INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

In order to learn how to respond to the needs of the interviewer, let's first
learn more about ourselves. We can then apply that knowledge about ourselves to
knowing how to understand and respond to the needs of others. Most social
psychologists recognize four basic personality styles: Analytical, Amiable, Expressive,
and Driver. Here are the characteristics that are most commonly associated with each
of the styles:

 Analytical

Positive Traits: Precise, Methodical, Organized, Rational, Detail Oriented

Negative Traits: Critical, Formal, Uncertain, Judgmental, Picky

 Amiable

Positive Traits: Cooperative, Dependable, Warm, Listener, Negotiator

Negative Traits: Undisciplined, Dependent, Submissive, Overly Cautious, Conforming

 Expressive

Positive Traits: Enthusiastic, Persuasive, Outgoing, Positive, Communicator

Negative Traits: Ego Centered, Emotional, Exploitive, Opinionated, Reacting

 Driver

Positive Traits: Persistent, Independent, Decision Maker, Effective, Strong Willed

Negative Traits: Aggressive, Strict, Intense, Relentless, Rigid

Tell me a little about yourself.

This is the question that is most often asked at interviews. Often it will be the
first question. The general nature of the question can be a trap. Have your answer
prepared and do not ramble.

You should take this chance to show your communication skills by speaking clearly
and concisely in an organized manner. Because there is no right or wrong answer for
this question, it is important to appear friendly. Here is a simple and effective way to
prepare your response to "Tell me about yourself."
Important Qualities

 Begin your answer by stating that you have the qualities for the job which you are
applying for. For example, if it is a sales job, the most important qualities they are
looking for might be:

 The ability to communicate well with people.

 The ability to set goals and stay on track.
 The ability to handle rejection.

 Say why you want to work for the particular company you are applying for.

 Say where you last worked (or say the job that was most relevant to the position
that you are applying for now) and pick one or two things you achieved at that job

 Say about your achievements and accomplishments

 Say about your strength and abilities

Things to remember:

"I want to work for your company because you have great benefits and pay good
commissions” That shows interest in YOURSELF and not interest in the company. "

 Don’t make the reply to this too long. You want to interact with the interviewer
as soon as possible and if you go over two minutes you are giving a speech, not
interacting. At the same time don’t be too short.

 Don’t forget to make eye contact. You want to look the interviewer in the eye and
connect so don’t look down when you give your answer.

 Ask a question at the end of your reply. The key to winning at the interview is to
get your interviewer talking.

Short Answers

"I’m a hard worker and I like to take challenges. I like my parents, and in my spare
time, I like to relax and chat with my family and friends."

"I’m an easy going person that works well with everyone. I enjoy being around
different types of people and I like to always challenge myself to improve at
everything I do."
"I grew up in Chennai and studied Engineering. I worked at an institute for two years
and I enjoy reading novels."

Long Answer

"My career has been characterized by my ability to work well with diverse teams. I
seek out opportunities to involve others in the decision-making process. This
collaboration and communication is what has enabled me to achieve success in my
department. People are the most valuable resource of any organization."

"My native place is Chennai and I live in Anna Nagar for the past 25 years. I did my
schooling in St. Peters Higher Secondary School, and graduation in Loyola College
with M.A in Sociology. Afterwards, I started my career at Cosmos as a content editor.
I’ve been there for 3 years now. Although my emphasis is in writing, I like numbers. I
think solving logic problems and riddles are quite fun. I also enjoy jogging, reading,
and watching movies. "

The example above shows a short answer telling a little bit about the person.
The answer went from education to career, and then to personal interests all in a
smooth flow. There is no right or wrong answer for this question. Most important
thing you should remember is how you deliver the message.

Basic Interview Questions

1. Tell me about yourself.

2. What are your strengths?
3. What are your weaknesses?
4. What are your short term goals?
5. What are your long term goals?
6. What do you want to be doing five years from now?
7. What does success mean to you?
8. What does failure mean to you?
9. How do you make important decisions?
10. Do you work well under pressure?