Go for a mock exercise before the real talk at the job table

Face the panel, but don't fall of the chair in a headlong rush-and-skid attempt to
tell your story. Take one step at a time. If you place your foot on slippery
ground, you could be ejecting out on a free fall.

So prepare, fortify your thoughts, re-jig your memory, and script and design
your story (without frills and falsity). Without the right preparation and
storyboard, you could be a loser at the interview. Here are a few preparation
tips that books on interviews sometimes overlook.

Before the interview

1. Chronological Outline of Career and Education Divide your life into

"segments" defining your university, first job, second job. For each stage,
jot down :

The reason for opting certain course or profession; Your job responsibilities in
your previous/current job; Reason of leaving your earlier/current job. You
should be clear in your mind where you want to be in the short and long term
and ask yourself the reason why you would be appropriate for the job you are
being interviewed for and how it will give shape to your future course.

2. Strengths and Weaknesses

You should keep a regular check on your strengths and weaknesses. Write
down three (3) technical and three (3) non-technical personal strengths. Most
importantly, show examples of your skills. This proves more effective than
simply talking about them. So if you're asked about a general skill, provide a
specific example to help you fulfil the interviewer's expectations. It isn't enough
to say you've got "excellent leadership skills". Instead, try saying:

"I think I have excellent leaderships skills which I have acquired through a
combination of effective communication, delegation and personal interaction.
This has helped my team achieve its goals."

As compared to strengths, the area of weaknesses is difficult to handle. Put

across your weakness in such a way that it at leaset seems to be a positive
virtue to the interviewer. Describe a weakness or area for development that you
have worked on and have now overcome.

3. Questions you should be prepared for

Tell us about yourself.

What do you know about our company?

Why do you want to join our company?

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

How have you improved the nature of your job in the past years of your
working?

Why should we hire you?

What contributions to profits have you made in your present or former

company?

Why are you looking for a change?

Answers to some difficult questions :

Tell me about yourself ?

* Start from your education and give a brief coverage of previous experiences.
Emphasise more on your recent experience explaining your job profile.

What do you think of your boss? Put across a positive image, but don't
exaggerate.

* Why should we hire you? Or why are you interested in this job?
Sum up your work experiences with your abilities and emphasise your strongest
qualities and achievements. Let your interviewer know that you will prove to be
an asset to the company.

How much money do you want?

*Indicate your present salary and emphasise that the opportunity is the most
important consideration.

Do you prefer to work in a group?

* Be honest and give examples how you've worked by yourself and also with
others. Prove your flexibility.
Questions to Ask

At the end of the interview, most interviewers generally ask if you have any
questions. Therefore, you should be prepared beforehand with 2-3 technical
and 2-3 non-technical questions and commit them to your memory before the
interview.

Do not ask queries related to your salary, vacation, bonuses, or other benefits.
This information should be discussed at the time of getting your joining letter.
Here we are giving few sample questions that you can ask at the time of your
interview.

Sample Questions

Could you tell me the growth plans and goals for the company? What skills are
important to be successful in this position? What's the criteria your company
uses for performance appraisal? With whom will I be interacting most frequently
and what are their responsibilities and the nature of our interaction? What is the
time frame for making a decision at this position? What made the previous
persons in this position successful/unsuccessful?

Do your homework

Before going for an interview, find out as much information on the company (go
to JobsAhead Company Q and A) as possible. The best sources are the public
library, the Internet (you can check out the company's site), and can even call
the company and get the required information. The information gives you a one-
up in the interview besides proving your content company or position.

Clearing the interview isn't necessarily a solitary attempt. Seek assistance from
individuals who are in the profession and whose counsel you value most. Be
confident in your approach and attitude; let the panel feel it through your
demeanour, body language and dressing.

Getting prepared for your interview is the best way to dig deep and know
yourself. You will be surprised that it would breed a new familiarity become
more familiar with your own qualifications that will be make you present yourself
better. All the best and get ready to give a treat.
 Special Tips

The rule is that not the best qualified candidates get job. Your on-site
performance plays a big role. Here are some easily forgettable points.

• 90% interviewing questions raised based on your own resume.

• eye-to-eye contact, smiling all the way. don't miss anyone in the corner.
• asking easier and relevant questions back to the interviewers
occasionally.
• be honest to answer technical questions, you are not expert to know
everything.
• don't let your boss feel you might be a threat to take his position.
• don't be critical, focus on what you can do.
• try to be humor to show your smartness.
• don't act in a superior way.
• find right time to raise questions AND answer those questions to show
your strength.
• aggressively to get candidacy info back after interviewing.

Job Interview Special Tips

The following questions are unrelated with Java technology, but they may be
asked. So study this list, plan your answers ahead of time and you'll be ready to
deliver them with confidence. Note: most of questions and answers are cited
from email box or donated by the people who experienced. They are listed here
for your reference. Javacamp.org will not be responsible for any job loss or
damage by using these tips.

1. What Are Your Weaknesses?

This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your

weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal
qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on
improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I
recently joined Toastmasters.com, which I find very helpful."

2. Why Should We Hire You?

Summarize your experiences: "With five years' experience working in this

industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could
 make a big difference in your company. I'm confident I would be a great
addition to your team."

3. Why Do You Want to Work Here?

The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this
some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an
opening. For example, "I've selected key companies whose mission
statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited
about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list
of desirable choices."

4. What Are Your Goals?

Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals

rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, "My
immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-
term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually
grow into a position of responsibility."

5. Why Did You Leave (Are You Leaving) Your Job?

If you're unemployed, state your reason for leaving in a positive context:

"I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third
round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which included me."

If you are employed, focus on what you want in your next job: "After two
years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused,
where I can add my experience."

6. When Were You Most Satisfied in Your Job?

The interviewer wants to know what motivates you. If you can relate an
example of a job or project when you were excited, the interviewer will
get an idea of your preferences. "I was very satisfied in my last job,
because I worked directly with the customers and their problems; that is
an important part of the job for me."
7. What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can't? or
8. What makes you unique?

This will take an assessment of your experiences, skills and traits.

Summarize concisely: "I have a unique combination of strong technical
skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows
me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-
friendly."

9. What Are Three Positive Things Your Last Boss Would Say About You?

It's time to pull out your old performance appraisals and boss's quotes.
This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else's words:
"My boss has told me that I am the best designer he has ever had. He
knows he can rely on me, and he likes my sense of humor."

10. What Salary Are You Seeking?

It is to your advantage if the employer tells you the range first. Prepare
by knowing the going rate in your area, and your bottom line or walk-
away point. One possible answer would be: "I am sure when the time
comes, we can agree on a reasonable amount. In what range do you
typically pay someone with my background?"

11. If You Were an Animal, Which One Would You Want to Be?

Interviewers use this type of psychological question to see if you can

think quickly. If you answer "a bunny," you will make a soft, passive
impression. If you answer "a lion," you will be seen as aggressive. What
type of personality would it take to get the job done? What impression do
you want to make?

12. Why do you like to join us?

 Be honest to answer such question. Sample answer would be: Because I
like your company, etc. and I am capable of doing a good job. Or I just
move to this area and I am looking for the job that suits me very well...

13. How did you handle your most challenging experience in your previous
job?

Smoothly, generally speaking. But I am a good team work player and

always share my experience with others and learn from others.

14. Tell me about yourself?

I'm a quick learner, dedicated, hard working and friendly employee.

15. Common Mistakes in Job Interview

Poor personal appearance.

o Lack of interest and enthusiasm: Passive and indifferent.

o Over emphasis on money: interested only in best dollar offer.
o Condemnation of past employers.
o Failure to look at the interviewer when conversing.
o Limp, fishy handshake.
o Unwillingness to go where sent.
o Late to interview.
o Failure to express appreciation for interviewer's time.
o Asks no questions about job.
o Indefinite response to questions.
o Overbearing, over aggressive, conceited with superiority or "know it
all complex."
o Inability to express self clearly: Poor voice diction, grammar.
o Lack of planning for career: no purpose and goals.
o Lack of confidence and poise: nervous ill at ease.
o Failure to participate in activities.
o Unwilling to start at the bottom-expects too much too soon.
o Makes excuses, evasive, hedges on unfavorable factors in record.
o Lack of tact.
o Lack of courtesy: ill mannered.
o Lack of Maturity.
o Lack of vitality.
 o Indecision.
o Sloppy application blank.
o Merely shopping around.
o Wants job for short time.
o No interest in company or industry.
o Low moral standards.
o Cynical.
o Lazy.
o Intolerant: strong prejudices.
o Narrow interests.
o Inability to take criticism.
o High pressure type.

16. Here are some other job interview questions you might want to rehearse.

Your Qualifications

o What can you do for us that someone else can't do?

o What qualifications do you have that relate to the position?
o What new skills or capabilities have you developed recently?
o Give me an example from a previous job where you've shown
initiative.
o What have been your greatest accomplishments recently?
o What is important to you in a job?
o What motivates you in your work?
o What have you been doing since your last job?
o What qualities do you find important in a coworker?

Your Career Goals

o What would you like to being doing five years from now?
o How will you judge yourself successful? How will you achieve
success?
o What type of position are you interested in?
o How will this job fit in your career plans?
o What do you expect from this job?
o Do you have a location preference?
o Can you travel?
o What hours can you work?
o When could you start?

Your Work Experience

o What have you learned from your past jobs?

 o What were your biggest responsibilities?
o What specific skills acquired or used in previous jobs relate to this
position?
o How does your previous experience relate to this position?
o What did you like most/least about your last job?
o Whom may we contact for references?

Your Education

o How do you think your education has prepared you for this
position?
o What were your favorite classes/activities at school?
o Why did you choose your major?
o Do you plan to continue your education?

What have I forgotten to ask?

Use this as a chance to summarize your good characteristics and

attributes and how they may be used to benefit the organization.
Convince the interviewer that you understand the job requirements and
that you can succeed.

What salary are you expecting?

You probably don't want to answer this one directly. Instead, deflect the
question back to the interviewer by saying something like: "I don't know.
What are you planning on paying the best candidate?" Let the employer
make the first offer.

However, it is still important to know what the current salary range is for
the profession. Find salary surveys at the library or on the Internet, and
check the classifieds to see what comparable jobs in your area are
paying. This information can help you negotiate compensation once the
employer makes an offer.

"What are your hobbies?" and "Do you play any sports?"

The interviewer may be looking for evidence of your job skills outside of
your professional experience. For example, hobbies such as chess or
bridge demonstrate analytical skills. Reading, music, and painting are
 creative hobbies. Individual sports show determination and stamina,
while group sport activities may indicate you are comfortable working as
part of a team. Also, the interviewer might simply be curious as to
whether you have a life outside of work. Employees who have creative or
athletic outlets for their stress are often healthier, happier and more
productive.

"What are your career goals?" or "What are your future plans?"

The interviewer wants to know if your plans and the company's goals are
compatible. Let him know that you are ambitious enough to plan ahead.
Talk about your desire to learn more and improve your performance, and
be specific as possible about how you will meet the goals you have set
for yourself.

Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?

The ideal answer is one of flexibility. However, be honest. Give examples

describing how you have worked in both situations.

What is your major weakness?

Be positive; turn a weakness into a strength. For example, you might

say: "I often worry too much over my work. Sometimes I work late to
make sure the job is done well."

What are your best skills?

If you have sufficiently researched the organization, you should be able

to imagine what skills the company values. List them, then give
examples where you have demonstrated these skills.

Why did you leave your last job?

The interviewer may want to know if you had any problems on your last
job. If you did not have any problems, simply give a reason, such as:
 relocated away from job; company went out of business; laid off;
temporary job; no possibility of advancement; wanted a job better suited
to your skills.

If you did have problems, be honest. Show that you can accept
responsibility and learn from your mistakes. You should explain any
problems you had (or still have) with an employer, but don't describe that
employer in negative terms. Demonstrate that it was a learning
experience that will not affect your future work.

"Why do you want to work here?" or "What about our company?"

Few questions are more important than these, so it is important to

answer them clearly and with enthusiasm. Show the interviewer your
interest in the company. Share what you learned about the job, the
company and the industry through your own research. Talk about how
your professional skills will benefit the company. Unless you work in
sales, your answer should never be simply: "money." The interviewer will
wonder if you really care about the job.

Tell me about yourself.

Make a short, organized statement of your education and professional

achievements and professional goals. Then, briefly describe your
qualifications for the job and the contributions you could make to the
organization.

Do you prefer to work alone or in a group?

It depends on the project or the task. I am comfortable working in a

group as well as individually. Most of the times, the team effort brings the
new and better concepts. However, there are some tasks that are
effectively completed by one person. If I am trying to identify a production
problem, one person can do it effectively. When some other person is
looking over your shoulder, you do not do a good job.

Why should we hire you?

 I will be an asset to your organization. I'm loyal, persistent, motivated,
and I learn fast. I am someone who could be very productive very
quickly.

What is your favorite color?

Blue

Why do you like the job?

Because I think I have a best quality for that job.

Why should we hire you not others?

You are recommended to focus on your qualification against the job

requirements. If your job role is going to change, and you really know
that others mean the people you know, you are recommended to sort out
your strong points against others.

Go for a mock exercise before the real talk at the job table .........................

How to assess the interviewer ...............In a normal interview situation, the

interviewer assesses you. Why not turn the tables?

Let us switch roles for once. Instead of being assessed by the interviewer, why
not assess him instead? Is he worthy of conducting the interview? Is he
competent enough to be given the role of being the one who decides the course
of your life by determining your career?

Let's start by figuring out what the interviewer is thinking. Let's turn his checklist
on him:

IS HE PREPARED?

• Interviewing is a responsible job. If the interviewer doesn’t even bother to

find out the details of the position being offered, or the background of the
applicant, he is not suited to the task.
• An interviewer has to do his homework as well—he just cannot presume
he can run an easy-flowing meeting without knowing the basic details.
IS HE NERVOUS?

• Look for the give-aways: shifting legs, tick in the eye, avoiding eye
contact. Realise that probably he's nervous as well.
• Interviewing is not an easy task. The onus of selection weighs heavy on
the interviewer.
• He has been given the difficult task of finding a suitable candidate who
fulfills all the criteria, yet has moderate salary expectations and is also a
reliable person. All this to be found out—and that too in the duration of a
couple of meetings.

IS HE HONEST?

• Find out if the interview is just a sham, and the MD's sister's son-in-law
has already been promised the job.
• A just interviewer will play it fair, will follow the rules and will be sincere
with you.
• He/she won’t come to the interview with preconceived and fixed ideas.
• He/she will be ready to listen to you and give you, and other applicants, a
fair hearing.

IS HE NASTY?

Tough questions are part of the interview repertoire, the likes of which have been
listed by William A. Cohen in The Executive's Guide to Finding a Superior Job. A
few examples:

• "What are your three greatest strengths, in order?"

• "Where do you want to be in five years?"
• "What does the word success mean to you?"
• "Why should we be interested in hiring you?"

But there are questions he/she ought not to be asking:

• "Why did you go in for a divorce?"

• "Why are your parents separated?"

KEEP A DISTANCE

• There is really no need to get familiar or personal during the interview.

• Don't, however, get too involved or preoccupied in your attempt at
analysing/assessing the interviewer. For, you may then forget the real
reason for the interview: getting the job .