Job Interview Questions & Answers

Job Interview Question #1: Why Are You Leaving Your Current Position?

The above question is one that sometimes trips people up. If the reason you're leaving is because you are unhappy with your current job - try and keep your answers positive. Otherwise, you'll only come off as someone who is negative or difficult to deal with. An example of something positive would be to say that you are looking for a new challenge and that after researching different opportunities, you feel that the interviewer's company offers you the challenge that you are looking for. Discuss how you can add value to the organization. Some other "safe" answers to this question are that you want to find a position closer to your home or that your current company is small and there is no room for advancement.

Job Interview Question #2: What qualities do you look for in a manager/supervisor?

This question is designed for finding out if you are manageable. It also allows you the opportunity to let them know how you expect to be treated. Keep your answer positive and state the behaviours you want from your boss, not what you don't want. For example, "I like a manager who allows me to make my own decisions, respects my point of view, values open communication and acts as a coach and mentor. "

Job Interview Question #3: How do you think you will be able to contribute to the success of this organization?

For this question, be prepared with some examples of what you have been able to do for previous employers. If possible, talk in numbers. An example would be, "I anticipate being able to make a significant contribution to this company as I have done in the past. At XYZ Company, I was able to reduce production downtime by over 15% with the new procedures I implemented. This resulted in an estimated savings of about $500,000 per year for the company."