Answer is d. Receptionists have the power to pave your way into the interview positively or negatively. Some interviewers even ask the receptionist their opinion of the candidates. 3. When asked why you want to work for the company you say:
a. "I really like the short commute and your casual dress code."
b. "It's better than living in a van down by the river."
c. "I've been out of work for nearly a year and need the money."
d. "You're a market leader known for having the highest quality products, and I'd like to apply my expertise in helping you reach your goals."
Answer is d. Always avoid answers that focus on what the company can do for you. Instead, focus on what you can do for them. This question is a great opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and sell the benefits of hiring you.
4. If asked to discuss your current boss, whom you dislike, you would:
a. Use the opportunity to vent all of your pent-up hostility.
b. Put a positive spin on your experiences without divulging negative information.
c. Say, "I believe if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."
d. Say, "I've always preferred to look forward, not rehash the past."
Answer is b. You want to project confidence, competence and show you are easy to work with. Never offer up negative information. No matter how reasonable your complaints, the interviewer will question your loyalty, good sense and ability to get along with others. While c and d are preferable to a, they still imply a troubled relationship and show a lack of depth and maturity.
5. When asked why you left your last job, you:
a. Say your colleagues felt threatened by your superiority.
b. Blame it on George Bush and the economy.
c. Say you are looking for more opportunity to learn and grow.
d. Say they expected way too much from you or didn't appreciate you.
Answer is c. Again the idea is to demonstrate a positive attitude and show you are accountable, energetic and would be an asset to the company.
6. When the interviewer asks if you have questions, you:
a. Ask about benefits, vacation time and salary.
b. Tell them they did such a good job of explaining you can't think of a thing.
c. Tell them your research was so thorough you know it all.
d. Prepare some questions beforehand that show your knowledge about the company, such as, "How will the proposed merger with Acme Co. affect your brands?"
Answer is d. The quickest way to make a good impression is to demonstrate your interest with a few well thought-out questions. Having no questions shows disinterest. The best questions demonstrate your understanding of the business. Other stock questions you might ask include: "Can you describe a typical day for someone in this position?" "What is the top priority of the person who accepts this job?" What is the biggest challenge the company faces?"