You have been called up for interview for a seemingly great job! You have done your research of the company and find it a highly potential one to work with. Now what? It is always better to be prepared than to regret it afterwards.

Take the time to review the “standard” interview questions you will most likely be asked. Also review sample answers to these typical interview questions.

Interview Questions: Work History

• Name of company, position title and description, dates of employment.
• What were your expectations for the job and to what extent were they met?
• What were your starting and final levels of compensation?
• What were your responsibilities?
• What major challenges and problems did you face? How did you handle them?
• What were your biggest accomplishment / failure in this position?
• Why are you leaving your job?
• What have you been doing since your last job?

Interview Questions: Yourself

• Tell me more about yourself
• What is your greatest weakness?
• What is your greatest strength? 
• How would you describe the pace at which you work?
• How do you handle stress and pressure?
• What motivates you?
• What are your salary expectations?
• What do you find are the most difficult decisions to make?
• Tell me about yourself.
• What has been the greatest disappointment in your life? 
• If you could reset your life, what would you do differently?
• Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?
• What type of work environment do you prefer?
• How do you evaluate success?
• Describe a difficult work situation / project and how you overcame it.

Interview Questions: The Company and Job

• Why are you here?
• Are you overqualified for this job?
• What can you do for this company?
• Why should we hire you?
• Why are you the best person for the job?
• What do you know about this company? 
• What challenges are you looking for in a position?
• What can you contribute to this company?
• Anything more you want to know about the company or the job?

Interview Questions: The Future

• What are you looking for in your next job? What is important to you?
• What are your short term and long term goals?
• How do you plan to achieve those goals?
• What are plans for the next five or ten years?
• What will you do if you don’t get this position?

How to answer the questions

First of all, you should take the time to compile a list of responses to both types of interview questions and to itemize your skills, values, and interests as well as your strengths and weaknesses. Brainstorm for a few good answers and select the best one to use during the interview. Get inputs from family, friends or colleagues if you are unsure about your strengths, weaknesses and your working style. Emphasize on what you can do to benefit the company rather than just what you are interested in.
References

You should have your references ready anytime so that you are prepared when the employer requests them. Get your ex-boss or someone in a senior position to write letter of recommendation to back up your credibility. Expect to have your referenced checked prior to getting an offer.
With all these in hand, you should have no problem acing that interview!

Good luck!

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