Use this list of common interview questions to prepare ahead of time. Although you
don’t want to sound like you’re reciting a canned answer, keeping some key points in
mind can be helpful.

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why did you leave your last job?
3. What are your strengths?
4. What are your weaknesses?
5. Why should I hire you?
6. What are your career goals and objectives?
7. How does this job fit into your career goals?
8. What do you know about our organization?
9. How do you normally handle change?
10. What would you last employer say about you?
11. If you could do anything in your career differently, what would it be?
12. Describe your greatest achievement.
13. Describe your most significant failure.
14. Which of your jobs did you like the best? Why?
15. Which of your jobs did you like the least? Why?
16. What kind of employee are you?
17. How do you handle authority?
18. On your last performance evaluation, what did your manager criticize you for?
19. How do you handle conflict with peers?
20. How do you normally handle criticism?
21. Describe your relationship with your last manager.
22. Where do you want to be five years from now?
23. Why do you want to work for us?
24. Why have you changed jobs so often?
25. Why is it taking you so long to find a job?
26. Tell me about a time when you handle to handle a crisis situation.
27. How do you deal with stress and pressure?
28. How much are you presently earning?
29. How much money do you want?
30. When can you start?
31. Can we check your references?
32. Where else are you interviewing?
33. Is there anything that we have forgotten to ask you?
34. Do you have any questions for us?

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In an interview, worrying about your perceived inadequacies, or what can be viewed as negative items on your history of employment, will get you nowhere. In fact, having a negative focus on things often comes through in the way you answer.

interview questions, and even in your body language. An applicant who shifts, plays with things like their shirt cuffs, or who loses track of the subject under discussion, is sabotaging their own chance at success.

Okay, so you have some weak points. Maybe there was a time two years ago, that you were out of work for eight months. Or the job that is open demands a certain skill level that you haven't quite achieved yet. Neither of those things can knock you out of contention like a lack of confidence in yourself.

We have a simple, two-part solution: First, make the best out of your "worst", and then make the company's priorities, your own.

Study the weak points in your resume and build on them. If you've had a period of unemployment, think about the experiences you had during that time, the businesses you visited, and what you learned about the current economy and job market. Show that you are attentive to detail, and enjoy learning from unexpected opportunities.

Express enthusiasm for the chance to expand on your present skills. Apply the same strategy to any other "weak" points you may have. Even a job that you left due to a personality conflict, can be given a positive light by emphasizing the experience you gained. Whatever you do, leave bitterness and pity at home. An employer wants someone with the desire to move onward and upward.

That brings us to the second item: presenting yourself in a way that makes you compatible with the company's needs, and highlights how you can benefit their present or future plans. Study the company's general business, and the department where you are applying, in particular. Find out why they are hiring someone (Did an employee quit? Retire? Are they expanding?) then emphasize the skills and experience that make you not only capable of filling the position, but of bringing new ideas and a positive attitude to it.

Find an "up" to every down point in your work history or resume. Then sell your skills and personality with an eye on the company agenda. The combination of competence and enthusiasm is often the formula for a successful interview.

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In a recent research study, undertaken by Extra Sensory Perception and commissioned by on-line recruitment company Ifoundwork, over 50 recruiter's from key industry sectors in the UK were questioned about the traits that they most like and dislike in an applicant. When asked about the things that made a positive impression on them during the interview process certain trends emerged. Six of the top twelve responses are listed below. So, if you want to give yourself the best chance of impressing a prospective employer, review them to see how you match up.

The research suggests that employer's like applicants who:

Stay calm and relaxed. There is a direct relationship between how relaxed you are and how confident you appear to a prospective employer. Remember that interviewing is a mutual process. You are interviewing the company just as much as they are interviewing you. Relax and enjoy it!

Bring Samples of Work. If you don't have any start calling your old employer and get them. Always keep at least one ally at your previous employment; you never know when you will need something. Before you leave, create a portfolio and make copies of your work but omit confidential business information.

Do their Research. Do some research on the business before the interview. Know what you are getting yourself into by researching the culture and working environment. Have an understanding of the issues faced by the company.

Appear calm and confident. First impressions are lasting and made in first 30-120 seconds of an interview. Present yourself well from the start be confident friendly and polite. Greet the prospective employer with a handshake. Make regular eye contact.

Ask Questions. Never leave an interview without asking at least 3 questions. Have a number of questions that you have complied beforehand and use them at the appropriate moment.

Listen attentively. Listen carefully to the questions asked. Ask the interviewer to restate a question if you are confused. Or if you need time to think of an answer just ask "How do you mean?" this will buy you time and will provide additional information.

Goog job hunting!

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You have obtained an interview -- congratulations! You feel prepared to discuss your strengths, your accomplishments, your willingness to work hard and learn quickly, and your ability to fit seamlessly into the employer's needs. But... you don't know anything about the employer. You may not even be sure what kind of industry they are in. Do some quick homework before your interview and you may glean a basic understanding of their business that can set you apart from other candidates.

In the "old days" you would have needed to visit a library to try to find the employer in a Business Directory or Manufacturers' Guide. Now you can use the Internet to investigate. If you are lucky, and find that they have their own website, explore it completely, like a search engine spider, page by page and link by link. It will provide you with genuine insight into their organization, their accomplishments, and their values. Try to identify what kind of problems and challenges they may be facing which you could address in an interview. If the company does not have a website, Google them and see if they show up on another site.

If you know their product or service (if you don't, anonymously call the receptionist and just ask what the company does) search for their name within similar sites. If you cannot find the company anywhere, or can't find any helpful details, look at the industry they are in and see what is currently a hot topic and what predictions for future change are being discussed.

All such information will be immensely valuable in your interview either to demonstrate your ability to solve problems or, at the very least, allow you to ask intelligent, pertinent questions.

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In the limited time an interviewer has with you, their mission is to know you and assess your worth, especially in relationship to the other candidates interviewed. Asking you questions is the way they accomplish that mission.

You'll be asked to tell the interviewer about yourself, your qualifications (especially as they pertain to the specific opening), your professional background, your likes and dislikes, your strengths and weaknesses, and your goals. So the first step is to know yourself. Be prepared to talk about your skills, competencies, qualifications and accomplishments. Understand your strengths and weaknesses. Explore the goals you have for yourself – both current and future.

Especially know how to convey the value you bring to the table – the strengths, unique gifts and marketable assets that are distinctly yours. Know your value proposition; it describes your worth. It is what uniquely defines you, and differentiates you from the crowd. If you want to stand out in the huge ocean of candidates that represents your competition, you need to become fluent in this arena.

You may also be asked why you left your previous position. This is where the interview can get a bit tricky. How you answer this question can make or break your chances. No matter how challenging your supervisor was or how grueling the workload or the sixty-hour weeks were, you must frame your response in a positive light. If you left your previous employment because you were downsized, that's ok. That's happened quite a bit in the past few years. If you resigned, be very careful how you state this. Your attitude can enhance or end your chances. Be honest, and be sure to indicate your desire for stability as an overriding factor.   

Keep in mind that while your answers will help the interviewer assess your skills for the position at hand, it's how you respond that more importantly determines your overall fit with the company. Personality is ninety percent of the battle. You may answer a question factually, but your attitude might tell them no.  On the other hand, it's far better to establish a rapport with your interviewer than to answer every question correctly. A skill can always be taught, but when was the last time you successfully altered someone's personality?  

Find out everything you can about the interviewer's quirks and traits. Are they confrontational or laid back, serious or informal, friendly or stern? What is their position within the company, and how long have they been employed there? Are they the decision-maker and therefore in a position to make you an offer? They may simply be a screen, filtering out all the non-viable candidates from further review by higher-ups. If they are a screen, try and discover upon whose shoulders the hiring responsibility falls.

You need to learn as much as you can about the position for which you are interviewing. Why does the position exist – are you replacing someone or is this a new position created because of company growth? If you are replacing someone, is it because they retired, resigned or were terminated?  Understand the fundamental responsibilities of the position, especially in relationship to similar positions you have held in the past. Know what possibilities exist for your growth within the position and the company.

Research the company, using Google, Dunn & Bradstreet, Hoover's, Standard and Poors, or any of the other sources of corporate information. Who are its competitors in the marketplace and what percentage of the market do they own? Are their processes state of the art and at the cutting edge of technology? Are they a public company or privately held? If public, how are they perceived by investment advisors, what is their earnings track and how has their stock performed? If a privately held company, is it a family-run business with non-family members being in the minority? That would be ok; however, it could affect your chances for future promotions and growth.

Know the industry. The company might be at the forefront in terms of their processes, sales and marketing efforts, and growth, but its industry may be on its way out. If you see a delicious-looking apple growing on a dying tree, you might hesitate before pulling it off and taking a bite.

Do your research in all these areas so you can be well-prepared. Get on the Internet and find out everything you can. Make phone calls. Make sure you know all there is to know, so that you will go to your interview with great confidence and self-assurance.

Come to the interview dressed appropriately. Establish a comfort level early in the interview and maintain that rapport throughout. The initial handshake must be firm but not gripping. Eye contact is critical throughout the interview. How you sit in your chair and shift your posture can make or break your effectiveness. Remember, you're there to sell yourself, so be sure to ask for the offer before the interview is over. Fully armed, you can ask all the right questions and come away a success.

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Non-verbal interview behavior can drown out your verbal self-presentation.

Practice interviewing in front of a full-length mirror or, better yet, videotape yourself if you have access to such equipment. Turn the sound down and watch yourself carefully.

How do you sit in your chair? Upright with an aura of energy and enthusisam or slumped as if you no longer care? Do you maintain good eye contact or look down at your hands when a question is difficult to answer? Do you lean forward to make a connection with the interviewer or appear distant and disconnected? Do you use your hands for an occasional gesture, to emphasize a point, or are they always in motion, as distractible as those ex-jocks on TV who constantly flail away regardless of what they are saying?

Can you cross your legs at the ankle and stay still or do you constantly shift in your chair and irritate everyone in the room? Do you have unconscious habits or mannerisms that distract from your professional demeanor such as twisting your hair, rubbing your nose, licking your lips, or cracking your knuckles? How is your voice? Is it monotonous, clear, nasal, or shrill? Do you smile - at appropriate moments not constantly like a beauty contestant on the runway?

Being aware of all that you are presenting to a potential employer can make your verbal presentation more effective and increase your chances for a successful outcome.

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You're on track to land your dream job. But can you afford it?

Knowing how to handle the money question plagues job seekers. Especially if you're exploring an opportunity that looks very promising.

You don't want to jinx the situation by prematurely asking about the salary. On the other hand, if they can't afford you, you don't want top waste your time pursuing a hopeless employment goal.

Before you even go to an interview or first meeting with a decision-maker you MUST avoid the compensation pitfalls that can derail your good intentions. Here are the most serious mistakes to avoid.

1. Failing to do your homework. Gather all employment and compensation information you can before you go on an interview.

2. Jumping the gun. In the interest of not wasting your time if they can't afford you, you decide to pose the salary question right up front. You just lost all negotiating power . . . and probably a job offer.

3. Not taking the time to show the value you bring to the organization. No one will offer you a job or enter into salary negotiations if they can't see how you can contribute. It's up to you to make sure they see very specifically how you can make s difference.

4. Lowering your expectations. If an offer is made at a lower level than you expected, don't take it or leave it. Negotiate it. Tell them you're thrilled that they think enough of you to offer you a position. Now you want to take the time to consider it in light of other opportunities you're looking at. Then set up a time to come back.

5. Failing to be flexible. Your goal and that of your prospective employer may be quite different. Your objective is to find out what triggers their interest in you, and then find ways to accommodate them.

6. Losing patience. This usually results in discouragement of abandonment t of an opportunity because they're not responding according to your timetable. Always ask what their timetable is for making a decision. The go out and pursue a couple more opportunities.

Landing the best job for you requires careful preparation. It doesn't happen by chance. The best position for you allows you to select your next job rather than settle for it. Avoiding the pitfalls is a first step to your job search success.

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An interview almost invariably closes with the potential employer asking if you have any questions. Often an applicant will ask for clarification on benefits -insurance, vacation time, etc. While these are obviously important for you to know, they plant a seed in the interviewer's mind that maybe you are more interested in what the job can do for you than in how you can help the employer.

Try to have three or four questions ready to ask that demonstrate your interest in the company and your desire to be a problem-solver.

If you have been able to do some research, trot out a question or two that came to mind. If you have been able to come up with some ideas that relate to the problem, throw them out to see how the employer reacts.

If you have been able to identify some trends or problems in the industry, ask how that is going to affect the company and what they are doing to deal with it. Show your concern about industry developments and what that may bode for the future.

If some current challenges have been brought up earlier in the interview, ask for clarification and more detail.

The more the interviewer interacts with you as if your concerns are mutual, and that possible solutions are something you could consider together, the more you will be seen as a valuable future member of his team and the more likely you will be asked to join that team.

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In this day and age it can become increasingly difficult to even get your foot in the door and get an interview; once you've accomplished that you will want to make sure you continue to put your best foot forward and nail the interview as well. Unfortunately, as great as their skills, experience and education are; the interview is where many people lose a job opportunity to their competition. Understanding what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in an interview are critical to receiving a job offer.

Tip # 1 Dress appropriately. If you don't take the time and effort to wear appropriate clothing to the interview, you will lose the job before you even get a chance to explain why you are the best candidate. What you wear to the interview will greatly depend upon the industry or field for which you are applying. Any office related position will require that you wear clothing that is no more casual than a button up shirt, slacks and tie for men and either a nice slacks/skirt and blouse combo for ladies or a dress/suit. Only under rare circumstances would you need to wear anything more casual and this generally includes fields such as transportation, construction, mechanics, etc. Additionally, clothing should be conservative and preferably reflect neutral tones. Avoid excessive jewelry. Don't go overboard on the use of cologne or perfume. Many people suffer from allergies and the last thing you want to do is cause your prospective employer an allergy attack.

Tip #2 Go to the interview alone. There is absolutely no reason for anyone else to attend the interview with you and this includes parents, children as well as spouses and significant others. If you are having a friend or relative drive you to the interview, politely ask them to wait outside for you. If for some reason, you are unable to obtain childcare for the time of your interview, phone ahead and politely ask to reschedule. While this is not the best way to start off your relationship with the employer, it is a much better option than taking your child with you.

Tip #3 Pace your conversation during the interview. There is a fine line between not talking enough and talking too much. Answer questions directly, elaborate when necessary but don't ramble.

Tip #4 Make sure you are polite to everyone you meet while you are waiting for your interview. This is extremely important because 1. These people may be your future co-workers and 2. You never know who has the boss' ear and will report your rude behavior or unseemly conduct once you're out the door.

Tip #5 Arrive early. If your interview is scheduled for 1:00 pm; make sure you are there no later than 12:30 pm. It is quite common for employers to ask candidates to complete applications and other paperwork prior to their interview, whether they specify this when they schedule the interview with you or not.

Tip #6 Make sure you are prepared for the interview. This means that you have both practiced for the interview and have brought along all materials that you may need for any circumstance. (pens, pencils, notepad, extra copies of your resume, etc.) Also make sure you have copies of your drivers' license and Social Security card in case the employer needs to make copies for future employment records.

Tip #7 Be honest! This cannot be emphasized enough. Employers many times move in the same social circles and there is a very good chance that if you fib during an interview you will be found out sooner or later. Even if you have already been hired, lying on an application or during an interview is grounds for dismissal with most companies.

Tip # 8 Don't smoke or chew tobacco just before or during your interview. Also remember to spit out gum, if you chew it. Additionally, if you do smoke, remember to spritz yourself with light cologne or perfume before you meet with the employer as well as pop in a breath mint.

Tip # 9 Turn off your cell phone and pager prior to your interview. There is nothing more insulting to an employer or disrupting during an interview to have a cell phone or page continue to ring/beep. Let your voice mail catch any incoming calls.

Tip #10 Be enthusiastic! Let the employer know how interested you are in the position and what a great job you can do.

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Are you looking for some interview tips so that you can ace that upcoming interview you have? An interview can be a nerve racking experience if you don't know how to successfully pull off an interview. Nevertheless, with a few interview tips, you will be on your way to getting that job you need so desperately!

Among the many interview tips that you will come across, the very best interview tip you will ever get is to be yourself. Don't be afraid to smile and be proud of who you are and what it is that you represent. You are a unique individual and must bear in mind that there is no one else like you on this earth. In believing in yourself, you can successfully prepare yourself psychologically for that nerve racking interview!

Second in line for great interview tips is that you should be on time. You should not ever show up for an interview late, not ever! If you think that you may run into a problem getting to a interview on time, leave your residence extra early to ensure that you will get there on time. Showing up for an interview on time shows that you are a responsible person; a sure indication of a professional individual.

A great tip to remember while on an interview is to turn off your cell phone or pager. There is nothing more annoying to an employer than a potential employee that has a cell phone ringing every five minutes during an interview. Plus, continuous interruptions may be a sign of unprofessional behavior so it is best to either turn off your cell phone or leave it at home.

Pay attention to the interviewer while you are being interviewed; this tip is essential and cannot be overrated. An interviewer's tone of voice, their demeanor, their style of speech and their body motions can indicate to you how you should respond to the questions they pose. For instance, if an interviewer is stern with direct, to the point questions, you should respond with to the point answers. Conversely, if an interviewer prompts you to tell them about yourself, your hobbies or your likes and dislikes, feel free to elaborate--just don't go overboard and begin rambling about your favorite pastimes!

Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process. In fact, make sure that you do. If you don't ask questions, you will not get all of the information you require and you may even come across as overly confident. Even worse, you may come across as apathetic. Therefore, show your interest in the job and ask questions at every opportunity.

Don't be too eager to answer questions while on an interview. Overly eager individuals tend to cut off the employer while they are speaking and interrupt the employer during their questions. Wait until you are sure the employer is done asking the question before you provide your answer. If you wait until the employer is finished speaking, you will also give yourself time to reflect on the question being asked and an insightful employer will see that you have seriously considered your responses.

There are literally hundreds of Interview tips on the Internet. Nevertheless, not all interview tips are excellent tips and it is important that you logically weed out the good tips from the bad ones. Therefore, if something doesn't sound like a good idea to you, then simply refrain from taking the advice. Finally, the best advice you can get is to remain true to yourself, relax and be calm throughout the entire interviewing process.

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Your work history becomes a key focus in a job interview, usually right after the requisite pleasantries of whether you had difficulty finding your way, comments about the traffic and weather, and an offer of coffee or water.

As you settle back in your chair, trying to look a lot more relaxed than you feel, the interviewer picks up your resume or application and starts to ask for details about your prior experience.

If you have a resume that specifies quantifiable results, now is your chance to expand on that. If you increased sales by 20% per quarter or completed a departmental reorganization that resulted in a budget reduction of 10%, you are on your way. Obviously such achievements outlined in your resume impressed the potential employer enough to call you in for an interview, so your amplification of the details of actions you took will be eagerly welcomed.

Unfortunately, most of us perform work where the results are less obvious. If you have worked in production or customer service or retail, it is very difficult to tie your efforts directly to company results. In such a case, try to highlight any personal successes or management recognition that demonstrates your competence.

Any promotion is excellent, even if only to a lead position or being put in charge of a special project. Describe what you did so that the interviewer can appreciate your prior employer's belief in your ability to take on new responsibilities.

If no promotions were made (often none are readily available), identify any situations where you were singled out for recognition. That may range from being employee of the month to being asked to train new coworkers or receiving a written or verbal recommendation from a customer you assisted. If you received positive feedback from supervisors, describe the details.

While each job applicant tries to represent themselves as a super-achiever, the fact remains that many of us work quite competently for years without ever receiving a genuine promotion or even much recognition. Employers are aware of that. In fact, if the position is routine without much room for upward mobility, they may be wary of an over-achiever who is going to chaff against the lack of promotional opportunities. One of "The Apprentice" applicants looking for work in a manufacturing environment would be viewed with more than a dose of suspicion.

If such is your case - a good solid worker (or even somewhat marginal), find some personal strengths to describe. If you seldom take sick leave or have a reputation for always being on time, now is the time to focus on that. Perhaps you take off time whenever you can and run perennially late, bring up another aspect of your character such as an ability to work as part of a team or outstanding relationships with coworkers (those jawfests around the water cooler or the three beers after work with your cronies, complaining about the management monkeys you have to tolerate, are finally a positive reflection on you!)

If you have worked for one employer for an extended period of time, you don't have to stress your stability, the interviewer already knows that. Instead, concentrate on answering the unasked questions in his mind, his fear that you are set in your ways. Stress your flexibility and desire to learn new skills and procedures. If you changed departments or job title or responsibilities during your long tenure, give the details and how well you adapted to change.

If your work history is varied with many jobs for short periods of time, explain how much you learned from each separate job and stress your current desire to blend your experiences into a long-term, stable career. Describe how you are looking for a company where you can hunker down and commit for the long haul.

It may take you some time and self-exploration to identify it, but there are always some aspects of your work history that carry a positive spin. Don't be afraid to dwell on your strong points no matter how unimpressive you fear your prior jobs may seem.

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A sample job acceptance letter should be kept on the computer of job seekers to be customized for a new situation and used when it is needed. A job seeker should also know how to use it, and when to use it. With that in mind, a sample letter follows.

Date Name of Hiring Manager Company Address City Zip

Dear Hiring Manager's name,

It is with great enthusiasm that I accept your offer for employment with Xyz Company. I look forward to a long and mutually profitable relationship, and will do my best to live up to the faith that you have shown in me through your decision to invite me to become a part of the team here at Xyz.

I'm excited about the prospect of contributing to the great success the company has had and look forward to this opportunity. You will recall that my experience includes sales, marketing and business management. I'm sure my skills will translate well to the excellent environment at Xyz.

Again, I thank you for your time, for the confidence you've placed in me, and for this wonderful opportunity to join the team.

Sincerely, 

The Guru 

You'll notice that this sample letter is short and to the point. It thanks the person who did the hiring without being sloppy or overly sentimental. It also congratulates the hiring manager on making a wise decision and choosing the right person, but in a way that is matter of fact, and does not seem like bragging.

It is always a good idea to keep your acceptance letter based on factual, short, precise, and a bit formal. You are in the early stages of the work relationship you are forming at this new company, and want to put your best foot forward. This letter will help you do that. You'll probably be excited and nervous after being accepted for the new position, and writing a sample letter before you are hired will allow you to do your writing with a clear mind, undistracted by concerns about what you will wear that day, or anything that came up in the conversation. Using a letter like this is an example of doing your homework and being a smart job seeker. In fact, you should also keep a sample cover letter, sample follow up letter, and a sample thank you letter for after the interview in your documents folder of your computer, ready to customize as the need arises.

Smart job seekers do everything they can to present themselves in the best possible light. That extra effort is what makes the difference between a low paying job with little satisfaction and a well paying start at a new career. Using samples of these documents you'll use in a job search just makes sense and will help you on your way to that satisfying new career.

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The interviewer hopes that YOU are the right person for the job. They are under pressure to fill the position so that they can get back to their own work. Therefore you are in a greater position of strength than you think. Concentrate on what you have to offer in the way of qualifications and experience instead of feeling intimidated.

An interviewer has 3 aims:

1) To learn if you are the right person for the job
2) To assess your potential for promotion
3) To decide whether you will fit into the company environment

The key to a successful interview is in preparation

Be prepared: For the types of questions you will be asked
Be prepared: To ask questions yourself
Be prepared: To research the company
Be prepared: To look the part
Be prepared: To turn up on time

Questions you may be asked
Example question: How would you describe yourself?
Your answer: Should describe attributes that will enhance your suitability for the position. Have some ready in advance.
Example question: What are your long-term goals?
Your answer: Should be career orientated. Make sure you have goals to discuss.
Example question: Why did you leave your last job?
Your answer: Could be more responsibility; better opportunity; increased income. Do not be detrimental to your previous employer. He could be the interviewer's golfing partner.
Example question: Why do you want this job?
Your answer: Your answer should be: more responsibility or better opportunity or similar. Not: because it is closer to home or the gym.
Example question: What are your strengths?
Your answer: Should highlight accomplishments and experiences that relate to the position for which you are applying. Also give examples of situations where your strengths have been demonstrated.
Example question: What are your weaknesses?
Your answer: Should not be a list of deficiencies. Don't mention anything that could make the interviewer question your ability to do the job, for example "I am always late for everything." Instead, discuss a weakness that could also be a strength such as "I am a workaholic!"

More Examples of Interview Questions
Tell me a little bit about yourself.
Describe your current / most recent position.
What made you want to make this change?
What do you most enjoy doing in your current /most recent position?
Describe your future ambitions.
How would you describe yourself?

Questions for you to ask
Asking questions at interview has a number of positive effects:
It helps you find out more about the company and the position.
It can be used to divert the interviewer away from a subject you may wish to avoid.
It can help build a rapport with the interviewer.
It demonstrates an interest in the job and the company.
The questions must be about the position and the company.
Avoid questions about salary, benefits and facilities until after you have been offered the job. You should already have researched the company and it's products and services. Your questions should demonstrate knowledge of the company's history, successes and problems. If the interviewer is a representative of the personnel department the questions should relate to the company and be general. Specific questions relating to the position should be kept for the line manager who will have a more detailed knowledge.

Example questions relating to the position
What are the main responsibilities of the job?
What are the most difficult aspects of the job?
How did the vacancy arise?
What is the career path relating to this position?
How will my work be assessed?

Example questions relating to the company
What is the company hoping to achieve in the next 12 months?
What new products are the company planning to introduce in the future?
Are any major changes planned for the department/company?
Who are your biggest competitors?

Where to find company information
Information relating to companies, financial data, industries and business trends is available in business magazines which often publish on the World Wide Web and allow you to order
Annual Reports relating to specific companies.
Companies often have their own web site.
Newspapers - search on-line press reports including archived articles.
Local library

Presentation Tips
Obviously you should be clean and smart in appearance but you should also dress appropriately for the position, for example: a student placement that is more expensively dressed than the Managing Director may have a negative impact.
Clothes should be on the conservative side, which is more acceptable to people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. After all, you are asking to be accepted into the company. Therefore always avoid extremes in hair, clothes, make-up and jewellery. Taking trouble over your appearance shows the employer that the job is important to you.

Travel tips
Arrive 15 minutes early.
Make sure you have the correct address and know how you will get there:
Parking? Public transport access?
Do a dummy run if you are not sure.
Make sure you have a mobile phone and a telephone number so that you can ring ahead if circumstances beyond your control are making you late.
Be polite to everyone you speak to, it could be the Managing Director's cousin!
Have a copy of your CV with you.

Summary
You should show interest in all aspects of the job and the company especially if shown around the premises.
Do your homework on the company and the nature of its business. Take care in how you dress for the interview. First impressions still count!

Some of the main influences on the interviewer are:
Your experience in other employment or life situations Your personal presentation.
How your personality comes across in the interview
Your background and references
Your enthusiasm for both the job and the organisation.
Relevant qualifications for the position.

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Why is it a good idea to determine your worth? Whether you plan to stay at your current job or seek employment elsewhere, your assessment of your worth can become a bargaining chip should you choose to negotiate for higher compensation. It’s a reference point on your way to improving not only your standard of living but your sense of self as well.

There are many ways your worth is determined for a particular job. One way is to look at your current earnings. That will at least tell you how your boss or company views your worth. Another way is to find out what the average job salaries are for people performing the same functions as you. Still another approach is to use a salary calculator to look at a salary comparison based on several factors including industry, geography and of course the level of the position itself. If you are interested in that approach, salary.com has a neat formula for calculating salary.

If you want to make a lot of money, I suggest you look to your true worth. In most cases, your true worth is far greater than your current compensation. Your worth can be defined by what you bring to the table that is unique and valuable. Look at the skills, strengths, core competencies, marketable assets and accomplishments you can declare as your own. This is what describes your uniqueness. It is what differentiates you from the crowd.

Keep in mind that no other person possesses these same unique gifts. The things in life that are rare tend to be worth more than those things that are bountiful in nature. Extending this concept further, the rarest thing is a one-of-a-kind, which is priceless. There is nothing else like it. Have I just described you?

Having said that, what number would best describe your worth? Once you have arrived at a number, communicate this with your spouse or best friend for validation. You may be surprised by their response.

Salary negotiations based on your true worth take on a whole new dimension. No, you probably won’t be compensated one million dollars; however, I have seen twenty to forty thousand dollars added to starting compensation through aggressive negotiations. It is common to negotiate signing bonuses, stipulations calling for substantial six-month performance-based increases, several weeks of additional vacation time and many other perks.

You have probably worked very hard to come to this point, so why stop short of getting what you truly want, and deserve. Wouldn’t you rather be compensated on the basis of what you’re worth than on some arbitrary figure designed to keep the status quo? Remember, what you receive now becomes your benchmark for future positions. Go for what you are worth – your life will never be the same!

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The interview is a critical part of the job search process and also
the one where most job seekers have trouble. There is plenty of
advice around on how to navigate thru an interview successfully. This
article has put together some simple, but crucial items that job
seekers should definitely plan on NOT doing!


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JOB INTERVIEWING - 8 MISTAKES YOU MUST AVOID!
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1. - DON'T SHOW UP LATE.
There is no easier way to lose points with a prospective employer
than to show up late. First impressions do last. And unfortunately,
showing up late screams things like “I am unreliable” or “your time is
not important to me”. Is this what you want a prospective employer to
think before you even have a chance to utter a word? Make it a point
to try to be early to every interview. That way, bad weather, traffic
and that last minute phone call stand less chance of ruining your
entrance. If the unforeseen 18-wheeler does happen to dump 10 tons of
tomatoes across the interstate, upon arrival, apologize first thing,
offer a quickexplanation and move on. (Ideally you would have called
from your cell phone as soon as you caught sight of the delay.)

2. - DON'T ACT DISINTERESTED.
No matter what the circumstance never act disinterested during an
interview. If 10 minutes into the meeting you become certain that
nothing on the planet could convince you to take a job with the
company continue to pay attention and act like you care about the
conversation. Remember that the interviewer does not exist in a
vacuum. He or she has friends, relatives, and associates who may
influence future job opportunities. If you behave poorly, the
interviewer will remember and will share the story of you and your
unprofessional behavior with others. Haven’t you shared bad job
search experiences with people close to you? The interviewer is
probably no different.

3. - DON'T BE UNPREPARED.
Being prepared has many facets. Interviewers expect you to know
something about the company and the position you are seeking. Having
this knowledge makes you appear both motivated and truly interested.
So make sure you do your research! Excellent sources of information
include, the Internet, periodicals and people already in the field.
Another facet of being prepared is being ready for the types of
questions that may be asked. There are numerous articles on the web
and in bookstores with practice interview questions and answers. Make
sure to utilize all such resources available to you. And finally,
don’t forget to have extra copies of your resume and references on
hand should they be requested.

4. - DON'T FORGET YOUR MANNERS.
No matter how old fashioned it appears to use word like “please”,
“sir”, “ma’am” and “thank you”, do not delete these words from your
vocabulary. These simple words can work wonders towards making a
positive impression. Always use a respectful tone of voice. Do not
unnecessarily interrupt the interviewer. Maintain eye contact and a
pleasant expression. Leave the slang, slouching and gum chewing at
home. Good manners signals respect for yourself and the people around
you; never underestimate their importance.

5. - DON'T DRESS INAPPROPRIATELY.
Whether you like it or not, the job interview is not the time to
express your individuality. Always remember that your goal is to gain
employment, not to make a fashion statement. Accordingly, you should
not dress in any way that will distract attention from you and your
qualifications. Things to avoid include unconventional hair colors,
excessive jewelry and makeup and any clothes that you would wear to a
nightclub. Prior to the interview, contact the companies HR
department and inquire about the company dress code. Do your best to
dress accordingly. If there is any doubt, err on the side of being
overdressed.

6. - DON'T BE UNTRUTHFUL
Never, ever lie during an interview. Mistruths have an uncanny habit
of catching up to people. If the interviewer catches you in a lie
during the interview, you have seriously damaged your chances of being
hired. After all, would you hire someone that you couldn’t trust? If
your employer finds out you lied after you have been hired, it could
be grounds for dismissal. Even if they do not dismiss you, you are
still in serious trouble as you have damaged your integrity in the
eyes of your boss. The bottom line is that you should always be
truthful when interviewing.

7. - DON'T BE MODEST.
When searching for the right job, put your modesty aside. Don’t be
afraid to confidently describe your skills and accomplishments. After
all, if you don’t sing your praises to your potential boss, then who
will? Don’t count on your resume to do all the work; it is only a
tool to help you land the interview. Once you get your foot in the
door, it is up to you to convince the interviewer that you are the
ideal person for the job. Worried that you will come across as
conceited instead of self-confident? Then practice how and what you
will say with a friend or family member who can provide honest
feedback.

8. - DON'T FORGET THE "THANK YOU NOTE".
Once the interview has concluded, take a few moments to jot down your
impressions of the interviewer, what you talked about and any
interesting points that were brought up during the meeting. The ideal
time and place to do this is in your car a soon as you have exited the
building, as your thoughts will be most fresh at this time. Use this
information as you compose a well thought out thank you note to the
interviewer. Mail this note no later than the day following the
interview. Remember promptness signals interest.

By avoiding these 8 simple mistakes, you can improve your chances of
having a successful interview and landing the job of your dreams.

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If you are among those who do not have a job while applying for a new position you will be faced with questions regarding your job search, such as 'why aren't you working till now' or 'why are you looking for this particular job?' Answer comfortably (this takes practice as such questions may touch a raw nerve) and relaxed that you are looking for the right fit and are quite choosy when it comes to the 'right job'. Be ready to be asked what your 'right job' entails, where you can answer many aspects that are in the position you are applying for, while at the same matching your strengths with it. This requires good practice before hand.

There are touchy questions such as, 'How would you react if you and/or your work were criticized?' Say that you have learned to differentiate between useful and malicious criticism and that you use the former to grow and correct yourself, while you ignore the latter. Criticism is an important aspect in all the jobs, and accepting it shows great personal maturity and professional confidence.

Other questions about your job search would involve, 'what do you think/ know about the present company?' or 'Why you choose this company to work for?'. Here you need to answer with clarity on your match to the company's goals. In order to do this, you should have done your research on the past performance of the company, and know its future plans. Showing that you have an in-depth knowledge about the company show that you are deeply interested in the company; while proving your fit, shows that it was a calculated decision, and not one based only on the benefits offered.

When faced with questions such as 'why do you want to join this company' make sure you do not mention anything from your point of view (benefits, name, and satisfaction) rather put it in the company's perspective where you explain that you would be able to make a difference and hence grow professionally while contributing to the goals of the company. All your answers should always be company centered in order to make the greatest impact.

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Whenever a candidate appears an interview he/she has to face some really tough interview questions and if these find you unprepared then the whole effort is lost. All the questions that interviewer will put to you are specifically formulated to draw out some insights on your personality and traits. If you keep this in mind you will know where your answers should always lead, i.e. to your best qualities, particularly those which will be a match to the job you are being interviewed for.

There is a lot many questions that you will face as 'tough interview questions' and these are called tough because most of the time you will be confused as what would be the best answer; would take you by surprise and/ or would bring about sudden not so favorable reactions from you.

There are a number of such questions, such as 'why were you fired', 'what do you think about yourself', 'what was your opinion about your ex-boss', 'how would you handle an unreasonable person', 'what would you do if your boss is unreasonable' and so on. The best answer is not always the right answer, as paradoxical as this sounds. The best answer is something that comes out as objective and as possible, and answering which focuses on solution and positive outcome rather than blaming and dead analysis.

The interviewer seeks to gauge the depth of your maturity in handling a rough situation in order to evaluate your stability as value addition for the company. Each of the 'tough interview questions' are tests by themselves - testing your attitude - whether you are aggressive, reactive, passive or objective; testing your thinking-on-the-feet capacity - whether you can come up with a workable solution when you are under pressure of situation and time; and your reaction - whether you are resentful, defensive, offensive or take things in your stride.

The 'trick questions' as these 'tough interview questions' are also known are put in order to make it easier for the interviewer to project the way you would react in situations that can come up in the company for which the interview is taking place. Keep in mind always:

• to remain calm when faced with tough interview questions
• to remain objective and focus on the solution not problem
• not to badmouth or blame any of your past colleagues or bosses
• to check and beware of body language during uncomfortable questions
• to practice on every possible uncomfortable question regarding your past job before the interview (so you would be in control of your emotions if that touches a raw nerve - 'why were you fired' type of questions)
• to identify and beware of what triggers uncomfortable reactions regarding your past job (analyze before hand what exactly you hated about the job and whether you could have avoided it)
• to have sufficient questions for the interviewer to ensure that the past job experience (if it was unpleasant) does not repeat here; the question should be subtle but which can give you sufficient information to help decide whether you should or not take the job if offered
• never to tell lies - even if you are sorely tempted during a tough question
• not to show frustration, anger or disappointment on circumstances of the leaving the past job
• to show that you have outgrown the past and gained out of the experience, even if was not a pleasant one

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Though it is ideal to be able to get an instant interview feedback on the way an interview was given, it seldom happens. Every candidate at the end has the same question in mind at the time of exit - 'did I make it'? Though in reality, the gut feeling will tell you whether you scored high or low, you still hope that you did it.

How to really find out whether you did well or not before the results are out? You have the follow-up option which is best done two-three days later when you can call up and ask the interviewer for feedback. Sometimes you come up with a blank interview feedback such as, 'we will inform you over mail' or 'results will be announced shortly/ on so-and-so date'. Do not be deterred if this happens. You can answer that you hoped you were the chosen one, and reiterate that you would be very interested to have his/her feedback so you could do better next time.

The truth which is revealed through the interview feedback can be very frustrating sometimes and you should be prepared for it. In case someone else was chosen, your candidature will be refused summarily on things like 'not the right kind of experience or attitude', 'found someone more suitable', 'some criteria do not match requirements' and so on. It is painful enough to hear about rejection; it is even more painful to be summarily rejected.

There are a number of such questions, such as 'why were you fired', 'what do you think about yourself', 'what was your opinion about your ex-boss', 'how would you handle an unreasonable person', 'what would you do if your boss is unreasonable' and so on. The best answer is not always the right answer, as paradoxical as this sounds. The best answer is something that comes out as objective and as possible, and answering which focuses on solution and positive outcome rather than blaming and dead analysis.

In such cases a polite request for the interview feedback most of the times is deemed with an answer. Be careful not to ignore this feedback however unfair you think it is at that time. The fact that someone else was chosen over you shows that somebody else did a better job at convincing that they were the best match. You cannot identify this point accurately, but you at least could be aware about what they were looking at when they rejected your application.

Hence, accept the feedback with the seriousness it is due. Write it down if possible, and go through it a couple of days later when you are able to be more objective about the whole affair. Learn from it. Move on. Do not mop on the near-misses even if it is your dream job. Once it is gone, it is gone. You can still prepare for a next opportunity in the same place later when the next opportunity arises.

When asking the interview feedback, whatever be the answer, be sure you inform the interviewer that you would be happy to audition again if another opening came up, and that you have a high preference for the company. A good polite request for feedback in the face of rejection and a well verbalized disappointment would actually provide you with a truthful feedback and a lot of good advice for future opportunities. Whatever be the feedback, while receiving it abstain from defending yourself in anyway. The feedback is not in any a re-consideration of the interview and hence you will end up only annoying the interviewer, asking for an argument.

Remember to thank the interviewer for his/her time and comments. Once you have the interview feedback, be sure you work on whatever is the problem whether real or assumed by the interviewer so that the same effects are not repeated in your next interview. This is the best outcome of a feedback - your possibility to improve.

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Among the questions you will face during an interview will definitely be your career objective. This is something you should be so well imbibed in your psyche that when you talk about it, it should come out as your second nature. In order to answer well on this aspect, you need to tally internalize your career objectives which will anyway stay unchanged whatever job you will take up.

There will be questions such as, 'would you like to change anything in the way you took of your career decisions' or 'what if you would be offered another choice of career'. Through questions such as these the interviewer is trying to judge whether you really love the work you have applied for and whether there would be any possibility of you being wooed by some other opening before you contribute to the company. Be honest in your answer; however do not move too far from the objectives of the present job.

Other questions may search your areas of interest and focus such as 'other than the present job, what else you would be comfortable with'. Here be as brief as you can while highlighting two or three areas of interest in the same line of the job that you are being interviewed. You need to be prepared for this question because you need to match your strengths to the possible ramification of the job you're being interviewed for. So prepare well.

Some interviewers ask seemingly friendly and philosophical questions, such as 'how would you define success; how about the level of success in your life'. They are not being vague; actually they are looking how settled you are with the present career goals. Hence, you answer should be centered around your major career accomplishments and related directly to some if not most of the objectives of the present job. This needs preparation as well.

'Describe what you understand by position' (the position you applied for) would be another trick question though it looks pretty harmless. The interviewer here seeks to learn whether you understood and are aware your responsibilities in the given position. Keep the answer focused on action and results that the position entails. Keep it as brief as a definition should be.

A good question, often encountered during your career objectives interview is, 'what would be the best period of time in a job/ company/ position' or 'how long do you usually stay in a job'. Such questions look into your long-term perspective and whether you are a dynamic professional or a passive one. A dynamic person would answer that they would stay in a job as along as they felt they contributed to the goals of the company and their own professionalism; while a passive person would say they would not like to change jobs once they found their dream job.

Your career goal questions like any other during an interview seek to probe how well you would fit with the company and in the job you are applying for. Keep all the question centered on your strengths and achievements that are most in line with the position you aspire for.

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'What salary do you expect' is a question that you want to hear but never want to answer. Most of the times because you will be scared you may undersell yourself; and your fears are well founded. Many employers who ask about the last salary taken, offer about 10-30% above your last salary even if their company generally pays more for the job. There are many ways to beat this problem:

• Be prepared for the question: Best way to handle any problem in life is to be prepared. Interviews too are difficulties that one has to prepare for. In order to be prepared with a good answer you need to know what type of salary the position you are applying for entails. First find out about the salary in the market. You can also find out about the salary offered in the same company either thought the net, or by asking some of the employees - directly or indirectly. Whatever may be your sources, be sure you have a good idea of what the job pays before you face the interview.
• Be prepared to negotiate: The interviewer more often than not will follow the 'what salary do you expect' question with 'what was your last salary'. When asked this be truthful as much as possible. In case you feel the salary you were earning was too low and might make a wrong impression or fix the negotiating platform too low, emphasize why the past salary was not the right remuneration for the job you were doing while at the same time comparing positively to the added value you would give the present job. You should come across as deserving the higher bracket, and not only hankering for a higher pay.
• Be prepared to redirect: The question can very diplomatically passed back with, 'that depends on what is the going remuneration for the job here' or 'what have you earmarked for the job' or 'what is the salary you offer for the job'. Then wait for the answer - if you find it adequate accept it saying it is the same thing you had in mind. If not negotiate for a higher salary based upon your experience, qualifications and extra capabilities.
• Be open: You may say that you were expecting x amount. Be careful though, the interviewer will definitely want to find out why you named that amount - and you should be ready to say why - such as, it is the market rate for the job; it is a reasonable increase on the past job remuneration; the job responsibilities and time would entail it, etc. You need to back up your answer not only with apt reasoning, but also with confidence.
• Be prepared for a lower offer: Whatever you say, unless you are dealing with a highly established company/organization where positions and pays are fixed, you will be offered a slightly lower offer that you name. At that time, if you think it is worthy to jump on the wagon even if it is at a lightly lower salary than expected, then say so. If not, state clearly the minimum salary you would require and why. However, sometimes it is worthy to gain entry into a good company even if the beginning pay is lower than expected, provided the growth prospects are good and the brand of the company looks good on your resume.

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