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Are You Ready for That Job Interview?

You finally have that all important job interview, what can you do to prepare yourself for questions that my be asked by the interviewer.

Some questions have become standards that every interviewer asks potential employees. However, there are no standard answers. Still, there are some do's and don'ts that can help when answering those standard questions.

Some questions that may be asked and the best way to answer them:

Tell me about yourself

Do not summarize your resume or launch into an autobiography.
Do succinctly describe your education, experience, and goals. Start with a discussion of your strengths.

Why are you leaving your current position?

Do not give a negative answer.
Do explain why you want to move into the job or company and why it is a good match with your strengths. Also, try to introduce the answer when you are telling the interviewer about yourself.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Do not say you don't have any. Do identify a weakness and then describe the steps you have taken to correct it. Also, you can make your weakness sound like a strength. Example: 'I take on too much work.'

How much do you expect to make?

Do not quote a specific figure. Do ask about the salary range. If the interviewer responds, restate your qualifications, and explain why you deserve the higher end.

If you could do anything you wanted to do, what would that be?

Do not be fooled by this seemingly innocuous question. It is very significant in a job interview. Think before responding. Do not say, "I would get on a boat to Bermuda" or "Spend all of my time reading", even in jest.
Do respond in a way that shows you are happy where you are now. Example: I would be doing just what I am doing now. I enjoy marketing, etc.

And finally, remember to Google yourself before you respond to advertisements or apply for a job so you will be ready to answer any questions concerning posts that may be seen as questionable or inappropriate. Why? Because employers have a new tool to find out information about potential employees--it is the Internet. If you find that hard to believe, try searching your own name. If your search does not show any results, congratulations, you are in a growing minority. If you do find yourself listed in blogs, etc. take a look at what you have said earlier. If you have shared your opinion in online groups, it may come up on the Internet when your name is typed. Can your answer be seen as negative, argumentative or racist? While certain questions are illegal and should not be asked by the interviewer, they are often masked in conversation.

Remember, there is nothing like being prepared when you walk through the door of a potential employer.

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Content copyright © 2013 by Vannie Ryanes. All rights reserved.
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