like the perfect environment to you. In any case, no matter what the corporate culture, be sure to indicate that any desires about running your own show are part of your past, not your present or future. Always remember: Match what you want with what the position offers. The more information youve uncovered about the position, the more believable you can make your case.

Question 26 What are your goals?

ANSWER: Many executives in a position to hire you are strong believers in setting GOAL. (Its one of the reasons theyve achieved so much). They like to hire in kind. If youre vague about your career and personal goals, it could be a big turnoff. Be ready to discuss your goals for each major area of your life: career, personal development and learning, family, and (if your interviewer is clearly a religious person) you could briefly and generally allude to your spiritual goals (showing you are a well-rounded individual with your values in the right order).
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Be prepared to describe each goal in terms of specific milestones you wish to accomplish along the way, time periods youre allotting for accomplishment, why the goal is important to you, and any specific steps youre taking for that. But do these concisely, as you never want to talk more than two minutes straight before letting your interviewer back into the conversation.

Question 27 What do you judge when you hire people?

ANSWER: Speak your own thoughts here, but for the ANSWER weave them around the three most important qualifications for any position. 1. Can the person do the work (qualifications)? 2. Will the person do the work (motivation)? 3. Will the person fit in (team player)?

Question 28 Sell me this stapler (Pencilclockor some other object on interviewers desk).
Some interviewers in marketing-driven companies ask for an instant demonstration of your skill. Always be ready for that. ANSWER: Of course, you already know the most important secret of all great salesmanship find out what people want, then show them how to get it. If your interviewer picks up his stapler and asks, sell this to me, you are going to demonstrate this proven master principle. Heres how: Well, a good salesman must know both his product and his prospect before he sells anything. If I were selling this, Id first get to know everything I could about it, all its features and benefits. Then, if my goal were to sell it you, I would do some research on how you might use a fine stapler like this. The best way to do that is by asking some questions. May I ask you a few questions? Then ask a few questions such as, do you already have a stapler like this? Why would you want one, any specific reason? Then according to his reply, explain him the features and the benefits of the object as much as you can... saying - would you want such a stapler to be reliable...Hold a good supply of staples? (Ask more questions that point to the features this stapler has.) Once youve asked these questions, make your presentation citing all the features and benefits of this stapler and why its exactly what the interviewer just told you hes looking for. Close with, what would you consider a reasonable price for a quality stapler like thisa stapler you could have right now and would (then repeat all the problems the stapler would solve for him)? Whatever he says, (unless its zero), say, Okay, weve got a deal.
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NOTE: If your interviewer tests you by fighting every step of the way, denying that he even wants such an item, dont fight him. Take the product away from him by saying, Mr. Prospect, Im delighted youve told me right upfront that theres no way youd ever want this stapler. As you well know, the first rule of my company is to meet the requirements of clients who really need and want such products, and it just wastes everyones time if we try to force it on those who dont. And I certainly wouldnt want to waste your time. But we sell many items. Is there any product on this desk you would very much like to ownjust one item? When he points something out, repeat the process above. If he knows anything about selling, he may give you a standing ovation.

Question 29 What Salary are you expecting? How much money do you want?
This is your most important negotiation. Handle it wrong and ruin the offer or go to work at far less than you might have gotten. ANSWER: For maximum salary negotiating power, remember these guidelines: Make the interviewer want you first, and your bargaining position will be much stronger. If your interviewer raises the salary question too early, or you feel that he is trying to ignore you or making you uncomfortable before youve had a chance to create desire for your qualifications, postpone the question, saying something like, Money is important to me, but is not my main concern. Opportunity and growth are far more important. What wed rather do, if you dont mind, can we talk about money little later. Would that be okay? then wait for his reaction. Basic rule of any negotiation is: the side with more information wins. Once you have done enough to convince him, its time to talk salary. The secret is to get the interviewer talking about what hes willing to pay before you reveal what youre willing to accept. So, when asked about salary, respond by asking, Im sure the company has already established a salary range for this position. Could you tell me what that is? I trust youll be fair with me. Or more simply, What does this position pay? You might have got an idea from your placement office about the package. So decide in advance what youd accept. If youre grossly underpaid, you want more. Tell them fairly about your expected salary but feel free to include the estimated cost of all your bounds. Remember: If youre forced to tell them your salary expectation, always give them a range of per month remuneration e.g. 15,000 to 18,000 per month.

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Question 30 How do you define successand how do you measure up to your own definition?
Seems like an obvious enough question. Yet many people fumble the ball. ANSWER: Give a well-accepted definition of success that leads right into your own stellar collection of achievements. Example: The best definition Ive come across is that success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal. As to how I would measure up to that definition, I would consider myself both successful and fortunate (Then summarize your career goals and how your achievements have indeed represented a progressive path toward realization of your goals.)

Question 31 If you win a lottery, would you still work?

Your totally honest response might be, Hell, no way? That might be so, but any answer which shows you as runaway if given the chance could make you seem lazy. On the other hand, if you answer, Oh, Id want to keep doing exactly what I am doing, only doing it for your firm, you could easily inspire your interviewer to silently murmur to himself: Yeah, sure. How sweet of you!! ANSWER: This type of question is aimed at getting at your bedrock attitude about work and how you feel about what you do. Your ANSWER will focus on your positive feelings. Example: After I floated down from cloud nine, I think I would still hold my basic belief that achievement and purposeful work are essential to a happy, productive life. After all, if money alone bought happiness, then all rich people would be all happy, and thats not true. I love the work I do, and I think Id always want to be involved in my career in some fashion. Winning the lottery would make it more fun because it would mean having more flexibility, more options...who knows? Of course, since I cant count on winning, Id just as soon create my own destiny by sticking with whats worked for me, meaning good old reliable hard work and a desire to achieve. I think those qualities have built many more fortunes that all the lotteries put together.

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Question 32 Why should I hire you from the outside when I could promote someone from within?
This represents the interviewers own dilemma over this common problem. Hes probably leaning towards you already and for reassurance, wants to hear what you have to say on the matter. ANSWER: Help him see the qualifications that only you can offer. Example: In general, I think its a good policy to hire from within to look outside probably means youre not completely comfortable choosing someone from inside. Naturally, you want this department to be as strong as it possibly can be, so you want the strongest candidate. I feel that I can fill that because (Then recap your match that matches up with his great needs).

Question 33 Tell me something negative youve heard about our company

This is very fishy question to see what the gossip. But its also a trap because as an outsider, you never want to be the carrier of fault-finding or gossip about the firm. It can only hurt your chances to get selected. ANSWER: Just remember never be negative, if you have studied the website, annual reports and other news letters about the company in prior then I am sure you know the answer. You may say: I havent come across anything negative about our company, but have heard that we have recently acquire this business, which is really nice, or our profit has increased from 20% to 70%, I am really happy knowing that. In this case, you are diverting your conversation to make your interviewer feel that you know many things about his company and you have prepared yourself well for the interview.

Question 34 How you rate me as an interviewer?

Give a perfect 10, and youll seem too easy to please. Give anything less than a perfect 10, he could press you and that road leads downhill for you. ANSWER: Once again, never be negative. The interviewer will only resent criticism coming from you. This is the time to show your positivism. However, dont give a numerical rating. Simply praise whatever interview style hes been using. If hes been tough, say You have been thorough and tough-minded, the very qualities needed to conduct a good interview.
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If hes been methodical, say, You have been very methodical and analytical, and Im sure that approach results in excellent hires for your firm. In other words, pay him a sincere compliment that he can believe because its anchored in the behavior youve just seen.

Question 35 Why you have so less marks / grades / percentage?

The recruiter is probably trying to judge here how well the candidate handles adversity. It's important not to get defensive or to place blame. Instead, try to put a positive spin on the question-for example, by concentrating on what you learned and the extra effort you put in, rather than on the grades you received. "School was a wonderful experience for me. I really enjoyed learning new ideas, I studied consistently, and I was attentive in class. I really believe that I have studied as much as many students who went for the grades."

Question 36 How do you spend your free time?

This question may have several purposes. The interviewer may be just curious about your personal life without getting into illegal questions. He may also want to know how well rounded you are in your personal and professional assignments. Focus on some of the standard hobbies or activities that most people engage in reading, music or cooking. If you are operating a home-based business as a sideline, dont reveal your entrepreneurial spirit-it may indicate you are planning to leave and go solo as soon as the business starts doing well. The interviewer wants evidence that you're well rounded, not just one-dimensional. He is looking for shared interests or common ground. You may, in some way, relate your answer to the job description. "I really enjoy getting outside-I often go camping and rock climbing, family picnics. I've learned about different fabrics that are good for various weather conditions I'm so interested in your textile operations."

Good luck in your job!

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