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Now that you’ve prepared your opening statement, let’s address your ability to answer interview questions. In Stage Three of the interview identified as “Sharpening The Focus,” that is precisely what you will be required to do. Here, then, are some General Guidelines for Answering Questions that will aid you in your rehearsal.
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Remember, it’s not all about you! Be sure to convey ways you plan to add value to the company. |
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Give answers that reflect your knowledge about the organization’s needs and the needs of the job you are applying for. |
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Share concrete examples of your achievements and your understanding of the job. |
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If you are asked about a process about which you know nothing, don’t try to fake it. Admit it, and then reframe what could be considered a weakness into something positive. Discuss related experiences you’ve had and draw a relationship. |
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Remember to keep your energy level high and to maintain a positive attitude. |
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Reinforce your understanding of “team efforts.” |
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Do not take full credit for projects that were shared. |
Moving from the general to the more specific, we believe you can best prepare (rehearse) by becoming adept at answering behavior-based (or performance-based) questions. Here are the answers to some specific questions you might be having regarding behavior-based questions and guidelines to get you started.
| Question: |
What is a behavior-based question? |
| Answer: |
Behavior-based questions (used in behavior-based interviews) are founded on the premise that if you have demonstrated an ability to do something in the past, you can do it again in the future. Such questions are aimed at revealing your past behavior and its resulting consequences. Recent examples are better than references to events in the distant past. |
Here are some examples:
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Take me through a time when you took a product or a project from start to launch. |
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Describe the way that you work under tight deadlines. |
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Describe how you work under tough managers. |
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How would you approach me with feedback if I were doing something that annoyed you or made your job difficult? What specifically would you say? |
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Tell me about a problem that occurred on your last job and how you handled it. |
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Tell me about a time when you needed to be creative and take initiative. What were the results of your efforts? |
| Question: |
How do I answer behavior-based questions? |
| Answer: |
See below. |
FORMULATING YOUR RESPONSES TO BEHAVIOR-BASED QUESTIONS?
REMEMBER: PAR
P-Problem
A-Action
R-Result
| Problem: |
Think about times when you were faced with a problem that is similar to the one the interviewer is asking you about? Was there a time when you successfully used the trait or skill that the interviewer is addressing? |
| Action: |
What did you do?
How did you do it? |
| Result: |
What were the results of your actions?
What did you learn about yourself as a result?
What do you still need to learn? |
Prepare your responses using the PAR guidelines, but remember, if the result of your action or behavior was particularly stellar, it’s okay to grab your audience’s attention by reversing the order of your response and giving your result first (i.e., RAP).
By the time you’ve developed your stories, and practiced them out-loud you will have a powerful database of personal information regarding your ability to fit within this organization that will carry you through the interview.
Here are some additional interviewing questions you can use to practice.
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What is your definition of working too hard? |
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Persuade me to move to your city. |
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How do you manage stress? |
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What kinds of opportunities have you created for yourself in your current position? |
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In a team environment, are you a motivator, a player, a leader, or an enthusiast? |
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In the past three years, what part of your professional skill set have you improved the most? |
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If you were a new employee, what would you do to gain respect from peers in 30, 60, or 90 days? |
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Have you ever accepted a counter offer? If so, why? |
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How would you describe your most recent job performance evaluation? |
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What is your next logical career opportunity with your present employer? |
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If you were to stay with your present employer, what would your career track be over the next two or three years? |
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How many of you’re salary increases have been the result of promotions or merit? Describe. |
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What is your most recent salary history? When is your next salary review? (See the section in this booklet on salary negotiations.) |
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What interests you about our company? |
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Why would you be attracted to our opportunity? |
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Do you have any noteworthy outside interests? |
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How do you stay professionally current? |
Looking and Acting the Part
Let’s not forget an important part of your rehearsal. Your appearance and demeanor are the first two assets you are being evaluated on at your interview. Make sure you give them adequate consideration.
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Handshakes, smiles, and eye contact |
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Your personal style – “Can we talk?” |
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Grooming |
As part of our “Confident Interviewing” coaching, we will share valuable information regarding professional appearance and demeanor. |
