Why Should We Hire You?

· Tell me about yourself.

This is an open-ended question often asked to help “break the ice” in the interview.

The important thing to remember is to keep the answer job related.

· Why are you interested in working for this company?

This will show the employer that you have done your “homework.” State the positive things you have learned about the company and how they fit with your career goals. This shows the employer that you cared enough about the interview to prepare for it.

· What is your major weakness?

Always turn this into a positive! State a weakness and turn it into a positive by showing how you overcame that weakness. “In the past, it has been difficult for me to accept criticism from my peers. However, I have learned to value and solicit this input and it has improved my job performance.” -OR- Discuss a weakness that really isn’t a weakness at all. “I tend to over-plan when it comes to large projects.”

· Give an example of how you have solved a problem in the past.

It is important to show the process you go through when presented with a problem. State the problem and the steps you followed to reach the solution.

· What are your strengths?

This is the time to describe the skills you have identified that will most effectively “market” you as an employee.

· How do others describe you?

Another way for the employer to ask this would be, “Tell me how you would fit into this work group?” If you are not comfortable with this question before the interview, call some friends and/or ask people you have worked with how they would describe you.

· How do you think you will fit into this operation?

This is the time to express in the job and knowledge of the company. The more you know about the operation the easier this question will be to answer.

· If you were hired, what ideas/talents could you contribute to the position or our company?

Another great opportunity for you to sell your skills. By giving examples of past accomplishments, the employer can visualize your contribution to his/her company.

· Give an example where you showed leadership and initiative.

Even if you haven’t had the title of lead worker, supervisor, or manager, give examples of when you recognize a job needed to be done and you did it.
Give an example of when you were able to contribute to a team project.
Unless you have lived in a total void you have been part of a team. Teamwork is used in families, community activities, and schools all require teamwork.