List of Questions one is likely to be asked during an interview
The following questions are not specific to a given type of work but are general and can be asked in any interviewing environment. Accompanying the questions, are possible answers and an evaluation (guideline and the do’s and don’ts) when tackling the questions.
i. Tell me about yourself.
My name is Victor, I was born in Chicago a place where computers were used to do almost everything. Ever since my childhood, I have had the passion for computers. This made me pursue a course in computer engineering that has motivated me to apply for a position in your firm.
To answer this question, give a comprehensive statement about yourself and how it relates to the job you are applying for.
ii. What is your primary weakness (or weaknesses)?
My major weakness is that I always try to become a perfectionist and will always strive to achieve perfection n matter what it might cost. This sometimes makes me be seen as a stiff person who resists flexibility. I try to correct this by offering an understanding mood but being careful not to compromise on the quality.
An answer like ‘I don’t have any’ is an indication of lack of self awareness. The interviewer will be looking at whether you posses the quality of self awareness and what you do about your weakness. Remember knowing your weakness is not being weak. The way you present this information to the interviewer will tell a lot about yourself.
iii. What is the mission, vision or/and mission statement of the company?
The mission of this company is “To offer world class IT services in the region” Vision “To be the leading IT provider in the country”
To answer this question appropriately, ensure you understand the company or the institution that you are going to have an interview in. Ensure you are armed with the mission, vision, mission statement and the core values of the company/ institution. It can also be a better idea to know who manages the company and how the company’s management is organized.
iv. What is your attitude and ability to do the job?
I have had a passion for computers and this work will be helping me explore my field as I will be doing what I know best.
To answer this question well, capitalize on your accomplishments in terms of what you did and the results of your actions for employers. Ensure that you give verifiable examples of your effectiveness.
v. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
In five years time I hoe I will be working with an employer at a higher management level, with my rise being attributed to the tireless efforts I make to ensure the success of the company.
Employers usually ask this question in order to understand the intent of the interviewee. They want people who are focused on specific goals in line with their profession and who are not willing to change their career. The response should be that which infers that you want to stay longer at the company. An answer like I have not thought that far is a clear indication of lack of vision and focus and may lead to one failing the interview.
vi. Describe a major goal you have set for yourself recently?
I trained a group of thirty young men and inspired them to take on more advanced courses in the field of Information Technology and use it as a means of earning a living rather than just wasting away their lives.
Describe a goal that you once set and achieved. Avoid unachievable goals when answering this question.
vii. What was your biggest failure?
My biggest failure was not being able to make it to the top of list of the best innovators in the recent competition held in our country.
You should try to put this point so that it does not appear as if it was due to a personal mistake like laziness or ignorance
viii. Why should we hire you rather than someone else?
I posses the qualities needed and I have a passion for computers. Besides, I have been working with computers ever since my childhood.
Simply focus on you strengths because you do not know the other person.
ix. Why do you want to work in this industry?
It has always been my wish to work in an IT leading company so that I can input the technical resources I have and see the firm move ahead.
Describe the similarities between this job and your interest and the current job you are doing. Indicate the superiority that you may see to be existing in this job.
References
Peter O. (1996). A Critical Sense: Interviews with intellectuals. Helm Publishers: New York, USA
Joan E.A. (1997). Mastery: Interview with 33 remarkable people. Kansas City.
