By Sean McCaffrey
So, you have successfully made it to the interview, and you want to make certain you avoid drawing a blank while answering the interviewer! Here are a few sample interview answers you can put into use in order to make a good impression. However, preparation is critical to making that "good impression". Practicing these sample interview answers for the big event becomes the key strategy.
Frequently, a first question is something like, "Tell me about yourself."
This offers the perfect opening for you to highlight relevant education and specific work experience. Weaving in community activities you participant in is also a good idea. That is, as long as the activities are germane to the job or company.
As an example, if you interview for a position in sales, your response might be something like, "After I graduated from (insert alma mater), I invested 14 years in sales and marketing where I have had great success in (insert the industries/companies here). I have enjoyed the business and company a great deal, including success in a number of areas (insert specific accomplishments here); this position is compelling for (insert reasons for competing for this job.)
The next question is often something similar to, "Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?"
The interviewer is listening for stability in your future. And, they are curious if you may fit into longer term company plans. Your response to include you must be convincing them that long term; this is the idyllic position to meet your career objectives.
All interviewers ask something to the along the lines of, "Give me three of your strengths and three of your weaknesses"
Everyone has weaknesses. By claiming to not have any, you are being dishonest and the interviewer will conclude you are not a good fit for the position or the company. Good sample interview answers to this question include using a positive attribute, and admitting when it can be a bit overboard. For instance, "As a high achiever, I find that I sometimes take on too many assignments. While all of them get finished, I can struggle with finding balance in other parts of my life."
Avoid making a list when identifying strengths. Instead, incorporate actual examples of how these attributes have been beneficial to friends, colleagues, and especially previous employers.
Without a doubt, previous employment questions, such as "Why did you leave your last employer?" will come up.
Obviously these sample interview answers cannot possibly cover every response; however, a good place to start is with the truth, without being judgmental, pointing fingers, or naming names. And always end with a positive anecdote related to your work performance, skills, or the value you add to a company. For example, "My company experienced the effects of this economy and was forced to reduce its overhead. I was one of the casualties of this cost cutting move. Yet I am confident that my job performance was not a factor. In fact, I have brought with me a couple of references from my supervisor and office lead".
Finally, as a last question you will be asked something like, "Why should we hire you?"
This is your opportunity to shine. Using all the information you learned during the interview about the company and this position, what skills and experience they are looking for and management style to restate how your talents, education, personal skills and experience are relevant to the position. Explain confidently how you would be both a great fit and a great asset to the organization.
Practice variations to these sample interview answers. The goal is to come across prepared, but not scripted. The practice will increase your confidence which will be evident to the interviewer.
Employment Coach Sean McCaffrey invites you to receive his FREE information packed CD "Six Amazing Secrets Job Seekers Need to Know Before Writing Your Resume!" at [http://seanmccaffrey.com/] and for more information on Sample Interview Answers go to http://seanmccaffrey.com/sample-interview-answers/
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Sean_McCaffrey/418638
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