Sample job application form

Chapter 1:HOW TO FILL OUT A JOB APPLICATION FORM . When you apply for a job, you are usually required to fill out a job application form. Most employers review your application before they choose to see you. It can also form an important first impression of you. To increase your chances for an interview, follow these guidelines: 1. Read the entire form carefully. Know what is being asked before filling out the form. Answer each item truthfully. Employers may use the application form to judge how well you follow instructions and how careful you may be as an employee. 2. Fill in the blanks completely, accurately, neatly, and to the best of your ability. Print or write clearly so it is easy to read. Answer all questions. Answers should be brief and consistent. Write does not apply where not applicable. Chapter 2: INTERVIEW. Chapter 3:COVER LETTER

Chapter 1:

HOW TO FILL OUT A JOB APPLICATION FORM

When you apply for a job, you are usually required to fill out a job application form Most employers review your application before they choose to see you It can also form an important first impression of you To increase your chances for an interview, follow these guidelines:

1 Read the entire form carefully Know what is being asked before filling out the form Answer each item truthfully Employers may use the application form to judge how well you follow instructions and how careful you may be as an employee

2 Fill in the blanks completely, accurately, neatly, and to the best of your ability Print or write clearly so it is easy to read Answer all questions Answers should be brief and consistent Write

"does not apply" where not applicable Check your answers for correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, completeness, and accuracy

3 Type the form if possible

4 Describe all of your skills and abilities

5 Know the deadline for applying and where to deliver your application

6 Be prepared to answer the following basic parts of an application form:

PERSONAL INFORMATION: List name, mailing address, phone number, and social security

number If you do not have a phone number, have a number where messages can be left for you

POSITION DESIRED: Spell correctly the job for which you are applying Specify full-time or

part-time, type of employment (permanent, temporary, or summer only), and the date you can start

EDUCATION AND TRAINING: List academic, vocational, and professional education and

schools attended Be prepared to attach copies of certificates or other documents

ANDACCOMPLISHMENTS: Listing these will make you stand out from other applicants List

the types of equipment and tools that you are able to use and the licenses you have List ability to speak and write other languages as well if relevant to the job for which you apply

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY (BEGIN WITH MOST RECENT JOB): List employer's name,

current address and telephone number, supervisor, job title, dates of employment, salary, and reason for leaving Describe your job duties clearly Use action verbs Concentrate on skills which will interest the employer The job description can provide clues about important skills Explain gaps in your work history

REFERENCES (CHARACTER AND/OR PROFESSIONAL): Provide names, current

business addresses, and current phone numbers of people, not including relatives, who can speak positively about you Clergy members, teachers, counselors, friends who are in business, and leaders of organizations and in the community usually make good references Be sure to ask for their permission before listing them and verify where they can be reached You may also want to give them a copy of your resume so they know more about you Have enough references so that

no one person is constantly called about you

7 Sign and date the application in the space(s) provided

1.1 Sample Job Application Form 1

It is our policy to comply with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in employment on race, age, color, sex, religion, national origin or other protected classification

Are you over 18 years old? [ ] Yes [ ] No

Are you a U.S citizen or otherwise authorized to work in the U.S on an unrestricted basis? [ ] Yes [ ] No

How did you learn of this opening?

Have you ever worked here before? [ ] Yes [ ] No

Are there any hours, shifts or days you cannot or will not work? _

Shift preferred: Part-time Full-time

Are you willing to work overtime as required? [ ] Yes [ ] No

Have you ever been convicted of a felony? [ ] Yes [ ] No(Conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant for employment.) If yes, describe conditions: _

1.2 Sample Job Job Application Form 2

NAME (Last, First, Middle)

SOC SEC # _

ADDRESS (Number and Street, City, State, Zip Code)

( _)

POSITION DESIRED

Full-time _

Part-time _

Temporary _

IF YOU ARE A MINOR UNDER AGE 18, DO YOU HAVE

SPECIAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: List job-related licenses, skills, training,

Reason for leaving: _

MAY WE CONTACT YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? Yes _ No _

REFERENCES: (EXCLUDE RELATIVES AND FORMER EMPLOYERS)

I CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION IS

TRUE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTAND

THAT ANY FALSE INFORMATION ON THIS APPLICATION MAY BE GROUNDS

FOR NOT HIRING ME.

DATE SIGNATURE

1.3 Job Application Form 3

Instructions: Print clearly in black or blue ink Answer all questions Sign and date the form

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

Hours Available: from _ to

What date are you available to start work?

Reason for Leaving:

May We Contact Your Present Employer?

Signature

Date

State & Zip

How were you referred to Company?: _

Employment Positions

Position(s) applying for:

Are you applying for:

Temporary work – such as summer or holiday work? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Regular part-time work? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Regular full-time work? [ ] Y or [ ] N

What days and hours are you available for work? _

If applying for temporary work, when will you be available?

_

If hired, on what date can you start working? _ / _ / _

Can you work on the weekends? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Can you work evenings? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Are you available to work overtime? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Salary desired: $

Personal Information:

Have you ever applied to / worked for Company before? [ ] Y or [ ] N

If yes, please explain (include date):

Do you have any friends, relatives, or acquaintances working for Company? [ ] Y or [ ] N

If yes, state name & relationship:

If hired, would you have transportation to/from work? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Are you over the age of 18? (If under 18, hire is subject to verification of minimum legal age.) [ ] Y or [ ]

N

If hired, would you be able to present evidence of your U.S citizenship or proof of your legal right to work in the United States? [ ] Y or [ ] N

If hired, are you willing to submit to and pass a controlled substance test? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Are you able to perform the essential functions of the job for which you are applying, either with / without reasonable accommodation? [ ] Y or [ ] N

If no, describe the functions that cannot be performed

If yes, please describe the crime - state nature of the crime(s), when and where convicted and disposition

of the case.

(Note: No applicant will be denied employment solely on the grounds of conviction of a criminal offense The date of the offense, the nature of the offense, including any significant details that affect the

description of the event, and the surrounding circumstances and the relevance of the offense to the

position(s) applied for may, however, be considered.)

Education, Training and Experience

High School:

School name:

School address:

School city, state, zip:

Number of years completed: _

Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Degree / diploma earned: _

College / University:

School name:

School address:

School city, state, zip:

Number of years completed:

Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Degree / diploma earned:

Vocational School:

Name:

Address:

City, state, zip:

Number of years completed:

Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Chapter 2:

INTERVIEW 2.1 Before the job interview

Know the company.

Your knowledge of the prospective employer will contribute to the positive image you want to create Research the company before the interview Talk to others who work there; ask for information about the firm and for a job description when the interview is set up; use the Internet and your local library reference books on public and private organizations

Know the job.

Learn everything you can about the job you're interviewing for and how your previous experience and training qualify you for this position

Know yourself.

Review your resume before the interview to have it fresh in your mind, because it will be fresh in the mind of the person who interviews you Better yet, have it in front of you on the table

Prepare questions of your own.

Employers are as interested in your questions as they are in your answers And they'll react favorably if you ask intelligent questions about the position, the company and the industry (Examples: Where does this position fit into the company as a whole? Is there any problem on this job with waste/accuracy/meeting quotas, etc.? What is the largest single problem facing your staff now?)

Get the big picture.

Visualize the entire interview, from start to finish See yourself as performing with style and confidence How will the interview end? Will you get a job offer or be called back for a second interview? How much salary do you want? What kind of benefits? The research you do ahead of time will give you an idea of what to expect Be ready for any eventuality

2.2 During the job interview

Make a Good First Impression.

The outcome of the interview will depend largely on the impression you make during the first five minutes To succeed, you must project a professional, competent and enthusiastic image Your aim is to convince the interviewer that you would be an asset to the company Keep the following in mind:

Be punctual.

Do whatever it takes to arrive a few minutes early If necessary, drive to the company the night before and time yourself Allow extra time for traffic, parking and slow elevators

Dress right.

Your clothing should be appropriate for the position you're seeking Attire must fit well within the office and be immaculate If you don't know what the typical attire at the company is, call and ask! Shoes should be polished; pants/skirts and shirts pressed

Shake well.

A firm handshake is appropriate and projects confidence Make eye contact when you shake

Speak correct body language.

Send the right message by standing straight, moving confidently, and sitting slightly forward in your chair

Let the employer lead into conversations about benefits.

Your focus on salary, stock options and vacation time can turn off an otherwise-interested interviewer

Be honest.

Tell the interviewer about your work skills, strengths and experience, including any volunteer work you have done If you haven’t had a particular kind of experience, say so, but also demonstrate your ability to learn new skills by changing the focus back to a time when you did so for a prior employer

Be enthusiastic.

Show your clear interest in the job you are seeking and in the business Smile and make frequent eye contact Listen attentively and take notes

Find common ground.

Pictures, books, plants, etc., in the office can be conversation starters.But beware! I once heard of

an applicant who, spying a picture on the employer’s desk said: "Hey, Tommy Lasorda Have you met him?" "Her", corrected the hiring manager "That's my wife"

Have your own agenda and know where the interview should be heading This will give you

confidence and help you move from one area of questioning to the next Remember: Most interviewers are as uncomfortable as you are They just want the position to be filled as fast as possible If you can put the interviewer at ease by helping things move smoothly, you'll improve your chances of being hired Remember the following:

Listening skills.

Listen carefully and ask questions to probe deeper into what the interviewer is telling you Most interviewers are delightfully surprised by a question such as, "How could I help you solve the problem you've just described?"

Negative statements

about previous jobs or employers NEVER make them Instead, be diplomatic No matter how bad your last job or boss was, there's probably something good you learned from the experience Emphasize the positive - with a smile

2.3 After the job interview

Follow Through.

This is a crucial and often-overlooked final step in the interviewing process Remember: No home run or 350-yard golf shot was ever hit without a proper follow-through It's essential that you write a thank-you note to every person you met at the company Your most important letter(s) should go to the interviewer(s) In your letter, be sure to summarize your conversation and re-emphasize the skills you would bring to the position Thank them for their time and ask if it's all right to call later in the week to see

That candidate may well be you!

In behavior-based interviews, you are asked to give specific examples of when you demonstrated particular behaviors or skills

General answers about behavior are not what the employer is looking for You must describe in detail a particular event, project, or experience and you dealt with the situation, and what the outcome was

Examples of behavioral interview questions:

Describe a time when you were faced with problems or stresses at work that tested your coping skills What did you do?

Give an example of a time when you had to be relatively quick in coming to a decision

Give me an example of an important goal you had to set and tell me about your progress in reaching that goal

Describe the most creative work-related project you have completed

Give me an example of a problem you faced on the job, and tell me how you solved it

Tell me about a situation in the past year in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker

Give me an example of when you had to show good leadership

Traditional Interview vs Behavioral Interview

In a traditional interview, you will be asked a series of questions which typically have straight forward answers like "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" or "What major challenges and problems did you face? How did you handle them?" or "Describe a typical work week."

In a behavioral interview, an employer has decided what skills are needed in the person they hire and will ask questions to find out if the candidate has those skills

Instead of asking how you would behave, they will ask how you did behave The interviewer will want to know how you handled a situation, instead of what you might do in the future

Questions in a Behavioral Interview

Behavioral interview questions will be more pointed, more probing and more specific than traditional interview questions:

 Give an example of an occasion when you used logic to solve a problem

 Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it

 Describe a decision you made that was unpopular and how you handled implementing

it

 Have you gone above and beyond the call of duty? If so, how?

 What do you do when your schedule is interrupted? Give an example of how you

handle it

 Have you had to convince a team to work on a project they weren't thrilled about?

How did you do it?

 Have you handled a difficult situation with a co-worker? How?

 Tell me about how you worked effectively under pressure

Follow-up questions will also be detailed You may be asked what you did, what you said, how you reacted or how you felt

Preparation for the Potential Behavioral Interview

What's the best way to prepare? It's important to remember that you won't know what type of interview will take place until you are sitting in the interview room So, prepare answers to traditional interview questions

Then, since you don't know exactly what situations you will be asked about if it's a behavioral interview, refresh your memory and consider some special situations you have dealt with or projects you have worked on You may be able to use them to help frame responses Prepare stories that illustrate times when you have successfully solved problems or performed memorably The stories will be useful to help you respond meaningfully in a behavioral interview

Finally, review the job description, if you have it, or the job posting or ad You may be able to get

a sense of what skills and behavioral characteristics the employer is seeking from reading the job description and position requirements Take a look at what employers are advised about developing the job posting for a behavioral interview on the About Human Resources site

During the Behavioral Interview

During the interview, if you are not sure how to answer the question, ask for clarification Then

be sure to include these points in your answer:

 A specific situation

 The tasks that needed to be done

 The action you took

 The results i.e what happened

It's important to keep in mind that there are not right or wrong answers The interviewer is simply trying to understand how you behaved in a given situation How you respond will determine if there is a fit between your skills and the position the company is seeking to fill So, listen carefully, be clear and detailed when you respond and, most importantly, be honest If your answers aren't what the interviewer is looking for, this position may not be the best job for you anyway.

2.5 Resources of Interview Questions

2.5.1 IN WHAT WAY DO YOU THINK CAN CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR COMPANY?

Education

1 How does your experience and education qualify you for this job?

2 How does your education qualify you for this job?

3 Why did you choose to attend the college that you are attending?

4 What aspect of your education applies to this position?

5 What training have you received that qualifies you for this job?

6 What have you done outside of formal education to improve yourself?

7 What training opportunities have you taken advantage of and why?

8 What additional training will we have to provide for you if we hire you?

Experience

1 Tell us about yourself How are you qualified for this job?

2 How does your current job qualify you for this position?

3 How does your experience qualify you for this job?

4 Describe a typical day at your present position

5 What were your three greatest accomplishments on your last job?

6 What are some of the things on your current job you have done well?

7 What is the most difficult assignment you have had?

8 What accomplishment on the job are you the most proud of?

9 What steps have you taken to improve your job skills?

10 What significant contributions have you made to the operation of your work group?

11 How has your current position prepared you to take on greater responsibilities?

12 What makes you more qualified than the other candidates?

13 Why do you want to leave your current job?

14 How has your job prepared you to take on greater responsibility?

15 Tell us about your qualifications for this position

16 What actions have you taken in the past 10 years to prepare you for this position?

17 What steps have you taken in the past two years to improve your qualifications?

18 In the areas where your experience falls short for this job, what steps will you take to make up for this shortfall?

19 Describe yourself

20 What skills and abilities do you have?

21 Recall an incident where you made a major mistake What did you do after the mistake was made? What did you learn from this mistake?

22 What is the greatest failure you've had? What would you have done differently?

23 What action on the job are you the least proud of?

24 Tell us about a difficult situation that you encountered and how you resolved it

Resume

1 Take us through your resume

2 What are you most proud of on your resume?

Tell me a story.

Many interviewers like to hear 'stories' or examples from your work life So pick something that

is more usual than not (not the day of a plant explosion and you saved 10 lives!) but a story that shows how you handle yourself, handle difficult people or situations Can you think on your feet? Do you adhere to the rules? Consider the type of organization you are aiming at each has its own culture The World Wrestling Federation entertainment culture is different than the American Bible Society and also different from Amazon.com Gear your stories to give the listener a feeling that you could fit in you could do the job here

In what way do you think you can contribute to our company?

Preparing to answer this question requires a 2-step preparation: assessing your skills and researching the needs of the company An integral part of skill assessment (looking at your own experience, education and talents) is to 'skill-match' Considering the job opening, what are the skills needed? Make a list of the requisite skills (in priority order) and then list concrete examples of your possession of the skill For example: a sales representative would need good interpersonal skills, the ability to deal with difficult people For 'proof' of this skill, you could list experiences and examples of how you were successful in a difficult situation These matched skills are your key selling points

Next, what appears to be the current problems at the organization, based upon your research? What are their needs that you can meet? In other words, given the specifics of the company, what value can you add? After these two steps, you are in a great position to come up with concrete examples of what you can offer the company This question, by the way, is just another version of "Why should we hire you?" In the interview, when asked this question, you could respond with: "In my experience in sales, I know having the ability to deal effectively with all types of people is not merely a positive element - it is an essential one With your plans to expand into market, a sales representative with a proven ability to meet with all types of people and to be able to assess and meet their immediate needs would be a great asset In the past years, I have increased sales "

2.5.2 DESCRIBE A CHALLENGING WORK ISSUE YOU HAD TO FACE, AND HOW YOU DEALT WITH IT.

1 Tell us about the passion in your life as it relates to your work

2 What aspects of your work do you get the most excited about?

3 What are your most outstanding qualities?

4 If you were to start your own company, what would that company do?

5 Tell me about the last book that you read

6 If you were a cucumber in a salad and somebody was about to eat you, what would you do?

7 What are your worst qualities?

8 What is your favorite color and what does it reflect in your personality?

9 Rate yourself from one to ten on your work ethic with ten being the best

10 Describe yourself

Why do you feel we should hire you for this position?

Before you submit a resume or draft a cover letter and certainly before you go to an interview you should do 2 things:

1 Research the job and the organization What do they need? What are the requirements for the position? What role does this job play in the overall goals of the organization?

2 Research yourself What skills and experiences and interests can you offer? How will you add value to the organization? How can you prove that you have the required skills and experience needed for the job?

Do a skill matching exercise: The organization/job needs (skill/experience) and I have it because

I did The organization needs and I can provide Be certain to have specific examples of how you have added value in the past and be enthusiastic on how you can add value to this organization

Do not forget the organization is looking to solve a problem and you are selling yourself as a solution

Describe a challenging work issue you had to face, and how you dealt with it?

Consider what would be the requirements of the 'new' job/organization and find something in your past that highlights a skill, experience or situation that might occur or be needed going forward It is always a good idea to make lists in preparation for interviews:

New job will need I can provide Proof/example

For your proofs, list (for yourself) examples of when you used the skill, exhibited the characteristic or handled the problem This will not only give you 'short stories' to relate in an interview, it will also bolster your confidence and target your job search

If you were on a merry-go-round, what song would be playing? If you were going to be an animal on the merry-go-round, what would you be?"

Congratulations! You have found the unusual interviewer asking a rare question Don't feel stupid just feel like you have run into a very unusual situation If you are interviewing for a creative position, then the question is most appropriate because the interviewer may be attempting to evaluate your creativity and your ability to deal with an offbeat question have fun with it Give the question your focused attention and go with your instincts Be ready to say why you chose the tune you did Perhaps tell a brief story that reminds you of merry go rounds in

your own experience Or if you are really clueless give a song that you have always liked, has real meaning for you or is important for whatever reason and attach it to the merry go round but refocus the question to he importance of the song and make it brief but interesting "words tell but stories sell." As for the animal, give the animal that you want to be (even if you think the question is ridiculous and you really need this job) your total attention and focus.

On the other hand, the person you are dealing with may not have a clue and just asked because he/she felt like it We know one person who asks the question and feels it is meaningful She is into Yoga and looks for the person to be thoughtful in response We have never heard her say anyone was rejected because of the animal selected

2.5.3 HOW DO WE HANDLE THE CONFLICT?

1 Tell us about your inter-personal skills

2 What experience have you had working with external agencies?

3 How do you deal with conflict?

4 Tell us about a situation in which you were required to work with people at various levels within your organization? What was the most important step that you took to work effectively with these people?

5 To what extent have your assignments required interface with other departments?

6 Tell us about an incident in which you dealt with an irate customer, which would demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others?

7 In what kinds of situations do you find it most difficult to deal with people?

8 Describe to us the extent to which you have worked with executive or top management

9 What has been your experience in working with community organizations?

10 Tell us about your experience in working with volunteers

2.5.4 INTERVIEW IN DEPTH

How do you handle conflict?

On the job, there are many possible sources of conflict Conflicts with:

• fellow employees

• management

• rules, procedures

• clients, customers

• demands of work vs personal life, family

The best way to approach a good answer is to look at if from the employer’s point of view -they want to be your first priority and they want you to solve problems (not bring them any) "I know everything cannot run smoothly at work all the time When there is a conflict I usually try to determine the source of the problem and see if it can be solved This might involve other members of the work team discussing the problem and offering possible solutions I would then try to pick the solution which appears to have the best outcome and put it into action."

A natural follow-up to this would be: Tell me when you solved a conflict at work So, have a brief example a short story to illustrate your approach Even if not asked, you can offer your story! If it proves your point and accentuates a skill needed for the position, go with it

2.5.5 TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU TRIED AND FAILED.

Confidence

1 How confident are you that you can successfully perform the duties of this position and why?

2 Tell us about a situation that would demonstrate the level of confidence that you have in yourself

3 Tell us about a situation that would demonstrate the level of confidence your manager has in you

4 Tell us about a situation that would show the confidence your coworkers have in you

Creativity

1 Are you creative? Give us one example of your creativity

2 Describe a situation where you came up with a creative solution to a problem

Independent/Self-Starter

1 Provide us with an example of your ability to work independently

Give an example The example may relate what you did in an emergency situation If this is

an entry level position, use an example from school, church, or other volunteer activities

Pressure

1 What experience have you had in pressure situations?

2 Tell us about a pressure situation you were in that would demonstrate your ability to work under pressure

3 Provide us with an example of how you’ve asserted yourself in an emergency or pressure situation?

high-4 What does it take to get under your skin?

5 What are some constructive methods of dealing with stress?

6 Why are manhole covers round?

A test of your ability to think under pressure; Would a round manhole cover or a square manhole cover fall through the hole?

1 How do you deal with risk on the job?

2 Name the greatest risk that you've taken?

3 Name the greatest risk that you've taken which resulted in failure

Tell me about a time when you tried and failed?

Has this ever happened to you? No one expects perfection actually, employers are more interested in your ability to cope, to learn from mistakes, and to deal with others who are less than perfect If you have an example, certainly pick one that happened a while back, was not earth shattering in the results, and one which you learned and applied this knowledge recently

This is a version of 'damning with faint praise' by picking an incident that was minor in scope but, since you are so wise and are always willing to learn, has taught you a valuable lesson

2.5.6 TELL US ABOUT YOUR ANALYTICAL SKILLS.

1 Are you analytical? Give us one example of your analytical abilities

2 Tell us about your analytical skills

3 Tell us about a particularly difficult problem that you analyzed and what was your recommendation

4 What steps do you take when analyzing complex problems?

5 How would you rate your analytical ability? Why?

6 How would your manager rate your analytical ability?

7 Tell us about a situation where the analysis that you performed was incorrect What would you have done differently?

2.5.7 TELL US ABOUT YOUR ANALYTICAL SKILLS.

This should be easy if you have done a realistic skill inventory for yourself, listing what skills you do have and how you can offer proof of this skill (where you learned it, last used it) Working off your inventory, focus on various analytical skills and match them to the skills you feel are most important for the job you are considering You can now give specific examples of skills you can offer (Do not neglect skills obtained in extracurricular activities, such as volunteer work.)

2.5.8 WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU FIND DIFFICULT TO DO?

Strengths

1 Why should we hire you?

2 What are your three greatest strengths?

3 What can you contribute to our organization?

4 Assume that you are a candidate in the coming general election Tell me why you are the best candidate in the field

5 What is your greatest strength?

6 We've interviewed a number of highly qualified students for this position What sets you apart from the others?

7 What are your strengths?

8 What part of your current job are you the most comfortable with?

9 What are your strong points and how have they helped you to succeed?

Weaknesses

1 What is your greatest weakness?

2 Name your three greatest weaknesses

3 Which is the worst of your three greatest weaknesses and why?

4 What are your weaknesses?

5 What part of your current job are you the least comfortable with?

6 What are your weak points and how have you overcome them?

7 What about yourself would you want to improve

8 In which area do you need to make the improvement in?

2.5.9 WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU FIND DIFFICULT TO DO?

The interviewer is looking to determine how well you know yourself, how you react to difficult situations/tasks and credibility Look back over your work experience for examples of challenges speaking in public at a meeting, disagreeing with a manager over an important issue, being asked to use a software program you have not had an opportunity to learn

These 'stories' should illustrate a lesson learned, a problem overcome or a weakness being dealt with

"I always seem to need a day or two to prepare myself to give a presentation to department heads When I know I have to give a report on my projects, I plan out all the details in advance and rehearse One time, there was a problem with a supplier and I was asked to update senior management immediately The supply chain was crucial to the completion of an important project we had been working on for 5 months and decisions had to be made based on the information I had to prepare and present on a moment's notice I gathered the information and presented it simply and in detail It was much easier than I thought without the hours of concern and practice The facts spoke for themselves Since I understood the situation, I was able to make it clear to management and get a rapid decision I still prefer advance notice but I know I can deliver when asked to."

2.5.10 WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT AND LONG TERM GOALS?

1 Where do you want to be 5 years from now in your career?

2 What are your long term career goals?

3 What prompted you to take your current job?

4 Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

5 Why did you make a career change?

6 Why do you want to leave your current position?

7 Five years ago, where did you see yourself today?

8 What is your career goal?

2.5.11 WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

This is the interviewer trying to see how you are in making long range plans and if you have goals that mesh with the organization's One way to answer this question is to look back on your

accomplishments to date: "I started out in my profession as a junior clerk while I completed my college studies during the evenings Once I had my degree, I applied for a transfer to a more advanced position, citing my on-the-job training This has been my pattern for my career with

my past 2 employers I learn quickly on the job and am willing to take classes and workshops to augment my experience I have been able to assume greater responsibilities and add more value

to the organization I do not think in terms of titles I think more in terms of "How can I solve this problem? Since this has been my career style to date, I do not imagine it to change In five years, I feel I will have continued to learn, to grow into a position of more responsibility and will have made a significant contribution to the organization."

2.5.12 WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT AND LONG TERM GOALS?

No one can make goals for you It comes down to where you are in your professional life and what you want to do Most people have 5-6 careers in their working lifetime -some with 2 careers going at the same time (like us)

The best advice is to be certain to relate your answers to the organization that interviews you Do not make a point of having goals that cannot be realized there ("I want to work in Paris." Organization is strictly domestic.) If you do your research into the organization, and into what you truly want to do in the future, you will be able to come up with reasonable responses No one

is going to come back to you in five years and chastise you for not meeting these goals! You will not be held to them it is only an interview and they are interested in how you see yourself (and they want to see you in the job.)

2.5.13 WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY?

1 What is the most attractive aspect of the job you are interviewing for?

2 What is the least attractive aspect of the job you are interviewing for?

3 In order to successfully meet the responsibilities of this position, which of your personal qualities will be of the greatest benefit?

4 What part of the job that you interviewing for do you look forward to the most?

5 What part of the job that you are interviewing for do you look forward to the least?

6 What aspect of our organization has the greatest appeal for you?

7 Knowing our organization and the position that you’re interviewing for, where can you make the greatest contribution?

8 How will the job you’re interviewing for, fit into your career plans?

9 Why did you choose this profession and this specific job?

10 What do you think your responsibilities will be if you’re hired?

11 Why are you interested in the position?

12 What are you seeking from this job?

13 What challenges do you think that you will face in moving from your current position to this position?

14 What aspect of the job announcement interested you the most?

15 In comparison to your current position, what do you think will be different in your new position?

16 Our company is more widely recognized than the current company that you're working for, why do you think that is?

17 Tell us why you believe you are ready to promote to the next level of management

18 What can you contribute to our company?

19 What do you know about our company?

20 What interests you about a career in (field of new job)?

21 Why should we give you a chance to perform in this job?

22 Why should we hire you instead of the the other candidates?

23 We have 24 candidates A number of the candidates have more experience than you do Why should we hire you instead of one of the other candidates?

24 Why do you want this job and how does it fit you?

25 What do you intend to accomplish as a (title of new job) with our company?

26 Why should we hire you?

27 What additional training or development will you need to perform in this position?

2.5.14 WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY?

If you can relate your knowledge to the area that you would be involved in, it would show that already you have an active interest in the organization For example, if you were interested in marketing, "I understand that you are one of the top 10 companies in sales to Europe but are currently interested in expanding your market into Asia Competition is keen in that area but you have an advantage in that you product offers features that others do not, such as "

It is not only showing that you have done the research but also that you like/know what you have learned about the company and have applied it to how you can add value in the position

2.5.15 WHY DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE THIS JOB AFTER ONLY FOUR MONTHS?

Well, why did you? What is the closest to the truth:

1 Job was not as it was described to me

2 Organization changed its focus/goals

3 Organization could not effectively use my talents/skills

4 Change in management wanted to bring in own staff

5 Downsizing, reorganization

All of these will probably prompt a follow-up question Do not fabricate but most interviewers have heard these stories before and really are not interested in all the gory details (Note that this job need not be included on your resume since it was of such a short duration but may have to be included in a application form if it looks to account for all your time.)

Circumstances also come to play did you leave your other job to take this 4 month job? or did you 'try' it while already unemployed hoping for the best? If you were recruited to change jobs, there is a lot of room for exaggeration in a sales pitch, and many employees have been misled

If you have held other jobs for substantial periods and you took the other job in good faith, stress your past performance You are not a capricious person -job hopping You have skills to offer and want to put them into good use

2.5.16 WHAT DO YOU WISH TO GAIN FROM OUR COMPANY?

Excellent question! Research is the answer (know everyone is tired of hearing this but we feel this is one great way for applicants to make a difference in their candidacy) Determine some of the key elements in the corporate structure, product base, employees/management team or recent history What appeals to you about working at this company? Go with what you know

"In the past, I have had opportunities to work on new products being launched I am very excited about your plans to start an entire new line of products With my prior experience I know I can provide insights and make contributions immediately and I will also learn so much from the excellent team you have in place Having done single products, I would love to be in on the give-and-take meetings planning the new line there is much I can offer but also much for me to learn."

Finding something specific the opportunity to use a new technology, a new skill, to work with 'experts on their team" are ways for you to find job satisfaction, which is another way of asking this question

2.5.17 WHAT DO YOU THINK THE EMPLOYEE'S RESPONSIBILITIES ARE TO THE COMPANY?

As an employee you have several responsibilities to your employer They are as follows:

• to perform a good day's work

• to be loyal

• to act as part of the team

• to value the relationship

• to earn the employer's trust

• to grow with a passion for the product/service

2.5.18 WHY DO YOU WANT TO CHANGE JOBS?

When asked on an application, "If presently employed, why do you wish to change positions", what do you put down The reason I am changing positions because the company I am applying at is known nationwide I want to work for a company with their background and one that I can retire from.

This same question is sometimes asked on interviews as well so it is important to have a good answer Additionally, if you decide to leave your current employer, it is also wise to have consensus as to the reasons that you are leaving

It already sounds like you have positive reasons for wanting to work for the national

company -go with that Use your research to put forth several points about the company that you feel will

be a great match (for the company) and suit your particular skills and experiences Emphasize the fact that this opportunity to work for them is 'just what you have been looking for' because and then go into several ways you can add value to the organization

Remember, when asked why you left, do not downgrade in any way your prior/current employer leave the interviewer with the feeling that you have only been associated with winners! Do not go into the 'I can retire from this job' aspect; it can have negative connotations Present yourself as a vital, enthusiastic employee that can offer experience to their

organization for many years to come Note: If appropriate, point out that you are not just 'looking around' but are sincerely interested in working for this particular company and that you are not a 'job-hopper' but are interested in a long-term career move.

2.5.19 WHAT THINGS MAKE A GOOD TEAM MEMBER?

Entry Level

1 What are the characteristics of a successful team?

2 Tell us about an unsuccessful team of which you were a member What, if anything, could you have done differently?

3 Tell us about a successful team of which you were a member What was the most outstanding characteristic of that team? What did you contribute?

4 What are the important qualities a person should have to become an effective team member?

5 What qualities do you have that make you an effective team player?

6 Do you work better by yourself or as part of a team?

7 What can you contribute to establish a positive working environment for our team?

8 What type of people do you work best with?

Advanced

1 What factors would you consider in assembling a project team?

2 Name some of the pitfalls to be avoided in building an effective team

3 Through what tools can a committee become more useful or productive?

4 What actions can a supervisor take to establish teamwork in the organization?

5 You supervise a group of civilian employees Your employees appear to be at odds with the uniformed personnel What steps can you take to improve the teamwork between civilian and uniformed personnel?

6 What are the advantages, if any, of establishing team goals as opposed to individual goals?

2.5.20 WHAT THINGS MAKE A GOOD TEAM MEMBER?

Consider first the situational context of the question What is the team environment of the organization that you are interviewing -do they have a strong, organized team-based work environment or is it based on informal authority and fluctuating teams? Ideally, you should have had an opportunity to research and ask some questions about the organization to determine how they operate (and if indeed you want to work in that environment.)

Model your responses to the organization Obviously, you are describing yourself = good team member My ideas of what makes a good team member may be very different from yours -and from the organization Also depends on where you are in the team -new member, leader,

yourself? How do you make yourself fit into a new team? How do you elicit cooperation from other team members? What do you think the organization's biggest problem is relative to teams and team-building? And, what solution could you provide?

2.5.21 TELEPHONING

1 What is the importance of greeting the customer politely on the telephone?

2 In taking a message for another employee, what information should be included on the message?

3 Another department calls for your supervisor Your supervisor is on the telephone How will you handle this call?

4 A citizen calls and is irate because she has been transferred to three different departments and cannot get anybody to answer her question How will you handle the call?

5 What telephone techniques are important when serving as a receptionist?

6 As a receptionist you are responsible for answering the telephones What would you do if four lines were ringing at the same time?

7 Your supervisor is on the telephone An outside organization calls and when you inform your supervisor, he simply says "Handle it" What will you do?

8 The supervisor returns after lunch and says that the information on the call slip you took is incorrect How will you handle this?

9 What are the basic rules for answering the telephone? Pick up the telephone within three rings, greet the caller, give your name and ask if you may be of assistance What are the basic

rules for putting a customer on hold? Name the steps to correctly transfer a customer call

10 Name the steps to correctly take a message in a coworker’s absence

2.5.22 TRAINING

1 How would you go about training a new employee?

2 What are the steps to take in identifying training requirements?

3 Aside from formal training, what other means may be used for developing employees?

4 What factors would you use in evaluating a trainee?

5 You have one slot available for a personal computer training class There are two people who have asked to be scheduled Which factors will you consider in deciding which one of the two people will be scheduled?

6 What are the four steps in Job Instruction Training?

7 What is the impact on the organization of inadequate employee training?

Advanced

1 You have been asked to develop the training budget How will you develop the training budget?

2 Name the methods available for delivering training to employees

3 In which situations would distance learning be preferable to instructor-led training?

4 Under what circumstances, might you recommend computer-based training instead of instructor-led training?

5 What is a "gap" analysis as it pertains to training?

6 Have you performed a needs assessment? And, if so, what steps did you take?

7 What are the benefits of providing just in time training?

8 You have been asked to develop a training program What steps will you take in developing the training program?

9 What are the elements of a successful training program?

10 What topics would you include in a supervisory development training program?

11 What items of information should be included in the orientation training for new employees?

12 What is "distance learning"?

13 What role can "distance learning" play in the development of our employees?

2.5.23 SUPERVISION/MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE

1 What experience have you had in supervision?

2 What is the role of a supervisor?

3 What experience have you had in resolving grievances?

4 What experience have you had in investigating discrimination/sexual harassment complaints?

5 What do you like the best about supervision?

6 What do you like the least about supervision?

7 What has been your most positive experience in supervision?

8 What has been your most negative experience in supervision?

9 Which aspect of supervision did you feel the most comfortable with?

10 Which aspect of supervision did you feel the least comfortable with?

11 Give us an example of a situation that you handled which would demonstrate your ability to supervise

12 Have you had any experience in applying the provisions of the Americans With Disabilities Act?

13 Having supervisory experience you may have run into problems with a member of your staff What type of problem did you encounter and how did you handle it?

14 What aspect of supervision is most difficult for you and why?

15 Under which circumstances would you refer an employee to the employee assistance program?

2.5.24 SALARY

1 What salary are you seeking?

2 What is your current salary?

3 Why do you think we should pay you the salary you are seeking?

4 How much should we pay you?

5 Why would you change jobs for less pay?

I will need to take a step back in salary I don't know how to handle the question " What is your current salary"?

If you have proceeded along interviews to the point when an offer is going to be made, that is the proper time to discuss salary Otherwise, if pressed to disclose salary, talk in term of ranges and

a compensation package "Present compensation package is high five figures" gives a lot of leeway yet is not in error

It is rare but some employers ask for W-2 forms or last salary stub to verify salary You do not want to get caught in a lie (credibility is very important) so being up-front about willing to take a step back in order to invest in a new career can be impressive to an employer

Sharpen your sales skills point out all the reasons why you are suited for the job, why you are making the move to a new career and why you want to work there Compensation is a necessity but not your prime motivator

What do you expect your starting salary to be?

Discussions of salaries and compensation should not be held until an offer is made With that said, let's look into the real world when this is not the case most of the time Employers are shopping, trying to guess your price tag This is one of those screening questions used to either screen in or screen out so a response is important Have you done your homework? What is the price for this job in the marketplace? Have you checked out classified ads or online ads for similar positions? Are you within the range, given your level of experience? Pegging yourself mentally to the right price is the first step

Second step is sharing this information correctly Do you have enough information about this new job to determine your salary? If not state it and ask for the information that is needed

"Before I can discuss salary, I would like to know the reporting requirements and how many people I would be supervising In addition, what are the skill levels and experience of my staff?" You can also ask "What are others in similar positions being paid?" When you can no longer stall or seek additional information "Based on what you have told me and exclusive of other compensation elements I feel that the position would warrant a salary range of $ _ to

$ _" Name a range such as $40,000 to $45,000 to give both sides some wiggle room and allow for some give-and-take when benefits and other compensation is considered If you know what you are willing to accept as salary and what the market pays, using a salary range should permit you to be negotiable

2.5.25 BUDGET

1 What is a budget?

2 Your assignment is to assist the line organization to prepare the budget A number of the line supervisors are new What steps will you take to introduce the line supervisors to the process?

3 Provide us with an example of how "zero-based budgeting" would apply to the staffing in your organization

4 What is the difference between a capital budget and an expense budget?

5 Name some typical operating expenses

6 Why is it that the direct salary paid to an employee does not represent the total cost of the employee to the organization?

7 What experience have you had in developing a budget?

8 What is the purpose of a budget?

9 What are the steps involved in preparing a budget?

10 What is zero-based budgeting?

11 Have you conducted a budget review?

12 Define the internal rate of return

13 How may the internal rate of return be used in capital budgeting?

14 What are the benefits of budgeting?

15 How would you prepare a cost/benefit analysis for an automation system?

2.5.26 COST CONTROL

1 What are some of cost-cutting steps you could take to reduce fleet expenses?

2 Your expenditures for office supplies have increased by 50% over the past two years What steps will you take to determine the reason for the increase?

3 What is the relationship between a cost accounting system and a budget?

4 What benefits does a cost accounting system provide?

5 You have been asked to recommend some criteria for reducing the budget What criteria will you recommend for reducing the budget?

6 You have been asked to reduce the information technology budget How will you do this?

7 You have been asked to reduce the training budget How would you determine the reductions?

8 Your expenditures for office supplies have increased by 50% over the past two years What steps will you take to control and reduce expenditures?

9 Overtime expenditures have increased over the past year Yet, the workload has not increased What steps will you take to control overtime?

10 You have been asked to reduce the staff for your organization by 10% How will you go about this?

11 Cost reduction is often associated with budget reductions What are some positive means of reducing costs?

12 What are the factors involved in a cost/benefit analysis?

13 What are the potential pitfalls when the variances of budget versus actual expenditures are expressed only as percentages?

2.5.27 PRODUCTIVITY AND QUALITY

1 Define productivity

2 How is productivity measured?

3 What are the principles behind continuous improvement?

4 Looking only at output and costs, under what circumstances would productivity fall?

5 Looking only at output and costs, under what circumstances would productivity rise?

6 Name some of the means by which productivity can be improved

7 What steps can be taken to insure quality in any operation?

8 What are the objectives behind "Quality Circles"?

9 What is "Total Quality Management" or "TQM"?

10 What measures would you implement to encourage employee involvement in a quality improvement program?

11 What is "benchmarking" and what are the benefits of benchmarking?

12 What is ISO 9000 and how can it support our quality efforts?

2.5.28 COMMUNICATION

General

1 How do you effectively communicate with others?

2 How important is listening to effective communications?

3 What are some of the characteristics of a good listener?

4 Tell us about a situation where you demonstrated good communications skills

5 Tell us about a situation where you demonstrated poor communications skills What would you have done differently?

6 How would you rate your communications skills? Why?

Co-workers

1 What are some rules to follow to insure effective communications with your coworkers?

2 What are some of the means of communication in the workplace?

3 How would your co-workers rate your communications skills?

Supervisors

1 How can a supervisor establish effective communications with staff?

2 What means of communication may be used to effectively establish a new policy?

3 Are there additional considerations in communicating to groups of employees versus individual employees?

4 What are some good rules to keep in mind when directing employees?

5 In what instances, is written communication better than verbal communications?

With Your Supervisor

1 Communicating with your supervisor is an important aspect of all of our jobs In addition to being brief, what guidelines should you follow to communicate effectively with your supervisor?

2 What are the reasons for communicating upwards to your superiors?

3 How would your supervisor rate your communications skills?

2.5.29 REPORTS

1 What experience have you had in preparing management reports?

2 Tell us about a management report you’ve made with recommendations and what happened once those recommendations were adopted?

3 What are the elements of a business report?

4 What are the elements of a business letter?

5 When writing an executive report, how should the text be structured for effective communication?

6 Tell us about reports you have prepared

7 What experience have you had in performing analysis and preparing recommendations?

8 What are the elements of an effective management report?

9 What experience have you had in collecting data and writing reports based on that data?

10 Tell us about an analysis that you have performed and the recommendation(s) that you made

as a result of your analysis?

11 Tell us about your experience in developing procedure manuals

2.5.30 SUPERVISION AND MANAGEMENT SITUATION

1 Two employees come to you about a verbal disagreement One says the incident happened one way, and the other employee has a different story There are no other witnesses What will you do?

2 You have an exemplary employee who suddenly starts coming in late How will you handle this situation?

3 You supervise a group of employees, one employee complains that the office is too hot, another employee complains that the office is too cold How will you handle this?

4 An employee complains that you gave another employee a benefit that the employee did not receive He states that this is not fair How will you handle this employee?

5 A supervisor from another group comes to you and complains that your employee visits the other group constantly and disrupts the work What steps will you take?

6 An employee from another group comes to you and complains that your employee visits the other group constantly and disrupts the work What steps will you take?

7 An employee is not performing the assigned tasks correctly As the supervisor what will you do?

8 An employee continues to make careless mistakes How will you address the situation?

9 You notice that an employee is continually on the telephone for personal telephone calls What steps will you take?

10 Your organization does not have a dress code However, one of your employees continues to come to work in inappropriate attire How will you handle this situation?

11 An irate citizen calls regarding one of your employees who was speeding on the expressway What steps will you take regarding the employee?

12 A work stoppage has just concluded A number of employees participated in the work stoppage, while others came to work To insure that your organization continues to work effectively, what steps can you take?

13 Your employee complains that an employee from another group has been coming over and disrupting work How will you handle this complaint?

14 An exemplary employee starts to become listless at work, misses deadlines, comes in late, and takes extended breaks As the supervisor what action will you take?

15 It's your first day on the job Your new job includes the supervision of 10 employees What

is the first thing you will do?

16 You smell alcohol on an employee What will you do?

17 Your employee operating a piece of heavy equipment appears to be under the influence What action will you take?

18 Two of your staff are involved in a verbal altercation in your office area How will you handle this situation?

19 One of your employees is using derogatory language on a telephone call You and a number

of your staff hear the employee What will you do? If you pursue disciplinary action, what will the charges be?

20 During a routine audit, you find that the timekeeper credited herself with more overtime than was actually worked How will you address the situation?

2.5.31 LEADERSHIP

1 Define leadership?

2 What personal qualities should a leader have?

3 What is your strongest leadership skill and how will it assist you for this job?

4 Provide us with an example of your leadership ability

5 Discuss the different styles of leadership

6 Name some of the circumstances under which a leader will fail

7 What is the importance of leadership in the organization?

8 What role does leadership play for a supervisor or manager?

9 What have you done to develop your leadership skills?

10 What is the difference between a leader and a manager?

11 Tell us about a situation in which you demonstrated your leadership ability

2.5.32 PRESENTATION

1 What experience have you had in making presentations?

2 You have been asked to address a citizens group regarding a particularly sensitive environmental issue What steps will you take to ensure your success?

3 What steps can you take to insure a successful presentation?

4 Your assignment is to present a technical presentation to lay people What steps can you take

to insure that your presentation is easily understood?

5 Name the characteristics of an effective presentation?

6 What techniques do you use when faced with a hostile audience?

7 What factors influence the success of a presentation?

8 What is the purpose of audiovisual aids in a presentation?

9 Which audiovisual aids have you found to be the most effective and why?

10 Tell us about the most difficult presentation that you have made?

11 To what extent have you used presentation software such as PowerPoint in preparing and presenting presentations?

12 What steps do you take to handle reporters effectively?

2.5.33 PERSONAL QUALITY SITUATIONS

1 You are sitting next to a coworker who is consistently rude to others over the telephone You realize that no one is aware of this How would you handle this situation?

2 You are given a new assignment, but not given any instructions How would you go about completing your assignment?

3 A vital piece of equipment requires repair You are the only mechanic certified to repair the piece of equipment You receive a call that your father is on his way to the hospital What will you do?

4 Your co-worker continually comes over to your desk to complain about management Your supervisor seems to be paying particular attention to the two of you How will you handle this situation?

5 An executive manager has given you an assignment that will require you to work late tonight However, you have dinner and expensive tickets to a show with your spouse tonight What will you do?

6 You’ve prepared a report for the county supervisors All facts have been documented, checked, and double-checked However, one of the supervisors states that the report is wrong and demands that the report be corrected What is your response to the supervisor?

7 A vendor comes in to thank you for assistance in clearing up a past due invoice The vendor offers you two tickets to a ball game What will you do?

8 Your co-worker is consistently unconcerned with issues at work You and your co-worker have a joint assignment, but the co-worker just shrugs you off What steps will you take?

9 As you're walking out of the building, you notice an employee from another section carrying department equipment to their car The equipment is clearly labeled and belongs in your section's work area What will you do?

10 You work on a field crew using heavy equipment After lunch you notice the smell of alcohol on your co-worker's breath How will you handle this situation?

11 One of the members of your team only does what is absolutely necessary at work His performance is impacting the team How might this person's performance affect your work? Would you work overtime to complete a team project?

2.6 PRACTICE INTERVIEW

2.6.1 TEACHER

Practice Interview

1 Why did you choose the teaching profession?

2 Why do you want to teach at our school/district?

Why do you? Research the school and the district

3 One of the goals in our district is to increase parental participation What can you do as a teacher to support this goal?

4 Tell us about your experience with team teaching How would you assess the success of your past experience?

5 An angry parent visits you as the result of a fight between their child and another child on the playground How will you handle the angry parent?

6 Tell us about the most challenging student that you've had in your classroom

7 Tell us about the extent to which you've been able to integrate technology in your lesson plan

8 What is your teaching philosophy?

9 What relationship should a teacher and the principal have in the educational process?

10 In what areas do you see the need for you to improve?

11 What do you do to keep abreast of the changes and innovations in education?

Emphasize your qualifications as they apply to this job Also cover anything you missed from your opening

2.6.2 ACCOUNTANT

1 Take me through your resume

2 If we were to call your current supervisor, in which area of accounting would he or she say is your strongest? Which area would he or she say is your weakest?

3 What unique skills or knowledge can you contribute to our company?

4 What additional training or experience will we need to provide you with in order to perform the duties of this position?

5 Tell me about your experience in reconciliation

6 Give us an example of how you have used your creativity to solve a problem on the job

7 Tell us about any accounting process that you've either developed or revised How would you evaluate the effectiveness of your work?

8 Why have you chosen a career in Accounting?

9 What aspect of accounting do you dislike the most?

If the Accountant position that you are seeking is in audit, don't use audit as the aspect that you dislike the most Choose the aspect of accounting that you dislike the most that is most unrelated

to the job that you are interviewing for

10 What salary are you seeking?

How does your experience and qualifications match up to the job? Do you know how much other companies are paying? Do you have anything to add?

2.6.3 ASSISTANT CLINICAL DIRECTOR

1 How are you qualified for the position of Assistant Clinical Director?

Focus on the aspects of your experience that apply to this position

2 What motivates you?

3 Have you been employed by any company for more than 5 years? If not, why not and do you foresee any difficulties in staying with us for 5 or more years?

4 Tell us about a situation in which you were innovative

5 Give us an example of how you've handled a problem patient

6 How have you contributed toward teamwork in your current job? What has been the impact

of your contribution?

7 Tell us about a significant goal that you've set for yourself in the past and the degree to which you've accomplished that goal

8 What key leadership traits or skills do you possess? How have you demonstrated these traits

or skills in your present position?

9 Tell us about a situation in which you creatively solved a problem

10 What aspect of your communications skills have you improved the most in and how did you accomplish this improvement?

11 Is there anything else that we should know about you?

Summarize by emphasize your qualifications as they apply to this job Also cover anything you missed from your opening

2.6.4 ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY

1 Why are you applying for this position?

2 Do you know how to use macro's in Excel? Give us an example of a macro that you've used

3 If you were asked to create a calendar of projects for each manager in Excel how would you roll up each of the calendars into one main calendar?

4 What do you consider as business casual?

5 What are your technical skills?

6 What level of management are you currently supporting?

7 Where do you see yourself in one, three, and five years from now?

8 What is your experience with meeting planning and calendar maintenance?

9 If I asked you to schedule a meeting and insure that all aspects of the meeting are taken care

of, what will you do?

10 What hours are you currently working?

11 How do you feel about overtime?

12 What else should we know about you?

2.6.5 EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

1 Tell us about yourself

Focus on the aspects of your experience and any formal or on-the-job training that apply to this position

2 Describe a typical workday in your previous position

3 What are your current duties?

4 You've been asked to set up and coordinate a meeting.What actions will you take?

Among other things, the time, place, agenda, and attendees

5 What are your computer skills?

6 How strong are your communication skills?

7 Describe yourself in three words

8 Why do you want to leave your current position?

9 What are your plans for future?

10 Tell me about a project that you have completed in your current job

11 What salary are you looking for?

12 Tell me about your experience in preparing presentations with PowerPoint

13 Tell me about your ability to communicate with different people and departments?

14 We are looking for someone who is willing to “wear many hats” How does this fit with your job search?

15 Do you have anything to add?

16 Emphasize your qualifications as they apply to this job Also cover anything you missed from your opening

2.6.6 PURCHASING MANAGER

1 How does your experience and education qualify you for the position of Director of

Purchasing? Focus on the aspects of your experience that apply to this position

2 What are a supervisor's responsibilities under affirmative action? Set an example, communicate policy, personnel actions based on job-related criteria, promotion, and training

3 What tools/techniques do you use in motivating employees? Two of the steps that you can take are to establish expectations, get employees involved by making them part of the improvement process

4 How would you go about establishing a strategic plan for the organization?

Make the distinction between strategy and tactics Align your plan with the objectives for the overall organization

5 Let's assume you've been hired Your assignment is to maintain or improve current service levels while reducing the budget by 10% What steps will you take?

Be sure to include maintain support for mandatory activities, eliminating unnecessary processes, and prioritizing

6 What aspect of supervision do you find most difficult? Be careful If you have a number of choices to choose from, try not to choose one of the essential tasks of supervision

7 Tell us about your experience in negotiations Use an example that provided a tangible benefit to the organization Tell the interview board about the tangible benefit

8 If you could change one aspect of the purchasing process, what would you change?

Try to pick an aspect that is easily understood Provide a constructive means of changing or improving the process

9 Do you have anything to add?

2.6.6 POLICE OFFICER

1 Tell us about your qualifications for the position of Police Officer

Focus on the requirements of a Police Officer and how you best fit them

2 Why do you want to be a Police Officer?

3 What have you done to prepare yourself for the position of Police Officer?

4 What physical training activities are you currently involved in?

5 What would you do if you witnessed a robbery in progress?

6 Under what circumstances is deadly force justified?

7 You're off duty At a local restaurant the owner recognizes you as a police officer that patrols the neighborhood The owner says, "Good job Keep my restaurant safe ok?", and then writes no charge on your bill What will you do, if anything?

8 What actions would you take as a Police Officer to insure good relations with the citizens in the area that you patrol?

9 Is there anything else we should know about your qualifications to be a Police officer?

2.7 Best Answers to Typical Interview Questions

Are you qualified for this bob?

I'm flattered that you think I'm headhunter bait and will leap to another job when an offer appears Not really This job is so attractive to me that I'm willing to sign a contract committing

to stay for a minimum of 12 months There's no obligation on your part How else can I convince you that I'm the best person for this position?

I'm here because this is a company on the move and I want to move up with you With more than the minimal experience to just skim by, I offer immediate returns on your investment Don't you want a winner with the skill sets and attitudes to do just that?

Why do you want this job?

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

I want this job selling theater tickets because I'd be good at it I'm good at speaking to people and handling cash I would like a job with regular hours and I'm always on time

The work I find most stimulating allows me to use both my creative and research skills The buzz

on this company is that it rewards people who deliver solutions to substantial problems

Why were you fired?

My competencies were not the right match for my previous employer's needs but it looks like they'd be a good fit in your organization In addition to marketing and advertising, would skills in promotion be used here?

Although circumstances caused me to leave my first job, I was very successful in school and got along well with both students and faculty Perhaps I didn't fully understand my boss's expectations or why he released me so quickly before I had a chance to prove myself

The job wasn't working out so my boss and I agreed that it was time for me to move on to a position that would show a better return for both of us So here I am, ready to work

After thinking about why I left, I realize I should have done some things differently That job was

a learning experience and I think I'm wiser now I'd like the chance to prove that to you

Are you willing to travel?

When you are asked about your willingness to travel during an interview, be honest There's no point in saying "yes" if you would prefer to be home five nights a week

It is perfectly acceptable to ask how much travel is involved That way, you can weigh how much you would need to be on the road and make an educated decision as to whether the amount of travel required fits in with your lifestyle

What's most important is to get a good understanding of what's involved before you are offered the job, rather than being (unpleasantly) surprised after you have already been hired

Describe a typical work week.

Interviewers expect a candidate for employment to discuss what they do while they are working

in detail Before you answer, consider the position you are applying for and how your current or past positions relate to it The more you can connect your past experience with the job opening, the more successful you will be at answering the questions

It should be obvious that it's not a good idea talk about non-work related activities that you do on company time, but, I've had applicants tell me how they are often late because they have to drive

a child to school or like to take a long lunch break to work at the gym

Keep your answers focused on work and show the interviewer that you're organized ("The first thing I do on Monday morning is check my voicemail and email, then I prioritize my activities for the week.") and efficient

How do you handle pressure?

Stress is very important to me With stress, I do the best possible job The appropriate way to deal with stress is to make sure I have the correct balance between good stress and bad stress I need good stress to stay motivated and productive

I react to situations, rather than to stress That way, the situation is handled and doesn't become stressful

I actually work better under pressure and I've found that I enjoy working in a challenging environment

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

Prioritizing my responsibilities so I have a clear idea of what needs to be done when, has helped

me effectively manage pressure on the job

If the people I am managing are contributing to my stress level, I discuss options for better handling difficult situations with them

How will you achieve your goals?

I plan on gaining additional skills by taking related classes and continuing my involvement with a variety of professional associations

I noticed that XYZ company (the company you are interviewing with) provides in-house training for employees and I would certainly be interested in taking classes that would be relevant

I will continue my professional development my participating in conferences, attending seminars, and continuing my education

What are your goals for the future? or Where do you see yourself in five years?

My long-term goals involve growing with a company where I can continue to learn, take on additional responsibilities, and contribute as much of value as I can

I see myself as a top performing employee in a well-established organization, like this one I plan

on enhancing my skills and continuing my involvement in (related) professional associations Once I gain additional experience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management

What motivates you?

I was responsible for several projects where I directed development teams and implemented repeatable processes The teams achieved 100% on-time delivery of software products I was motivated both by the challenge of finishing the projects ahead of schedule and by managing the teams that achieved our goals

I've always been motivated by the desire to do a good job at whatever position I'm in

want to excel and to be successful in my job, both for my own personal satisfaction and for my employer

I have always wanted to ensure that my company's clients get the best customer service I can provide I've always felt that it's important, both to me personally, and for the company and the clients, to provide a positive customer experience

I have spent my career in sales, typically in commission-based positions, and compensation has always been a strong factor in motivating me to be the top salesperson at my prior employers

2.8 Some General Job Interview Tips

• Do not smoke, chew gum, or eat garlic beforehand

• Wear suitable interview clothes

• Take copies of your CV with you

• Arrive on time for your job interview

• Any applications handed before the interview begins, are to be filled in as accurately as possible, make sure they match the information in your Cv and Cover Letter

• Always greet the interviewer by his/her last name and try to pronounce it correctly

• Have a good firm handshake

• Look alert and interested Scan the room once and then keep your eyes on the interviewer

• Wait until you are offered a chair before you sit down

• Stress your achievements

• Always conduct yourself professionally and if something beyond your control occurs, show a sense of humor

• Be enthusiastic and show it in your replies and body language

• Answer the interview question by more than a simple yes or no but try not to go over the 60 second limit

• Avoid at all cost complaining about your current or former employer in your job interview

• Do not answer questions about politics or religion if the job is completely unrelated

• Do not raise salary discussions on your first interview - this is usually done on the second interview Make sure you do your wage research before hand

Your answer to the initial opening statements in the job interview are important, these are called

"ice breakers"