Job interviews are not easy. Last week, I shared with you some tips on how to answer questionson leaving your past jobs and about yourself. This week, I’ve got some tips for a couple more classic interview questions.
Q: What is your biggest weakness?
A: This is the question the majority of people will fail to answer properly. While honesty works best with your friends and family, you don’t want to share with a potential employer that some days you’ve got low self-esteem or you often question your ability to complete tasks. If this is the case, then you need to do that counselling work with a professional who can help before even scheduling job interviews. The best way to tackle this question is to pick a weakness that might even be seen as a soft positive. For example, taking on too much work and knowing you have to learn to say “no” to extra work a little more could be seen as a soft positive weakness. Whatever your weakness, be sure to label the weakness then explain how you are conquering it. Keep it business related.
Q: Do you have any questions?
A: This is your moment to shine! It’s the moment where you can come across as a goal-savvy professional, who is interested in jumping into your new position and making a name for yourself. Assuming you’ve done your share of research on the company before the interview, here is where you can ask about current company projects or how you might get involved on various committees outside of your regular work, like the social committee. You might also ask the interviewer how they like the company. Questions about salary and vacation pay are not appropriate at this time. Ask two to three questions but no more than that as you also want to respect the interviewer’s time too. Should you have any tidbits you didn’t mention, you can always save them for your thank-you note/e-mail following the job interview.
Jill Andrew — CYW, BA, BA (Hons.), BEd. Please include your full name, address and telephone number when e-mailing. All letters are subject to publication.
| jill’s tip of the week |
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Feeling a little uninspired at work? It might be the air quality in your workplace. Poor air quality can cause cold and flu-like symptoms including running nose, headaches, and even dizziness. Check in with your employer today if you have reason to be concerned. Ventilation is a good thing!
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