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Thursday 6 December 2012

How to answer interview questions part-8


Question 61
Looking back on your last position, have you done your best work?
TRAPS: Tricky question. Answer "absolutely" and it can seem like your best work is behind you. Answer, "no, my best work is ahead of me," and it can seem as if you didn't give it your all.
BEST ANSWER: To cover both possible paths this question can take, your answer should state that you always try to do your best, and the best of your career is right now. Like an athlete at the top of his game, you are just hitting your career stride thanks to several factors. Then, recap those factors, highlighting your strongest qualifications.
Question 62
Why should I hire you from the outside when I could promote someone from within?
TRAPS: This question isn't as aggressive as it sounds. It represents the interviewer's own dilemma over this common problem. He's probably leaning toward you already and for reassurance, wants to hear what you have to say on the matter. BEST ANSWER: Help him see the qualifications that only you can offer.
Example: "In general, I think it's a good policy to hire from within - to look outside probably means you're not completely comfortable choosing someone from inside.
"Naturally, you want this department to be as strong as it possibly can be, so you want the strongest candidate. I feel that I can fill that bill because…(then recap your strongest qualifications that match up with his greatest needs)."

Question 63
Tell me something negative you've heard about our company…
TRAPS: This is a common fishing expedition to see what the industry grapevine may be saying about the company. But it's also a trap because as an outsider, you never want to be the bearer of unflattering news or gossip about the firm. It can only hurt your chances and sidetrack the interviewer from getting sold on you.
BEST ANSWER: Just remember the rule - never be negative - and you'll handle this one just fine.

Question 64
On a scale of one to ten, rate me as an interviewer.
TRAPS: Give a perfect "10," and you'll seem too easy to please. Give anything less than a perfect 10, and he could press you as to where you're being critical, and that road leads downhill for you.
BEST ANSWER: Once again, never be negative. The interviewer will only resent criticism coming from you. This is the time to show your positivism.
However, don't give a numerical rating. Simply praise whatever interview style he's been using.
If he's been tough, say "You have been thorough and tough-minded, the very qualities needed to conduct a good interview." If he's been methodical, say, "You have been very methodical and analytical, and I'm sure that approach results in excellent hires for your firm."
In other words, pay him a sincere compliment that he can believe because it's anchored in the behavior you've just seen.

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