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Successful Interview Strategies
Preparation is Key
1. Research the company. Learn as much as you can about the company, its history, its products or services, its current business condition and future outlook. Resources to consult include:
- Company's website (about us, management, mission & values, history, news, products, careers, etc.)
- Financial reports, annual reports and SEC filings (sec.gov/edgar)
- Business websites (Fortune.com, money.cnn.com, google.com, hoovers.com, etc.)
2. Research the position. Do you understand the position, responsibilities and expectations? Develop a list of thoughtful questions that will help you see the big picture and map out the path for growth. (See below for examples.) 3. Fully understand what you will bring to this position. Review your career history carefully. Be prepared to discuss dates of employment, companies, positions, responsibilities and selected achievements. Review your strengths and weaknesses. Review specific accomplishments and how you believe your experience will help the company achieve its goals.
Responding to Challenging Questions
Often managers ask questions to determine how you will react under pressure. Considering the different types of questions you may be asked during the interview will give you an edge and the ability to answer these questions confidently. Prior to your interview, please review the following list of typical interview and behavioral questions. If you are interested in discussing appropriate responses, please contact your Career Services Consultant. We are happy to assist in your preparation.
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. What do you know about our company?
3. Why are you leaving your current position?
4. What can you do for us that someone else cannot do?
5. What are your long-term objectives? Short-term?
6. How do you adjust to working under pressure?
7. How would you describe your management style?
8. What kind of salary are you worth and why?
9. What is your biggest weakness?
10. What mistakes have you made in your career?
11. How soon could you make a contribution to our company?
12. How long will you stay with us?
13. If you could start your career again, what would you do differently?
14. What do you hope to achieve in your career?
15. How do you rate yourself as an employee? As a manager?
16. What goals have you recently set for yourself?
17. Describe your most unpleasant boss.
18. How do you define success?
19. What is the most challenging situation you have faced in your professional life?
20. How would you describe your own personality?
Thoughtful Questions to Ask During the Interview If you are curious about a particular aspect of the company or position that is not addressed below, contact your Career Services Consultant at The Accuro Group. We are happy assist you in developing appropriate questions or will secure the information you need to feel most comfortable. 1. What do you feel is the highest priority for the first year in this position? 2. What are some of your companyÍs growth objectives over the few years? What is the companyÍs strategy for achieving these objectives? 3. What are some of the traits of your top employees? What characteristics do you consider as a match for this position? 4. What is your background? What has made you successful at this company? 5. What is the next step in this interview process?
Special Assistance
For additional information or special assistance, please contact one of our Career Services Experts at 919.851.9880. We are happy to help you! |
