Common Interview Questions And Possible Answers example essay topic

Training Manual Preface An interview is a conversation, which is held between two or more individuals where some questions are asked by the interviewer to obtain information about the interviewee. When the assignment Conduct a Job Search was given to us, we were excited. This kind of project was not only to help graduating students, like ourselves but anyone who is entering the workforce. An interview can be one of the best experiences. The interviewing program we have developed will be taught through slides, presentation, systematic activities, and skits. Individual folders will be handed out including pictures that will demonstrate how to wear the right clothes for the interview.

The skits that some of participants in the session will be partake in is to give them a little feel on what types of appropriate things they could say and not say (which can play a big part whether or not you will get hired). During the training session, we will motivate the class by having donuts and coffee to show our appreciation for coming to the session. We hope to give the participants a peace of mind on what could assist them with finding employment or a great career. Table of Contents Part Io Introduction o Interview Groundwork Objectives o Pretest (see appendix) o Timeline Part Ii Job Seeking What to Bring Resumes (see appendix) o Cover Letters (see appendix) o Thank you letters (see appendix) Part Proper Interview Attire Women Meno Before the Interviewo Activity: How to tie a tie Part IVo Game: Hired Score card (see appendix) Part Vo Skits Introduction o Proper Interview o Attitude / Unmotivated o Unprepared / Inappropriate dress Part VIo Behavior While on Interviewo Helpful tips Part Vii Discussion Posttest (see appendix) Appendix References Introduction Interview Groundwork: Steps to the Interview educates people on how to go about obtaining employment and the process one goes through from finding a job to the interview.

From this training session we hope you obtain knowledge of different areas and ways to look for a job, writing resumes and cover letters, proper attire for the interview, commonly asked interview questions, and how to behave while on an interview. We will achieve this through discussions, skits, handouts, and hands on activities. We hope that this motivates people to be honest, look their best, and be prepared while on an interview. Timeline for Training Session 5 Minutes: Introduction / Pretest 5 Minutes: Job seeking (resume / cover letter / thank -you letter) 10 Minutes: Proper Interview Attire / Prior to the interview / how to tie a tie activity 5 Minutes: HIRED Game (interview questions) 15 Minutes: Interview Skits 5 Minutes: Proper Interview Behavior 5 Minutes: Discussion / Posttest Job Seeking Compare to the early days, today we have the best technology and education to assist people who are seeking and preparing for the workforce.

The improvement of technologies is helping people get new ideas how to find employment and be well prepared at an interview. In this part of the manual, it well list several methods on how to search for a job that is right for you and what to bring with you to the interview. There are numerous ways to look for a job. Hunting for a job can be an easy task if you know what you are looking for. Most people think about how much the employer will pay, while others prefer to work for a company where they enjoy doing that type of work. Here are some ways to find these jobs.

1. Ads: Most companies place ads in a newspaper to look for extra help. Local ads are good for people who are looking for a job closer to home, however if the ad does not have the job you intend to do, maybe that might not be the best way to search. Location, phone number, and job description are usually printed. 2.

Internet: The internet can provide links to finding a job. You can go to sites like web web and web and on these sites type in the blank box what type of job your looking for or type "where can I find jobs " how can I find a job", then click enter, and it will link you to a few websites or links to jobs. Another hot site people are using today is web In jobs. com, location, and categories are listed to further help you with the search. 3. Agencies: The point of agencies is to help companies find extra help and to help you find something you may be interested in. Many companies seek for temporary employees, through agencies if ads are not responded to.

The agency will provide them with a list of people who are available for work. Some people who work through agencies are people who just got off welfare, are knew to the states and do not have there green card yet, or those who do not think they need to work eight-hour shifts. The down side of an agency is that once the company does not need you anymore, it is up to them to find you another job and so this may take a few weeks to happen. Some jobs they provide you with may be a little far from your location.

Another downside is that you could be making a little amount of money while the agency makes a profit out of you one that goes straight to their pocket. 4. State and federal services: By going to a state or federal service office, they can provide you with some of the places where they are looking for good citizens to work. Take for example the VA hospital. It is a hospital for U.S. veterans who have served since the World War I. This hospital is like a home to these people. Some of them are homeless, have severe flashbacks of the war, and maybe a danger to the public.

Therefore, the government provides a place where they could be taken care of. When working for a state or federal facility, you must be a U.S. citizen, and will go through at least 1-2 weeks of orientation, take drug tests, and have a query check done. 5. Knock, Knock: Who's there? An opportunity! Take a cab, bus, train, or walk and you will find someone waiting to let you in.

Factories usually welcome you in, give you an application, provide you with a tour to show you what they do, so you can get a better understanding and what to expect. Depending on the type of work, whether or not you have the skills, most factories are ready to train you. Walk-ins are ok! 6.

Yellow or not here I come: Why not look at the yellow pages, sure or not some places like the doctor's office, attorney office, are looking for someone to file there papers, schedule appointments for patients and clients. You may start with a low income, but you can probably get a discount or legal advice. 7. Ask me: By asking family members, friends, or professionals you know, can be another easy way to find employment! These people will know what might be right for you and can pay a good amount with great benefits. They might have had the experience or know someone who is there or use to be, and besides there usually the number one source to finding a job.

8. Job Fair: A Job fair provides a student with the opportunity to meet with hiring employers. This fair is like an endless meat market where employees are seeking for candidates based on their appearances and first time impression. Some of these job fairs are located within colleges and universities where they seek for mostly students who are coming out with a degree. If you do consider going to a job fair, you may want to: o bring a resume o letter of recommendation o briefcase (to put all your papers that with be given to you) o dress appropriate positive attitude o wear a smile on your face Who knows you may get a job on the spot! Remember if you are completing a degree, you may want to start early on your job search.

If you limit your method to just one, you will limit your options. Searching for a job can be interesting, fun, and a great experience just in case the first job might not go so well. Remember that the only thing that can stop you from finding that perfect job career is sitting at home and waiting for someone to come looking for you! What to Bring to an Interview Now that you have finally found place of employment suitable for you what should you do next? Well first things first you may be called to conduct an interview. So, what are you going to bring?

Well have no fear this section will guide you to what you need to take just in case you have no clue. Once there is a date set for the interview, the company will ask that you to bring certain documents. However, what if they forgot to tell you what to bring, how will you know? Well you can research it or just follow these instructions. Bring... 1.

Identification: it is important that you bring at lest two forms of identification to an interview. o Driver's license or learner's permit o Passport Green card 2. Resume: Most Companies will ask. They base their questions on what they see on your resume, so make sure if you bring one it's easy to read, looks professional, and it's the truth. Make copies! (see next page for examples of a resume) 3. Reference: bring a list of contacts with you. Put down a friend or family who you get along with, or a former employer.

Make sure to include o Names Phone numbers (Daytime or evening) o Addresses Do not forget to ask contacts for permission to put them on the list and that they may be called. Other things to bring: o Social security car do Working paper so Pen, pencil, note car do Questions you may want to as ko Money for lunch (just in case it's going to be a long interview, so ask how long interview is for before setting one up) o A smile, a positive attitude, and look your best! Proper Interviewing Attire When dressing for an interview it is very important to look conservative rather than dressy casual. When interviewing for a company where the dress code is informal business wear, it is advised that the attire be formal. Women's attire: Two piece business suit (conservative in color such as navy blue, dark gray, and black) Long sleeve button up blouse (preferably white or coordinates with the suit) Clean and polished shoes. (no more than two inches high) Keep jewelry to a minimum (one ring per hand, one set of earrings, and no visible body jewelry) No excessive makeup Neat and well groomed hair No small or large purse, carry a briefcase instead Clean, trimmed finger nails Clear or conservative color nail polish if any Wear nude or near skin color hosiery No chewing gum or candy No cell phone / turn off cell phone Men's attire: Two piece business suit (navy blue, dark gray or black) Long sleeve button up shirt Neck tie should be silk with a conservative pattern Clean and polished shoes No rings other than wedding band and / or college ring Clean, cut hair Facial hair should be well groomed if you have any (no beards) Carry a brief case Clean, trimmed fingernails No chewing gum or candy No cell phone / turn off cell phone Remember: Appropriate attire for an interview plays a major role in the first impression you make upon an employer. Day of the Interview There are certain things that one must do before leaving for their interview.

People are always nervous and may forget to do certain things before leaving. Hygiene-Before getting dressed for your interview, remember to shower and smell decent (do not wear heavy cologne / perfume and be well groomed. Leave time for mishaps-Leave with ample time for uncontrollable circumstances, such as traffic, flat tires, or construction that may be taking place the day of the interview. Make sure you have easy to follow directions to the interview site.

Arrive Early-Make sure to arrive fifteen minutes before the scheduled interview. Eat before the interview Eating before the interview will reduce the noises someone's stomach might make during the interview. If you do not want to eat a meal then make sure to have a light snack. Be polite to the other employees of the company-If you go into the company and do not treat the workers with respect then that may harm the chance of receiving employment with that organization, also you do not know who will be conducting the interview. How to Tie a Tie Activity: Tie a Necktie Purpose: To learn how to tie a necktie. Even though women do not wear neckties to interviews, it is good for everyone to know how to correctly tie a necktie.

There are four main kinds of knots. The Full Windsor Know is wide and triangular that is best suited for spread collar shirts. The Half Windsor Knot is symmetrical and Triangular that can be used with any dress shirt. The Four-in-Hand Knot is narrow and slightly asymmetrical that is best for a standard button-down dress shirt. The last knot is the Pratt Knot that is narrow and triangular and best suited from French collar shirts. Use the Necktie handout for participants to follow on how to tie a Windsor Knot.

HIRED (Time) Purpose of the game HIRED: This game is to help identify commonly asked interview questions that job candidates should expect to be asked during an interview. The correct and incorrect answers are obvious, but the interviewees in training shape their own insight into possible questions and are able to think about forming better answers on their own time to help prepare for their own interviews. Requirements: Game cards from the Appendix (fifteen are provided, make copies if more in session) Writing utensils (interviewee-in-training, but bring a some extra) Small prize (s) for the winner (s) Introduction to the group before playing HIRED: Different interviewers generally have different methods of interviewing for available positions within their company. However, during these different interviews, many of the same questions are asked. Knowing this, we are able to prepare to answer these questions ahead of time in order to really impress the interviewer.

It is also best to be ready with a few questions to ask the interviewer, in turn. Instructions: Common interview questions and possible answers are projected on the screen from the project's PowerPoint presentation. The HIRED facilitator asks the interviewees-in-training to choose the best answer from the answers given. The closest match as to what they would say in an interview should be selected. The interviewees in training then find the answer on their game board and place a check mark or X in the box provided. The object of the game is to have marked five answers in a row either up and down or diagonally.

Once this is obtained, the interviewee-in-training is to yell "HIRED!" to indicate they have answered the questions correctly and will be hired. The wrong answers might seem extreme, but overemphasizing the answers will help guide the interviewees-in-training toward the right direction to form in well-thought and in-depth answers on their own. This will help prepare for future interviews. Interviewing Skits Part of the training session consists of skits of interviews done properly and improperly. It involves the class in which it is the students that conduct the interviews and after the skits there will be a class discussion of what went wrong with the improper interviews. After the discussion the class will vote for who they want to hire for their company.

The votes will be done either by raising hands or by a private ballot. The students conducting the interview will be chosen randomly. The notice given to them will be in the folder handed out in the beginning of the session. The questions for each interview are provided for the students conducting the interview and will also be in the folder. The interview questions will range between: o Why did you choose this company? o Where do you see yourself in the future of this company? o Are you comfortable working with a diverse group of people? o Tell me about a specific occasion when you conformed to a policy even though you did not agree with it. o Will you be able to follow our attire guidelines? o Describe the worst customer or coworker you have ever encountered and tell me how you dealt with the situation. o How do you think your past experience will contribute to this company? There will be three skits: one done properly, one in which the interviewee is unprepared and dressed inappropriately, and the last interview will be of someone who is unmotivated and has an attitude.

Each of the skits consists of a range of the provided questions. Attached are some possible answers to the questions for the different scenarios. Proper Interview 1. Why did you choose this company?

I chose this company because as you can see on my resume I have 3 years of experience working as an assistant manager in retail. 2. Where do you see yourself in the future of this company? I hope to see myself still with the company making great progress. 3. Are you comfortable working with a diverse group of people?

I enjoy working with different people because I learn things from them, like their culture, food, beliefs, language, and much more. By learning who they are, I am able to understand where they come from and I know what might be offensive to them. 4. Describe the worst customer or coworker you have encountered and tell me how you dealt with the situation. There was a customer who asked for my assistance and so I helped her. While another customer yelled out for help across the other side of the store.

I told the customer I was with to wait a moment I would be back. As soon as I approached the other woman, she yelled out that I needed to be in the dressing room helping her out. I told her that the manager went home sick, and I was by myself with only one sales associate. She suggested that the fitting rooms be all unlocked, I told her that the reason they are locked is so that merchandise are not stolen. She was very upset, so I decided to be the good person and talk to her calmly and kept a positive attitude. 5.

Will you be able to follow our attire guidelines? Yes. I have no problem with the company dress code. Attitude / Unmotivated Interview 1. I don't know. I saw an ad online and I applied.

I'm surprised you even called me, but it seems it would be all right to work here. 2. Well, I supposed I see myself with the future of this company. Where? Well, I want the most pay with the least amount of work, so, wherever that comes into play in your company.

3. Yeah I guess I'm comfortable. I mean, I want to work with people that are going to get along with me, so they shouldn't be too different. That way it's easier to get the job done if you know what I mean. 4. How do you think your past experiences will contribute to this company?

I don't know. I worked at McDonald's for a while, so I've dealt with people before if that's what you " re asking. I think my experiences will get me through what I would have to do. 5. Well one time, this person ordered a burger without ketchup, so I took the liberty and put it into the computer as a plain burger. I mean, who wants a burger without ketchup?

Then he came back to me and said he wanted mustard and pickles on it! Therefore, I took a minute to compose myself. Then, I took the burger back and put the mustard and ketchup on it. The nerve of that guy! 6. Yeah, I think I can.

I'm not going to get a whole new wardrobe or anything, but I have lots of clothes similar to the ones I'm wearing today. I hope that's O.K. with you. I feel like I can adhere to the policy good enough. Unprepared / Inappropriate Dress don't have my resume with me at the moment. Can I bring it to you tomorrow? 1.

Umm. I heard the pay was good. 2. I hope to still be employed by the company. I don't really know. 3.

I guess I am. I don't really have much experience in a workforce that focused on diverse workers. 4. Tell me about a specific occasion when you conformed to a policy even though you did not agree with it? I once worked for a company that enforced a strict dress code.

They wanted me to wear clothing that was made by them. 5. I guess I will be able to. Behavior While on Interview Creating a resume, finding a job, dressing appropriately are half of what is needed to obtain employment. Your interview and how you conduct yourself during an interview is what will have you classified as a job seeker or an employee. What you do on your interview controls whether or not you get an offer.

A quiz. Which behavior do you think recruiters find most unforgivable? a) poor personal appearance) overemphasis on money) failure to look at interviewer while interviewing d) doesn't ask questions) late to interview Answer is d. Candidates who do not ask questions represent the number one reason a recruiter would lose confidence. Asking well-considered questions will allow an interviewer to clearly see you have been taking the time to conduct research and show interest in what could be your future employment. Recruiters want candidates that stand out above others and show that they are willing to work and perform well. When questions are not asked it shows lack of motivation and candidate is just looking to make a paycheck.

This gives the interviewer the perception that the interviewee will most likely not benefit the company and will need more pushing then others in order to complete tasks. Of course, just asking good questions will not get you a job offer. Below is a list of ten reasons, which can damage your chances of obtaining employment. 1. Doesn't ask questions 2. Condemnation of past employer 3.

Inability to take criticism 4. Poor personal appearance 5. Indecisive, cynical, lazy 6. Overbearing, over aggressive, "know it all"7.

Late to interview 8. Failure to look at interviewer while interviewing 9. Unable to express self clearly 10. Overemphasis on money successful interview requires you: -Arrive on time-Introduce yourself in a courteous manner-Read company materials while you wait-Have a firm handshake-Listen-Use body language to show interest-Smile, nod, and give nonverbal feedback to the interviewer-Ask about the next step in the process-Thank the interviewer -Write a thank-you letter to anyone you have spoken to HELPFUL TIPS Learn beforehand what a recruiter is looking for. Do research on a company and find information on the company's culture.

Be ready to answer questions that pertain directly to the company as well as giving an extra piece of information that shows your interest, but do not over do it. Keep the "know it all' to a minimum. Be ready to articulate skills and strengths that you may have to offer to the organization. Even when you are asked bizarre questions like "what is your favorite color?" be prepared to answer them in a way that focuses on what you can do for the company. Think about how your experience in work, classes, and activities can relate to your job seeking.

If you have trouble with a certain interview question interviews, it is always a good idea to role-play as much as possible for that particular question. Do practice interviews with a career counselor, friends, and family members or even with yourself in front of a mirror. Plan your interview attire in advance and make sure your clothing is pressed, your shoes are shined, and your hair and nails are well groomed. Bring extra copies of your resume and a list of references Be honest. Do not try to cover up mistakes.

Instead, focus on how you learned from them. Remember you have the capability of making a recruiter choose you or put your information in a file along with plenty of others. Paperwork can be impressive but your face-to-face meeting is what determines your eligibility and if you are in the door. How you control yourself, answer questions, and behave is what the recruiter will be looking for. Appendix Pre-tes to Cover letter Example resume o Thank-you letter Attire Checklist How to tie a tie Hired Game Cards (2 win/2 lose) o Interview questions to expec to Questions to ask the interviewer o Post-test These handouts will be in individual folders given to the audience before the training session begins.

Along with these handouts will be a tie for the How to Tie a Tie activity. Manual will be available on disk. References: Attire web Activity web city / interview /common interview. php How to Tie a Tie Activity web Questions web. html Job Search web.