Employment Interview Preparation

Employment Interviews Questions

The common practice of scripting answers to lists of employment interview questions, while not entirely useless, is time consuming and does little for the nerves. Richard Bolles, author of the annual employment guide, What Color is Your Parachute, theorizes that there are actually only five employment interview questions.

1. Why are you here?

The employer wants to know who this person is, and why they want to work at this company. One of the most important employment interview preparation tools is employment interview research. The company’s website and promotional material are great resources. For extra points, look at last year’s annual report. Prepare a few talking points, and have at least three great questions based on research. Do not make them obvious questions, or they may get answered in the employer’s opening pitch. It is not advisable in employment interviews to not have questions.

2. What can you do for us?

The employer wants to know that the candidate has the necessary skills for the job and will solve problems, not create them. The employment interview questions will focus on experience, education, and may include situational questions. These questions are common employment interview techniques used to take the past and predict the future.

3. What kind of person are you?

The employer wants to know if he/she would do well working with the candidate. They want to know if the person has the proper personality for the job, and if they will fit with the team. They may ask behavioral or other personality questions. They may also do employment interview testing. Be honest, but not unwise.

4. What makes you different than all of the others?

This may be asked straight out, or may be reflected in questions regarding accomplishments and special skills. When doing employment interviewing, it is useful to prepare a list of accomplishments and success stories. The candidate’s role should be emphasized, using numbers and figures if at all possible.

5. Can I afford you?

Many times interviewers come straight out and state what they can pay. Other times, this may be negotiated. Either way, it is proper manners to not discuss salary in employment interviews until a job offer has been made.

For more on employment interview preparation and great employment interview tips, read Richard Bolles’ annual employment guide, What Color is Your Parachute. The 2010 edition is now available.