Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 2 The Skills to Compete 35 The employer wants to know if you have the skills needed for the job. Adequate preparation is essential for making a lasting, positive impression. Here are some ways to prepare for an interview. ■ Research the employer and the job. Know the mission of the employer and specifics about the job. Also, try to learn what the company looks for when hiring new employees. ■ Be prepared to answer questions. Go over the list in Figure 2-19 and prepare answers for each question. ■ List the questions you want answered. For example, do you want to know if there is on-the-job training? Are there opportunities for advancement? ■ List the materials you plan to take. This seems simple enough. However, if you wait to grab items at the last minute, you will likely forget something important. ■ Decide what to wear. Dress appropriately, usually one step above what is worn by your future coworkers. For instance, casual clothing is acceptable for individuals who will do manual labor or wear a company uniform. If the job involves greeting the public in an office environment, a suit is more appropriate. Always appear neat and clean. ■ Practice the interview. Have a friend or family member interview you in front of a mirror until you are happy with your responses. ■ Know where to go for the interview. Verify the address of the interview location by checking the site beforehand, if possible. Plan to arrive ready for the interview at least 10 minutes early. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 2-19. Common interview questions and sample responses. Take time to review possible interview questions, including additional questions related to your field, and prepare thoughtful answers. Common Interview Questions and Responses Question Response What can you tell me about yourself? Briefl y summarize your abilities as they relate to the job qualifi cations or your career goals. Do not provide a general life history. Why do you want to work for this company? Describe what you know about the company. Explain how your abilities match the company’s needs. Why do you think you would like this kind of work? Relate the job requirements to your successful past experiences. What are some of the projects you worked on in school? Briefl y summarize a project or coursework relevant to the job qualifi cations. What other jobs have you had? Focus on jobs with skills that relate to the jobs you are seeking. Why did you leave your last job? Be honest. However, avoid saying anything negative about your previous employer. Have you ever been fi red from a job? If so, why? Answer honestly. If you have been fi red, share what you learned from the experience. Avoid trying to blame others. What are your major strengths and weaknesses? Select a strength that relates to the job qualifi cations. Be honest when selecting a weakness, but give an example of how you’ve worked to improve on it. Have you ever had a confl ict with a coworker? How did you handle it? Briefl y describe the situation and how you handled it. Avoid placing all the blame on the other person. Explain what you learned from the experience. What do you expect to be paid? If possible, determine the salary range before the interview. Say that you are willing to discuss the salary or state a range you feel comfortable with. What are your future plans? Describe how the need to learn and grow is important to you. Confi ne your answer to the company with which you are interviewing.