x

xxxx
INTERVIEW EVALUATION FORMAT
TITLE OF THE POST: SR. MANAGER (MAINTENANCE) / SR. MANAGER
(MATERIALS)
INTERVIEW SELECTION COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Mr. x
Mr y
Mr.z

Date of Interview:

Venue:

Name of the Candidate:

Single/Married

Age:
Educational Qualifications:
Experience:

Years

INTERVIEW EVALUATION DETAILS (Ref.Page No.2)

OVERALL AVERAGE RATING:*

*Consensus Decision by considering

Ratings given by Selection Committee Members.

RECOMMENDATIONS: (PLEASE TICK)

5

SHORT-LISTED

WAIT-LISTED

NOT CONSIDERED

COMMENTS (IF ANY)

Signatures of
INTERVIEW SELECTION COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1.

2.

3.

FORWARDED TO: THE DIRECTOR (FOR HIS COMMENTS AND ORDERS)

: 2 :
Name of the Candidate:
Interview Performance Rating:
Poor
5
4
4
INTERVIEW EVALUATION
Sl.No.
TRAITS
Characteristics
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS &
Look, dress,
OVERALL PERSONALITY
presentable
FAMILY BACKGROUND
EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
Requirement

Excellent
3

Good
2

Satisfactory
2 and less

Rating
Overall Personal
sitting posture and
Well-spoken,
well-cultured, well-behaved
Relevant to our

EXPERIENCE (w.r.t. relevant job exps.)

need.

Relevant to our

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Extensive & Intensive

PLANNING

Man-power,Time,Work,

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Reporting/Negotiation

LEADERSHIP & ASSERTIVENESS

Management,delegation

ManResult-oriented

DECISION MAKING ABILITY

LISTENING SKILL

Attention to details,empathy,

APPROACH TOWARDS INNOVATIONS

New methods, concepts

AWARENESS ON QUALITY CONCEPTS

TQM,ISO 9000

KNOWLEDGE ON MIS REPORTS

WORKING IN COMPUTER ENVIRON
STATISTICAL TECHNIQUES

Automation,computerisation

Zero error/
Vendor Eval./,Cost saving

EVALUATION TECHNIQUES
KNOWLEDGE ON STATUTORY RULES
compliance
COORDINATION WITH EXTL.AGENCIES
Agencies,
INTER-DEPARTMENTAL &
INTRA-DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION
20.

Relevant Rules &

Govt.Agencies,Suppliers,
Vendors,Calibration
Effective Team Work for
good results

OVERALL EFFECTIVENESS
TOTAL
OVERALL AVERAGE RATING

Name of the Interviewer:

To Director
Re: Interview for Sr.Manager(Maint.)/Sr.Manager(Materials)
Name of the Candidate:

OVERALL INTERVIEW
PERFORMANCE RATINGS

------------

Present Salary (Total Package):

Expected Salary (Total Package):
Expected Joining Time:
-----------------------------HR MANAGER
The same Interview Evaluation Formation is designed as shown above for the
following category of employees excepting some changes:
HRD
Attitude
Negotiation skills
Communication skills
Innovative skills
Rules and regulations
Marketing
Hard work/stress

Innovative
Communication
Analytical
Statistical techniques
Product knowledge
Eye for details
Personality
Production/Engineering/Quality Control
Statistical Techniques
Communication/reporting skills
Handling Man-power
Planning
Knowledge on preventive/calibration schedules
Latest quality concepts
Quality circles/suggestion scheme/TQM
Just-in-time
Clerical/Workmen
Emphasis is on Attitude, Personal Cleanliness, Job Knowledge,
Family Background and experience (if necessary)
Trainees:
More emphasis on Educational Qualifications, Family Background
And attitude towards Learning.

1. Be on time, turn off your cell phone, and don't interrupt. You could have all the
proper qualifications, but someone else may as well. The difference will come
down to the details. If your cell phone starts playing "Jingle Bells," the job could
go to the other guy. "Anyone's appearance, demeanor, timeliness... are
checkmarks,"
2. "A candidate therefore should base some of their questions around
'current change' and 'possible/upcoming change'."
3. An interviewer does not want to hear you whine. If you complain about your
current boss or job, then the interviewer will leave with a negative impression
of you. "One of the things I look for is if they suffer from victimitis," Linkner says.
"It's a disease that can't be cured."
4.
5. Walk into the interview room with an expectation of success, but be humble.
Don't act like the job is already yours -- because until you have an offer, it's not.
"We will literally count how many times an applicant says 'we' versus 'I "That's
one thing we always check."
6. Don't slouch. Maintain eye contact. Smile. Your body language will tell the
interviewer a lot about you. If you come in lacking enthusiasm and confidence
during an interview, the interviewer will assume you won't bring either to the job.
"How could you possibly be an interesting person if you are not interested in the
person interviewing you or their business?,"

7. Four main areas that you need to pay attention to Personal details, Academic
details, Current affairs and what you say
8. Talking too much is not advisable because such candidates are disliked and
misjudged instantly, so keep it short.
9. Demonstrate enthusiasm but make sure you do not cross the limits.
10.
Listen carefully to the questions if not understood properly then do not
stop the interviewer mid-way. Let him/her complete the sentence and then if you
still have doubts ask him to clarify. Take a pause before answering
11.

Speak in your natural accent. Do not put on an accent for an interview.

12.
Ending the interview Before leaving the room, make sure you thank each
of the interviewers for the time they have spared to listen to you and do not
forget to collect your pen/pencil or any other stationery that you have kept on the
table at the time of leaving.
13.

Place the chair in the original position before moving out.

An interview must be treated just as a conversation between you and the interviewers
where you simply narrate sequentially about your work in such a way that you are able
to sell yourself for the job.Be determined to enjoy the interview conversation
thoroughly and make it an enriching experience. You can enjoy because there is
nothing to lose if you do not get the job for the simple reason that you are already
having a job or if it is your first job then this experience will make you more confident
for another interview. Certainly you will be able to grab the job in a couple of next
interviews.If you are well-prepared, you can use a personal interview to your
advantage. A personal interview with the recruiter is a chance for you to sell your skills
1. Tell me about yourself.
My background to date has been centered around preparing myself to become the very
best _____ I can become. Let me tell you specifically how I've prepared myself . .
. "I am energized by challenges and problems."
Typical: "I'm a hard worker." This is the most common phrase used. It shows no
imagination.
Unique: "I do whatever it takes to get the job done, sometimes working 10hour days."
Typical: "I am a quick learner." This is an overused phrase that has lost its
effectiveness.
Unique: "I can hit the ground running and come up to speed faster than
anyone I know."
Typical: "I'm analytical." This is a lackluster answer that doesn't reveal much.
Unique: "I'm a wiz at analyzing data and transforming it into useful
information."
Typical: "I'm very organized." This answer is understated.
Unique: "I am a person who can bring order to chaos."

Typical: "I'm reliable." This answer needs more information to get the point across.
Unique: "I pride myself on my record of never missing deadlines."
Typical: "I'm good with customers." The answer needs clarification.
Unique: "I build great relationships with customers; they always ask for me."
2. Why should I hire you?
Because I sincerely believe that I'm the best person for the job. I realize that there are
many other college students who have the ability to do this job. I also have that ability.
But I also bring an additional quality that makes me the very best person for the job-my attitude for excellence. Not just giving lip service to excellence, but putting every
part of myself into achieving it. In _____ and _____ I have consistently reached for
becoming the very best I can become by doing the following . . .
3. What is your long-range objective? Where do you want to be 10 or 15 years
from now?
Although it's certainly difficult to predict things far into the future, I know what direction
I want to develop toward. Within five years, I would like to become the very best _____
your company has. In fact, my personal career mission statement is to become a worldclass _____ in the _____ industry. I will work toward becoming the expert that others rely
upon. And in doing so, I feel I will be fully prepared to take on any greater
responsibilities that might be presented in the long term.
4. How has your education prepared you for your career?
As you will note on my rsum, I've taken not only the required core classes in the _____
field, I've also gone above and beyond. I've taken every class the college has to offer in
the field and also completed an independent study project specifically in this area. But
it's not just taking the classes to gain academic knowledge--I've taken each class, both
inside and outside of my major, with this profession in mind. So when we're studying
_____ in _____, I've viewed it from the perspective of _____. In addition, I've always tried
to keep a practical view of how the information would apply to my job. Not just theory,
but how it would actually apply. My capstone course project in my final semester
involved developing a real-world model of _____, which is very similar to what might be
used within your company. Let me tell you more about it . . .
5. Are you a team player?
Very much so. In fact, I've had opportunities in both athletics and academics to develop
my skills as a team player. I was involved in _____ at the intramural level, including
leading my team in assists during the past year--I always try to help others achieve
their best. In academics, I've worked on several team projects, serving as both a
member and team leader. I've seen the value of working together as a team to achieve
a greater goal than any one of us could have achieved individually. As an example . . .

6. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or professor? How was it
resolved?
Yes, I have had conflicts in the past. Never major ones, but certainly there have been
situations where there was a disagreement that needed to be resolved. I've found that
when conflict occurs, it's because of a failure to see both sides of the situation.
Therefore, I ask the other person to give me their perspective and at the same time ask
that they allow me to fully explain my perspective. At that point, I would work with the
person to find out if a compromise could be reached. If not, I would submit to their

decision because they are my superior. In the end, you have to be willing to submit
yourself to the directives of your superior, whether you're in full agreement or not. An
example of this was when . . .
7. What is your greatest weakness?
I would say my greatest weakness has been my lack of proper planning in the past. I
would overcommit myself with too many variant tasks, then not be able to fully
accomplish each as I would like. However, since I've come to recognize that weakness,
I've taken steps to correct it. For example, I now carry a planning calendar in my pocket
so that I can plan all of my appointments and "to do" items. Here, let me show you how
I have this week planned out . . . "I pride myself on being a 'big picture' person. I
have to admit I sometimes miss small details, but I always make sure I have
someone who is detail-oriented on my team."
8. If I were to ask your professors to describe you, what would they say?
I believe they would say I'm a very energetic person, that I put my mind to the task at
hand and see to it that it's accomplished. They would say that if they ever had
something that needed to be done, I was the person who they could always depend on
to see that it was accomplished. They would say that I always took a keen interest in
the subjects I was studying and always sought ways to apply the knowledge in real
world settings. Am I just guessing that they would say these things? No, in fact, I'm
quite certain they would say those things because I have with me several letters of
recommendation from my professors and those are their very words. Let me show you .
..
9. What qualities do you feel a successful manager should have?
The key quality should be leadership--the ability to be the visionary for the people who
are working under them. The person who can set the course and direction for
subordinates. A manager should also be a positive role model for others to follow. The
highest calling of a true leader is inspiring others to reach the highest of their abilities.
I'd like to tell you about a person who I consider to be a true leader . . .
10. If you had to live your life over again, what would you change?
That's a good question. I realize that it can be very easy to continually look back and
wish that things had been different in the past. But I also realize that things in the past
cannot be changed, that only things in the future can be changed. That's why I
continually strive to improve myself each and every day and that's why I'm working
hard to continually increase my knowledge in the _____ field. That's also the reason why
I want to become the very best _____ your company has ever had. To make positive
change. And all of that is still in the future. So in answer to your question, there isn't
anything in my past that I would change. I look only to the future to make changes in
my life.
Important:

Do not reproduce the answers verbatim.

Do not repeat the same answer in each and every company, as this
might put you in a tight situation. Research the company well before
attending the interview.
If possible, try to know the area in which you are expected to work and
model your answers accordingly.
Give a small pause before you start answering a question and also in
between your answers. This conveys a fact to the interviewers that you
are thinking before answering, and not just blurting out the mugged up

answers.
50 COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Review these typical interview questions and think about how you would answer them.
Read the questions listed; you will also find some strategy suggestions with it.
1. Tell me about yourself:
Since this is often the opening question in an interview, be extra careful that you don't
run off at the mouth. Keep your answer to a minute or two at most. Cover four topics:
early years, education, work history, and recent career experience. Emphasize this last
subject. Remember that this is likely to be a warm-up question. Don't waste your best
points on it. You need to have a short statement prepared in your mind. Be careful
that it does not sound rehearsed. Limit it to work-related items unless instructed
otherwise. Talk about things you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the
position you are interviewing for. Start with the item farthest back and work up to the
present.
2. Why did you leave your last job?
Stay positive regardless of the circumstances. Never refer to a major problem with
management and never speak ill of supervisors, co-workers or the organization. If you
do, you will be the one looking bad. Keep smiling and talk about leaving for a positive
reason such as an opportunity, a chance to do something special or other forwardlooking reasons. Be brief, to the point, and as honest as you can without hurting
yourself. Refer back to the planning phase of your job search. If you were laid off in an
across-the-board cutback, say so; otherwise, indicate that the move was your decision,
the result of your action. Do not mention personality conflicts.
The interviewer may spend some time probing you on this issue, particularly if it is
clear that you were terminated. The "We agreed to disagree" approach may be useful.
Remember that your references are likely to be checked, so don't concoct a story for an
interview.
"I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third
round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which included me."If you
are employed, focus on what you want in your next job: "After two years, I made
the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my
experience."
3. What experience do you have in this field?
Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have
specific experience, get as close as you can.
4. Do you consider yourself successful?
You should always answer yes and briefly explain why. Say that, all-in-all, you're happy
with the way your career has progressed so far. Given the normal ups and downs of life,
you feel that you've done quite well and have no complaints. Present a positive and
confident picture of yourself, but don't overstate your case. An answer like,
"Everything's wonderful! I can't think of a time when things were going better! I'm
overjoyed!" is likely to make an interviewer wonder whether you're trying to fool
him . . . or yourself. The most convincing confidence is usually quiet confidence.A good
explanation is that you have set goals, and you have met some and are on track to
achieve the others.
5. What do co-workers say about you?
Be prepared with a quote or two from co-workers. Either a specific statement or a
paraphrase will work. Jill Clark, a co-worker at Smith Company, always said I was the
hardest workers she had ever known. It is as powerful as Jill having said it at the
interview herself.

6. What do you know about this organization?

This question is one reason to do some research on the organization before the
interview. Find out where they have been and where they are going. What are the
current issues and who are the major players? You should be able to discuss products or
services, revenues, reputation, image, goals, problems, management style, people,
history and philosophy. But don't act as if you know everything about the place. Let
your answer show that you have taken the time to do some research, but don't
overwhelm the interviewer, and make it clear that you wish to learn more.
You might start your answer in this manner: "In my job search, I've investigated a
number of companies.
Yours is one of the few that interests me, for these reasons..."
Give your answer a positive tone. Don't say, "Well, everyone tells me that you're in all
sorts of trouble, and that's why I'm here", even if that is why you're there.
7. What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year?
Try to include improvement activities that relate to the job. A wide variety of activities
can be mentioned as positive self-improvement. Have some good ones handy to
mention.
8. Are you applying for other jobs?
Be honest but do not spend a lot of time in this area. Keep the focus on this job and
what you can do for this organization. Anything else is a distraction.
9. Why do you want to work for this organization?
This may take some thought and certainly, should be based on the research you have
done on the organization. Sincerity is extremely important here and will easily be
sensed. Relate it to your long-term career goals. The deadliest answer you can give is
"Because I like people." What else would you like-animals?
Here, and throughout the interview, a good answer comes from having done your
homework so that you can speak in terms of the company's needs. You might say that
your research has shown that the company is doing things you would like to be
involved with, and that it's doing them in ways that greatly interest you. For example, if
the organization is known for strong management, your answer should mention that
fact and show that you would like to be a part of that team. If the company places a
great deal of emphasis on research and development, emphasize the fact that you
want to create new things and that you know this is a place in which such activity is
encouraged. If the organization stresses financial controls, your answer should mention
a reverence for numbers.
If you feel that you have to concoct an answer to this question - if, for example, the
company stresses research, and you feel that you should mention it even though it
really doesn't interest you- then you probably should not be taking that interview,
because you probably shouldn't be considering a job with that organization.
Your homework should include learning enough about the company to avoid
approaching places where you wouldn't be able -or wouldn't want- to function. Since
most of us are poor liars, it's difficult to con anyone in an interview. But even if you
should succeed at it, your prize is a job you don't really want. "I've selected key
companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I
know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is
very high on my list of desirable choices."
10. Do you know anyone who works for us?
Be aware of the policy on relatives working for the organization. This can affect your
answer even though they asked about friends not relatives. Be careful to mention a
friend only if they are well thought of.
11. What kind of salary do you need?
A loaded question. A nasty little game that you will probably lose if you answer first. So,
do not answer it. Instead, say something like, That's a tough question. Can you tell

me the range for this position? In most cases, the interviewer, taken off guard, will
tell you. : "Perhaps you can help me on this one. Can you tell me if there is a
range for similar jobs in the organization?" If not, say that it can depend on the
details of the job. Then give a wide range. "I am sure when the time comes, we
can agree on a reasonable amount. In what range do you typically pay
someone with my background?"
12. Are you a team player?
You are, of course, a team player. Be sure to have examples ready. Specifics that show
you often perform for the good of the team rather than for yourself are good evidence
of your team attitude. Do not brag, just say it in a matter-of-fact tone. This is a key
point.
13. How long would you expect to work for us if hired?
Specifics here are not good. Something like this should work: I'd like it to be a long
time. Or
As long as we both feel I'm doing a good job. Say that you are interested in a career
with the organization, but admit that you would have to continue to feel challenged to
remain with any organization. Think in terms of, "As long as we both feel achievementoriented."
14. Have you ever had to fire anyone? How did you feel about that?
This is serious. Do not make light of it or in any way seem like you like to fire people. At
the same time, you will do it when it is the right thing to do. When it comes to the
organization versus the individual who has created a harmful situation, you will protect
the organization. Remember firing is not the same as layoff or reduction in force.
15. What is your philosophy towards work?
The interviewer is not looking for a long or flowery dissertation here. Do you have
strong feelings that the job gets done? Yes. That's the type of answer that works best
here. Short and positive, showing a benefit to the organization.
16. If you had enough money to retire right now, would you?
Answer yes if you would. But since you need to work, this is the type of work you
prefer. Do not say yes if you do not mean it.
17. Have you ever been asked to leave a position?
If you have not, say no. If you have, be honest, brief and avoid saying negative things
about the people or organization involved.
18. Explain how you would be an asset to this organization
You should be anxious for this question. It gives you a chance to highlight your best
points as they relate to the position being discussed. Give a little advance thought to
this relationship.
19. Why should we hire you?
Here you have every right, and perhaps an obligation, to toot your own horn and be a
bit egotistical. Talk about your record of getting things done, and mention specifics
from your resume or list of career accomplishments. Say that your skills and interests,
combined with this history of getting results, make you valuable. Mention your ability to
set priorities, identify problems, and use your experience and energy to solve them.
Point out how your assets meet what the organization needs. Do not mention any other
candidates to make a comparison.
20. Tell me about a suggestion you have made
Have a good one ready. Be sure and use a suggestion that was accepted and was then
considered successful. One related to the type of work applied for is a real plus.
21. What irritates you about co-workers?
This is a trap question. Think real hard but fail to come up with anything that irritates
you.

A short statement that you seem to get along with folks is great.
22. What is your greatest strength?
Assess your skills, and you will identify your strengths. This is an exercise worth doing
before any interview. Make a list of your skills, dividing them into three categories:
1. Knowledge-based skills: Acquired from education and experience (e.g., computer
skills, languages, degrees, training and technical ability).
2. Transferable skills: Your portable skills that you take from job to job (e.g.,
communication and people skills, analytical problem solving and planning skills).
3. Personal traits: Your unique qualities (e.g., dependable, flexible, friendly, hard
working, expressive, formal, punctual and being a team player).
When you complete this list, choose three to five of those strengths that match what
the employer is seeking in the job posting. Make sure you can give specific examples to
demonstrate why you say that is your strength if probed further. A few good examples:
Your ability to prioritize, Your problem-solving skills, Your ability to work under
pressure,Your ability to focus on projects, Your professional expertise, Your leadership
skills, Your positive attitude .
"I am confident and outgoing" This is a response that says something about your
personality, but if you are applying for a role where you need to relate to a lot of people
- particularly the public - it will serve your purposes. However, if the vacancy involves
consultation, it might be better to say "I have good interpersonal skills", as this implies
that you are able to listen to people as well.
"I enjoy a challenge" Be careful with this. It is an excellent response if the vacancy
requires problem solving, or servicing of some kind, working to tight deadlines or
project completion. It will obviously not be helpful if the job is less dynamic and
involves a larger amount of regular, less exciting duties - the employer might be
concerned that you will become bored. You could always qualify it to offer a more
balanced response: "I enjoy a challenge, but I'm also happy completing regular tasks."
Then it illustrates that you're flexible and responsive to different work situations.
"I'm a strong team leader" Clearly, this is appropriate if the job involves managing
people. It's a good idea to show that you know what leading a team involves (although
this will no doubt come up in other questions too). So, "I'm a strong team leader with
the ability to motivate others" and "I'm a strong team leader who leads by example"
represent stronger answers. Draw on your own understanding of your management
skills plus the job description to decide what you'll say here.
"I am ambitious" This is a very strong answer and you should use it with care. In the
wrong situation, it can sound hard-headed and the employer may wonder whether
you'll compete too fiercely with your colleagues, or even your superiors. However, in a
sales role it might be perfect, especially if you focus your response a little more: "I am
ambitious and aim to exceed targets".
"I am dedicated and hard working"
You're on safe ground here, as this can be true whatever your individual working style.
It's not the most exciting answer, but when presented alongside two others that are
more individual, it should offer reassurance to the interviewer.

"I am a good communicator" Again, this is a win-win answer. Be prepared to expand,

though: specify whether you have strong writing skills, are good at explaining difficult
ideas in a simple way, or perform well at important meetings.
"I work well without supervision" A majority of employers would be pleased to hear
this, providing the vacancy is at a level where they'd normally expect you to need a
degree of supervision. But be careful not to sound as if you prefer to work without
supervision, as this may sound as if you risk coming into conflict with your supervisor or
manager. A safer option might be to state "I work well with or without supervision".
"I enjoy learning through my work" Again, this is a safe answer. The interviewer
might then ask how you have done this in the past, so be ready to give details of some
hands-on learning or special training you've experienced, and to say why you enjoyed
it.
And finally These examples show that when preparing an answer to the interview
question what are your strong points, it is important to consider whether your
responses could be taken the wrong way. Put yourself in the interviewer's shoes - you
can then ensure that the potential for a negative interpretation is removed.
23. Tell me about your dream job.
Stay away from a specific job. You cannot win. If you say the job you are contending for
is it, you strain credibility. If you say another job is it, you plant the suspicion that you
will be dissatisfied with this position if hired. The best is to stay genetic and say
something like: A job where I love the work, like the people, can contribute and can't
wait to get to work.
24. Why do you think you would do well at this job?
Give several reasons and include skills, experience and interest.
25. What are you looking for in a job?
See answer # 23
26. What kind of person would you refuse to work with?
Do not be trivial. It would take disloyalty to the organization, violence or lawbreaking to
get you to object. Minor objections will label you as a whiner.
27. What is more important to you: the money or the work?
Money is always important, but the work is the most important. There is no better
answer.
28. What would your previous supervisor say your strongest point is?
There are numerous good possibilities:
Loyalty, Energy, Positive attitude, Leadership, Team player, Expertise, Initiative,
Patience,
Hard work, Creativity, Problem solver" My strength is my flexibility to handle
change. As customer service manager at my last job, I was able to turn
around a negative working environment and develop a very supportive team.
As far as weaknesses, I feel that my management skills could be stronger,
and I am constantly working to improve them."
29. Tell me about a problem you had with a supervisor
Biggest trap of all. This is a test to see if you will speak ill of your boss. If you fall for it
and tell about a problem with a former boss, you may well below the interview right
there. Stay positive and develop a poor memory about any trouble with a supervisor.
30. What has disappointed you about a job?
Don't get trivial or negative. Safe areas are few but can include: Not enough of a
challenge. You were laid off in a reduction Company did not win a contract, which would
have given you more responsibility.
31. Tell me about your ability to work under pressure.

You may say that you thrive under certain types of pressure. Give an example that
relates to the type of position applied for.
32. Do your skills match this job or another job more closely?
Probably this one. Do not give fuel to the suspicion that you may want another job
more than this one.
33. What motivates you to do your best on the job?
This is a personal trait that only you can say, but good examples are:
Challenge, Achievement, Recognition
34. Are you willing to work overtime? Nights? Weekends?
This is up to you. Be totally honest.
35. How would you know you were successful on this job?
Several ways are good measures: You set high standards for yourself and meet them.
Your outcomes are a success. Your boss tell you that you are successful
36. Would you be willing to relocate if required?
You should be clear on this with your family prior to the interview if you think there is a
chance it may come up. Do not say yes just to get the job if the real answer is no. This
can create a lot of problems later on in your career. Be honest at this point and save
yourself future grief.
37. Are you willing to put the interests of the organization ahead of your
own?
This is a straight loyalty and dedication question. Do not worry about the deep ethical
and philosophical implications. Just say yes.
38. Describe your management style.
Try to avoid labels. Some of the more common labels, like progressive, salesman or
consensus, can have several meanings or descriptions depending on which
management expert you listen to. The situational style is safe, because it says you will
manage according to the situation, instead of one size fits all.
39. What have you learned from mistakes on the job?
Here you have to come up with something or you strain credibility. Make it small, well
intentioned mistake with a positive lesson learned. An example would be working too
far ahead of colleagues on a project and thus throwing coordination off.
40. Do you have any blind spots?
Trick question. If you know about blind spots, they are no longer blind spots. Do not
reveal any personal areas of concern here. Let them do their own discovery on your
bad points. Do not hand it to them.
41. If you were hiring a person for this job, what would you look for?
Be careful to mention traits that are needed and that you have. Think in terms of skills.
Initiative, and the adaptability to be able to work comfortably and effectively with
others. Mention that you like to hire people who appear capable of moving up in the
organization
42. Do you think you are overqualified for this position?
Regardless of your qualifications, state that you are very well qualified for the position.
43. How do you propose to compensate for your lack of experience?
First, if you have experience that the interviewer does not know about, bring that up:
Then, point out (if true) that you are a hard working quick learner.
44. What qualities do you look for in a boss?
Be generic and positive. Safe qualities are knowledgeable, a sense of humor, fair, loyal
to subordinates and holder of high standards. All bosses think they have these traits.
45. Tell me about a time when you helped resolve a dispute between others.
Pick a specific incident. Concentrate on your problem solving technique and not the
dispute you settled.
46. What position do you prefer on a team working on a project?
Be honest. If you are comfortable in different roles, point that out.
47. Describe your work ethic.

Emphasize benefits to the organization. Things like, determination to get the job done
and work hard but enjoy your work are good.
48. What has been your biggest professional disappointment?
Be sure that you refer to something that was beyond your control. Show acceptance
and no negative feelings.
49. Tell me about the most fun you have had on the job.
Talk about having fun by accomplishing something for the organization. The
interviewer wants to know what motivates you. If you can relate an example of a job or
project when you were excited, the interviewer will get an idea of your preferences. "I
was very satisfied in my last job, because I worked directly with the
customers and their problems; that is an important part of the job for me."
50. Do you have any questions for me?
Always have some questions prepared. Questions prepared where you will be an asset
to the organization are good. How soon will I be able to be productive? What
type of projects will I be able to assist on?
51. What do you find most attractive about this position? What seems least
attractive about it?
List three or four attractive factors of the job, and mention a single, minor, unattractive
item.
52 what is your goal ?
"My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal
will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of
responsibility."
53."What motivates you?"
One of those soul-searching interview questions where your answer will depend on your
background and experiences.
Two candidates answer the motivation question, reflecting their values and what is
important to them.
The first one says, "In my previous job, I worked directly with customers and
their problems. What I liked was solving problems and helping people.
Sometimes it took a lot of effort on my part, but it was very rewarding when
the customer appreciated the service."
This answer reflects the candidate's interest in helping people and the satisfaction he
gets in finding solutions.
The second candidate says, "Two years ago, I was involved in a project I was
really excited about. The team I was working with had to come up with
innovative ways to market a product that was not received well by
consumers. It took lots of effort and long meetings, but we met our deadline
and launched a terrific marketing campaign. It was really a motivating
experience."
This candidate likes thinking outside the box and being part of a team. He loves a
challenge and works well with pressure and deadlines.
For a source of ideas, refer to your resume. Which tasks did you list? Were they the
tasks you enjoyed most and felt most motivated doing?
A statement on your resume might be:
Project leader: Led a team in coordinating and monitoring the progress of projects to
assure the flow and completion of work on schedule.What was it that was motivating
about this experience? Being in charge? Being the source of information? Controlling
the flow of work? Making sure the standards were in line with your work values?

Interview questions
BACKGROUND Review
Application/Resume
The following questions are designed to confirm the information on the candidates resume.
Verify the address and phone numbers with information provided by Human Resource Services.
If there are changes, advise the candidate to update his or her resume in Human Resource
Services with the correct information.
Educational Background
1. What is the highest level of education you have received?
2. List all degrees you have earned. Give the name of the institution from which each
degree was earned and the field of study of each degree.
3. List any other education or training relevant to the (position title) position.
Employment Background
1. Who is your present or most recent employer?
2. What are/were your major responsibilities at (present/most recent job)?
3. Discuss/determine skills and level of expertise related to (position title). (Insert specific
questions)
4. Which skills have you acquired in your present or previous positions that make you
competitive for this position?
5. What do/did you like best about that position? What do/did you like least?
6. Which accomplishments in your present position are you proud of and why?
7. Why are you planning to/did you leave that position?
INITIATIVE
Following is a list of sample questions designed to gather information about an individuals
ability to identify tasks that need to be done without specifically being told to do them.
1. Have you found any ways to make your job easier or more rewarding?
2. What do you do differently from other people in the same position?
3. Have you ever recognized a problem before your boss or others in the organization?
How did you handle it?
4. What do you do in your job that is not covered in your job description?
5. Weve all had occasions when we were working on something that just slipped through
the cracks. Can you give me some examples of when this happened to you? Cause?
Result?
6. In your past experience, have you noticed any process or task that was being done
unsafely (incorrectly)? How did you discover it or come to notice it?
7. Are you doing a good job? How do you know?
8. Give me some examples of doing more than required in your job?
9. Can you think of some projects or ideas (not necessarily your own) that were carried out
successfully primarily because of your efforts?
10.What new ideas or suggestions have you come up with at work?
11.This job requires much time working alone. Tell me about a job or project where you
worked unsupervised and were given only general guidelines for job/project completion.
12.Have you found any ways to make other employees jobs easier or more rewarding?
13.What career accomplishments are you most proud of?

14.What did you do to change the aspects of your job that you dislike?

STRESS TOLERANCE
Following is a list of questions designed to provide information relating to an individuals
stability of performance under pressure. These questions are not designed to rate a persons
stress level. They are designed to give the interviewer an idea of how the applicant has
reacted to past stressful situations.
1. What pressures do you feel in your job? How do you deal with them?
2. Describe the highest pressure situations you have been under recently. How did you
cope with them?
3. Tell me how you maintain constant performance while under time and work load
pressures.
4. Describe times in the past year when you have been most upset with yourself at work.
5. Describe times in the past year when you have been most upset with someone else at
work.
6. Describe the last time a person at work (customer, co-worker, boss) became irritated or
lost his/her temper. What did they do? How did you respond? What was the outcome?
7. Tell me about some situations in which you became frustrated or impatient when dealing
with (customers, co-workers, boss). What did you do?
8. In your career, what has been your greatest disappointment?
9. Weve all lost our temper at one time or another. Describe for me the last time you lost
your temper. What had occurred? How did you respond?
10.Give me an example of when your ideas were strongly opposed by a co-worker or
supervisor. What was the situation? What was your reaction? What was the result?
PLANNING AND ORGANIZING
Following is a list of questions designed to gather information relating to an individuals ability
to schedule work and handle multiple tasks.
1. How do you organize your day?
2. How often is your time schedule upset by unforeseen circumstances? What do you do
when that happens? Tell me about a specific time.
3. Describe a typical day ... a typical week. (Interviewer, listen for planning)
4. How do you establish priorities in scheduling your time? Give examples.
5. What is your procedure for keeping track of items requiring your attention?
6. What did you do to get ready for this interview?
7. We have all had times when we just could not get everything done on time. Tell me
about a time that this happened to you. What did you do?
8. Tell me how you establish a course of action to accomplish specific long-and-short term
goals.
9. Do you postpone things? What are good reasons to postpone things?
10.Give me some examples of projects or tasks where you postponed immediate action.
Why?
11.How do you catch up on an accumulated backlog of work after a vacation or conference?
TECHNICAL AND/OR POSITION SPECIFIC
Following is a list of questions designed to gather information relating to an individuals past
work experience, duties, and working conditions which are similar to those of the position for
which the individual is being considered.
1. What training have you received in ____________________?
2. Describe how the process can best be performed. Have you discovered any shortcuts?

How do they work?

3. Describe your experience with the following tools and equipment. (Interviewer, list job
related tool).
4. Walk me through the procedures you would follow to_______________.
5. What equipment have you been trained to operate? When/where did you receive that
training?
6. What equipment did you operate in your job at ___________________?
7. Describe your experience performing the following tasks. (Interviewer, list job related
tasks).
8. What job experiences have you had that would help you in this position?
9. How do you follow the prescribed standards of safety when performing (task)
_________________?
10.Have you ever identified potential malfunctions of equipment? How did you discover the
potential malfunction? What did you do to correct the problem?
11.Being a ________________________ certainly requires a lot of technical knowledge. How did
you go about getting it? How long did it take you?
12.Do you consider your technical abilities basic, intermediate, or advanced?
13.On a scale of one to ten, ten being you are a perfect technical match or this position,
where would you rank yourself?
14.What would you add to or subtract from your technical background to make you more
qualified for this position?
WORK STANDARD
Following is a list of questions designed to gather information relating to an individuals
personal standard of performance
1. What are your standards of success in your job? What have you done to meet these
standards?
2. Bosses sometimes are not satisfied with the way we do certain things or complete
certain projects. Can you give me some examples of when this happened to you?
3. What do you consider the most important contribution your department has made to this
organization? What was your role?
4. What factors, other than pay, do you consider most important in evaluating yourself or
your success?
5. Everyone has to bend or break the rules sometime. Can you give me some examples of
when you had to do this?
6. When judging the performance of others, what factors or characteristics are most
important to you?
7. Describe the time you worked the hardest and felt the greatest sense of achievement.
8. Tell me about a time when you werent very pleased with your work performance. Why
were you upset with your performance? What did you do to turn around your
performance?
9. Weve all had to work with people who are very difficult to get along with. Give me an
example of when this happened to you. Why was the person difficult? How did you
handle the person? What was the result?
10.When have you declined a work-related decision? Why?
TEAMWORk
Following is a list of questions designed to gather information relating to a persons ability to
work and get along with others.
1. Weve all had to work with someone who is very difficult to get along with. Give me an
example of when this happened to you. Why was that person difficult? How did you
handle that person?
2. When dealing with individuals or groups, how do you determine when you are pushing
too hard? How do you determine when you should back off? Give an example.
3. From time to time, all of us are confronted by someone who wastes our time at work. Tell
me about some situations like that. What did you do?

4. How do you go about developing rapport (relationships) with individuals at work?

5. Give me some examples of when one of your ideas was opposed in a discussion. How did
you react?
6. Describe a situation when you found yourself dealing with someone very sensitive. What
happened?
7. Describe some situations when you wished you had acted differently with someone at
work.
8. Tell me, specifically, what you have done to show you are a team player at
______________.
9. We all have ways of showing consideration for others. What are some things youve
done to show concern or consideration for a co-worker?
10.When did you last lose your temper at work? Describe the reasons. What was the
outcome?
11.How do you keep your employees informed with what is going on in the organization?
12.What methods do you use to keep informed with what is going on in your area?
COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Following is a list of sample questions designed to gather information relating to an individuals

communication skills. This section also includes observations to be made during the interview.
Interviewers Observations
A.

Consider if the applicant is able to express himself/herself effectively and in

a well-organized manner.

B.

Observe whether the applicant has good eye contact.

C.

Consider whether the applicants grammar, sentence structure, etc. are

appropriate to the requirements of the position.

These questions should be customized to fit your position. Normally, only two or three
questions would be used:
1. Weve all had occasions when we misinterpreted something that someone told us (like a
due date, complicated instructions, etc.) Give me a specific example of when this
happened to you. What was the situation? Why was there a misinterpretation? What
was the outcome?
2. What kind of reports/proposals have you written? Can you give me some examples?
3. Give an example of when you told someone to do something, and they did it wrong.
What was the outcome?
4. What reports that you are currently preparing (or recently prepared) are the most
challenging and why?
5. What kinds of presentations have you made? Can you give me some examples? How
many presentations do you make a year?
6. Give me an example from your past working experience where you had to rely on
information given to you verbally to get the job done.
7. What different approaches do you use in talking with different people? How do you know
you are getting your point across?
8. What is the worst communication problem you have experienced? How did you handle
it?
9.

LEADERSHIP
Following is a list of questions designed to gather information relating to an individuals
utilization of appropriate interpersonal styles and methods in guiding individuals or a group
toward task accomplishment.
1. Tell me about a time you had to take a firm stand with a co-worker. What was the
situation? What was difficult about the co-worker? What was the firm stand you had to
take?
2. Describe how you instruct someone to do something new. What were you training them
to do? Walk me through how you did it.
3. Tell me about a time you had to win approval from your co-workers for a new idea or plan
of action.
4. Tell me about a new idea or way of doing something that you came up with which was
agreed to by the boss. What did you do to get it to the right person? What did you do to
get the boss to agree? Be specific.
5. Describe any supervisory or leadership training, schooling, or work experience you have
had and its relevance to this position.
6. Give a specific example of something you have done that demonstrates you are a team
player.
7. What leadership skills and experience do you have that would qualify you as an effective
leader? Be specific.
8. What are your long-and-short term plans for your department? Are they in writing?
JOB MOTIVATION
Following is a list of questions designed to help identify an applicants motivation to do the type
of work the position requires. The intent is not to see if they had good motivation/satisfaction in
their previous jobs, but to see if the types of things they enjoy doing will be available in this
position. For example, if a person said he enjoyed his last job because he liked to work outside
and with people doing different things all of the time, a desk job in accounting would probably
not provide high satisfaction.
1. What do you like best (least) about your job as a _______________________ ?
2. What were/are your reasons for leaving _________________________________?
3. Give me some examples of experience in your job at ________________that were
satisfying? Dissatisfying? Why?
4. What gave you the greatest feeling of achievement in your job at ______________? Why?
5. Give me an example of when you worked the hardest and felt the greatest sense of
achievement.
6. All jobs have their frustrations and problems. Describe specific job conditions, tasks, or
assignments that have been dissatisfying to you. Why?
7. Give me some examples of past working experience that you have found personally
satisfying.
8. What are some recent responsibilities you have taken on? Why did you assume these
responsibilities?
9. Tell me about the most boring job or task you have had. Why was it boring? What did
you do about it? How did you handle the boredom?
10.Tell me about a time when the duties and responsibilities available in a specific position
overlapped with duties and responsibilities that brought you personal satisfaction.
11.Why do you want to be a _____________________________ (title of position)?
12.Why did you choose this (career, type of work)?
13.What job values are important to you?