In my last post I introduced you to the second of the 4 types of questions you could expect to be asked during an interview situation ‘Request for Information’
Assessing Your Attitude
Attitude is hugely important. You need to highlight your strengths, but avoid boasting. So don’t just say you have good customer service skills – prove it by explaining how you developed a good relationship with a notoriously difficult client. Remember that honesty is always the best policy. If you feel you can’t be honest you may need to think about why you want this particular job.
“Never allow yourself to be so desperate that you end up settling for far less than what you deserve”
What is your greatest strength?
If you know what it is, say so. Use your imagination. If you’re good at solving problems, then describe yourself as a ‘creative problem solver’ and give an example. There are lots of qualities to choose from: loyalty, energy, leadership, expertise, initiative, patience, hard work, abilities within a team.
What do you know about this organization?
This is another question that needs preparing in advance. Check out the company’s website, look at their press reports, see if you can find online brochures and call people (discreetly) who may have done business with them. Find out what they’ve been doing, what they’re looking to achieve and what issues they’re currently facing. Find out what you can about the people in charge.
Why do you want to work for this organization?
You should have some idea about this already but you may need to consider the type of answer an interviewer would want to hear. This may take some thought and should follow on from the research you’ve done on the organization. Sincerity is important here. Talk about your long-term goals and how you will be able to achieve them in this new role.
Are you a team player?
Yes, of course you are a team player. Companies need people who can get along with others. So be sure to have examples ready of things you’ve done for the good of the team. Perhaps you’ve organised events or taken cross-departmental responsibility or taken on extra work for a colleague in an emergency. Don’t boast, but make sure your answer is clear.
What is your philosophy towards work?
This question could come under a few guises but your response should be the same. The interviewer is not looking for a long or flowery dissertation here. They might, however, be hoping that you let something slip that reveals your real attitude. So keep it short and hold back on anything where you have strong feelings. ‘I like to finish what I start’ or ‘I like to get the job done’ or ‘I think it’s important to get things right’. Short and positive is best here.
“Attitude is a little thing that makes a BIG difference” Winston Churchill
Feeling as though the interviewer is trying to trick you? Watch out for my next post when I will help you to overcome those Trap Questions.
A Corporate Mentor for the ‘Internal Job Market’ who offers employees an edge over their internal and/or external competition. With over 15 years’ experience, Nikki educates professional people to build on their personal brand, to sell themselves in the content of their CV and interview technique and to overcome personal barriers to fully recognise their strengths and achievements.
Nikki Hutchison, Corporate Mentor for the Internal Job Market
Mob: +44 (0)7989 876644
Email: nikki@chillipepperglobal.com
Website: www.chillipepperglobal.com