Q:  Tell me about yourself

A:  You don’t have to present your autobiography. Briefly describe your school work and any previous jobs you may have held. Tell the interviewer how you could be an asset to the company and why you would like to work there.

Q:  Why do you want to work here?

A:  Few questions are more important than this one! Answering, “I don’t know,” or “I need the money,” will tell the interviewer you don’t really care about the job. This is the time to show the interviewer your interest in the company and to talk about your skills and how they would benefit the company.

Q:  What is your major weakness?

A:  This question comes up in many job interviews — and it can throw you if you’re not prepared. When you want to discuss your strengths, how do you talk about your weaknesses? You do it by turning a weakness into a strength. For instance, “I sometimes worry too much about my work and I can be a perfectionist,” or “I don’t have a lot of experience yet — but I want to learn.”

Q:  What have I forgotten to ask?

A:  Use this as an opportunity to summarize your strengths and your desire to work for the company. Make it clear that you understand the job requirements and that you can succeed.

// Here are a few other questions you might be asked.  Consider what your answer would be for each one.

• What is important to you in a job?

• Have you thought about what you would like to do as a career?

• What hours can you work?

• What are your favorite classes/activities at school?

• What qualities do you find important in a coworker?

// Questions you might ask the interviewer:

• What do you like about working in this organization?

• Were there any questions I didn't provide an adequate answer to?

• What are the key challenges of this position?

• What kind of person are you looking for?

• What are the job duties?

• Who would be my supervisor?

• What qualities are you looking for in new hires?

• What is the next step in the hiring process?

• When will the decision be made about this position?

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