Malaysia Job Portal » Interview Tips

Simple Interview Preparation

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 10:06:35 +0000

Candidates tend to go for the hard parts of interview which make them forget to prepare for the basic and a must thing in interview. As such, they will easily get panic. In order for you to be fully prepared for an interview, make sure you are well prepared with this basic interview tips before going further:

1) Be on TIME! – This is a must thing when facing an interview. It will determine the whole interview process, including your preparation towards is. Make it a habit to come earlier than scheduled interview. Also, it never hurt to actually try to rehearse the time needed to reach the interview venue (Don’t forget to include misc time such as traffic jams)

2) Be PREPARED! – This doesn’t mean that you will only prepare for the interview, hence, look up some information about the company involved, and with the technology today, you can easily achieved it thru internet. At least, during the interview you may touch some of the key points of the company, which demonstrate that you are interested with the company.

3) First IMPRESSION! – Be as tidy as possible. Your attire, facial, accessories are all important to give the first impression. Also, do remember to greet with proper manner, which show the humble side of you. Do not pretend!

4) REHEARSE some questions which you predicted the interview may ask – It doesnt hurt if you prepare more than you should about the possible question that an interviewer may ask. In fact, this will prepare you with more confidence level and strong arguement.

5) Your WEAKNESS & Be HONEST – Often, candidates will try to hide their weakness. Don’t do that. An interviewer is normally an experience person and can easily detect if you are hiding your weakness and try to lie. Don’t worry, nobody is perfect. Just admit your weakness, but do remember to highlight how you best handle it. That is what the interviewer will look at.

6) Share your STRENGTH – Interviewer loves to hear your achievement, how you encouter problems & solve it with a terrific result. But do remember not to over-telling them.

7) Know your CV – Make sure you are aware with what you have written in your CV. Do not simply submit your CV without knowing the content or else you will have trouble to explain it during the interview.

Keep your talking in average mode – DO NOT talk to much. Give a short yet brilliant answer. Do remember that interview is a two way of communication.

9) Extra Copy of CV and photo – Just bring a long an extra copy of your CV and photo. This show that you are a well-planned person & ready for any circumstances.

10) Be positive & never Give up – Sometimes (in fact many times) interviewer will use a stress interview where they will create an uneasiness for you and see how you handle with it. Don’t give, think carefully and give a positive respond towards it.

That’s all for some of the tips that you may find easy, but trust me, can easily to be forgot. Make sure you are well well prepared with it, and lastly, be yourself and good luck with your interview.

The Interview Lunch – What to say, ask and eat

admin — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 10:08:13 +0000

Winning your interview would definitely give you a relief. Better, the interviewers invite you for a lunch. Now you are sure you will be promoted or get the job. Wrong! It is actually the second part of interview. If you fail to notice this, your ranking in the list will be downgraded or even worst, you will not get the job.

You will be monitored of your behavior, your talking, the way you eat, or even the way you sit. Be very careful with what you say, DO NOT, at any time, once, talk bad things about your past and present employer.

For our references, here are some guidelines from Robin Ogden about job interviewing tips to help you make it through dessert.

Who pays? The interviewer will pay for the lunch. You don’t need to offer to pitch in or pay.
Confused about your place setting? Here’s a quick rule to remember: drink from the right and eat from the left. In other words, your bread plate and fork are always to the left and your water glass is to your right.
What should you order? Stick with items that are easy to eat (this means stay away from ribs or long twirling pastas). Fork and knife foods are best, not finger food.
No brainer basics: If finger food is served never put your fingers in your mouth or lick food or sauce off of them. Do not speak with your mouth full of food. Eat slowly, listen and use good eye contact. Do not drink alcoholic beverages during an interview. Make sure your napkin goes into your lap shortly after taking your seat. Let the interviewer guide seating. If they motion you to choose the seat then feel free to do so.
Should you order dessert? If the interviewer orders dessert then feel free. Otherwise, I’d hold off.
Should you ask questions? By all means. This is a great time for you to ask some of the questions you selected during your job interview preparation. This will keep the employer talking and help you find out if the company is a good match for you.
What questions should you ask your potential employer? This can be a good time to find out how the interviewer would describe the companies personality and management style. What is the company’s philosophy on promotion from within? Why does the interviewer enjoy working for the company? What are characteristics of successful people at the company?

Please read its original post at: The Interview Lunch

Sharpen Your Job Interview Skills

admin — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:01:15 +0000

Do you know the purpose of attending an interview? Is it to answer questions thrown by the interviewers perfectly & pray that you will get the job? Nick Morgan has different view of the actual purpose of interview & how you ‘build’ during the interview. Basically, he discusses about establishing trust and what contribution you can promise to the company which are more critical that other reasons. If you have mastered both criteria, the probability of getting the job is very high. The article is very useful for both a fresh graduate and experienced employee, attending a job interview.

For better picture of such criterion, you may want to visit its original article at:

Sharpen Your Job Interview Skills

Favorite Questions of Executive Recruiters

admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:32:08 +0000

Preparing yourself for an interview by Executives is not as easy as it looks. The interviewers tend to give questions that requires you to respond spontaneously which, from there they will judge you whether you are qualified enough to be in their organizations. According to Perri Capell, few hints to equip you are:

1. Know what the meeting is for.

2. Understand yourself

3. Think before you answer

4. Consider the underlying intent to the question

5. Realize you do not have to respond

For better explanation and example, please visit:

FAVORITE QUESTIONS OF EXECUTIVE RECRUITERS.

Five Worst-Case Interview Scenarios

admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:49:32 +0000

Have you ever come to an interview, and then knowing that you are not really prepare for it? According to Kate Lorenz, there are 5 worst case interview Scenarios.

1. You are Late – Solution: If you are going to be late, give your interview a call & let them know.

2. You Forgot Your Resume Materials – Solution: ‘Back up’ your resume in thumbdrive, pendrive, email, blog or personal website, so that in case you forgot them, at least you can ask for interviewer’s help to print it again.

3. You Have a Wordrobe Malfunction – Solution: Act normal, and tell them the thruth, they will understand that incident does happened.

4. You Forget the Name of the Person You are Interviewing With – Solution: Play smart, ask for their namecard in advance, giving reason that you might forget to ask them later.

5. The Interviewer is Distracted – Solution: This is not an easy task as they scenario is not controlled by us. Instead of giving up, you may want trying understand the interviewer current emotions, and pull the trigger when you have the chance.

The article writen is interesting to read, as the editor did give some example of real life situation. For better explanation, you may want to visit: FIVE WORST-CASE INTERVIEW SCENARIOS

Preparation for Interview

admin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 05:46:04 +0000

Congratulations! You have been selected for an interview. It is not easy to get such opportunity after all of your hard work of job searching, preparing resume and others. This is the biggest moment of starting a new career. So, make sure everything is in order and do not make a last minute mistake that can cost you the desired position. Well, to help you preparing for an interview, here are some more tips that you might consider to follow:
.
1. Be well prepared.
Make a research on the company & industry they are in. At least, the interviewer may assume that you are really interested and keen to be part of them. Make sure you prepare your resume, all certificates, testimonials which should be organized in proper manner.
.
2. Neatly dressed to impress.
Wear proper attire for the interview. Do not ‘overdressed’ or too simple. You way want to refer to the previous post about Interview Attire – Dress up Profesionally.
.
3. Be there on time.
Being on time does not mean that right on time. Come earlier, at least 15 minutes before the interview. This few minutes is important for your last preparation, reviewing your resume & certificates, calm & comfort yourself and make you focus towards the interview.
.
4. Make eye contact.
When entering the interview door, greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, warm smile and direct eye contact. This is important to show your confidence. Avoiding such small, basic things will only show that you are inexpert, unconfident of yourself and unreliable.
.
5. Show your enthusiasm.
Your enthusiasm will differentiate you from others. It will stand you out from any other candidates. According to a career coach and author of career advice books, Martin Yate, “In a tight candidate race, the most enthusiastic almost always gets the job.” Your enthusiasm for the job will also show that you will be a highly-motivated employee.
.
6. Demonstrate that you are a team player.
Employers normally are seeking candidates who are a well team player. This includes manageable, highly motivated and able to motivate others in the team to work towards the common goal. They do not want someone unmanageable employee. According to Martin Yate, “They want a team worker who can take direction.” So show to them that you are a team player in your previous/current company by giving examples of how you worked together with your colleagues to handle a large project.
.
7. Sell yourself.
It is the last place for you to sell yourself. This is the only opportunity for you to show that you are good enough to be one of them. Prepare a list of ‘hot’ things that you want to convince the interviewer and try to tell them in case you feel that the interview does not go that well.
.
8. Be as honest as possible.
Always remember that the interviewer is not new with such field. The have already experienced it or may have already done their homework about you before you ever step into the room. The purpose of interview is normally to see your confidence level and your honesty. They have already posses your resume and already know whether you are qualified to be hired. It is just the case of your appearance and how you speak that will impress them.
.
9. Act professionally.
Trying to make others hired you, it is best to show that you are in a ‘well mannered’ group. Avoid chewing gum, slouching or steering the discussion too far off work-related themes. Sit up straight and conduct yourself with a professional behavior at all times.
.
10. Ask questions.
An interview is meant to be a discussion field for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the responsibilities of the job and the environment there. Believe it or not, company will hire those who are active and as in case of doubt. They would not want someone who just keep quiet, yet do not know things.
.
11. End your interview with a “thank you.”
When the interview is over, do not forget to give another firm handshake, a “thank you” saying and a sincere smile. Carefully ask them the possible time that they will make their decision and if you should follow-up. After that, you need to do a ‘follow up’ your self. Send an e-mail or note expressing your gratitude to the interviewer for the opportunity to be called for the interview and their time spent. By doing this, automatically they will have a thought that you are really interested in the position and will contact them again soon.
.
Good luck with your interview.

Interview Attire – Dress up Profesionally

admin — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 16:59:08 +0000

Possessing an MBA or PhD and working experience are very important to bring along during an interview. But the initial criterion that HR people or interview will look at is your first impression. The first look will determine the success of your interview. The criterion that I mean is your attire for interview. Even though the attire may differ for different job, here are basic tips of do’s and don’ts that you should practice in your interviewing phase especially for business or corporate purposes.

What you should wear for interview.

A solid color (preferably dark) conservative suit and bring along a portfolio or briefcase.

For Ladies, a matched blouse, modest shoes, not too much jewelry, neat professional hair, tan or light hosiery, thin perfume and makeup and manicured nails.

For Men, a white or fair long sleeve shirt with a conventional tie, dark or black socks with dark or black professional shoes, limited or zero jewelry, well trim, professional hairstyle, well shaved and neatly well cut nail.

What you should NOT wear.

Jeans, shorts, too short skirts, tight pants, low cut blouse that could show your belly, show of under garments (bras, bra straps, boxers, thongs and others), strong perfume and thick make up and do not expose your tattoos.

Whatever you wear, make sure they are suitable with the type of job interview that you are attending.

What to Say & What NOT to Say during an Interview

admin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:21:05 +0000

Interview is an easy process for those who are very good in answering questions. But be very careful with what you will say. Every single word that comes out from your mouth will judge whether you are suitable for the job or not. Not all things should be revealed during your interview. Some things are better to be kept by yourself.

Here are some of the famous questions that an interviewer might ask you during an interview. In addition, few tips of what to say and what not to say during the interview are given.

1. Why do you want to work for us?

Tips: Before attending the interview, you should first get as much info as possible about the company, and one of the sources would be in Website. Give a stunning answer of why actually you are interested with the job.

What to say: Your Company is such a well known company with best practice in Trade area. It is an honor for me to be a part of such success company.

What not to say: I am currently unemployed and very desperate to get a job. No one would employ me.

2. Why are you looking for a new job?

Tips: Try to be in positive side & never say negative things about others. Explain clearly where you are heading to and not where you are trying to be away of.

What to say: My current employer does give me opportunity to grow but I believe with your company current status, a new challenge will be more suitable for me to use all my skills and knowledge to help the business grow even better.

What not to say: My current boss is a jerk and never helps me to grow. The customers also do not give much cooperation to me.

3. Why have you had so many jobs before this?

Tips: Try to give a reasonable reason of why you have move a lot, for example changes in personal goals. In addition, give a solid assurance that you are ready to take a permanent position now which you are currently seeking.

What to say: Before this, I have decided to experiment variety of careers, in order to find the best suitable job that I should be in. Now, I have found what I am looking for and that is why I am here right now.

What not to say: I tend to get bored easily.

4. What are your current strengths?

Tips: Try to give unique strengths that you posses, preferably three to four, together with how they helped you completing your task.

What to say: I have the ability of thinking fast in most of the situation. My prompt action using this strength has helped my current employer in trouble shooting most of the problem that have incurred, even if it is not related to my job scope. I am very happy if I could apply the same to your company if I were to be among of your employee.

What not to say: I am very good in pretending and able to disguise mistakes when dealing with customers. They will always trust me even if lied to them.

5. What is your biggest mistake during your employment?

Tips: Try not to reveal your biggest error or clumsiness. Go for a minor weakness and also explain to them on how you are currently in process of overcome it.

What to say: I sometimes feel intolerance with my colleague’s behavior which I don’t like. But, currently I have been reading books of how to control my patient and how to negotiate with best interest to all parties. I am trying to give more consideration about their behavior and will do a peace discussion with them in times of misunderstanding.

What not to say: Wow, that’s a hard question as I have so many big mistakes. I have missed deadlines, late coming to work, argue with my colleague, do not pay attention to instruction. Out of that, I think the biggest would be laziness. But I feel better when telling it as at least I am being honest.

6. Why should I hire you?

Tips: This is the best opportunity to sell yourself by highlighting your skills and knowledge and relate them with the current position that you are applying for. Promote yourself as hard as possible, but remember not to ‘over promoted’ it.

What to say: When I have learned that you are looking for such position, I said to myself that this job really suitable for my skill, knowledge and experience. Now that I have spoken with you and learn more about the job, I am even more confidence that I am the best candidate for the job and eventually will exceed your company expectations.

What not to say: I need money to pay all my debt because of my gambling habit.

7. What are your short and long terms goals?

Tips: Given such questions, the employers are actually seeking for few reasons. One of them would be to test you whether you are going to be with them for a long time or just using the job for a better jump or market else where. Other, maybe the employer wanted to test you on your ability in planning and future thinking. Your best short term goal should include getting in the right position and long term should be where you want to go in your profession and try to show that you will commit your future with the company.

What to say: For short term, I want to be in a position where I am able to use my knowledge, skills and experience in handling qualitative problem. Being one of the best problem solvers in my current company, I seek for a better method and application which I believe, for a long term I will find it with your company. Moving ahead, with additional proper training and engagement, I believe that I will be among the success problem solver that your company will ever had, using the right combination of my education and experience.

What not to say: With the current situation, it is best for me to get this job and than look for even better job elsewhere.

The tips and examples given are just samples of how you should answer and not to reveal, hence, do suite it with your current situation. Try to be in the best position you could ever be and do not let them control over you with ‘not so quality’ answer or even a wrong answer. The best advise is be confident with your answer and with such tips and examples, don’t be surprise if the next question that comes out from your interviewers is “When can you start?” or even better “Can you start with our company immediately?”

55 most frequently asked interview questions

admin — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 13:51:29 +0000

Dan Johnston from PPR Career shared the following list of frequently asked questions on a job interview, as well as advice on what to be prepared for.
1. Tell me about yourself. Use “Picture Frame Approach”
Answer in about two minutes. Avoid details, don’t ramble. Touch on these four areas:

* How many years, doing what function
* Education – credentials
* Major responsibility and accomplishments
* Personal summary of work style (plus career goals if applicable)

Prepare in advance using this formula:

1. “My name is…”
2. “I’ve worked for X years as a [title]”
3. “Currently, I’m a [title] at [company]”
4. “Before that, I was a [title] at [company]”
5. “I love the challenge of my work, especially the major strengths it allows me to offer, including [A, B, and C]”.
6. Second, help the interviewer by focusing the question with a question of your own: “What about me would be most relevant to you and what this company needs?”

2. Did you bring your resume?
Yes. Be prepared with two or three extra copies. Do not offer them unless you’re asked for one.

3. What do you know about our organization?
Research the target company before the interview. Basic research is the only way to prepare for this question. Do your homework, and you’ll score big on this question. Talk about products, services, history and people, especially any friends that work there. “But I would love to know more, particularly from your point of view. Do we have time to cover that now?

4. What experience do you have?
Pre-interview research and PPR Career will help you here. Try to cite experience relevant to the company’s concerns. Also, try answering this questions with a question: “Are you looking for overall experience or experience in some specific area of special interest to you?” Let the interviewer’s response guide your answer.

5. According to your definition of success, how successful have you been so far?
(Is this person mature and self aware?)
Be prepared to define success, and then respond (consistent record of responsibility)

6. In your current or last position, what were your most significant accomplishments? In your career so far?
Give one or two accomplishment statements

7. Had you thought of leaving your present position before? If yes, what do you think held you there?
Refer to positive aspects of the job, advancement opportunities, and what you learned.

8. Would you describe a few situations in which your work was criticized?
Give only one, and tell how you have corrected or plan to correct your work.

9. If I spoke with your previous boss, what would he or she say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
Be consistent with what you think the boss would say. Position the weakness in a positive way (refer to #12)

10. How would you describe your personality?
Keep your answer short and relevant to the job and the organization’s culture.

11. What are your strong points?
Present three. Relate them to that particular company and job opening.

12. What are your weak points?
Don’t say you have one, but give one that is really a “positive in disguise.” I am sometimes impatient and do to much work myself when we are working against tight deadlines.” Or “I compliment and praise my staff, but feel I can improve.”

13. How did you do in school?
(Is the person motivated? What are his/her values, attitudes? Is there a fit?)
Emphasize your best and favorite subjects. If grades were average, talk about leadership or jobs you took to finance your education. Talk about extra-curricular activities (clubs, sports, volunteer work)

14. In your current or last position, what features did you like most? Least?
Refer to your satisfiers for likes. Be careful with dislikes, give only one (if any) and make it brief. Refuse to answer negatively. Respond that you “like everything about my current position and have acquired and developed a great many skills, but I’m now ready for a new set of challenges and greater responsibilities.”

15. What do you look for in a job?

Flip this one over. Despite the question, the employer isn’t really interested in what you are looking for. He’s interested in what he is looking for. Address his interests, rather than yours. Use words like “contribute,” “enhance,” “improve,” and “team environment.” Fit your answer to their needs Relate your preferences and satisfiers/dissatisfiers to the job opening.

16. How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our firm?
“Not long, because of my experience, transferable skills and ability to learn.”

17. How long would you stay with us?
“As long as I feel that I’m contributing, and that my contribution is recognized. I’m looking to make a long term commitment.”

18. If you have never supervised, how do you feel about assuming those responsibilities?
If you want to supervise, say so, and be enthusiastic.

19. Why do you want to become a supervisor?
“To grow and develop professionally, to help others develop, to build a team and to share what I have learned.”

20. What do you see as the most difficult task in being a supervisor?
“Getting things planned and done through others and dealing with different personalities.” Show how you have done this in the past.

21. You’ve been with your current employer quite a while. Why haven’t you advanced with him?
Let’s assume the interviewer has a point here. That doesn’t mean you have to agree with the negative terms of the question. Answer: “What I like about my present position is that it’s both stable and challenging. But it’s true that I’ve grown about as much as I can in my current position. (This response also turns the issue of salary on its head, transforming it from What more can I get? to What more can I offer?)

22. Why are you leaving your present position?
Never answer with negative reasons, even if they are true. However, some companies have financial problems which may preclude you from staying with them. Frame your answer positively by answering why you want to move to the target company instead of why you left or want to leave your most recent job. For example, instead of answering, “I don’t get enough challenges at [company],” respond, “I am eager to take on more challenges, and I believe I will find them at [hiring company]. ”I’m not unhappy (at my present employer). However, this opportunity seems to be particularly interesting and I am interested in pursuing it further. Never personalize or be negative. Keep it short, give a “group” answer (e.g. our office is closing, the whole organization is being reduced in size). Stick to one response; don’t change answers during the interview. When applicable; best response is: I was not on the market when PPR Career contacted me and explained what you are doing, it peaked my interest.

23. Describe what would be an ideal working environment?
Team work is the key.

24. How would you evaluate your present firm?
Be positive. Refer to the valuable experience you have gained. Don’t mention negatives.

25. Do you prefer working with figures, or with words?
Be aware of what the job requires and position your answer in that context. In many cases it would be both.

26. What kinds of people do you find difficult to work with?
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 complain constantly, and who fail to respond to any efforts to motivate them.” The interviewer is expecting a response focused on personality and personal dislikes. Surprise her by delivering an answer that reflects company values.

27. How would your co-workers describe you?
Refer to your strengths and skills.

28. What do you think of your boss?
If you like him or her, say so and tell why. If you don’t like him or her, find something positive to say.

29. Why do you want to work in a company of this size. Or this type?
Explain how this size or type of company works well for you, using examples from the past if possible.

30. If you had your choice of jobs and companies, where would you go?
Refer to job preferences. Say that this job and this company are very close to what best suits you.

31. Why do you want to work for us?
You feel you can help achieve the companies objectives, especially in the short run. You like what you’ve learned about the company, its policies, goals and management: “I’ve researched the company and people tell me it’s a good place to work.”

32. What was the last book you read? Movie you saw? Sporting event you attended?
Think this through. Your answer should be compatible with accepted norms.

33. What are you doing, or what have you done to reach your career objectives?
Talk about formal courses and training programs.

34. What was wrong with your last company?
Again, choose your words carefully. Don’t be negative. Say that no company is perfect, it had both strengths and weaknesses.

35. What kind of hours are you used to working?
(Does the person match job and criteria?)

“As many hours as it takes to get the job done.”

36. What would you do for us?
Relate past success in accomplishing the objectives which are similar to those of the prospective employer.

37. What has your experience been in supervising people?
Give examples from accomplishments.

38. Are you a good supervisor?
Draw from your successes. Yes, my people like and respect me personally and professionally. They often comment on how much they learn and develop under my supervision.

39. Did you ever fire anyone? If so, what were the reasons and how did you handle it?
If you haven’t, say so, but add that you could do it, if necessary.

40. How have you helped your company?
Refer to accomplishments.

41. What is the most money you ever accounted for? Largest budget responsibility?
Refer to accomplishments. If you haven’t had budget responsibility, say so, but refer to an accomplishment that demonstrates the same skill.

42. What’s the most difficult situation you ever faced on the job?
Remember, you’re talking to a prospective employer, not your best friend. Don’t dredge up a catastrophe that resulted in a personal or corporate failure. Be ready for this question by thinking of a story that has a happy ending – happy for you and your company. Never digress into personal or family difficulties, and don’t talk about problems you’ve had with supervisors or peers. You might discuss a difficult situation with a subordinate, provided that the issues were resolved inventively and to everyone’s satisfaction.

43. Describe some situations in which you have worked under pressure or met deadlines?
Refer to accomplishments. Everyone has had a few of these pressure situations in a career. Behavior-related questions aim at assessing a candidate’s character, attitude, and personality traits by asking for an account of how the candidate handled certain challenging situations. Plan for such questions by making a list of the desirable traits relevant to the needs of the industry or prospective employer and by preparing some job-related stories about your experience that demonstrate a range of those traits and habits of conduct. Before answering the questions, listen carefully and ask any clarifying questions you think necessary. Tell your story and conclude by explaining what you intended your story to illustrate. Finally, ask for feedback: “Does this tell you what you need to know?”

44. How do you handle rejection?
Rejection is part of business. People don’t always buy what you sell. The tick here is to separate rejection of your product from rejection of yourself: “I see rejection as an opportunity. I learn from it. When a customer takes a pass, I ask him what we could do to the product, price or service to make it possible for him to say yes. Don’t get me wrong: You’ve got to makes sales. But rejection is valuable, too. It’s a good teacher.”

45. In your present position, what problems have you identified that had previously been overlooked?
Refer to accomplishments

46. Give an example of your creativity.
Refer to accomplishments.

47. Give examples of your leadership abilities.
Draw examples from accomplishments.

48. What are your career goals?
Talk first about doing the job for which you are applying. Your career goals should mesh with the hiring company goals.

49. What position do you expect to have in two years?
Just say you wish to exceed objectives so well that you will be on a promotable track.

50. What are your objectives?
(How does the person handle stress? What is their confidence level?)
Refer back to question #48 on goals.

51. Why should we hire you?
This may sound suspicious, negative, or just plain harsh. Actually, it’s a call for help. The employer wants you to help him/her hire you. Keep your response brief. Recap any job requirements the interviewer may have mentioned earlier in the interview, then, point by point, match your skills, abilities and qualifications to those items. Relate a past experience which represents success in achieving objectives which may be similar to those of the prospective employer.

52. You may be over-qualified or too experienced for the position we have to offer.
“A strong company needs a strong person.” An employer will get faster return on investment because you have more experience than required.

53. Why haven’t you found a new position before now?
“Finding the right job takes time. I’m not looking for just any job.”

54. If you could start again, what would you do differently?
No need to be self-revealing. “Hindsight is 20/20; everyone would make some changes, but I’ve learned and grown from all my decisions.”

55. How much do you expect if we offer this position to you?
Be careful. If you don’t know the market value, return the question by saying that you would expect a fair salary based on the job responsibilities, your experience and skills and the market value of the job. Express your interest in the job because it fits your career goals – Receptive to a reasonable and competitive offer – don’t talk $’s. It’s always best to put off discussing salary and let PPR Career handle that. ANSWER: I’m open to a competitive offer. I’d prefer to discuss the opportunity and allow my recruiter to handle any salary questions.

I personally agreed that this list was very well written and if you were to attend any interviews make sure you can answer all this questions and perhap an early preparation is needed.

Success at Interview—The Zagorski Way

admin — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 03:48:45 +0000

This could be another good example on how to success in the job interview, this may be not suitable for fresh graduates but you can image what will the panel of interviews will say if you could perform or display similar effort. Anyway, read Zagorski Way

In the April 2000 issue of the Reader’s Digest magazine, Nick Corcodilos, a famous headhunter, recounts how Zagorski, a professional seeking a new job, wowed an interviewer at a big corporation and got the job.

Zagorski went for an interview at AT&T. At the outset, even before Zagorski could settle in his seat, the interviewer told him that he had only 20 minutes to spare. Instead of feeling belittled or nervous, Zagorski got up and walked up to the marker board. He then started writing down the challenges faced by the company. Fifteen minutes later, he wrote down his estimate of what he would add to the bottom line. When he paused to take a look at the interviewer, he found him completely dazed. The next thing he heard was interviewer telling him that there was no need for any further interview. The interviewer called in his team, introduced Zagorski to everybody and they began a working meeting, which lasted for two hours.

Most people go to interviews hoping to be questioned and assessed by an interviewer (s). They go anxious and worried, wondering whether they would get the job. People like Zagorski approach an interview with a completely different mind-set. They go well-prepared to demonstrate how they would fit into an employer’s needs and bring value to their business. They go as a value provider, not as a job seeker.

Would you also like to impress your would-be employer just like Zagorski? If yes, the next time when you get an interview call, do not lose any time and get down to preparing a powerful presentation. Here is a road map:

Know the employer
Go to the company’s website and learn about its products and services. What initiatives this company is taking? Who are their competitors and what challenges are they facing? Read the “news” section to pick up the latest happenings there.

Review the job
Next, zero down to the job that you are pursuing. What are the employer’s expectations in terms of responsibilities, actions and goals? Also note the job requirements – qualifications, experience and skills – that the employer is expecting the right candidate to satisfy.

Review yourself
Look at your resume and review the assets you have: your experience, education, achievements, skills, knowledge and strengths.

Prepare a presentation
Having done the homework, now it is time to prepare a short PowerPoint presentation. The presentation should essentially comprise the following parts:

Part 1: About yourself
Prepare a short introduction to yourself in terms of education, experience and achievements.

Part 2: Employer’s business
This part is about showing your understanding of the company’s business: products, services, markets, competition, etc.

Part 3: Employer’s needs
In this part, list all of the employer’s expectations – responsibilities, actions and goals – you will be expected to meet. Also talk about the challenges you will be facing in the job.

Part 4: How would you deliver
This is the heart of your presentation. Demonstrate how you would tackle the challenges and go on to show how not only you can meet the employer’s expectations but exceed them. To make it credible, share actual examples from your past experience and use quantitative information.

On the whole, keep your presentation limited to 10 slides and 15 minutes long.

Practise
The last and final step is to practise delivering the presentation. The more you practise, the more relaxed, confident and convincing you will be during the interview.

Zagorski would not have been able to make that job-winning presentation if he had not done a thorough preparation. Now, it is your turn to follow his way and enjoy success at the interview.

Copyright © 2006 by Atul Mathur
Atul Mathur is the author of three ebooks: 5 Quick Steps to a New Job, The Best Career Move: Know Yourself and The Secret of Finding the Right Career Direction. He also writes Career Tips, a free monthly newsletter dedicated to career development.
Web site: http://atulmathur.com