5 simplest answers to sail through an interview...

The most stressful part of job interview is to get stuck in those questions which are generic in nature but nevertheless difficult to answer. Here is a few answers to those questions, that should help you.

01 Tell us about yourself?

For a long time, I would go around talking about my place of birth, education and work experience etc etc. Then I realised how silly it sounds.Interviewers want to know the candidates skillsets, strengths and achievements in the past and how these are related to the requirement of job.

For example: “I am really passionate about my work. Whatever I do I do it with full of my dedication, determination and devotion. I am working in insurance sales for last two years and that has given me a lot confidence and taught me the importance of time management and goal setting. I have been consistently achieving my targets for the last 3 quarters. I also have organized and been part of various road shows and counseling activity for lead generation”.

02 Why are you leaving current job?

It is very easy to criticise your employers and there the interviewer deducts the marks. As a thumb rule remember to stay away from saying negative things about your former/current employer. Instead focus on the positive.

For example: “I have learned many things from my last job like team play, client management, being an efficent worker. However now I am looking for new challenges. So that I can further utilize my potential and also widen up my skill sets.”

03 What are your weaknesses?

Sitting with friends, I would say things casually. However at an interview this is a great chance for the candidate to show positive attitude. Here you can use a real examples of weaknesses you have overcome.

For example: “Initially i was quite scared of working on Excel sheets, the formula making used to frighten me, but over time I took it as a challenge and have overcome my fear of Excel and numbers. In fact I am also now responsible to manage the MIS for the sales team.”

04 What motivates you?

I have heard of movies, good food, friends as answers. But then the answer to this question should reflect the positive attitude of candidate. So rather than giving frivolous answers, focus on attitude.

For example: “ The challenge of finishing projects on time and also ensuring client satisfaction motivates me”.

05 What is your expectation in terms of salary?

Now Salary negotiation is an art. There is a good saying “You don’t get what you deserve, you only get what you negotiate.” So you should negotiate your salary very carefully. We would suggest don’t give the numbers directly. It is good to say “based on my experience and the demand of the job I expect the appropriate range to be paid for this role.”

It is important to have and show an interest in the job profile offered. You can definitely do a small research on internet to know what the salary range is for the profile offered and what is the industry trends like.

Simple isn’t it?