Interview Questions and Answers

What would you do differently if you ran the company?

Choose something this company does well and explain how your strengths can improve this aspect.

Why did you leave your last job?

Be positive. Ex. "I am looking for an opportunity to grow more than my previous job offered."

Define the word "failure"

Not reaching an identified goal. Note that it is also important to learn from failures.

After six months on the job, what will be the most annoying thing about you?

Pick something that doesn't keep you from doing your job.

f I remember only one thing about you, what should it be?

Refer to the job requirements and connect one of your strengths to what is needed at this new position.

What are your key skills?

Relate back to the job. What do they need most for this position? Do your research for this before the interview.

.Would you recommend your last place of employment to others? Why or why not?

Whether you liked your last job or not, you need to answer this in a positive manner. Pick one or two reasons that you would recommend someone to your previous employment.

How would you compare your work to that of others in the same job?

Without putting someone else down: 1.) What can you say about your quality of work? 2.) What have previous supervisors said about the quality?

How do you explain the long gaps in your employment history?

You need to briefly convince the interviewer the gap was acceptable: 1.) Taking time off for school 2.) Being with your children 3.) Settling in after a move

Why should we hire you?

Your job here is to covers three things: 1.) That you are both qualified and will deliver great results 2.) That you will fit in with the team and culture 3.) You'd be a better hire than any of the other candidates

What tips can your bring to us from your previous company?

Avoid anything about products or projects. Talk about the experience you've gained working there.

What is the reason you are seeking work now?

Avoid negativity and focus on being honest.

Where does your boss think you are now?

Be honest and to the point. Avoid anything negative!

What are some of the things your supervisor did that you disliked?

Be positive and straightforward. Focus on how you adapted to your manager's style and what you learned.

You don't live in the community where you will be working. How will the commute affect your work?

Commuting takes time and energy from the rest of your life, including your work life. Talk about how you listen to books on CD while on the bus and it helps you to de-stress and focus. Or how the music you listen to helps you to think through problems at work and how to best solve them.

What did you not like about your last position?

Do not insult your last workplace, employees, or boss! Talk about something you've worked to improve and if you couldn't improve explain why not. Be careful!

What do you know about the position for which you are applying?

Do your research. Be sure to know the job description inside and out. Look prepared.

What did you do during your quarantine time?

For this question, you need to be honest and also let the interviewer know that you were being productive in this time.

.Have you ever been fired? Describe the circumstances.

Hopefully you've never been fired. If you have be honest and take accountability for your actions. Explain anything you learned from this experience.

When would you be available?

If you have a job, 2 weeks from the interview would be a good answer. If you do not have a job ask the interviewer when they'll be ready for you and that you can start immediately.

What would you say if I told you that you were giving a poor interview today?

It's not personal, the interviewer wants to see your reaction. Ex. "Well that doesn't sound good for either of us if we are both hoping to find a match in this job. What makes you see my interview as a poor one?"

What two areas of your last position did you like the least?

List things in your last job that you didn't like that are going to show up in the new job in your mind that you can switch to as needed for the interview. Don't dwell though!

Describe the worst boss you ever worked for.

Never use names! Explain the conflict neutrally and finish with what you learned. The interviewer is trying to see how you can be managed.

Do you have kids?

Not an illegal question but leads to bias. Refer back to your work experience and focus on how your previous work qualities can be translated to this job.

How old are you? What year did you graduate highschool?

Not an illegal question, but leads to bias. You do not have to give a specific age but you should follow up with your experience working with a wide age range.

Are you married?

Not exactly illegal but this question may show bias. You can simply say that you have reliable support.

What did you like about your last position?

Talk about something in your previous job that you will do in the next job. If the new position is different than the previous one, try to match some of the qualities or skills.

Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer is looking for your understanding of the company and the position you are applying for. Research the company's values prior to the interview.

Tell me about yourself

They want to learn something about you that isn't on your resume. Try something about how you can think on your feet and communicate. Make an impression that is genuine and not just work-related.

Do you prefer working as a member of a team or would you rather work alone? Why?

This depends on the position. It is highly suggested to research the nature of work and match your answer accordingly.

How long have you been looking for a job? Why are you still looking for a job? Why haven't you found a job yet?

This is more of a conversation starter in this economy than a legitimate interview question. However, you still have to answer it. Have a positive attitude toward your job search -no matter how long it has been. Talk about your commitment to finding a job that you feel you can make a contribution or the job that makes the best use of your skills.

Do you have any physical problems?

This question is illegal to ask and violates the Americans with Disabilities Act. Do not answer. Instead ask if your physical health has something to do with the job requirements. However they are able to ask if you are willing to do a physical before employment.

Do you speak Spanish?

This question shows bias unless your position requires you to be bilingual. Ex. "My multicultural experiences make it easier for me to get along well with a wide variety of people. I am always interested in how others grew up and am a good listener."