Megan
What types of questions should I expect in an interview?
I am a sophomore accounting major wondering how I should prepare for an interview. What types of questions do interviewers normally ask? Also, should I prepare questions to ask them about the business? #college #business #internships #interviews #job-application
6 answers
Keith Martin
Keith’s Answer
You should definitely prepare questions to ask them, as this shows interest in the position, and will help you decide if it is the right position for you. You should also do some research into the company and position so that you can ask informed questions. If you can ask informed questions, it shows that you have some knowledge and enthusiasm already.
In terms of what kind of questions to expect, sometimes the HR person will give you some hints, and you can ask something like, "Is there anything you recommend I prepare for the interview?" You should expect questions about your background, classes, and interests. They may also ask "behavioral" questions, such as, "Tell me about a time when..." I suggest researching some sample interview questions, and making a couple notes about how you would respond to them for practice.
Thank you so much Keith for your helpful response. I will be sure to use these tips when preparing for my upcoming interview.
Megan
Alyssa Streller
Alyssa’s Answer
Good morning Megan.
I look for someone who has researched the position a little. Know some things about the company. Ask questions that show you are not just looking for a job, but looking for the specific job you are interviewinging for. Have some solid examples of different things you have done so you can answer the situational questions around conflict, the skills needed for the position, etc. Have a very solid 30 second "tell me about yourself" type of answer.
Ken Simmons
Ken’s Answer
Hi Megan!
Here are two sites that will help you to become better prepared:
https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-best-interview-secrets-weve-never-heard
https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-ultimate-interview-guide-30-prep-tips-for-job-interview-success
Yes. It is very important to ask questions about the company and the position. You have as much right in the interview to ask them questions as they have to ask you questions.
Asking to see the job description of the position for which you are being interviews will do two things: It will allow you to see what you will be doing, and, most importantly, it will allow you to see the strengths and skills and abilities that you have that you would want to emphasize as they are the ones most related to the job.
Also, be sure to ask them to describe the ideal candidate for the job and the ideal set of qualifications that they are seeking, so that you can emphasize how you match their requirement.
Best of luck!
Thank you so much for your advice Ken! It will be very helpful for me with my upcoming interview.
Megan
You are welcome! Here are some more tips: Ask what else they might want to know about you. Ask what else should you know about the position and the company. Ask what the next step in the process might be. As soon after the interview as possible - send a fold over thank you note that you can get at the drug store - hand written - expressing your appreciation for the interview and mentioning at least one memorable item from the interview - to all that you talked to, which will definitely make you stand out from other candidates. Call back three days after the interview to express your thanks again and again ask what the next step might be - it could have changed since the interview.
Ken Simmons
Michelle Roberts
Michelle’s Answer
Great question! For your job interview you should expect some questions around your work & education experience, as well as some behavioural interview questions. For work & education, be sure you come prepared with a good understanding of what your practical experience is, and how that can directly relate to you being able to execute on the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Behavioural interview questions are trying to root for examples of times you have exhibited certain behaviours in your past experience. For example, "Describe a situation where you were part of a team and had to arrive at a compromise to accomplish the goals. What was your role? How did you approach it?". This question is testing to see examples in the past when you were able to successfully collaborate with others in a team environment. In the job description look for competencies like "time management", "collaboration", etc. and come prepared with examples in the past where you have shown those behaviours.
Also, check out Glassdoor! People share questions they've been asked in interviews for certain roles on the company's profile page. This can help give you even more specific questions to prepare.
Finally, YES! Come prepared with questions to ask (2-3 if possible). They aren't just interviewing you, you are also interviewing them. Is it important to you what style of management there is on the team? What work-life benefits there are? Have a hard think about what is important to you and don't be afraid to write them down so you don't forget.
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Jahara W.
Jahara’s Answer
Greg Parker
Greg’s Answer
Expect behavioral based questions. In other words, they will ask you to give them specific examples of certain experiences you have had. For example, they may ask you to tell them about a time you had a conflict with a team member on a project and how did you approach the conflict, how did you resolve, and how did the other team members react. They maybask you to give an example of your proudest accomplishment or biggest struggle. Be sure to give examples and speak to what you did and what was the result. Hope this helps!