How to have a positive start 4 things you must do at the start of your interview to get it off to a positive start or to give positive first impression: Dress properly and professionally Make sure you offer a firm handshake to each interviewers and look them in the eyes. This shows that you are a confident person. Do not sit down in the interviewer chair until you are invited to do so. It shows that you have good manners. When the interviewer says to you “ welcome to the interview, please start off and introduce yourself ” make sure you thank them first and give a confident answer.
Question 1: TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF Use this structure = STAR Skills , concentrate on telling them about your work-related skills. Type , look over into the requirements/qualification and use these power words : motivated, enthusiastic, loyal, flexible, committed, honest, hard-working, adaptable, responsible. Achievement , share your achievements that you’ve gained Return , assure them that you will give them a return on their investment
Example: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed for this position with your company. My name is Richard Dean. Before submitting my resume, I read the job description and I am confident I have the SKILLS to meet the demands of the role. I am energetic, positive, a fast-learner, a supportive co-worker and someone who will fit in into your team quickly. I am the TYPE of person who will take responsibility for my ongoing learning and development. I have a track record of ACHIEVEMENT . I achieved excellent grades at college. I have won debate championship with the team I am part of and I will work hard to replicate that same success for your organization. Finally, to make sure you see a positive RETURN on your investment, I will take constructive feedbacks positively, I will carry out duties outside my job description and will be available to work extra hours.
Question 2: WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK HERE? Tell them about the preparation work you have done in the build up to the interview. Focus on the qualifications, job description and information you've fond from the company’s website.
Sample answer One of the main reasons I want to work here is your company’s commitment to the community. It really sets you apart from your competitors. I love that you all volunteer at the Special Olympics each spring. I’ve volunteered with the local animal shelter every week for the past four years. Being a part of a company that also values giving back to others is really important to me.
Question 3: WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTH? Focus on the qualification for the position you are applying for. For example, they are looking for someone who can work under pressure, able to work as a team, and computer literate. Then you can tell them so as long as you really have it, remember to be HONEST. Choose two or three strengths that reflect you and are directly related to the job. Then, support at least one of them with evidence, such as award, etc
Sample answer: I believe one of my greatest strengths is time management. For example, last semester I managed to earn a 3.8 GPA while working 20 hours a week at a local coffee shop, serving as president of my fraternity, and acting as a teaching assistant for a freshman writing course. I’m also very organized and detail-oriented.
Question 4: WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES? Don’t give weaknesses that is one of the key qualifications of the role. For example, if punctuality and good timekeeping are important, don’t tell the panel you struggle getting out of bed in the morning. Make sure you also mention how you will overcome your weakness.
Sample answer: I’m an organized person, so I have trouble with last-minute changes and ambiguity. In school, I scheduled out all my work, but in an office environment, deadlines and priorities are always shifting. So, I’m working to get more accustomed to those changes. I’m taking an online class in project management, and it’s helped me make room for changing priorities. Now, if a last-minute change crops up, I know how to reprioritize.
Question 5: HOW DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS TIME? Don’t tell them that you plan to have moved on from their company. Loyalty is very important to the vast majority of employers. Remember that they have spent time, money and resources training you p to the role, so they will want to see a return from their investment. Assure them if you are accepted you plan to stay with them for a long term.
Sample answer: In five years, I see myself here at XYZ Company, contributing to the team and adding value for the branch. I love that you offer so many opportunities for professional development, and I want to grow with the company. So, I plan to master my role as an assistant in the next few years, and hopefully become an associate after that.
Question 6: WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU? To show that you’re heads above the other candidates, be sure to highlight characteristics that would make you a great fit for the company culture. This is another question where doing your research and being genuinely enthusiastic can make a big difference.
Sample answer: ABC Company is revered in the advertising world for its commitment to creativity. Since before I can remember, I’ve prided myself on being a creative person myself. In college, I was in charge of event planning for my sorority and coordinated over a dozen distinct, themed events last year. In a typical year, the sorority does five events. I’m excited to think how my creativity and ambition could enhance what’s already great here.