Be prepared for questions like these

When going on an interview you should be prepared to answer these types of questions. If need be, practice beforehand with a friend.

  • Why are you leaving your present job?
  • What are your short term and long term goals? When and why did you establish these goals? How are you preparing yourself to achieve them?
  • What do you see yourself doing in five years?
  • How do you plan to achieve your career goals?
  • Which is more important to you: money or type of job?
  • What kind of salary are you worth? Why?
  • What do you consider to be your greatest strength(s)? Your greatest weakness(es)?
  • How do you think a friend, teacher or former employer would describe you?
  • What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
  • Why should I hire you?
  • How do you evaluate or determine success?
  • In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company?
  • How long will it take for you to make a contribution?
  • What qualities should a successful manager possess?
  • What two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
  • If you were hiring somebody for this position, what qualities would you look for?
  • In what kind of work environment are you most comfortable?
  • How have you helped increase profits?
  • How have you helped to decrease costs?
  • How long would you stay with our firm?

The Tough Questions

1. What salary are you looking for?

“Well I am currently at $ _____, but my main concern is opportunity.”

Don’t volunteer an exact number. If pressed, give them a range: “somewhere between x and y depending on the total package – bonuses, benefits, etc.”

2. Why are you leaving your present position?

“I enjoy my work, _____ is a great company, but this is my current situation _____ and when I heard about the opportunity here I wanted to pursue it.”
Always be positive, but give a valid reason for leaving.

3. What is your weakness?

“I am always looking to improve my skills.”
Put it in terms of positive growth. My answer is always: “I tend to take on too much work. I get it done but I should sleep a little more.”

Source: The Endicott Report; Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.