You’ve got a job interview. Congratulations! Most important, don’t panic. Here are some sample job interview questions. Write out your own answers to each one. Then, practice with a friend or family member BEFORE the interview.

Q. Tell me about yourself.

A. Talk about your skills and good work habits Keep it mostly work and career related. And keep it short.

Q. Why do you want to leave your current job? (Why did you eave your last job?)

A. Be careful with this. Don’t say bad things about former employers. Make general statements, like, "It's a career move."

Q. What are your strengths?

A. Point out your positive qualities that are related to the job.

Q. What are your weaknesses?

A. Everybody has weaknesses. Keep it work-related and give strength that makes up for it.

Q. Which adjectives would you use to describe yourself?

A. Be positive and keep it work related. Use words like conscientious, hard working, honest and courteous.

Q. What do you know about our company?

A. Be sure to research the company before you go to the interview. This shows the interviewer you are interested.

Q. Why do you want to work for us?

A. Same as above.

Q. Why should I hire you?

A. Point out your strengths again and the good job you've done in the past. Include any compliments you've received from current or previous employers

Q. What past accomplishments gave you satisfaction?

A. Talk about work projects that made you proud or received praise from your boss. Include a pay raise or a promotion you got because of the project.

Q. What makes you want to work hard?

A. Focus on how recognition for a job well done makes you feel. You can talk about material rewards such as salary but stress your achievements.

Q. What type of work environment do you like best?

A. Match your answer to the job. If the job is part of a team, say you work well with others. If the job means you work by yourself a lot, say you work well on your own and as part of a team when needed.

Q. Why do you want this job?

A. Say what attracts you to the job. Avoid statements like, "I just need a job."

Q. How do you handle pressure and stress?

A. Don’t say you kick the cat! Indicate more positive ways of handling job pressures, such as exercise, reading, getting together with friends, or turning stress into energy to get the job done.

Q. Explain how you overcame a major obstacle.

A. Describe an example of your problem-solving skills.

Q. Where do you see yourself five (ten or fifteen) years from now?

A. Talk about your career goals and how the job fits into those plans.

Q. What qualifies you for this job?

A. Point out your skills, experience and other qualifications that will help you do the job well.

The Main Street project is a partnership of the Virginia Department of
Education, James Madison University and the Workforce Improvement Network
For more information about this project, contact Lisa Schick

Last Updated On Wednesday February 19, 2003 8:03 AM