Page 87 - DENG401_Advance Communication Skills

Advanced Communication Skills

Notes 8. Are you applying for other jobs?: Be honest but do not spend a lot of time in this area. Keep
the focus on this job and what you can do for this organization. Anything else is a distraction.
9. Why do you want to work for this organization?: This may take some thought and
certainly, should be based on the research you have done on the organization. Sincerity is
extremely important here and will easily be sensed. Relate it to your long-term career
goals.
10. Do you know anyone who works for us?: Be aware of the policy on relatives working for
the organization. This can affect your answer even though they asked about friends not
relatives. Be careful to mention a friend only if they are well thought of.
11. What kind of salary do you need?: A loaded question. A nasty little game that you will
probably lose if you answer first. So, do not answer it. Instead, say something like, That's
a tough question. Can you tell me the range for this position? In most cases, the interviewer,
taken off guard, will tell you. If not, say that it can depend on the details of the job. Then
give a wide range.
12. How long would you expect to work for us if hired?: Specifics here are not good. Something
like this should work: I'd like it to be a long time. Or As long as we both feel I'm doing a
good job.
13. Have you ever had to fire anyone? How did you feel about that?: This is serious. Do not
make light of it or in any way seem like you like to fire people. At the same time, you will
do it when it is the right thing to do. When it comes to the organization versus the
individual who has created a harmful situation, you will protect the organization.
Remember firing is not the same as layoff or reduction in force.

14. What is your philosophy towards work?: The interviewer is not looking for a long or
flowery dissertation here. Do you have strong feelings that the job gets done? Yes. That's
the type of answer that works best here. Short and positive, showing a benefit to the
organization.
15. If you had enough money to retire right now, would you?: Answer yes if you would. But
since you need to work, this is the type of work you prefer. Do not say yes if you do not
mean it.
16. Have you ever been asked to leave a position?: If you have not, say no. If you have, be
honest, brief and avoid saying negative things about the people or organization involved.
17. Explain how you would be an asset to this organization: You should be anxious for this
question. It gives you a chance to highlight your best points as they relate to the position
being discussed. Give a little advance thought to this relationship.
18. Why should we hire you?: Point out how your assets meet what the organization needs.
Do not mention any other candidates to make a comparison.
19. Tell me about a suggestion you have made: Have a good one ready. Be sure and use a
suggestion that was accepted and was then considered successful. One related to the type
of work applied for is a real plus.
20. What irritates you about co-workers?: This is a trap question. Think real hard but fail to
come up with anything that irritates you. A short statement that you seem to get along
with folks is great.

21. What is your greatest strength?: Numerous answers are good, just stay positive. A few
good examples: Your ability to prioritize, Your problem-solving skills, Your ability to
work under pressure, Your ability to focus on projects, Your professional expertise, Your
leadership skills, Your positive attitude.

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