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The
Interview Game
Basics of Answering Interview Questions
Regardless of what type
of question you are asked, you will find it easier to respond
effectively if you keep in mind some basic question answering
strategies.
You can never predict every question that you will encounter, so approach the
interview with an inventory of important points. Make a list of the points
about yourself that you want the interviewer to know. For example, if you were
to apply for a job as a Sales Representative, you might want to list the products
you have sold before, types of customers (by industry, age, etc.), languages
spoken, personal experience in that industry and related knowledge.
- Consider each
question as an opportunity to provide some of the information
you feel is important.
- Don't assume anything. You will be evaluated
on your answers, not your resume. Therefore, ensure you incorporate
the relevant information from your resume in your answers.
- Pause a couple of seconds before you respond
to each question, even if you know exactly what you want to
say. Take this time to quickly plan your answer, this helps
to avoid misunderstandings and produces much more concise answers.
- If you don't understand a question, ask for
clarification. This is expected and is preferable to providing
an unsuitable answer. Clarification of an illegal
question is very important - you will be able to find out
what the interviewer really wants to know, and how it relates
to the position.
- If you need time to collect
your thoughts - take it. When people are nervous they tend
either to "draw
a blank" or to babble. It is better to think for a few
moments and make sure that your answer is doing you justice
and that there is a point to what you are saying.
- Always expand. Never answer
a question with a "yes" or "no."
- The interview is an opportunity
for you to sell yourself. Don't be afraid to 'blow your own
horn.' As long
as you can back up what you are saying with examples which
demonstrate that what you are saying is true, you are not bragging.
Third party observations can also be mentioned. For example, "My
last employer told me that I was promoted because of how I
handled conflicts with clients."
- Be very positive. Don't complain
about anything - from your former employer to the weather
- and don't apologize
for experience that you don't have. Just sell what you do have
and let the employer decide if you have what he/she is looking
for. Also, avoid negative words. For example, you would not
say "I have a little experience...," you would say "I
have experience......"
- Don't be afraid to repeat important points.
In fact, it is a good idea to do this.
Illegal
Questions
An employer's questions - whether on the job application, in the interview,
or during the testing process - must be related to the job you're applying
for.
Common
Interview Questions
One of the best strategies is to review these questions, and become comfortable
discussing yourself and your related skills.
Types
of Questions
Being aware of the different types can help you in the preparation stage as
you build your skills inventory. It may also help you focus in on exactly what
is being asked and what the employer is looking for in specific questions.
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