Interview Questions

Narasimha

Interview Questions

1. Tell me about yourself. Use “Picture Frame Approach” Answer in about two minutes. Avoid details, don’t ramble. Touch on these four areas: • • • •

How many years, doing what function Education – credentials Major responsibility and accomplishments Personal summary of work style (plus career goals if applicable)

Prepare in advance using this formula: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

“My name is…” “I’ve worked for X years as a [title]” “Currently, I’m a [title] at [company]” “Before that, I was a [title] at [company]” “I love the challenge of my work, especially the major strengths it allows me to offer, including [A, B, and C]”. Second, help the interviewer by focusing the question with a question of your own: “What about me would be most relevant to you and what this company needs?”

2. Did you bring your resume? Yes. Be prepared with two or three extra copies. Do not offer them unless you’re asked for one.

3. What do you know about our organization? Research the target company before the interview. Basic research is the only way to prepare for this question. Do your homework, and you’ll score big on this question. Talk about products, services, history and people, especially any friends that work there. “But I would love to know more, particularly from your point of view. Do we have time to cover that now?

4. What experience do you have? Pre-interview research and PPR Career will help you here. Try to cite experience relevant to the company’s concerns. Also, try answering this questions with a question: “Are you looking for overall experience or experience in some specific area of special interest to you?” Let the interviewer’s response guide your answer. 5.

According to your definition of success, how successful have you been so far?

(Is this person mature and self aware?) Be prepared to define success, and then respond (consistent record of responsibility)

6. In your current or last position, what were your most significant accomplishments? In your career so far? Give one or two accomplishment statements

7. Had you thought of leaving your present position before? If yes, what do you think held you there? Refer to positive aspects of the job, advancement opportunities, and what you learned.

8. Would you describe a few situations in which your work was criticized?

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Interview Questions

Give only one, and tell how you have corrected or plan to correct your work.

9. If I spoke with your previous boss, what would he or she say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Be consistent with what you think the boss would say. Position the weakness in a positive way (refer to #12)

10. How would you describe your personality? Keep your answer short and relevant to the job and the organization’s culture.

11. What are your strong points? Present three. Relate them to that particular company and job opening.

12. What are your weak points? Don’t say you have one, but give one that is really a “positive in disguise.” I am sometimes impatient and do to much work myself when we are working against tight deadlines.” Or “I compliment and praise my staff, but feel I can improve.”

13. How did you do in school? (Is the person motivated? What are his/her values, attitudes? Is there a fit?) Emphasize your best and favorite subjects. If grades were average, talk about leadership or jobs you took to finance your education. Talk about extra-curricular activities (clubs, sports, volunteer work)

14. In your current or last position, what features did you like most? Least? Refer to your satisfiers for likes. Be careful with dislikes, give only one (if any) and make it brief. Refuse to answer negatively. Respond that you “like everything about my current position and have acquired and developed a great many skills, but I’m now ready for a new set of challenges and greater responsibilities.”

15. What do you look for in a job? Flip this one over. Despite the question, the employer isn’t really interested in what you are looking for. He’s interested in what he is looking for. Address his interests, rather than yours. Use words like “contribute,” “enhance,” “improve,” and “team environment.” Fit your answer to their needs Relate your preferences and satisfiers/dissatisfiers to the job opening.

16. How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our firm? “Not long, because of my experience, transferable skills and ability to learn.”

17. How long would you stay with us? “As long as I feel that I’m contributing, and that my contribution is recognized. I’m looking to make a long term commitment.”

18. If you have never supervised, how do you feel about assuming those responsibilities? If you want to supervise, say so, and be enthusiastic.

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Interview Questions

19. Why do you want to become a supervisor? “To grow and develop professionally, to help others develop, to build a team and to share what I have learned.”

20. What do you see as the most difficult task in being a supervisor? “Getting things planned and done through others and dealing with different personalities.” Show how you have done this in the past.

21. You’ve been with your current employer quite a while. Why haven’t you advanced with him? Let’s assume the interviewer has a point here. That doesn’t mean you have to agree with the negative terms of the question. Answer: “What I like about my present position is that it’s both stable and challenging. But it’s true that I’ve grown about as much as I can in my current position. (This response also turns the issue of salary on its head, transforming it from What more can I get? to What more can I offer?)

22. Why are you leaving your present position? Never answer with negative reasons, even if they are true. However, some companies have financial problems which may preclude you from staying with them. Frame your answer positively by answering why you want to move to the target company instead of why you left or want to leave your most recent job. For example, instead of answering, “I don’t get enough challenges at [company],” respond, “I am eager to take on more challenges, and I believe I will find them at [hiring company]. ”I’m not unhappy (at my present employer). However, this opportunity seems to be particularly interesting and I am interested in pursuing it further. Never personalize or be negative. Keep it short, give a “group” answer (e.g. our office is closing, the whole organization is being reduced in size). Stick to one response; don’t change answers during the interview. When applicable; best response is: I was not on the market when PPR Career contacted me and explained what you are doing, it peaked my interest.

23. Describe what would be an ideal working environment? Team work is the key.

24. How would you evaluate your present firm? Be positive. Refer to the valuable experience you have gained. Don’t mention negatives.

25. Do you prefer working with figures, or with words? Be aware of what the job requires and position your answer in that context. In many cases it would be both.

26. What kinds of people do you find difficult to work with? Use this question as a chance to show that you are a team player: “The only people I have trouble with are those who aren’t team players, who just don’t perform, who complain constantly, and who fail to respond to any efforts to motivate them.” The interviewer is expecting a response focused on personality and personal dislikes. Surprise her by delivering an answer that reflects company values.

27. How would your co-workers describe you? Refer to your strengths and skills.

28. What do you think of your boss?

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If you like him or her, say so and tell why. If you don’t like him or her, find something positive to say.

29. Why do you want to work in a company of this size. Or this type? Explain how this size or type of company works well for you, using examples from the past if possible.

30. If you had your choice of jobs and companies, where would you go? Refer to job preferences. Say that this job and this company are very close to what best suits you.

31. Why do you want to work for us? You feel you can help achieve the companies objectives, especially in the short run. You like what you’ve learned about the company, its policies, goals and management: “I’ve researched the company and people tell me it’s a good place to work.”

32. What was the last book you read? Movie you saw? Sporting event you attended? Think this through. Your answer should be compatible with accepted norms.

33. What are you doing, or what have you done to reach your career objectives? Talk about formal courses and training programs.

34. What was wrong with your last company? Again, choose your words carefully. Don’t be negative. Say that no company is perfect, it had both strengths and weaknesses.

35. What kind of hours are you used to working? (Does the person match job and criteria?) “As many hours as it takes to get the job done.”

36. What would you do for us? Relate past success in accomplishing the objectives which are similar to those of the prospective employer.

37. What has your experience been in supervising people? Give examples from accomplishments.

38. Are you a good supervisor? Draw from your successes. Yes, my people like and respect me personally and professionally. They often comment on how much they learn and develop under my supervision.

39. Did you ever fire anyone? If so, what were the reasons and how did you handle it? If you haven’t, say so, but add that you could do it, if necessary.

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Interview Questions

40. How have you helped your company? Refer to accomplishments.

41. What is the most money you ever accounted for? Largest budget responsibility? Refer to accomplishments. If you haven’t had budget responsibility, say so, but refer to an accomplishment that demonstrates the same skill. 42. What’s the most difficult situation you ever faced on the job? Remember, you’re talking to a prospective employer, not your best friend. Don’t dredge up a catastrophe that resulted in a personal or corporate failure. Be ready for this question by thinking of a story that has a happy ending – happy for you and your company. Never digress into personal or family difficulties, and don’t talk about problems you’ve had with supervisors or peers. You might discuss a difficult situation with a subordinate, provided that the issues were resolved inventively and to everyone’s satisfaction.

43. Describe some situations in which you have worked under pressure or met deadlines? Refer to accomplishments. Everyone has had a few of these pressure situations in a career. Behavior-related questions aim at assessing a candidate’s character, attitude, and personality traits by asking for an account of how the candidate handled certain challenging situations. Plan for such questions by making a list of the desirable traits relevant to the needs of the industry or prospective employer and by preparing some job-related stories about your experience that demonstrate a range of those traits and habits of conduct. Before answering the questions, listen carefully and ask any clarifying questions you think necessary. Tell your story and conclude by explaining what you intended your story to illustrate. Finally, ask for feedback: “Does this tell you what you need to know?”

44. How do you handle rejection? Rejection is part of business. People don’t always buy what you sell. The tick here is to separate rejection of your product from rejection of yourself: “I see rejection as an opportunity. I learn from it. When a customer takes a pass, I ask him what we could do to the product, price or service to make it possible for him to say yes. Don’t get me wrong: You’ve got to makes sales. But rejection is valuable, too. It’s a good teacher.”

45. In your present position, what problems have you identified that had previously been overlooked? Refer to accomplishments

46. Give an example of your creativity. Refer to accomplishments.

47. Give examples of your leadership abilities. Draw examples from accomplishments.

48. What are your career goals? Talk first about doing the job for which you are applying. Your career goals should mesh with the hiring company goals.

49. What position do you expect to have in two years?

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Interview Questions

Just say you wish to exceed objectives so well that you will be on a promotable track.

50. What are your objectives? (How does the person handle stress? What is their confidence level?) Refer back to question #48 on goals.

51. Why should we hire you? This may sound suspicious, negative, or just plain harsh. Actually, it’s a call for help. The employer wants you to help him/her hire you. Keep your response brief. Recap any job requirements the interviewer may have mentioned earlier in the interview, then, point by point, match your skills, abilities and qualifications to those items. Relate a past experience which represents success in achieving objectives which may be similar to those of the prospective employer.

52. You may be over-qualified or too experienced for the position we have to offer. “A strong company needs a strong person.” An employer will get faster return on investment because you have more experience than required.

53. Why haven’t you found a new position before now? “Finding the right job takes time. I’m not looking for just any job.”

54. If you could start again, what would you do differently? No need to be self-revealing. “Hindsight is 20/20; everyone would make some changes, but I’ve learned and grown from all my decisions.”

55. How much do you expect if we offer this position to you? Be careful. If you don’t know the market value, return the question by saying that you would expect a fair salary based on the job responsibilities, your experience and skills and the market value of the job. Express your interest in the job because it fits your career goals – Receptive to a reasonable and competitive offer – don’t talk $’s. It’s always best to put off discussing salary and let PPR Career handle that. ANSWER: I’m open to a competitive offer. I’d prefer to discuss the opportunity and allow my recruiter to handle any salary questions. Most frequently asked Interview Questions •

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Why have you selected to join us? I always longed to work with a company. I am familiar and whose products I have used and trusted. (Narrate briefly how you can prove your statement. Do good research on the company before facing the interview) Where do you want to be in 5 years? I would like to be frank. Judge me from the work and I am sure you will put me right where I want to be. Note : Do not over ambitious and speak in a way that you are not satisfied with your current job which you have applied for. Describe your ideal career? Talk of what you enjoy most your skills and natural talents. Do not specify your goal and any job title. Tell me something about yourself Do not just repeat what you have given in your resume. Be ready with the answer, a talent or something you did out of the ordinary. You can sound it as unique or give it a touch of your personality.

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Interview Questions

How did you apply for the job? Be specific and give a straight answer of how you came to know about the vacancy. If it was advertised specify how you came across it. Why do you want to work here? Have a research done about the company / organization Give just one or two reasons why you are interested. You can add these points (1) company's reputation(2) desire to join the specific field of interest. Don't you think that you are over qualified for this job? (This question is put to you to puzzle a candidate. Be calm and answer the question with a positive and confident approach) Answer in the negative My experience and qualification will just help me to do the job better. Moreover I am at establishing a long term relationship which my qualification will favor me to handle more responsibilities and help me to rise to your expectations. What competition do you see if you take up this job? When you answer, clearly show that you have researched carefully and acquired more in-depth knowledge about the company. Enumerate some positive and negative traits of the company and their competitions. Feel confident to show that competition is not an unexpected one. What would you do if our competitor offer you a job? Show your confidence in the company's worth, stress the point 'I would say No' by pointing out some qualities you found out in your research about the company. Why are you leaving your current job? You should give two or three reasons for leaving. Lack of challenge, focus on the limitations etc. Point out your ambition to prove your worth confidently. What salary do you expect? (This is a tricky question to be answered carefully. Interviewers often accept people with realistic financial goals.) If you mention a salary that is low it shows that you are not up to the mark. If you mention too high you have ruined a chance to get a job. So the best is to ask for the salary they offer and then show your capacity, how your experience and qualification rate with what is offered. What interests you most about the job? (Show how you believe that you are most suited to the post. If you can find out an earlier experience it would be fine.) If you have experience, you can quote some similarities from the past and how you achieved success. What is your dream job? Make the question a chance to display your aptitude that fits the job you have applied for. Display how your skills can be put into suite the challenges and modern trends. Why should we take you? This is often the concluding Question( Some tips to the answer) Don'ts : Do not repeat your resume Do not enumerate your experience Do's: Prove Your interest Be positive in your answer Be prepared with confidence in what you are going to say Make sure the answer comes from the bottom of your heart. If you have unlimited time and financial resources how would you spend them Even though it is tempting to discuss thing you would do for fun, answer these questions with strict coherence with the job you have applied for. Egg: If you are into teaching, touch on your interest in adult literary programmers and other teaching oriented aspects. How is your experience relevant to this job? Sketch out some similar work which you have done in your previous job. It should be something justifiable by you, even though others may think differently. You can even ask some question where you can prove that your experience stands in good strand. How could you enrich your current job? Design your answer to show that you are still interested in the job and you point out a few instances

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Interview Questions

where improvements can be made. Convince the person that you can be relied on and you will not get bored with what you do with time. How many days where you absent from work? Give a solid attendance record. But at the same time show you were not responsible . Convince that you are willing to take up responsibility. Egg: I was absent 7 days. 4 days due to conjunctivitis and one day due to the death of a close relative and 2 days had to accompany my parents for their check up. Tell me about a time you had to deal with an irritate customer, how did you handle the solution? The question is aimed at you to hear from yourself how you handle people when others loose their temper. Here the best answer you can give to describe a situation and show how you handled it with maturity and diplomacy. How do you manage stress in your daily work? You can describe a situation of how you had managed stress in your previous work if you had one or narrate how you can find time in your busy schedule to relax a bit. Describe a professional skill you have developed in you? It will be better if you be specific with your answer. Narrate some thing you worked for to fulfill your work more efficiently. Describe how you attended a seminar and brought about the changed in your work. How do you manage your work to meet dead lines Answer the question effectively . Describe in detail how your plan out, set priorities, determine schedules, how you follow out to see the progress and meet the dead line. What books you read? Do not ever say you have read a book which you have not. Here your suggestion can lead the interviewer to know your taste and interest. It can also hint on how you take your profession. What are the most rewarding aspect of you most recent job? The best way to answer it is to focus in what you do efficiently, keep in mind the position you are applying for. What aspects of this job do you feel most confident? Narrate what you are good and match it with the present job requirements. You may ask questions to clear if that particular skill will add benefit to the company What can motivate you? The Interview expects an answer to know you better .Keep in tune with your job and work you have applied for. Do not beat around the bush. Whom do you choose as your reference and why? Name the references and how you know them. You can also show that you are a person who care for relationships and how you stand in good stead with them. Can we call all your references? If you have given your present boss as your reference you can tell that you prefer to call your current boss only after you receive a confirmed offer as he may not like you changing the job. Do you have any questions? Be prepared to answer this question in advance. List out a few questions you wish to know more about. After you have faced the interview your logic will guide you to ask the question you really want to know more about. How do you handle criticism Here the interview is on the look out for your accountability and professional character. Simply explain a situation that caused a problem and narrate how you faced it and overcame it. Tell me about a situation that upset you at work Her the interview is trying to find out how you deal with pressure. Be diplomatic and objective with your answer. Prepare the answer so that the answer comes as a smooth reassurance Have you ever been fired? If the answer is negative, the answer is simple. But if you have been fired, you need to be prepared to the answer the follow up questions that my come up. If the termination was for reason beyond your control narrate it. If not do not try justifying yourself. If you had a fault, admit it and convince the interview that you have corrected it. Do you change your job frequently? Be honest and if you had changed the jobs frequently there could be ample reasons to do so. Put them up as contracts that expired at the stipulated time.

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Be convincing when you say that you long to have a steady and long lasting relationship with the present job you are applying for. What is the toughest job you had? Avoid making any negative statements especially about your previous employer. Change the question with a positive outlook and answer it with a satisfied remark of your outcome. How do you handle tension? Answer with ease that in any job and any situation that tension is a part of it. Relax before putting the f act you are very used to such type of works. What is your current salary? Do not bluff. Be specific on the answer. Do not hesitate to say the benefits you enjoyed in the previous job. It may be verified so never mention the benefits you have not got. Will you be willing to accept transfer? Tell you preference but do not specify that you will be not willing to work else where. What is your weakness? Turn the question to a positive one. Simply say that you are a perfectionist and your commitment to output of high quality perfect work. Say this is your weakness. How did you get your last job? A polished answer is what is expected. Frame the answer in such a way that it shows how you had planned to get the job. Make sure it was not by happenstance. What was your position in your last employment? Provide a consistent answer. Precision will help you from answering the questions which will follow from ambiguous answers. What is the reason for you leaving your last job? Answer the question with confidence. Do not give a selfish answer. Frame the answer in a broader way. Do not point out short comings of the company. How did you hear about this position? Be honest with the answer. This will help you from complicating the interview by giving a wrong answer later. Have you received any other job offers? A positive answer can show that you are efficient. A positive answer should be true as it may be verified. What do you do with your spare time? The interviewer is looking for some insight into your personality by asking the question. If you say something be ready to answer more question on the topic. What is your current salary? Answer carefully. If you have filled up a form they would already know it. Have you been denied a salary increase? A positive answer shows that you are a person with a problem. Have you had a pay cut? A detailed explanation is needed it you agree you have had one. Be prepared for the follow up questions .A negative answer is the best. Have you been asked to resign? Prepare in advance how to answer the question if the answer is yes. Disclose the circumstances objectively. Has your work been criticized? This question asked by an experienced interviewer can give an insight into your ability to communicate, your tolerance to take criticism, and the environment you have been working. The ideal way is to describe a situation that shows your work was criticized, but portray them as being borne out by situation itself. We find gaps in your resume. What were you doing this time? You should be prepared to answer the question before hand. Make your answer crisp, brief and focused on the point and but do not be defensive. Do you have any objection to psychological testing? You can answer that you have no objection to being tested. The interviewer is probably just trying to find out if you have any problems.

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Interview Questions

Can we contact your references? Be sure that the references you give are people who will stand strong in your favour. You can therefore answer in the affirmative. Are you looking for a temporary or a permanent job? Prepare your answer carefully before hand because it offers your potential employer a clear chance to judge you by the statement you make. How long have you been without work? Answer the question with a convincing tone with a positive touch. If possible narrate why you were unable to work. What career option do you have at the moment? Be specific with your answer. If you are answering to a human resource consultant you may quote your interest if not stick on to what you have applied for because the person may lose interest in you if you divert from the present context. What do you look in your job? Whatever you say add that I am looking for a job where I can make meaningful contributions and grow professionally. Describe a major goal you have set for yourself? Plan the answer carefully. Select a concrete project either professional or personal. It can be concerned with education or some personal development programme. How do you feel about your career progress so far? Be frank with the answer. Keep it so straight forward that it becomes the answer to demonstrate satisfaction to a point which is the reason for deciding to move in the particular direction now. How do you define success? This is a question which should be answered in a way to impress the interviewer. Example; I define success as being able to financially provide for my family while performing work that is tied to the success of the organization that employ me. What personal trait is needed to be a success in this job? Some of the qualities that are to be included as you answer the question are Persistence, Work Ethics, Loyalty, Truthfulness and Insatiable Curiosity. Be ready for the follow up questions by preparing some instances where these qualities were put to use. What are your long range goals? Aim for the top and express it politely. Do not forget to be practical and realistic. What will you do if this job is not offered to you? Show your disappointment. Simply express how you have a lot to loose . If you could start your career again what changes will you prefer? This is a tricky question .Be careful with your answer. Just point out how you could have improved your career rather than go for a change in career. What do you know about the position you are applying? Do a lot of ground work before you attend the interview. This will help you to answer the question with precision. What is your learning style? Even though it may look to be a silly question if asked a definite answer should be given .The question can be made use to project your systematic nature. How do you keep update with the latest trends in your job? This is a question which throws light on your personality. It should be answered with accuracy. Include the latest techniques available like the Internet. Why did you choose the subject? A simple question but it will show how you determined your career and what aspects made you choose the career that you are pursuing. Have you worked for a difficult person? This question is aimed at you to show how you handle work pressure and how you will satisfy tense situations as and when they arise. How much time do you spend for your hobby? A question to be answered in a creative and subtle way that the time you spend will not interfere with the working span. What mode of communication do you prefer? In the present situation most of the big companies are with their communication on line. Answer the

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question considering the level to which you have applied for. Do not hesitate to say you are well versed in all modes Do you plan and organize before you start a work? This question is aimed at you to show how systematically you plan and proceed with your projects. If you have experience give a systematic answer. Do not beat around the bush as they are looking for a concrete stuff in your answer. How were you evaluated in your last job? Be brief and honest. Clarify the evaluation with a system. What are things that you find difficult to do? The question is asked to make you answer the thing you do not like to do. Remember to have a piratical touch in your answers. What is your relationship with your former employer? It is a question aimed at to know you better. The answer will throw light on how you were in the last work place. Describe a situation where you could not attain your goal? Be ready with the answer before hand or you may land in trouble. Choose one and give correct details Can you work overtime? Do not be intimidated. Agree if you are willing but clarify the details before making commitments. Do you have any questions? Be casual and clear all the doubts you have. Do not try out any question that will bring forth any questions back to you. Have you had difficulty getting along with others? Give a reply in the negative and bring forth the idea that you are easy to get along with others. What can you do for us that others cannot? This is a question that can be answered to bring out your talents and to prove that you are efficient and dynamic. What reservations do you have about working here? Do not have any negative at the moment to pint out. Answer the question with a positive statement. Point out the organization as one where you really wanted to belong and work. Why do you want to work here with us? Do a deep study about the organization and have a list of merits ready so that you will be able to give a steady and easy answer. This job requires long hours will it be a problem for your spouse /children? Frame the answer in such a way that you give equal importance to your work and family. You should be able to prove your credibility. Do your spouse work? The question gives an insight if you are the only bread earner of the family. If the answer is yes there will be follow up questions as to who takes care of the children and the rest. Whom should we notify in case of an emergency? The question gives a clear insight on whom you depend and trust .It is almost as equal as giving a reference. Are you in the habit of changing your jobs frequently? Answer the question with the resume you have given .If it shows many places worked give a reply that you wish to stick to the present job applied for. What do your parents do? The question is asked to understand the background of the applicant. If a parent has a positive tie- in to the organization /industry that you are seeing, employment you may mention this. Are you a religious person? An odd question but if the organization is run by religious institutions your answer in the positive will have real good effects. What organizations do you belong to ? You may list the various organization in which you are a member. Make sure you do not list any organization that can bring negative impact. How old are you? Just a question asked to remind you that you are too old for the job or too young for the job. Be aware and answer the question with accuracy.

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Interview Questions

How flexible are you ? Be brief, direct and focused with the answer. Prepare the answer and keep it ready. How do you deal with change? The ideal answer is to give an idea that you can accept any change as long as it is for the good. The answer also throw light on the personality. It also reflects how dynamic you are. Do you think you are too young for this post? Convince the maturity that you have will stand in good stead than the years of experience. Will you be willing to start at a lower salary because of your inexperience? Deal with the question by emphasizing the fact that inexperience will not come in the way of doing the work efficiently. Have many justifications to prove it. Do you have any disability? This is a broad question to be answered carefully. If you have any, disclose them. How long have you been disabled? A follow up question of the previous one that can be supported with documents. Have you filed a compensation claim with any company you worked for? If the answer is yes it is better to say that you do not wish to answer the question and end at it. There is no law that prevents one from getting a job because of prior workers compensation claim. Have you been a target of sexual harassment? Have you filed a complaint? This question is raised to determine your proclivity to take legal action at work place. Be open and express yourself freely as the question came from them and it was not you who initiated it. Have you ever been arrested? The question can be answered negative unless you were arrested and proved guilty by a court of law. This is because a person who is arrested is innocent until proven guilty. Has any court found you guilty? This question is asked to clear and clarify if any criminal record is present. Why have you selected to join us? I always longed to work with a company. I am familiar and whose products I have used and trusted. (Narrate briefly how you can prove your statement. Do good research on the company before facing the interview) Where do you want to be in 5 years? I would like to be frank. Judge me from the work and I am sure you will put me right where I want to be. Note : Do not over ambitious and speak in a way that you are not satisfied with your current job which you have applied for. Describe your ideal career? Talk of what you enjoy most your skills and natural talents. Do not specify your goal and any job title. Tell me something about yourself Do not just repeat what you have given in your resume. Be ready with the answer, a talent or something you did out of the ordinary. You can sound it as unique or give it a touch of your personality. How did you apply for the job? Be specific and give a straight answer of how you came to know about the vacancy. If it was advertised specify how you came across it. Why do you want to work here? Have a research done about the company / organization Give just one or two reasons why you are interested. You can add these points (1) company's reputation(2) desire to join the specific field of interest. Don't you think that you are over qualified for this job? (This question is put to you to puzzle a candidate. Be calm and answer the question with a positive and confident approach) Answer in the negative My experience and qualification will just help me to do the job better. Moreover I am at establishing a long term relationship which my qualification will favor me to handle more responsibilities and help me to rise to your expectations. What competition do you see if you take up this job? When you answer, clearly show that you have researched carefully and acquired more in-depth knowledge about the company. Enumerate some positive and negative traits of the company and their competitions. Feel confident to show that competition is not an unexpected one.

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Interview Questions

What would you do if our competitor offer you a job? Show your confidence in the company's worth, stress the point 'I would say No' by pointing out some qualities you found out in your research about the company. Why are you leaving your current job? You should give two or three reasons for leaving. Lack of challenge, focus on the limitations etc. Point out your ambition to prove your worth confidently. What salary do you expect? (This is a tricky question to be answered carefully. Interviewers often accept people with realistic financial goals.) If you mention a salary that is low it shows that you are not up to the mark. If you mention too high you have ruined a chance to get a job. So the best is to ask for the salary they offer and then show your capacity, how your experience and qualification rate with what is offered. What interests you most about the job? (Show how you believe that you are most suited to the post. If you can find out an earlier experience it would be fine.) If you have experience, you can quote some similarities from the past and how you achieved success. What is your dream job? Make the question a chance to display your aptitude that fits the job you have applied for. Display how your skills can be put into suite the challenges and modern trends. Why should we take you? This is often the concluding Question( Some tips to the answer) Don'ts : Do not repeat your resume Do not enumerate your experience Do's: Prove Your interest Be positive in your answer Be prepared with confidence in what you are going to say Make sure the answer comes from the bottom of your heart. If you have unlimited time and financial resources how would you spend them Even though it is tempting to discuss thing you would do for fun, answer these questions with strict coherence with the job you have applied for. Egg: If you are into teaching, touch on your interest in adult literary programmers and other teaching oriented aspects. How is your experience relevant to this job? Sketch out some similar work which you have done in your previous job. It should be something justifiable by you, even though others may think differently. You can even ask some question where you can prove that your experience stands in good strand. How could you enrich your current job? Design your answer to show that you are still interested in the job and you point out a few instances where improvements can be made. Convince the person that you can be relied on and you will not get bored with what you do with time. How many days where you absent from work? Give a solid attendance record. But at the same time show you were not responsible . Convince that you are willing to take up responsibility. Egg: I was absent 7 days. 4 days due to conjunctivitis and one day due to the death of a close relative and 2 days had to accompany my parents for their check up. Tell me about a time you had to deal with an irritate customer, how did you handle the solution? The question is aimed at you to hear from yourself how you handle people when others loose their temper. Here the best answer you can give to describe a situation and show how you handled it with maturity and diplomacy. How do you manage stress in your daily work? You can describe a situation of how you had managed stress in your previous work if you had one or narrate how you can find time in your busy schedule to relax a bit. Describe a professional skill you have developed in you? It will be better if you be specific with your answer. Narrate some thing you worked for to fulfill your work more efficiently. Describe how you attended a seminar and brought about the changed in your work.

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Interview Questions

How do you manage your work to meet dead lines Answer the question effectively . Describe in detail how your plan out, set priorities, determine schedules, how you follow out to see the progress and meet the dead line. What books you read? Do not ever say you have read a book which you have not. Here your suggestion can lead the interviewer to know your taste and interest. It can also hint on how you take your profession. What are the most rewarding aspect of you most recent job? The best way to answer it is to focus in what you do efficiently, keep in mind the position you are applying for. What aspects of this job do you feel most confident? Narrate what you are good and match it with the present job requirements. You may ask questions to clear if that particular skill will add benefit to the company What can motivate you? The Interview expects an answer to know you better .Keep in tune with your job and work you have applied for. Do not beat around the bush. Whom do you choose as your reference and why? Name the references and how you know them. You can also show that you are a person who care for relationships and how you stand in good stead with them. Can we call all your references? If you have given your present boss as your reference you can tell that you prefer to call your current boss only after you receive a confirmed offer as he may not like you changing the job. Do you have any questions? Be prepared to answer this question in advance. List out a few questions you wish to know more about. After you have faced the interview your logic will guide you to ask the question you really want to know more about. How do you handle criticism Here the interview is on the look out for your accountability and professional character. Simply explain a situation that caused a problem and narrate how you faced it and overcame it. Tell me about a situation that upset you at work Her the interview is trying to find out how you deal with pressure. Be diplomatic and objective with your answer. Prepare the answer so that the answer comes as a smooth reassurance Have you ever been fired? If the answer is negative, the answer is simple. But if you have been fired, you need to be prepared to the answer the follow up questions that my come up. If the termination was for reason beyond your control narrate it. If not do not try justifying yourself. If you had a fault, admit it and convince the interview that you have corrected it. Do you change your job frequently? Be honest and if you had changed the jobs frequently there could be ample reasons to do so. Put them up as contracts that expired at the stipulated time. Be convincing when you say that you long to have a steady and long lasting relationship with the present job you are applying for. What is the toughest job you had? Avoid making any negative statements especially about your previous employer. Change the question with a positive outlook and answer it with a satisfied remark of your outcome. How do you handle tension? Answer with ease that in any job and any situation that tension is a part of it. Relax before putting the f act you are very used to such type of works. What is your current salary? Do not bluff. Be specific on the answer. Do not hesitate to say the benefits you enjoyed in the previous job. It may be verified so never mention the benefits you have not got. Will you be willing to accept transfer? Tell you preference but do not specify that you will be not willing to work else where. What is your weakness? Turn the question to a positive one. Simply say that you are a perfectionist and your commitment to output of high quality perfect work. Say this is your weakness. How did you get your last job? A polished answer is what is expected. Frame the answer in such a way that it shows how you had planned to get the job. Make sure it was not by happenstance.

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Interview Questions

What was your position in your last employment? Provide a consistent answer. Precision will help you from answering the questions which will follow from ambiguous answers. What is the reason for you leaving your last job? Answer the question with confidence. Do not give a selfish answer. Frame the answer in a broader way. Do not point out short comings of the company. How did you hear about this position? Be honest with the answer. This will help you from complicating the interview by giving a wrong answer later. Have you received any other job offers? A positive answer can show that you are efficient. A positive answer should be true as it may be verified. What do you do with your spare time? The interviewer is looking for some insight into your personality by asking the question. If you say something be ready to answer more question on the topic. What is your current salary? Answer carefully. If you have filled up a form they would already know it. Have you been denied a salary increase? A positive answer shows that you are a person with a problem. Have you had a pay cut? A detailed explanation is needed it you agree you have had one. Be prepared for the follow up questions .A negative answer is the best. Have you been asked to resign? Prepare in advance how to answer the question if the answer is yes. Disclose the circumstances objectively. Has your work been criticized? This question asked by an experienced interviewer can give an insight into your ability to communicate, your tolerance to take criticism, and the environment you have been working. The ideal way is to describe a situation that shows your work was criticized, but portray them as being borne out by situation itself. We find gaps in your resume. What were you doing this time? You should be prepared to answer the question before hand. Make your answer crisp, brief and focused on the point and but do not be defensive. Do you have any objection to psychological testing? You can answer that you have no objection to being tested. The interviewer is probably just trying to find out if you have any problems. Can we contact your references? Be sure that the references you give are people who will stand strong in your favour. You can therefore answer in the affirmative. Are you looking for a temporary or a permanent job? Prepare your answer carefully before hand because it offers your potential employer a clear chance to judge you by the statement you make. How long have you been without work? Answer the question with a convincing tone with a positive touch. If possible narrate why you were unable to work. What career option do you have at the moment? Be specific with your answer. If you are answering to a human resource consultant you may quote your interest if not stick on to what you have applied for because the person may lose interest in you if you divert from the present context. What do you look in your job? Whatever you say add that I am looking for a job where I can make meaningful contributions and grow professionally. Describe a major goal you have set for yourself? Plan the answer carefully. Select a concrete project either professional or personal. It can be concerned with education or some personal development programme.

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Interview Questions

How do you feel about your career progress so far? Be frank with the answer. Keep it so straight forward that it becomes the answer to demonstrate satisfaction to a point which is the reason for deciding to move in the particular direction now. How do you define success? This is a question which should be answered in a way to impress the interviewer. Example; I define success as being able to financially provide for my family while performing work that is tied to the success of the organization that employ me. What personal trait is needed to be a success in this job? Some of the qualities that are to be included as you answer the question are Persistence, Work Ethics, Loyalty, Truthfulness and Insatiable Curiosity. Be ready for the follow up questions by preparing some instances where these qualities were put to use. What are your long range goals? Aim for the top and express it politely. Do not forget to be practical and realistic. What will you do if this job is not offered to you? Show your disappointment. Simply express how you have a lot to loose . If you could start your career again what changes will you prefer? This is a tricky question .Be careful with your answer. Just point out how you could have improved your career rather than go for a change in career. What do you know about the position you are applying? Do a lot of ground work before you attend the interview. This will help you to answer the question with precision. What is your learning style? Even though it may look to be a silly question if asked a definite answer should be given .The question can be made use to project your systematic nature. How do you keep update with the latest trends in your job? This is a question which throws light on your personality. It should be answered with accuracy. Include the latest techniques available like the Internet. Why did you choose the subject? A simple question but it will show how you determined your career and what aspects made you choose the career that you are pursuing. Have you worked for a difficult person? This question is aimed at you to show how you handle work pressure and how you will satisfy tense situations as and when they arise. How much time do you spend for your hobby? A question to be answered in a creative and subtle way that the time you spend will not interfere with the working span. What mode of communication do you prefer? In the present situation most of the big companies are with their communication on line. Answer the question considering the level to which you have applied for. Do not hesitate to say you are well versed in all modes Do you plan and organize before you start a work? This question is aimed at you to show how systematically you plan and proceed with your projects. If you have experience give a systematic answer. Do not beat around the bush as they are looking for a concrete stuff in your answer. How were you evaluated in your last job? Be brief and honest. Clarify the evaluation with a system. What are things that you find difficult to do? The question is asked to make you answer the thing you do not like to do. Remember to have a piratical touch in your answers. What is your relationship with your former employer? It is a question aimed at to know you better. The answer will throw light on how you were in the last work place. Describe a situation where you could not attain your goal? Be ready with the answer before hand or you may land in trouble. Choose one and give correct details Can you work overtime? Do not be intimidated. Agree if you are willing but clarify the details before making commitments.

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Interview Questions

Do you have any questions? Be casual and clear all the doubts you have. Do not try out any question that will bring forth any questions back to you. Have you had difficulty getting along with others? Give a reply in the negative and bring forth the idea that you are easy to get along with others. What can you do for us that others cannot? This is a question that can be answered to bring out your talents and to prove that you are efficient and dynamic. What reservations do you have about working here? Do not have any negative at the moment to pint out. Answer the question with a positive statement. Point out the organization as one where you really wanted to belong and work. Why do you want to work here with us? Do a deep study about the organization and have a list of merits ready so that you will be able to give a steady and easy answer. This job requires long hours will it be a problem for your spouse /children? Frame the answer in such a way that you give equal importance to your work and family. You should be able to prove your credibility. Do your spouse work? The question gives an insight if you are the only bread earner of the family. If the answer is yes there will be follow up questions as to who takes care of the children and the rest. Whom should we notify in case of an emergency? The question gives a clear insight on whom you depend and trust .It is almost as equal as giving a reference. Are you in the habit of changing your jobs frequently? Answer the question with the resume you have given .If it shows many places worked give a reply that you wish to stick to the present job applied for. What do your parents do? The question is asked to understand the background of the applicant. If a parent has a positive tie- in to the organization /industry that you are seeing, employment you may mention this. Are you a religious person? An odd question but if the organization is run by religious institutions your answer in the positive will have real good effects. What organizations do you belong to ? You may list the various organization in which you are a member. Make sure you do not list any organization that can bring negative impact. How old are you? Just a question asked to remind you that you are too old for the job or too young for the job. Be aware and answer the question with accuracy. How flexible are you ? Be brief, direct and focused with the answer. Prepare the answer and keep it ready. How do you deal with change? The ideal answer is to give an idea that you can accept any change as long as it is for the good. The answer also throw light on the personality. It also reflects how dynamic you are. Do you think you are too young for this post? Convince the maturity that you have will stand in good stead than the years of experience. Will you be willing to start at a lower salary because of your inexperience? Deal with the question by emphasizing the fact that inexperience will not come in the way of doing the work efficiently. Have many justifications to prove it. Do you have any disability? This is a broad question to be answered carefully. If you have any, disclose them. How long have you been disabled? A follow up question of the previous one that can be supported with documents. Have you filed a compensation claim with any company you worked for? If the answer is yes it is better to say that you do not wish to answer the question and end at it. There is no law that prevents one from getting a job because of prior workers compensation claim.

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Interview Questions

Have you been a target of sexual harassment? Have you filed a complaint? This question is raised to determine your proclivity to take legal action at work place. Be open and express yourself freely as the question came from them and it was not you who initiated it. Have you ever been arrested? The question can be answered negative unless you were arrested and proved guilty by a court of law. This is because a person who is arrested is innocent until proven guilty. Has any court found you guilty? This question is asked to clear and clarify if any criminal record is present.

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Narasimha

Interview Questions

PREPARING TO INTERVIEW: Know Yourself What are my skills and abilities? What are my strengths? How do my skills and experiences relate to the position and employers’ needs? What contributions will I bring to the employer? Am I willing to relocate? How do my values compare to the philosophy of the organization? What points do I want to be sure to get across during the interview?

How does this position fit into my career goals? If interviewing in a country other than your home country, do you understand the cultural expectations? Prepare Yourself Obtain a copy of the job description. Use the employer information and the employer’s websites to gather information (annual reports, employee handbooks, policy statements, employee newsletters) on the organization. Locate the employer’s home page on the Internet. Conduct informational interviews with persons in similar positions to learn about the career field and how your skills may apply. Develop a list of appropriate questions that reflect your research. Be sure to know the culture of the country where you are interviewing. U.S. employers are expecting you to articulate your future career goals and past accomplishments. They are assessing you according to American values such as selfconfidence, initiative, directness, and individualism. Practice Review attached list of questions most asked during an interview as well as list of questions to prospective employers. Practice answering interview questions (out loud). Schedule a mock interview, through the Office of Career Services, to gain experience and feedback. Be aware of your body language…what is your body language under pressure? Remember to smile and be yourself! Checklist Confirm date, time and place of interview. Pack several copies of your resume; a list of references, including names, titles, addresses and telephone numbers; writing samples if appropriate; and letters of recommendation. Dress appropriately (conservative business attire). Be punctual. Plan to arrive early. Research the Occupation: Know the area in which you are interested: Read articles written by people who are in the field. Inform yourself about future trends. Check if your interests and abilities compare to the requirements of the position. Find out the average income earned by people in the occupation. Some methods of finding this information include: Conduct information interviews. Reading the information in the Connection Centre (Student Life & Career Services), either through Internet or hard copy publications. Talking to friends, relatives or others. Researching the Organization:

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Narasimha

Interview Questions

Before the job interview, you should research the organization. It is easier to convince an employer that you would be of benefit to the organization if you are knowledgeable about it. In addition, information obtained through research can help you decide whether you want to work for a specific organization. General areas to research: How old is the organization, and what is its history of development? Where are the plants, offices, or stores located? What are its products or services? If the organization sells, what are its markets? Retailers? Wholesalers? What are its new products? Is it a public or non-profit organization? What purpose does it serve? How is it funded? Whom does it serve? What functions does it perform? How does this organization rank in the industry? What is the financial status of the company? Last year’s sales? Growth record? Are there any plans for expansion? What is the organizational structure? How does the organization fit into the community? To what degree is it committed to solving community problems? What problems does the organization need to overcome? (By identifying the problems that the organization faces, you can match your abilities to these ends during the interview.) One of the best ways to find company information is on the Internet. You should be able to find plenty of information to get you started by exploring the Web with a good browser and search engine. Just entering the company name in the search engine will usually result in success. Here are five things that most employers want to know about you. 1. They want to know if you are qualified for the position. What are your greatest strengths? Do you have experience in this field? What do you believe you bring to this job? Why should I hire you? 2. They want to know what motivates you. What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort? Where do you see yourself five years from now? What is more important to you, the money or the job? What did you like most about your last job? 3. They want to know about the negatives. Why did you leave your previous job? What did you like least about your last supervisor? What is your greatest weakness? What did you like least about your last job? Why have you been unemployed so long? 4. They want to know if you are a good fit. What kind of people do you find it hard to work with? Tell me about a time when you worked as a member of a team. In what kind of environment are you most comfortable? Do you prefer to work alone or with others? 5. They want to know if you want their job with their company. What are you looking for in a position? Who else are you interviewing with? Why are you interested in this position? What do you know about the company?

Sample Interview Questions Why did you apply for this position? Tip: How do you think that you might fit into this company Would you tell us what attracts you to a career with us? How do you see your studies, skills, experience and personal qualities contributing to the work of the organisation?

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Interview Questions

Tip: How do you think that you might fit into this company Describe a time when you had to deal with conflicting demands. How did you deal with this situation and what was the outcome? Tip: STAR Can you describe a time where you have been required to perform as part of a team? What was the situation? What part did you play in the team and what was the outcome of the exercise? Tip: STAR How do you establish a working relationship with new people? Tip: Team skills Where do you expect to be in 5 years time? What will you do if you are not successful in gaining this position? Tip: Demonstrate to the interviewer that you have thought about what it is you want from work and what you hope to achieve. Let them know you are flexible however, and willing to explore new opportunities. What particular skills and qualities do you bring to the workforce? What other skills would you like to develop in the future? Tip: Strengths and weaknesses Tell me about a challenging situation you have faced. What was the situation and how did you cope with it? Tip: STAR Is there an achievement of which you are particularly proud? What is it? Why is it significant? Tip: STAR Imagine that you are a member of a small team responsible for the development and production of an internal publication. Your team is dependent on another workgroup to provide the data which will form the basis of your publication. The deadline for completing this project is not able to be relaxed. (a) What factors do you think might affect the team's ability to meet the publication deadline? (b) What could the team do to ensure the project is completed on time? Tip: Hypothetical questions allow the interviewer to identify key competencies deemed important by the employer. No right or wrong answer What are the key elements of measuring performance and how can you establish whether an outcome represents a success? (Answer this in terms of your own work or study experience.) More specifically, what do you think might be some key indicators of the successful performance of a national agency? Tip: STAR (Behavioural +Situational question) You have demonstrated in your CV that you have knowledge of entomology. Could you please expand on your experience and tell us what you think your strengths are in this field. An important component of the position will be the maintenance of water quality parameters within acceptable limits for the species. Can you outline your experience in water quality testing? What do you feel are the most important water quality variables? Tip: Multi-part question The ability to work independently within a structured team is essential to the position. This will require the successful applicant to be self-starting, able to prioritise tasks, be a good communicator, as well as showing considerable initiative. Can you give us some examples where you have worked within a team environment and demonstrated these abilities? Tip: STAR + multi-part question What do you feel is the potential for aquaculture in Australia and what are some of the major impediments to its development? What are some of the major aquaculture species cultured in freshwater? As well as the position involving general maintenance of the aquaria and pond facilities, a significant component will involve participation in scientific experiments through the collection and collation of research data. Can you describe previous experience you have had in the day to day running of scientific experiments? Tip: STAR + multi-part question The research project and facilities the successful applicant will be involved with receives considerable attention from the general public. Therefore, a component of the job will involve liaising with the general public and media. This requires the delivery of information in a simple precise manner. How confident do you feel you are in delivering sometimes complex information in a simple manner? Tip: give examples What computer programs are you familiar with, and more specifically, what programs would you use to write a report, enter research data, and to prepare a poster or seminar. Tip: give examples of where you have applied the use of these programs. You have had an opportunity to look at the statistical table from the publication (this was supplied before the interview). (a) Imagine you were asked to write a commentary on the information in the table. Are there any significant or curious or interesting features revealed by the data which you think should be highlighted, and if so, what might you say about them? Can you offer any suggestions to explain these features? (b) What is your opinion of the general layout of the table? How might it be improved? Tip: multi-part question.

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Interview Questions

Experience questions: Tell me about your last position and what you did. Tell me about the last time you made a mistake and how you corrected it. If you don't leave your current job, what will happen there? How far can you advance? Of all the work you have done, where have you been most successful? I see you were unemployed for a period of time. Tell me about it. Give me an example of when you've demonstrated your customer service skills. How do you define continuous improvement? What is the last new procedure you integrated into your job? What makes you stand out among your peers? What have you done to reduce your department’s operational costs or to save time? What would your current supervisors say makes you most valuable to them? If I asked your boss to evaluate your performance, what would he or she say? Have you held positions similar to this one? If so, tell me about them. What is the most important thing you learned at a previous job? What did/do you enjoy most/least about your last/present job? If there were two things you could have changed about that job, what would they be? How did your job change while you held it? Describe your supervisor’s management style. What kinds of people do you deal with on the job? What qualifications do you have that make you successful in this field? What have you learned from previous jobs? Describe a typical day at work. How have your previous positions prepared you for this one? What parts of your job do you consider most important? What job tasks do you feel most successful doing? What special skills or knowledge have you gained to help in this job? Describe an important project you worked on. What sort of person do you enjoy working for? Define excellent customer service. You have a lot of experience. Why would you want this job? What do you consider your greatest strength? What is your most significant professional accomplishment? What was the last job related book you read? What was your favorite job? Why? You've stayed with the same organization for years. Why have you decided to leave?

World’s largest interview questions guide: http://www.newinterviewquestions.com/list.htm

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