No doubt COVID changed our way of living, but it also changed the way we approach work. According to statista.com there are 17.75 million people across the USA out of work which is down from 23.8 million they surmised in June of 2020. While some may spin that as good news and generally speaking it is with regard to our new world. It is nonetheless still appalling.
We must get our people back to work and we must be able to reenergize our economy if we want to do more than merely survive. The unemployment benefits will end and we will be faced with more hard decisions. So let’s get prepared.
Whether we work in the traditional brick and mortar environment or more of the remote that was enhanced due to COVID we need to be able to shine in an interview. There are some basic employer asked questions according to indeed.com that you can tailor your responses to that will help you be better prepared in the long run. Keep reading.
What is your background? Can you tell us somethings about your background?
Think about your responses. Be specific in your industry, i.e. education, finance, etc.. Be succinct and wait for them to ask probing questions. A possible response might be:
As someone with an education and expertise in the insurance industry I am savvy in imparting knowledge to my clients and potential clients regarding the various types of insurance coverages. My enthusiasm makes me certain that I can fulfill any and all obligations at ____________ (fill in the blank insurer). I have been in the insurance industry for twenty years and while my duties were somewhat varied I followed the same steps with each client to ensure that they were getting exactly what they needed as far as coverage. It makes me feel good to deliver quality customer service.
Describe what qualities you believe will make you a good fit for this position.
When responding to this question think skillsets. A potential response might be:
I am goal focused. Therefore, I consistently check the results and tweak them as required to ensure that I am hitting my goal. I work well with change and pressure too, both can motivate me to exceed even my highest expectations. I am also a team player.
What motivated you to apply for this position?
Are you changing jobs or unemployed. If changing jobs tell them why. If unemployed why are you unemployed. Is it COVID or something else.
I’ve been working in the educational arena for a decade now and I believe those skills and attributes can translate into other sectors too. They have given me a different perspective than those of someone who spent the last decade in the finance field for which I am now applying. I also recently got my Series 3, 9, and 8 so I wanted to expand my horizons and aspire to learn and do something new. I like what your organization stands for and would love working with and for you.
Why do you want this job?
Whether you are currently employed or unemployed be positive about your past/current employer. Nobody wants to hear someone talk trash about a competitor.
I enjoyed my prior job, but felt I outgrew it. There was no upward mobility. I believe that my skills can be better showcased in your organization. Public Relations is my passion.
Tell me what you think this job entails.
Be sure you know the basic education and other qualifications for this position when responding to this question.
The job description says that you need someone who knows Final Draft inside and out. I taught myself Final Draft back in college and have watched every YouTube video for shortcuts that there is available. I believe I am a wizard at it now. You can ask me any question about it and I am fairly certain I can respond with depth. Or Please tell me about what you want from this position. Hopefully I can meet or exceed your expectations.
Why do you want to work here?
Know some key information about this organization prior to your interview. What is their mission/vision. What are some key credentials about their leadership. Know their products or services and where they rank in the industry.
Your hospital is a leader in heart transplants and it has always been a dream of mine to work for the finest heart transplant facility in the USA. I have perused your company website and read your customer comments. Your employees also seem to like working here. I am impressed and would be pleased to be affiliated with such a titan in the heart transplant sector. Your reputation is second to none.
Why are you seeking jobs?
Are you employed in a job that is less than satisfying or are you amongst the ranks of the unemployed? Remember to be honest here.
I became unemployed due to COVID. I enjoyed my job, but the restaurant was unable to open and most of the crew was let go. I am a wonderful bartender and your restaurant is one of the finest in all of _______ (fill in the blank). I believe I would be a good fit for your bar and my customer satisfaction ratings are off the charts.
There are many other questions they might ask you so pretend that you are the employer and think about how you might conduct your interview. Don’t talk too fast or too slow. Keep a good cadence and flow. Don’t say um and uh a lot. Maybe write down some responses and rehearse them beforehand. Know as much as you can about the organization and the opening you are applying for. Good luck!