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How to answer 23 of the most common interview questions
wisebread.com — "Let’s face it; no one likes the interview process. Well, certainly not the people being interviewed anyway. You have to be on your best behavior, you only get one chance to get it right, and it ’s like taking your driving test all over again. Over the years I’ve been to countless interviews."
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- inkedmn, on 10/10/2007, -6/+11Some real nuggets in there - great article!
- sexybobo, on 10/10/2007, -3/+4http://duggmirror.com
- Ajajadude, on 10/10/2007, -1/+4Indeed. Especially since I'm (still) looking for my first "career" job.
- senatorpjt, on 10/10/2007, -1/+3I've been on a lot of job interviews, but never got the job. All the jobs I've gotten were ones that didn't have interviews, or had very short ones.
- popfrogs, on 10/10/2007, -0/+5Yeah I'm right there with you. It seems I should have read this list about 15 years ago. I interview like a retard and I know it.
- senatorpjt, on 10/10/2007, -1/+3I've been on a lot of job interviews, but never got the job. All the jobs I've gotten were ones that didn't have interviews, or had very short ones.
- Thud, on 10/10/2007, -1/+5I'm a hiring manager (software development)... and I would never, EVER ask any of these questions except #2. Most of those questions are useless fluff that give you no real information about a candidate.
Most of the questions listed, unfortunately, are asked by managers who have no idea how to interview.
It's important to know why the candidate is looking for a new job. I also ask what the candidate likes / doesn't like about his/her current position (or previous position).
We have panel interviews (2-3 managers) and once we get past the basic questions, we start asking about specific situations, as in the STAR model:
http://www.quintcareers.com/STAR_interviewing.html
If the company you interview with starts asking STAR questions, rest assured that they have their act together.
Example: "Give me a specific example of a time you had a technical disagreement with a coworker, and what you did to resolve the conflict."
And "What was one of the most challenging technical problems you have had to solve on a recent project? What were your steps to resolve it?"
Be aware that the interviewer might ask stupid vague questions, but make sure you make clear the tasks YOU accomplished.- mikeon, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Wow, that sounds exactly like the same question the interviewers were giving me at my first job. As I did not have any prior job experience I had to relate it to projects I had done in school and that was acceptable to them. They asked what kind of projects I had done within a group, the problems we had faced and how we solved it. The things that went well and what went wrong and why. What steps did we take to make sure it would not happen again. Then they started asking ethical questions mostly involving coworkers and supervisors.
Course none of that really mattered in this job unless I were into the managerial promotion track. - DocHoliday22, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2Thud you're right but so is the article. Graduate interviews are usually a three stage process, the first stage is all the "fluff" mentioned in this article, the second is the assessment and the third is what you're saying.
Thud do us a favour and write an article on your process. It will most certainly hit the first page as well.
- mikeon, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Wow, that sounds exactly like the same question the interviewers were giving me at my first job. As I did not have any prior job experience I had to relate it to projects I had done in school and that was acceptable to them. They asked what kind of projects I had done within a group, the problems we had faced and how we solved it. The things that went well and what went wrong and why. What steps did we take to make sure it would not happen again. Then they started asking ethical questions mostly involving coworkers and supervisors.
- d2002, on 10/10/2007, -6/+86Yes, but how do I pass the drug tests?
- Trocisp, on 10/10/2007, -4/+3Quickfix.
- IllBeBack, on 10/10/2007, -17/+11Stop abusing illegal substances and you'll pass. /sarcasm
- popfrogs, on 10/10/2007, -2/+4I see what you did there. +1 because Digg moderators are pants on head retarded and can't read a sarcasm tag.
- pifko123, on 10/10/2007, -3/+1STFU
- popfrogs, on 10/10/2007, -2/+4I see what you did there. +1 because Digg moderators are pants on head retarded and can't read a sarcasm tag.
- centran, on 10/10/2007, -14/+8http://www.thewhizzinator.com/
clicking on links on that site will led you to NSFW pictures - shahofkings, on 10/10/2007, -4/+0www.cleartest.com/products/quickflush.html -Sorry for not providing a live link
- QuickeningYak, on 10/10/2007, -1/+4study
- mikeon, on 10/10/2007, -2/+1If it's for the initial interview, you could always try laying off the drugs for a month or so. I think depending on the drug varies with the length. Just don't be a dimwit and keep taking drugs even on the day of the urine test. (I've seen some people fail this even though they knew there was a urine test and knew what day it was going to be on)
For the randoms screening at work, I've only noticed the people who come in looking messed up and have red eyes that get the "random" screening. - HigherLogic, on 10/10/2007, -1/+14 aspirin, 10x the recommended daily dosage of viatmin B2 or B complex, 48 ounces of water, and a creatine supplement. Or you could take 48 ounces of water, salt, Rolaids or Tums, a creatine supplement, vitamin B, and aspirin. Of course, you need to take the right amounts at the right times, or in other words, dilution. Or you could substitute. Or just abstain from marijuana (because who are we kidding here, that's what they're testing for) for a month or two.
- DirtySnachez, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3holy *****, just go work for someone who doesnt have their ass glued together.
If you live in Australia (Bris), and have a steady supply of good weed, and looking for a full time Photoshopping job, I'll hire you. - centran, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1couple problems there. A high amount of creatine will get you a retest. They test for creatine level and a higher then normal level is suspected covering up. (creatine masks the marijuana chemical).
Drinking a lot of water will get you a retest as well. Diluting your urine is a good way to hide marijuana however it also changes the gravity and if the gravity is too low you will be called in for a retest.- HigherLogic, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Well, I wasn't really giving exact instructions. I also didn't mention when you should take the creatine supplement, or how many hours before the test you should be drinking, or anything else. You need to take a creatine supplement so they DON'T think you are diluting. WIth the amount of water you're supposed to take, it would be suspicious if you didn't. It's also why you take the vitamins, so your piss isn't super white, but vitamin yellow.
- DirtySnachez, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3holy *****, just go work for someone who doesnt have their ass glued together.
- hoojoo, on 10/10/2007, -0/+0You could abstain from taking drugs for about a week before the test. Unless the test is a hair test, most commonly used drugs aren't detectable in your urine or blood after about 3-4 days (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drug_Testing#Detectio ...
- meachen, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1drink a full glass of vinegar to shut down the kidneys then inject water up through the penis
- JackBurden, on 10/17/2007, -5/+171I thought of a great analogy for the stupid question asking whether it's better to be liked or feared.
"I am going to answer your question via an analogy.
Everyone likes Han Solo. He's a very personable fictional character. But even though you liked Han and always had fun when he was on the screen being a lovable rogue, you also KNEW that he shot first. That fact will never be far from your thoughts when you're around that guy. And that's kinda scary.
Han will shoot people with no warning. That's the kinda guy he could be.
So my point, dear interviewer, is that there is no reason that being liked and being feared are mutually exclusive and given the choice I would rather be both. In fact, it seems to me that when you put them together in more or less equal amounts you end up with a good workable definition of respect."
And that is when you lean your chair back, smile somewhat ironically, and start softly tapping the leather of your thigh holster.- ashrafneo, on 10/10/2007, -6/+18Best post ever!
- Trocisp, on 10/10/2007, -1/+39And hope your interviewer is a nerd.
- LaGStAr, on 10/10/2007, -3/+2Because only nerds watched Star Wars?
- d2002, on 10/10/2007, -1/+9Nah. Only the COOL nerds.
- HigherLogic, on 10/10/2007, -1/+2No, because I have no idea what "taking the first shot" has to do with anything.
- pifko123, on 10/10/2007, -2/+0I that some sort of phrase used in the Porn industry?...
- LaGStAr, on 10/10/2007, -3/+2Because only nerds watched Star Wars?
- IllBeBack, on 10/10/2007, -23/+4Cute. So you're suggesting having a holstered gun in an interview and bringing up nerdy Star Wars references?
I'm sure that will work. (not)- doctorfungi, on 10/10/2007, -1/+6Being an ass without a sense of humor won't work either, dick wad.
- VEKrueger, on 10/17/2007, -4/+29That is an epic comment. Is there a way to hall of fame Digg comments?
- hellyes, on 10/10/2007, -4/+2Wow! That comment made my day. Definitely Hall-of-Fame material.
- bsolidgold, on 10/10/2007, -1/+7Who you callin' scruffy lookin'??
- uyensa, on 10/10/2007, -4/+0You're HIRED!!
- a_trotskyite, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7Machiavelli was the originator of this meme. He said that a prince can control men through either love or fear. Love is by far the better. But you can't make people love you. You can make them fear you. So fear becomes the choice of all successful dictators.
- Calcheesmo, on 10/10/2007, -0/+0ummm...WRONG, machiavelli would bow to han...you can babble about love or fear all you want, but it won't do you any good when a nerf herder has you at gunpoint. Just sayin
- d2002, on 10/10/2007, -1/+6I want people to fear how much they love me.
- gllopc, on 10/10/2007, -13/+17Easy: "23" the is the answer to any question.
- gameboyhippo, on 10/17/2007, -5/+47*cough*42*cough*
- zachninme, on 10/10/2007, -0/+11He took the title as:
How to answer "23" to the most popular interview questions.
- zachninme, on 10/10/2007, -0/+11He took the title as:
- gameboyhippo, on 10/17/2007, -5/+47*cough*42*cough*
- liquisoft, on 10/10/2007, -14/+10Dugg to death already, or is it just me?
Anyway, I haven't read this, but I can offer up a bit of advice: don't script out your interviews like this. If you answer questions honestly, then things will turn out as they should. It doesn't hurt to censor yourself here and there, but you shouldn't give a ***** answer just because you want somebody to hire you. It's better to find a job you'll fit into well than just a job you'll be fired from in 3 weeks.- purzzzell, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7This article can be summed up into two things:
1: Be honest
2: emphasize the positive about yourself
3: don't even bring up the negative - about yourself, about others, about ANYTHING. - shahofkings, on 10/10/2007, -1/+0i think it's just you
- senatorpjt, on 10/10/2007, -1/+3Unless you're a robot, you're always going to have to ***** through an interview. Honest answers to these questions will never get you a job. I know, I've tried it. When Peter Gibbons was talking to the Bobs, it was a movie.
- purzzzell, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7This article can be summed up into two things:
- rpong1981, on 10/10/2007, -23/+7Great article, just forwarded to my manager as we're hiring. This will help to filter out the ***** and the people who actually can articulate for themselves.
- CannedMango, on 10/10/2007, -3/+5Wow.. you're getting dugg down, probably by the people who really need this article.
My first thought was "orrrrr you could just be yourself if you're worth hiring, they will"- rpong1981, on 10/10/2007, -3/+2that's fine if they want to digg me down. We're a small company. The last thing we need is to hire some moron who google's and plagiarizers their interview answers.
It's one thing to get an idea but it's entirely another to plagiarize answers.- Amablue, on 10/10/2007, -0/+4All of the answers he gave were very general. It was emphasize the good, avoid the bad, be honest but tactful. I don't see what you hope to accomplish by weeding out the people who give you good answers and don't have bad things to say about their old bosses.
- sharobichaud, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3Well, if you're plagiarizing the questions, then it's fair game, no?
- CannedMango, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1I don't think anyone is plagiarizing the questions, I think they're just well known and obvious.
- rpong1981, on 10/10/2007, -3/+2that's fine if they want to digg me down. We're a small company. The last thing we need is to hire some moron who google's and plagiarizers their interview answers.
- zman14321, on 10/10/2007, -2/+7*****
- rpong1981, on 10/10/2007, -4/+1Why's that? Is it because I care about the quality of person who I work with?
- CorpT, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2Because you feel the need to tell everyone on digg how cool you think you are.
- rpong1981, on 10/10/2007, -4/+1Why's that? Is it because I care about the quality of person who I work with?
- phauwn, on 10/10/2007, -0/+5Come on now... when you have an interview approaching, it's quite alright to read this type of advice to help get you in the zone for an interview. This isn't really a list of ready-made answers. I interview candidates, and I avoid "plagerized" questions like "what's your biggest flaw" etc. because they're never going to evoke an honest answer anyway, and hopefully I can figure out any critical flaws on my own, duh, that's why I'm interviewing them.
- RandomGuySteve, on 10/10/2007, -0/+0Here's a tip: Do behavioral interviewing techniques. Ask your interviewees questions about past experiences where they showed an example of a trait you're looking for, and how they handled the situation, and then grill them on the details. Liars will stop and stutter and you can weed them out quickly, while you can manage to check for occasions where people showed the abilities you're looking for, or people skills you want, or a great work ethic, etc.
- Calcheesmo, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1you suckup. "i just forwarded this to my manager" I pictured you whinely saying that in the bitchiest, nasaliest voice I've ever heard. All people don't need this, but some people are unsure of themselves when they go into an interview...and you just ruined it for all of them, what a friendly person! I hope someone ruins your day.
- CannedMango, on 10/10/2007, -3/+5Wow.. you're getting dugg down, probably by the people who really need this article.
- SiRwhilms, on 10/10/2007, -7/+7I swear this list has been on Digg before. In any case, having canned answers to cookie-cutter questions isn't exactly helpful, imo.
- martinc00, on 10/10/2007, -4/+3mirror anyone?
- scalded, on 10/10/2007, -0/+10http://duggmirror.com/offbeat_news/How_to_answer_2 ...
- herbster, on 10/10/2007, -8/+5Here's a better idea: build your own ***** company and never subject yourself to retarded "interviews" that ask you ***** questions and waste your time just to get you in the door so you can get your token $5 grand/month or whatever the ***** spare change they give employees these days.
- seanc6610, on 10/10/2007, -2/+7somebody's got a dead-end job.
- herbster, on 10/28/2007, -4/+3You don't have to stick with it.
- YourDoom123, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2I believe he was referring to you...
- herbster, on 10/28/2007, -4/+3You don't have to stick with it.
- Ramble, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2Because one-man companies are a good idea.
- seanc6610, on 10/10/2007, -2/+7somebody's got a dead-end job.
- motang, on 10/10/2007, -1/+3Crap...I just saw this one...and about 5 minutes ago went though a phone interview! Ahhh...I should have seen this earlier! :-(
- d2002, on 10/10/2007, -3/+7Site's down here's the mirror:
http://duggmirror.com/offbeat_news/How_to_answer_2 ... - LawJik, on 10/10/2007, -5/+0http://duggmirror.com/offbeat_news/How_to_answer_2 ...
- maiwongwang, on 10/10/2007, -3/+4The problem with interviews is that one party is asking a specific question looking for a specific answer and the other party is trying to guess what that specific answer is. 99% of people lie in interviews then when they actually get into the job they're nothing like the answers they gave. This tutorial sucked ass! Don't bother.
- GeneralKickass, on 10/10/2007, -2/+2Mirror : http://www.wisebread.com.nyud.net/how-to-answer-23 ...
- LawJik, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1Trend Micro IS 2008 says that wisebread site is "Unsafe". Have had the program for a couple weeks, first time ive seen this message. Just FYI...
- AlienX3.5, on 10/10/2007, -2/+12For number 18 I would make a joke and say, "Anyone who supports Bush."
If the person turns out to support Bush then he's an idiot and I don't want him to e my boss. - JoeVerrone, on 10/10/2007, -1/+5I disagree with most of these. Don't try to think what they want you to say, just be honest upfront. Chances are if you are trying to guess what the best answer is you are already screwed. And be honest about things like salary. No need to tip toe around this issue and act like it doesn't matter because you are a team player. If you say salary isn't that important they will know you are a liar.
- senatorpjt, on 10/10/2007, -0/+5I'm not a team player, I hate other people, they ***** everything up. So, I have to lie.
- GeneralKickass, on 10/10/2007, -12/+6Let’s face it; no one likes the interview process. Well, certainly not the people being interviewed anyway. You have to be on your best behavior, you only get one chance to get it right, and it’s like taking your driving test all over again. Over the years I’ve been to countless interviews. To get my first job out of college I attended some 15-20 interviews a week. Whether it was in Britain or over here in the States, the questions never really seemed to change from job to job. Not only that, but the answers to them are usually the same, with your own personal interpretation of course. Here I present 23 questions you’re likely to be asked, and how I have learned to answer them. Why 23? Because I had more than 20 and less than 25. Remember, being interviewed is a skill, and if you do the preparation you should ace it every time.
1. So, tell me a little about yourself.
I’d be very surprised if you haven’t been asked this one at every interview. It’s probably the most asked question because it sets the stage for the interview and it gets you talking. Be careful not to give the interviewer your life story here. You don’t need to explain everything from birth to present day. Relevant facts about education, your career and your current life situation are fine.
2. Why are you looking (or why did you leave you last job)?
This should be a straightforward question to answer, but it can trip you up. Presumably you are looking for a new job (or any job) because you want to advance your career and get a position that allows you to grow as a person and an employee. It’s not a good idea to mention money here, it can make you sound mercenary. And if you are in the unfortunate situation of having been downsized, stay positive and be as brief as possible about it. If you were fired, you’ll need a good explanation. But once again, stay positive.
3. Tell me what you know about this company.
Do your homework before you go to any interview. Whether it’s being the VP of marketing or the mailroom clerk, you should know about the company or business you’re going to work for. Has this company been in the news lately? Who are the people in the company you should know about? Do the background work, it will make you stand out as someone who comes prepared, and is genuinely interested in the company and the job.
4. Why do you want to work at X Company?
This should be directly related to the last question. Any research you’ve done on the company should have led you to the conclusion that you’d want to work there. After all, you’re at the interview, right? Put some thought into this answer before you have your interview, mention your career goals and highlight forward-thinking goals and career plans.
5. What relevant experience do you have?
Hopefully if you’re applying for this position you have bags of related experience, and if that’s the case you should mention it all. But if you’re switching careers or trying something a little different, your experience may initially not look like it’s matching up. That’s when you need a little honest creativity to match the experiences required with the ones you have. People skills are people skills after all, you just need to show how customer service skills can apply to internal management positions, and so on.
6. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you?
Ok, this is not the time for full disclosure. If some people from your past are going to say you’re a boring A-hole, you don’t need to bring that up. Stay positive, always, and maybe have a few specific quotes in mind. “They’d say I was a hard worker” or even better “John Doe has always said I was the most reliable, creative problem-solver he’d ever met.”
7. Have you done anything to further your experience?
This could include anything from night classes to hobbies and sports. If it’s related, it’s worth mentioning. Obviously anything to do with further education is great, but maybe you’re spending time on a home improvement project to work on skills such as self-sufficiency, time management and motivation.
8. Where else have you applied?
This is a good way to hint that you’re in demand, without sounding like you’re whoring yourself all over town. So, be honest and mention a few other companies but don’t go into detail. The fact that you’re seriously looking and keeping your options open is what the interviewer is driving at.
9. How are you when you’re working under pressure?
Once again, there are a few ways to answer this but they should all be positive. You may work well under pressure, you may thrive under pressure, and you may actually PREFER working under pressure. If you say you crumble like aged blue cheese, this is not going to help you get your foot in the door.
10. What motivates you to do a good job?
The answer to this one is not money, even if it is. You should be motivated by life’s noble pursuits. You want recognition for a job well done. You want to become better at your job. You want to help others or be a leader in your field.
11. What’s your greatest strength?
This is your chance to shine. You’re being asked to explain why you are a great employee, so don’t hold back and stay do stay positive. You could be someone who thrives under pressure, a great motivator, an amazing problem solver or someone with extraordinary attention to detail. If your greatest strength, however, is to drink anyone under the table or get a top score on Mario Kart, keep it to yourself. The interviewer is looking for work-related strengths.
12. What’s your biggest weakness?
If you’re completely honest, you may be kicking yourself in the butt. If you say you don’t have one, you’re obviously lying. This is a horrible question and one that politicians have become masters at answering. They say things like “I’m perhaps too committed to my work and don’t spend enough time with my family.” Oh, there’s a fireable offense. I’ve even heard “I think I’m too good at my job, it can often make people jealous.” Please, let’s keep our feet on the ground. If you’re asked this question, give a small, work-related flaw that you’re working hard to improve. Example: “I’ve been told I occasionally focus on details and miss the bigger picture, so I’ve been spending time laying out the complete project every day to see my overall progress.”
13. Let’s talk about salary. What are you looking for?
Run for cover! This is one tricky game to play in an interview. Even if you know the salary range for the job, if you answer first you’re already showing all your cards. You want as much as possible, the employer wants you for as little as you’re willing to take. Before you apply, take a look at salary.com for a good idea of what someone with your specific experience should be paid. You may want to say, “well, that’s something I’ve thought long and hard about and I think someone with my experience should get between X & Y.” Or, you could be sly and say, “right now, I’m more interested in talking more about what the position can offer my career.” That could at least buy you a little time to scope out the situation. But if you do have a specific figure in mind and you are confident that you can get it, I’d say go for it. I have on many occasions, and every time I got very close to that figure (both below and sometimes above).
14. Are you good at working in a team?
Unless you have the I.Q. of a houseplant, you’ll always answer YES to this one. It’s the only answer. How can anyone function inside an organization if they are a loner? You may want to mention what part you like to play in a team though; it’s a great chance to explain that you’re a natural leader.
15. Tell me a suggestion you have made that was implemented.
It’s important here to focus on the word “implemented.” There’s nothing wrong with having a thousand great ideas, but if the only place they live is on your notepad what’s the point? Better still, you need a good ending. If your previous company took your advice and ended up going bankrupt, that’s not such a great example either. Be prepared with a story about an idea of yours that was taken from idea to implementation, and considered successful.
16. Has anything ever irritated you about people you've worked with?
Of course, you have a list as long as your arm. But you can’t say that, it shows you as being negative and difficult to work with. The best way to answer this one is to think for a while and then say something like “I’ve always got on just fine with my co-workers actually.”
17. Is there anyone you just could not work with?
No. Well, unless you’re talking about murderers, racists, rapists, thieves or other dastardly characters, you can work with anyone. Otherwise you could be flagged as someone who’s picky and difficult if you say, “I can’t work with anyone who’s a Bronco’s fan. Sorry.”
18. Tell me about any issues you’ve had with a previous boss.
Arrgh! If you fall for this one you shouldn’t be hired anyway. The interviewer is testing you to see if you’ll speak badly about your previous supervisor. Simply answer this question with exteme tact, diplomacy and if necessary, a big fat loss of memory. In short, you've never had any issues.
19. Would you rather work for money or job satisfaction?
It’s not a very fair question is it? We’d all love to get paid a Trump-like salary doing a job we love but that’s rare indeed. It’s fine to say money is important, but remember that NOTHING is more important to you than the job. Otherwise, you’re just someone looking for a bigger paycheck.
20. Would you rather be liked or feared?
I have been asked this a lot, in various incarnations. The first time I just drew a blank and said, “I don’t know.” That went over badly, but it was right at the start of my career when I had little to no experience. Since then I’ve realized that my genuine answer is “Neither, I’d rather be respected.” You don’t want to be feared because fear is no way to motivate a team. You may got the job done but at what cost? Similarly, if you’re everyone’s best friend you’ll find it difficult to make tough decisions or hit deadlines. But when you’re respected, you don’t have to be a complete bastard or a lame duck to get the job done.
21. Are you willing to put the interests of X Company ahead of your own?
Again, another nasty question. If you say yes, you’re a corporate whore who doesn’t care about family. If you say no, you’re disloyal to the company. I’m afraid that you’ll probably have to say yes to this one though, because you’re trying to be the perfect employee at this point, and perfect employees don’t cut out early for Jimmy’s baseball game.
22. So, explain why I should hire you.
As I’m sure you know, “because I’m great” or “I really need a job” are not good answers here. This is a time to give the employer a laundry list of your greatest talents that just so happen to match the job description. It’s also good to avoid taking potshots at other potential candidates here. Focus on yourself and your talents, not other people’s flaws.
23. Finally, do you have any questions to ask me?
I’ll finish the way I started, with one of the most common questions asked in interviews. This directly relates to the research you’ve done on the company and also gives you a chance to show how eager and prepared you are. You’ll probably want to ask about benefits if they haven’t been covered already. A good generic one is “how soon could I start, if I were offered the job of course.” You may also ask what you’d be working on. Specifically, in the role you’re applying for and how that affects the rest of the company. Always have questions ready, greeting this one with a blank stare is a rotten way to finish your interview. Good luck and happy job hunting.- scalded, on 10/10/2007, -5/+3Link to a mirror, don't plagiarize their content.
- roberto_deneero, on 10/10/2007, -1/+38Just lie, tell them what they want to hear.
"I love people."
"I work hard and hate taking vacations."
"I don't want to have any kids."
"I hate making lots of money and love working weekends."
"I get my jollies from working for assholes like you."
You're HIRED! - joessandwich, on 10/10/2007, -2/+6Anytime I get asked these questions, I know I'm not getting the job. If you ask stupid form questions like that, all you're going to get back are stupid prepared answers. All the successful interviews for me were ones where they didn't ask form questions and we more had an open discussion about the job and myself.
I also like how before I got my current job, I would dress up for interviews. For my current job I interviewed in jeans and a t-shirt because they asked me to come directly after my then current job so I didn't have time to change, and they ended up hiring me on the spot. I guess my industry is different than most though..- JoeVerrone, on 10/10/2007, -1/+4I agree completely. If you get asked those types of questions just get up and leave. My successful interviews also never asked these kinds of questions.
- DooM, on 10/10/2007, -2/+2No. Bad interviewing skills does not mean a bad job - it just means you have a bad interviewer. If you get these questions (and you will ALWAYS get some of them) and you ace them, you win. Doesn't matter if the game is chess or checkers - you still want to win it. You can always decide later if you want to take or reject a job offer.
- joessandwich, on 10/10/2007, -2/+1Eh, in my industry (television production) it's more about if I can do the job and if people will like working with me for long hours. They can tell the former from my resume and a few specific questions, and the latter by just chatting with me.
- DooM, on 10/10/2007, -2/+2No. Bad interviewing skills does not mean a bad job - it just means you have a bad interviewer. If you get these questions (and you will ALWAYS get some of them) and you ace them, you win. Doesn't matter if the game is chess or checkers - you still want to win it. You can always decide later if you want to take or reject a job offer.
- allisonaxe, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2and what industry is that?
- joessandwich, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Entertainment/Television Production
- centran, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1whenever you get questions like these it is mostly for a big company because they have a "scripted". It usually means you are being interviewed by an HR person. Just go through the motions and give the "correct" answers. Also realize they are interviewing at least 20 other people as well.
- JoeVerrone, on 10/10/2007, -1/+4I agree completely. If you get asked those types of questions just get up and leave. My successful interviews also never asked these kinds of questions.
- stanti, on 10/10/2007, -4/+9Answer to all: Chuck Norris
- WorksCited, on 10/10/2007, -2/+6I want people to be scared of how much they love me.
- adude, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2That's like a Michael Scott answer.
- luteslinger, on 10/10/2007, -0/+16Nice rack--you got the job.
- allisonaxe, on 10/10/2007, -0/+5its sad, but you're right.
- purzzzell, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7In regards to 10: I was interviewing for a B2B sales position recently- on my first interview, I was asked what motivates me - I looked her dead in the eye and replied "If you're in sales, there's only one honest answer to that question: money"
I think it gave me points, she smiled and told I was the only one out of well over 20 interviews that answered honestly. She told me before I left that day that I WAS moving on to a second interview. But - that's sales, and this article is more general. - nitrojunky24, on 10/10/2007, -1/+9the funny thing is that on all the money questions you know that everybody is telling ***** of course I work for money that's the ***** point dam I don't work for fun!
- purzzzell, on 10/17/2007, -0/+6Best answer I've found for the last one ("questions?")
Do you for any reason feel that I may not be qualified for this position?
Opens it up, forces them to tell you what they do/don't like so that you can answer it - just don't be too aggressive in responding to their feedback if it's negative (if you're qualified, it shouldn't be anyway).- teh_techie, on 10/17/2007, -0/+2I love that question, but the one I ask after that opens it up even more... ask your interviewer(s) "What are some of the things that YOU like most about working here". Sometimes, it catches them off guard, but they generally like it when they ARE caught off guard at the end. I've won every job competition I've ever been in.
- NeonElixir, on 10/17/2007, -0/+1I like that one. I usually put it more along the lines of, "Why do you think I should work here?" Yours may be better.
- teh_techie, on 10/17/2007, -0/+2I love that question, but the one I ask after that opens it up even more... ask your interviewer(s) "What are some of the things that YOU like most about working here". Sometimes, it catches them off guard, but they generally like it when they ARE caught off guard at the end. I've won every job competition I've ever been in.
- canuq, on 10/10/2007, -3/+1Mirror: http://mirror.canuq.com/3686984/how-to-answer-23-o ...
- DooM, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7"16. Has anything ever irritated you about people you've worked with? ...say something like “I’ve always got on just fine with my co-workers actually.”"
That WON'T work - just as he mentions earlier that no one is going to believe that you don't have any weaknesses, no one is going to believe that no one at work has ever irritated you - that's just human. Better to answer how someone irritated you but you used communication skills to find a common ground or understanding -- he/she was a good person and you found out how to get along.- wshs, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1You also have to consider that if an interviewer is asking these form questions, they probably aren't too bright to begin with. Stupid people like 'happy.'
- DooM, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3Most big companies have a script - their questions are pre-determined. So be careful about assuming something about the interviewer based upon the questions that they HAVE to ask you.
- wshs, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1A few big companies I've interviewed with, the interviewer wrote the questions down as he/she came up with them. One of the questions I was asked, and I ***** you not, was "what is your favorite color, and why" from NetSol. I was prepared for the typical script. I was not prepared for that. (No, I didn't get the job. There were OVER 9000! candidates for it. No. Literally.)
- DooM, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3Most big companies have a script - their questions are pre-determined. So be careful about assuming something about the interviewer based upon the questions that they HAVE to ask you.
- centran, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1It doesn't matter. Just tell them what they want to hear. If they are asking you these stupid questions it is a script and you should reply with the proper counter script.... which is mostly lying.
Most likely it is an HR person and they just need the "right" answers to put you in the maybe second interview pile.
I don't care how skilled/good/experienced you are. If you are getting a bunch of these questions phrased like that then you are among 20+ people interviews. The odds are against you.
- wshs, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1You also have to consider that if an interviewer is asking these form questions, they probably aren't too bright to begin with. Stupid people like 'happy.'
- pearcewg, on 10/10/2007, -7/+0AlienX3.5:
>>>
For number 18 I would make a joke and say, "Anyone who supports Bush." If the person turns out to support Bush then he's an idiot and I don't want him to e my boss.- AlienX3.5, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1Why did you repost my comment?
I don't get it??? =S- pmac, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Demonstrating how they get their interview question answers
- AlienX3.5, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1Why did you repost my comment?
- JoeVerrone, on 10/10/2007, -0/+4Job seekers have ended up in this zone where they think they are garbage and they have to say whatever it takes to please the interviewer. Job seekers need to remember that there is tons of competition out there and you are looking for the best job as much as they are looking for the best employee. Don't be a bitch.
- rhoulo, on 10/10/2007, -2/+2Very generic. 90% of this post's content could be summarized as "Don't reveal weakness, be positive no matter what".
- natural_smurf, on 10/10/2007, -1/+10why would you take interview advice from someone who has been to "countless interviews?"
- teh_techie, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1just because this person hasn't liked the jobs doesn't mean that they don't have MAD interview skills. Repetition and practice is what gets you to ace something.
- Drealoth, on 10/15/2007, -0/+12On the interview for the very first job that I ever got, the interviewer asked me the cliched question "What is your biggest weakness?" I said Kryptonite. We spent the next 20 minutes talking about comic books, and I was hired.
- digitallysick, on 10/10/2007, -1/+5". If your greatest strength, however, is to drink anyone under the table or get a top score on Mario Kart, keep it to yourself. The interviewer is looking for work-related strengths."
Without booze and mario kart i am nothing =( - burstaneurysm, on 10/10/2007, -0/+7Two great answers to "where do you see yourself in five years?"
"Celebrating the five year anniversary of you asking me that question!" - Mitch Hedburg
"*don't say doing your wife, don't say doing your wife* Uhhh, doing your, son?" - Peter Griffin. - uziko, on 10/10/2007, -0/+4This article isn't good enough for me, I need word for word answers that I can memorize and then repeat at a job interview.
- teh_techie, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2Practice makes perfect. Make them up on your own JUST ONCE, then perfect them. You're more likely to get the job.
- cjsheets, on 10/10/2007, -1/+0 Would you rather be liked or feared?
"It is better to be feared than loved, but never hated" - funkinthetrunk, on 10/10/2007, -1/+5DO NOT answer "21. Are you willing to put the interests of X Company ahead of your own?" like the writer suggests by saying 'yes,' that is AWFUL advice. In every single instance, this is pure bait to see how spineless you are. Saying yes to this question says two things a) you're spineless b) you're lying, and probably about other answers you've given.
The best bet is to say something like "It would be situational. If you're asking am I willing to work until 3am to get a project out the door, then absolutely, but if you're saying will I come in to work on a project when, for instance, a family member is on their death bed, then absolutely not. I'm ready to work extremely hard for X company, but there are some things that are more important than work." It shows you have a spine and are at least somewhat honest.- DirtySnachez, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2thanks for copying comment #3 on their commentboard
- EntropyMan, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2The answer to 21 is: "I'd hope my interests would naturally line up with the company interests and vice versa. That's why I think I'm right for this job and this company... [slight pause as if you're wondering...] I don't think you're asking me if I'd trade my family and friends to get ahead, are you?"
The interviewer will of course say the company would never ask that of you, you've given him/her the best way out of such a stupid question, and you're off the hook for having to choose. - ssn697, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2While this list is very generic, I am never surprised by how poorly people answer simple interview questions.
One of my favorites:
My question: "Where would you rate yourself technically, on a scale of 1-10?"
Interviewee: "I'd say about a 7. The only place I rate myself a 10 is in bed. You know, sex." - V1ncent, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1Q: Why should I hire you?
A: Because if you don't, your dog - Mr. Wife Replacement dies
Result: You're hired! - dadiggdog, on 10/10/2007, -0/+4-Y'see, what we're trying to do here, we're just trying to get a feel
for how people spend their day. So, if you would, would you just walk
us through a typical day for you?
-Yeah.
-Great.
- Well, I generally come in at least fifteen minutes late. I use the side
door, that way Lumbergh can't see me. Uh, and after that, I just sorta
space out for about an hour.
- Space out?
- Yeah. I just stare at my desk but it looks like I'm working. I do that
for probably another hour after lunch too. I'd probably, say, in a
given week, I probably do about fifteen minutes of real, actual work. - DAC1138, on 10/10/2007, -1/+2This digg story/article has been done so so so many times.
How about:
http://digg.com/search?s=interview+questions&submi ...
I did the search for you, and I'll count for you too. There are 6 of these just on the first page of the search. Browse more and you'll find some more Digg articles we can recycle for tomorrow. - DirtySnachez, on 10/10/2007, -1/+2holy *****, just go work for someone who doesnt have their ass glued together.
If you live in Australia (Bris), and have a steady supply of good weed, and looking for a full time Photoshopping job, I'll hire you.- pmac, on 10/10/2007, -1/+1Bro, you post this twice. must be serious. Pity you're not in NZ. :-)
- livejamie, on 10/10/2007, -0/+2hooray for common sense
- toomanyhandles, on 10/10/2007, -0/+3I've always just used "***** you, ***** all you pretentious bastards" just fine.
Oh wait, that's the exit interview. - ci5ic, on 10/10/2007, -0/+1article is worthless... no real nuggets in there. Says the same thing for every question, which is "don't be an idiot, and stay positive"... common sense if you ask me...
- borpon, on 10/24/2007, -0/+0I liked this article.
Helpful in a pinch.
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