In most cases an interviewer uses a question to subtly seek an answer to a slightly different question. So with each question, think about what the interviewer is truly trying to ask. If you have thought through these questions and have a well-written resume, these answers should come quite easily. Also becoming familiar with these questions allows you to find opportunities to get the interviewer to ask the question just so you can present the solid answer.

Question #1 – How long have you been seeking employment? (Concern: what’s wrong with you that other potential employers have picked up?)

Answer #1 – “After I was laid off from my previous position, I took the time as an opportunity to assess my career goals and what I wanted to do with my life. So I recently began my job search with a definite goal in mind and focused on selective positions. For example I find your company and this position of great interest.”

Question #2 – What have you done to prepare for this interview? (Concern: do you have enough interest to study the company and do your own research, or are you going to “wing it”?)

Answer #2 – “When I found the post for this position on the internet, my interest was immediately piqued so I check out your company website. I was impressed by the mission statement, the leadership bios, and the business model. Once the interview was scheduled, I contacted friends and others in the industry to learn more. And then I planned to learn more through today’s discussions with you and others.”

Question #3 – What is your salary history and salary expectation? (Concern: perhaps you are asking for more than we have budgeted for this position – can we afford you?)

Answer #3 – “Before we discuss salary I would need more information about the job, the responsibilities and the expectations involved. Can you share with me the budgeted salary range?”

Question #4 – What have you done to maintain job currency and informed about any particular industry that you have worked in? (Concern: how do you plan to stay motivated and challenged, continue to learn and grow with the company?)

Answer #4 – “I take the opportunity to be involved in any company provided training or seminars. I also read a lot – especially newspaper and magazine business sections and seek new information to stay on top of what is happening in my industry. I also belong to a few professional organizations and look for networking opportunities with colleagues.”

Question #5 – Why don’t you site an example or two about projects where you were responsible for planning and coordination from start to finish. (Concern: seeking examples of past behaviors and how you handled the situations.)

Answer #5 – “In my last position I lead a project that involved a cross-functional team of engineers, marketing, and business development. My job was to organize a brainstorming session and collect input from every team member with a specific goal in mind. Somewhat challenging to gather information from so many different perspectives but it was important to gather enough data to formulate the plan. I drafted a plan and shared it with each team member and then worked with the individuals to balance the team. I had a deadline to meet, so my project plan had specific milestones. We were able to implement the plan earlier than scheduled due to the team work along with my persistence in staying on course. My leadership was commended by management and I was proud of the team cooperation, which was key to the success.”

Question #6 – Are there any types of people with whom you have difficulties working? (Concern: are you flexible enough to work in a dynamic and diverse environment?)

Answer #6 – I’ve had the pleasure to work with men and women from very diverse backgrounds and cultures. Dishonesty with work issues would be my one key challenge. For example I had a colleague at my last position who constantly took credit for others’ accomplishments, especially those that worked directly for her. I snagged an opportunity to talk with her one day and explain how she affected the team’s morale. She hadn’t seen it that way – she was unaware of her actions and their reactions. I explained that perception is reality and we don’t always see how we are personally perceived. She changed her behavior and grew to be more successful with her own team.”

Question #7 – The expectation is that our managers work longer hours beyond the 8 – 5. Do you have any concerns that working longer hours? (Concern: are you a team player and workaholic? Or are you seeking a more balanced life?)

Answer #7 – “Long hours are not a concern for as 12 or 14 hour days were a big part of my last few positions. My goal is to get the job done efficiently and effectively, ultimately bringing more value beyond the job description.”

Question #8 – Throughout your career, is there a time when have you felt most satisfied? (Concern: where does your motivation (or de-motivation) lie?)

Answer #8 – “My most rewarding work experience was when I worked at (company) because of the team spirit and the recognition on an individual basis for our specific accomplishments. In other words, achieving our individual goals lead to the team’s success, which lead us to more challenging projects. We worked so well together and embraced the individual creativity of each team member.”

Question #9 – What specifically interests you about this position? (Concern: do you really know what you want in a job or are you interviewing for anything out there?)

Answer #9 – “My past job experiences gave me time to reflect on what I want and I’ve been very selective about the companies and position for which I’ve applied. When I saw the posting for this position, it fit with my job criteria and I recognized just what I can bring to the table based on my work history, skills, and interest. My knowledge of the industry and my communication skills along with my ability to be open-minded and focused makes me a perfect match for this position. I earnestly look forward to the challenges of a new position and I’m flexible to learn and grow.”

Question #10 – If we make you an offer today, are you in a position to accept? (Concern: you fit this position and we want you in the company

- we don’t want you to go home to think about it or change your mind.)

Answer #10 – “Based on my preparedness and what I have learned today, I feel I am in a position to consider an offer. However in the process of making a major life decision, I have a personal policy to give myself at least 24 hours for these decisions. I could let you know by tomorrow if that works for you.”

There is no way one can predict the interview questions, but being prepared will serve you well. Study these questions and others, re-read the job description, research the company, and seek interview coaching to help blow off the dust and be on top of your game.

Marc Berlin – “The Job Interviewing Coach” http://www.thejobinterviewingcoach.com

Marc relates to each client personally with passion and expertise cultivated through a rich background of knowledge and hands-on experience. His skills are formed from 22 years in career coaching, sales training development, executive sales management and over 3,000 interviews he personally planned and conducted.

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