30 Typical Job Interview Questions

�Job interviews are a common source of anxiety for many and much of this seems to stem from a concern that you will be thrown by a difficult question. The range and nature of questions you may be asked at interview is vast and it is therefore neither practicable nor desirable to swot up on questions in preparation. By completing the assessment activities we recommend in our career coaching programmes you will be more fully and confidently prepared and able to give natural, authentic responses.

The following questions are provided to give you an idea of typical questions and to give you an opportunity to check your preparedness, perhaps by randomly selecting a few questions and answering them. You may find it helpful to ask a friend, family member or your Coach to assist you.

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. What is it about this role that appeals to you?
3. Tell me why we should offer this job to you?
4. Where do you hope/intend to be in the next three years?
5. How would your ex-boss/ex-colleagues describe you?
6. What would you say were your main strengths?
7. What is your biggest weakness?
8. Give me an example of your problem solving skills.
9. Tell me about an occasion where your communication skills made a difference to the situation.
10. Describe a time when you had to persuade a reluctant person to take a particular course of action.
11. Describe a situation when you had to deal with an angry customer.
12. What type of responsibilities do you delegate? Give examples of projects where you made best use of delegation.
13. What would you describe as your greatest achievement?
14. What leadership qualities do you possess?
15. How would you describe your management style?
16. How do you keep up with technical developments in your field?
17. Describe a time when you were faced with unrealistic/unfeasible goals? How did you handle the situation?
18. If we offer you this job what area(s) would you feel most unconfident about?
19. If we offered you this job what would be your first priority on joining?
20. Are you considering other jobs at this time? How does this opportunity compare?
21. What salary are you seeking?
22. How do you motivate your team?
23. Give me an example of when your work has been criticised. How did you respond?
24. Why did you stay so long in your last role?
25. Would you be prepared to relocate?
26. Can you give me an example of your team work and leadership?
27. Do you prefer working on your own or in a team?
28. What do you do when you're not working?
29. What do you know about us?
30. Do you have any questions for me?

There are no right answers to these questions. What is important is that you can answer relevant questions confidently, honestly and in a way which positively promotes your abilities, experience and skills.

E: sarah.jaggers@managingchange.org.uk

10 Things to Bring With You Should Always Bring With You to an Interview

The current state of the economy and the job market has made it almost impossible to find a job. If you want to be one of the chosen to land an interview, you must be at the top of your game. No longer is it enough to simply appear at an interview dressed in a suit and armed with a positive attitude. Today's candidates must be thoroughly prepared for each interview they attend. An important component of that preparation is knowing the ten things you should always bring with you to an interview.

1. Five copies of your resume - even if you have submitted your resume electronically, it is still important to bring along hard copies. In many cases, candidates will find themselves interviewed by multiple managers, so it is always important to have enough resumes to go around.

2. Professional references - be sure to bring a list of 3-5 professional references. Include each reference's contact information including email address as well as the capacity by which they know you.

3. Personal references - more and more companies are turning to personal references to round out the interview process, so bring a list of personal references as well. Phone numbers, email address and relationship should be carefully noted for each reference.

4. Work History - keep a list of your previous employers including physical address, phone number, employment dates and manager names. Being unable to provide this information is unprofessional and may raise an eyebrow or two.

5. Education - bring a list of each school you attended, the address and the degree, or program studied.

6. Skills - As technology continues to evolve, many potential employers are interested in what programs candidates have mastered. You should also include any specialized skills or equipment you can operate

7. Questions - almost all hiring managers will end the interview by asking if the candidate has any questions - prepare a list in advance. It is a great idea to do this by carefully reviewing the company website. The questions should be thought-provoking and relevant.

8. Documentation - Bring along any professional certifications as well as a valid driver's license and social security card. In the event that the position is immediately offered to you, you will have all of the information needed with you.

9. Samples - Many jobs require a candidate to provide samples of their work. Be sure to bring along representations of your best work. This applies to almost all jobs. For example, an architect may bring along samples of their designs while a teacher might bring lesson plans or an example of a teaching plan.

10. Attitude - never underestimate the power of your attitude - remember you are selling yourself, so it is crucial you come prepared to do just that. Be well rested and eat shortly before your interview.

Being adequately prepared for an interview is the first step towards has a successful session. Be sure to prepare your interview items in advance so you are not rushing around trying to locate everything right before your interview.