By Carole Martin
Choose the best answer:
Question: What Experience Have You Had That Qualifies You For This Position?
Answer #1 My background and experience have been working on a variety of projects and jobs in the hi-tech industry. Most of my experience has been working with Cobra. I want to learn more about the server side of Java, and work for a company that's focused on E-Commerce. I want to work with clients, and continue to grow and be challenged.
Answer #2 For the past four years I have been working in the E-Commerce industry. I am proficient working with JAVA, and a strong working knowledge of HTML and HTTP. I have great communication and teamwork skills, and feel I have a lot to offer as a part of a team.
Answer #3 Since I'm not sure what this job involves, I'm not sure what part of my background applies. I have worked with computers for the past ten years or so. I like working with programs and solving problems. I have been successful in all the jobs I've held. I haven't really found a job that has held my interest, and I know your job would be a challenge and opportunity for me to develop.
Response #1 This is not the strongest answer. This answer focuses on your needs and what you want from the position, rather than on what you can bring to the company, or what qualifies you for the position. The bottom line of the interview for the employer is, "What can you bring to this company?"
Response #2 This is the strongest answer. This answer provides the interviewer with a good idea of the experiences and skills you will bring to the position. In addition to technical knowledge, communications and teamwork skills can be critical to most jobs.
Response #3 This is not the strongest answer. You should know about the job and what the employer is looking for, before going to the interview. If you are in doubt, look through other job positions and note the words used. Each industry has its own vocabulary and jargon. Check out Monsters JobSearch for examples of job listings. Doing some research and homework ahead of time will make a big difference in the interview.
Question: When Have You Been Most Motivated?
Answer #1 My first job in a start-up company. I had to undergo some rigorous training to understand the product and customer. At the same time, we were actually working with the customer. It required a lot of self-direction and motivation. I thrived on the whole experience - the discipline, the planning, the deadlines. It was a pressure cooker, but I got through it.
Answer #2 When I have had a specific project to complete. I like to know the specifics of a project - from beginning to end. I like definite deadlines and I like to meet those deadlines. I expect some deviation from the original plan, but I try to stay focused and not let myself drift too far. I have a great attention-to-detail, and like to take my time and do it right the first time.
Answer #3 When I'm working with people, and helping them solve problems. That's what I like about this industry, you are able to advise and assist customers. My strength is communications and problem solving. I have had several commendations for my customer service work. That's when I'm at my best and most motivated.
Response #1 This is the strongest answer. It has energy and enthusiasm. Companies are looking for high-energy people who are able to be in the moment. This answer demonstrates self-motivation, passion, energy, and ability to cope under pressure. It also provides a specific example of a time when you were highly motivated.
Response #2 This is not the strongest answer. It is an OK answer, depending on the position description. This answer indicates a need for order, and not a lot of flexibility. If perfection and attention-to-detail are required, this answer would be appropriate. If the position description is about "flexible and able to work in a fast-paced environment," this would not be a good fit. This answer does not provide an example to support your assertions.
Response #3 This is not the strongest answer. The answer is vague. It could be the answer to almost any job that includes customer contact. If you are applying for a position in the technical industry it would be best to give examples that involve user and technical problems. Customer service is a worthwhile skill, but this answer needs more specifics.
Carole Martin, America's #1 Interview Coach is the original interview coach for Monster.com and author of four job interview books published by McGraw- Hill. Reserve your seat at her live 2-day Speed Interview Event coming soon via teleconference. Apply to be in the "Hot Seat" and receive instant feedback from Ms.Martin.Visit her Free Job Interview Coaching Center and take her Practice Interview.
