Job Seeker Articles

The minute you walk into the interview you will start fielding through questions, here are a few examples of how to handle the most common questions.

1. Tell me about yourself.
   The most often asked question in interviews so you need to have a small prepared statement.  Limit it to work-related items unless they ask more personal questions. Talk about things you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the position you are interviewing for.
2. Why did you leave your last job?
   Stay positive regardless of the circumstances. Never speak ill of supervisors, co-workers or the organization. You will be the one who looks bad if you don’t. It is better to state that you were looking for a better opportunity instead of speaking negativity.
3. What do you know about this organization?
   This question is one reason to do some research on the organization before the interview. Ask a member of your Energi Personnel staff and do some online research.
4. What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year?
   Try to include improvement activities that relate to the job. Mention any classes you may have taken or organizations that you might have joined.
5. Are you applying for other jobs?
   Be honest but do not spend a lot of time on this topic. Show the company that you are interested in THIS position and what you can bring to the table.
6. What kind of salary do you need?
   This is a hard question and you want to make sure you do not talk yourself out of a position because of how high or low of an amount you mention. Instead, say something like, that’s a tough question. Can you tell me the range for this position? If not, say that it can depend on the details of the job. Then give a wide range.
7. Are you a team player?
   Of course you are a team player, right? Think of examples where you and a team worked together to create a success.
8. 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.
9. Explain how you would be an asset to this organization.
   This question really gives you an opportunity to highlight yourself and your skills. Really give some thought to what you bring to the organization; this answer should be different for every position.
10. What is your greatest strength?
    Numerous answers are good, just stay positive. A few good examples: Your ability to prioritize, problem-solving skills, the ability to work under stress, your leadership skills, and a positive attitude.
11. Tell me about your ability to work under pressure.
    You may say that you thrive under certain types of pressure. Give examples of how you made good decisions in a pressured situation.
12. Are you willing to work overtime? Nights? Weekends?
    This is up to you. Be totally honest.
13. Would you be willing to relocate if required?
    You and your family should be certain of the answer to this question. Be honest so that you don’t cause yourself or the employer any grief.
14. Do you have any questions for me?
    Always have some questions prepared. Questions prepared where you will be an asset to the organization are good. How soon will I be able to be productive? What type of projects will I be able to assist on? Or basics like when would be the potential start date or what benefits does the company provide.

When employers interview applicants, they know what job qualifications they are seeking, but there are at least five basic qualities that are absolutely essential for every job seeker in every industry to possess in order to give a potential employer a positive impression.

1. Self-Confidence - An interviewer will be naturally impressed by an applicant who exhibits confidence in his or her abilities. Make sure you have specific examples to show off those great qualities but remember to walk that fine line between cocky and self-confident.
2. Maturity - Most jobs involve a certain amount of stress, no matter what the industry. Make sure and demonstrate to the potential employer that you are able to handle complex or stressful situations with emotional maturity. Do not talk about disagreements that you have had with previous co workers or employers. Show that you can work well as a team.
3. A Positive Attitude - A good outlook is just as important as having impressive skills and experience. Going out of your way to offer exemplary service to clients or helping out colleagues, particularly in bad times, shows an employer that you are passionate about keeping the outlook positive for everyone.
4. Adaptability - Most jobs will involve change at some time or another whether it is adding new responsibilities or a promotion. It is important for an employer to know that you will be able to adapt to those changes. You need to make it clear to a prospective employer that you will not be overwhelmed by new ideas or unfamiliar experiences, and you will meet challenges head-on and succeed.
5. Goal-Oriented - Every employer has goals for their company, so they naturally value employees that have goals for themselves. Your resume should show employers that you have continuously challenged yourself to achieve higher and more important goals throughout your career and that you will help the company meet their goals as well.

These essential qualities make you attractive to a potential employer. Focus on improving these qualities, and the job offers will follow.