Page 77 - Carlson School GBCC Career Guide

Interviewing
A job interview is perhaps the single most critical component of the entire job search process, as you have the chance to sell yourself and prove your fit with the company and the position. This section will describe the interview process and will introduce you to the most common types of interview questions.
The Interview: What To Expect Beginning the Interview
Most interviewers will begin the interview with a question that allows you to introduce yourself, while providing a summary of your background, skills, and experiences. An interviewer may say, “Tell me about yourself,” or, “Walk me through your resume.” Although there are no right or wrong answers to this common question, there are some general guidelines that you
should follow:
• Keep your response to approximately two to three minutes. Responses that are longer than this usually provide too much information and can lose your listener.
• Deliver your story in chronological order. This approach is easiest for your listener to follow. Generally, it works well to begin at your undergraduate education, and end with your reasons for interviewing for the current position, and how that will allow you to fulfill your career goals.
Types of Interview Questions
Screening or General Questions
Screening or general interview questions are common during the first step in the interview process. They are used by many employers to “weed out” unqualified candidates and to decide which candidates should be invited to first round interviews. These interview questions are largely based on your resume and past experiences, and are designed to ensure that you have
the basic skills and qualifications to move forward in the interview process.
Sample Screening or General Interview Questions
• Why did you decide to attend the Carlson School and/or business school?
• Why are you interested in this company?
• What attracts you to this particular job function?
• What are some of your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
• Why do you think you’re the best candidate for this position?
• What do you expect to be doing five years from now?
ADDITIONAL TIP
Elements and Structure
Focus on the learning that caused the movement
Why did you make this transition?
This should be specific to them (industry or role)
WHY ARE YOU SITTING HERE TODAY?
INTERVIEWING
When answering questions about your strengths and weaknesses, be sure that your answers are well-developed and thought out. When speaking to your strengths, list two or three and provide specific examples that illustrate these qualities. If possible, cite evidence from past performance reviews or from peer feedback that you’ve received. When discussing your weaknesses, it is fine to be open and honest about your development needs; this kind of insight and self-awareness shows that your development is important
to you and that you possess the professional maturity to be candid about what you need to work on. However, be sure to share what steps you are taking to develop in these areas, and provide specific examples.
• Focus on delivering a high-level summary of your experiences and accomplishments, particularly as they relate to the position for which you’re applying. Try to make a connection between your past experiences and your future career goals.
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Carlson School of Management