So you've landed an interview which is great but now you need to prepare.
Depending on your level of experience and industry, there will be specific questions the hiring person will ask. These
may be about skills pertinent to the role, licensure or certifications, and/or technical skills needed for the job.
But what are three general questions that you should always be prepared to answer?
1.
Why are you leaving your current job/Why did you leave your last job? Bad answers would include
comments about how you didn't like your manager, had an issue with a client, or couldn't get along with your co-workers.
It is reasonable to identify that you want to change industries, gain increased experience in a certain area or move forward
and your previous/current employer will not allow that to happen. Be honest and tactful.
2.
What separates you from the other candidates? This is a little bit of a potential ‘gotcha'
question. Obviously you can't know what qualifications and background the competition has. This is an opportunity
to highlight the top three skills the job requires with the best examples you have with the greatest positive impact you made
in a previous job. Sharing the ways you can provide value to the employer will always help the manager identify you
as qualified for the position.
3. What questions do you have for me?
"I don't' have any." - Wrong answer. There is no way you know everything about the job and expectations
even if you are interviewing internally in the same company. Ask about specific short term expectations and objectives,
challenges you can expect to encounter, and/or training opportunities. Prepare at least three questions that will provide
you greater insight into the job and the manager's goals.