The Most Important Questions of Any Interview

5/23/2011 by Lee A. Junkans
  1. Why should we hire you? (or How do you stand out from other applicants?)

    Musts: give 5 reasons; Provide evidence; Match with desired qualifications from employer.

    1._______________________________________________________________

    2._______________________________________________________________

    3._______________________________________________________________

    4._______________________________________________________________

    5._______________________________________________________________

  2. Why do you want to work for our company?

    Musts: give 3 reasons; offer uniqueness about this company; use their language; show off your research about the company.

    1.____________________________________________________________

    2.____________________________________________________________

    3.____________________________________________________________

    1. Why do you want this job?

    Musts: give 3 reasons; think long-term/career-wise; show sincerity & passion

    1.____________________________________________________________

    2.____________________________________________________________

    3.____________________________________________________________

    1. Name 2 of your weaknesses.

    Musts: you have to answer; you get no credit for honesty; goal: minimize the damage.

    1.____________________________________________________________

    2.____________________________________________________________

    As a former recruiter with a major company, I would spend 80% of every interview focused on these questions—if you stumble on one of these, you will be eliminated from the interview process. This is a tool that you can use to prepare for every interview for the rest of your life.