Q&A for How to Pass a Job Interview

Avoid asking a question like "What is the culture like at this company?" This is a very common question, and while culture is an important factor in evaluating an opportunity, this question will only earn you a canned response. Instead, rephrase the question like "How often do people collaborate with others versus working independently?" "Which company value do you see lived most clearly by employees?" "Which teams does this role work with most often?" or "What is unique to this company that you haven't experienced in other places you've worked?"

Yes, of course it is. An interview decides if you get the job, so it's normal to be nervous.

Give them a brief overview of your education, experience, interests/passions (that tie into the job or your long-term career goals somehow), and what you're looking for in a job or your career.

Nothing is permanent. Everything is going to change at any time. You have no choice, you have to adjust yourself and accept it either if it is negative or positive situation. And that's the reality. If you are asked a question about change at an interview, be positive and say that you have learned to handle change well, to go with the flow while still applying the knowledge and experience you have to ensure smooth and careful transitions between what was and what will be. Tell them that you do not fear change but see it always as an opportunity.

It all depends on were you want to be. Think of what you want to have accomplished in 5 years (short term goal). Then think of where you want to be in 10 years (long term goal). There really is no right or wrong answer to this question. They just want to see if you have plans for your future, which really matters to some people. Saying, "I never really thought of it" is not a good answer to those who like clarity and distinct, linear pathways. If you are going through school, tell them that. If you are looking to purchase a house, tell them that you want to become a home owner. It just shows them that you are thinking ahead about your future. You can also add in that you see yourself growing within the company. It is just a question for them to get to know you and your stickiness to their firm.

Summarize your recent education and/or work experience, and your goals/interests/values (especially ones that this job may be relevant to). If you want to add a little something 'fun' about yourself, that may also be okay, depending on how casual/formal the tone of the interview is.

Some job interview questions don't have a specific answer, and are designed to assess your critical and extemporaneous thinking skills and how you react to being put on the spot. However, if it's a question that does require an accurate answer, it's far better to say, "I don't know, I would have to research that" rather than trying to bluff your way through it.

"Pay for my work is not as important to me as a position that makes full use of my ability, skills, and talents. I'm willing to negotiate salary."

Try to choose weaknesses that could be strengths, like "I can be easily bored, so I like to stay busy".

"I am a very dedicated person, I do not give up easily and I always make the most of the opportunities that are presented to me. It would provide me with the opportunity to broaden my knowledge and pursue the things I am passionate about, while also helping me build a solid future."

You can talk about how organized you are, or how good you are at prioritizing your responsibilities. Ask people who know you well what they think your strengths are.. You can do the same for weaknesses. When you discuss weaknesses, try to explain how you handle them in a positive way. For example: "I get overwhelmed at times but I remind myself that if I work hard things will work out, so I am able to cope successfully." This shows that you recognize your weaknesses but don't let them affect your work.

If you're early to the interview, it's fine to ask to use the restroom. However, if you arrive right on time or late, this will reflect poorly on you.

Say something like, "My passion is helping others without being judgmental. I like to listen and help find solutions to difficult problems."

Tell them thank you and that you look forward to working with them/for them.

You need to do some research on the company, you might find something you would like to know instead of what you feel you should ask. If you cannot find anything, ask what a typical work day would be and what you could do to minimize the time it would take for you to learn the ropes. I have also asked people at interviews with similar work duties what the best parts of their workday is, that usually gets them thinking a bit, and you can always ask follow up questions on the topic.

Answer honestly and briefly, and show that you learned from the experience. If your last job had a crisis you had to go through, briefly explain what it was and how it was dealt with. Then follow up by saying what you learned from it (e.g. a large amount of critical data went missing one day before the deadline, meaning the whole company had to find or recreate the data in one day. It was a stressful moment for all of us, but I've learnt that it is important to store data copies, and to remain calm and methodical in a crisis situation). This shows you can respond to unexpected situations, and that you learn from both mistakes as well as past negative experiences.

See your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and according medical paperwork/documentation. Then see your local social services who may be able to provide you with some job-seeking assistance on the basis of your condition. Highlight your strengths and capabilities and understand the limitations of what your condition will allow you to be employed as.