What Is The Right Answer?
By Marty Robinson, CTC, CPC, President, Travel Career Network, Ltd.

Be better prepared for the following key questions.

TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
Make sure your first words impress favorably. Have a concise 2-minute reply -perhaps on your education & work experience, then bridge to why you're right for job. Have one memorable statement. Don't fudge facts!

WHY ARE YOU ON THE JOB MARKET?
Be honest, direct and quick with your reply. Do not say negative things about your former employer. Even if you were fired the best answer is the honest one.

WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR US?
Show evidence that you have researched the company and position; shows you are disciplined and prepared. Use the library and industry resources; the company wants to feel you are interested in them, not just a "job".

WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS?
High energy level? Enthusiasm? Assertiveness? Decisiveness? Maturity? Back assertions with evidence, don't be too narrow or say, "I can do anything you need". The age of specialization is over; you need to show you are flexible and adaptable to a fast changing world.

WHAT ARE YOUR WEAKNESSES?
An overuse of strength is best; show you profited from your mistake. Example: "Sometimes people mistake my decisiveness for impatience, but I have learned to watch how I express things."

WHAT TYPE OF BOSS DO YOU LIKE?
Don't knock your last boss; this is a check for boss conflicts. Be honest, but positive. This answer shows whether you have an overall view of the company and knowledge of other than your own function.

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT ACCOMPLISHMENTS?
Be prepared, write down five things you are proudest of and define them with numbers-specific-if possible.

WHAT SALARY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Don't bring up pay in initial interview; the employer in a second or third interview should bring this up. When pressed give a range; don't low-ball showing lack of confidence in your worth or high-ball scaring off an offer.

An employer may test you on technical questions or ethics. If an employer asks for your questions, be ready with job content, why job open, expectations, etc. In parting, summarize why you would be right for the job! Be prepared and practice; help yourself get winning interviews.