Situation
Or
Task |
Describe the situation that you were in or the task that you
needed to accomplish. You must describe a specific event or situation, not a
generalized description of what you have done in the past. Be sure to give
enough detail for the interviewer to understand. This situation can be from a
previous job, from a volunteer experience, or
any relevant event.
|
Action you took
|
Describe the action you took and be sure to keep the focus on
you. Even if you are discussing a group projector effort, describe what you did
-- not the efforts of the team. Don't tell what you might do, tell what you
did.
|
Results you achieved
|
What happened? How did the event end? What did you accomplish?
What did you learn?
|
1. How would you describe yourself?
Sample
excellent response:
Team Player – Hitting our average handling time in IB is the main problem for my team, I initiated a team building for us discuss the challenges we have and share our best practices, Next after that; we have manage to lower down our AHT and able to used our best practices. I believe that team work is the key to achieve a successful and fruitful working environment.
Team Player – Hitting our average handling time in IB is the main problem for my team, I initiated a team building for us discuss the challenges we have and share our best practices, Next after that; we have manage to lower down our AHT and able to used our best practices. I believe that team work is the key to achieve a successful and fruitful working environment.
Incentive Driven –
September - December is the peak season of the year on my previous account; they
are in need of heads and offered 80-100 pesos per hour for individual who’s
willing to extend hours. I offered an extra 4-6 hours everyday and also
rendered overtime on my rest day, we are able to meet most of our client
requirements and also I was able to earn high incentives up to 50,000. By the
end of last year I was able to bought my new Suzuki Thunder Motorcycle and 32”
Samsung LED TV with home theatre speakers. That was a fruitful year for me.
Friendly – Everyday will
meet different types of personality and being outgoing and friendly is one of
my greatest strength
Flexible –
Well Driven –
Initiative –
Dedication to work –
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
Situation (S):
Advertising revenue was falling off for my college newspaper, the Stetson Reporter, and large numbers of long-term advertisers were not renewing contracts.
Advertising revenue was falling off for my college newspaper, the Stetson Reporter, and large numbers of long-term advertisers were not renewing contracts.
Action (A):
I designed a new promotional packet to go with the rate sheet and compared the benefits of Reporter circulation with other ad media in the area. I also set-up a special training session for the account executives with a School of Business Administration professor who discussed competitive selling strategies.
I designed a new promotional packet to go with the rate sheet and compared the benefits of Reporter circulation with other ad media in the area. I also set-up a special training session for the account executives with a School of Business Administration professor who discussed competitive selling strategies.
Result (R):
We signed contracts with 15 former advertisers for daily ads and five for special supplements. We increased our new advertisers by 20 percent [quantities are always good] over the same period last year.
We signed contracts with 15 former advertisers for daily ads and five for special supplements. We increased our new advertisers by 20 percent [quantities are always good] over the same period last year.
2. What specific goals, including those related
to your occupation, have you established for your life?
Sample
excellent response:
I want to be working for an excellent company like yours in a job in which I am share related experience as call center agent. Immediately I want to learn the process and nature of the business and my long-range career goal is to be a team lead where in I can contribute my leadership, interpersonal, and technical skills.
I want to be working for an excellent company like yours in a job in which I am share related experience as call center agent. Immediately I want to learn the process and nature of the business and my long-range career goal is to be a team lead where in I can contribute my leadership, interpersonal, and technical skills.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
3. How has your college experience prepared you
for a business career?
Sample
excellent response:
I have prepared myself to transition into the work force through real-world experience involving travel abroad, internship, and entrepreneurial opportunities. While interning with a private organization in Ecuador, I developed a 15-page marketing plan composed in Spanish that recommended more effective ways the company could promote its services. I also traveled abroad on two other occasions in which I researched the indigenous culture of the Mayan Indians in Todos Santos, Guatemala, and participate din a total language immersion program in Costa Rica. As you can see from my academic, extracurricular, and experiential background, I have unconditionally committed myself to success as a marketing professional.
I have prepared myself to transition into the work force through real-world experience involving travel abroad, internship, and entrepreneurial opportunities. While interning with a private organization in Ecuador, I developed a 15-page marketing plan composed in Spanish that recommended more effective ways the company could promote its services. I also traveled abroad on two other occasions in which I researched the indigenous culture of the Mayan Indians in Todos Santos, Guatemala, and participate din a total language immersion program in Costa Rica. As you can see from my academic, extracurricular, and experiential background, I have unconditionally committed myself to success as a marketing professional.
My
answers:
I have
prepared myself to transition into the work force through real-world experience
involving travelling
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
4. Please describe the ideal job for you
following graduation.
Sample
excellent response (equates ideal job with job he's interviewing for):
My ideal job is one that incorporates both my education and practical work skills to be the best I can be. Namely combining my education in finance with my working knowledge of customer service operations, entrepreneurial abilities, computer skills, and administrative skills. I want to utilize my analytical expertise to help people meet their financial goals. This is exactly why I am convinced that I would be a very valuable member of the Merrill Lynch team.
My ideal job is one that incorporates both my education and practical work skills to be the best I can be. Namely combining my education in finance with my working knowledge of customer service operations, entrepreneurial abilities, computer skills, and administrative skills. I want to utilize my analytical expertise to help people meet their financial goals. This is exactly why I am convinced that I would be a very valuable member of the Merrill Lynch team.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
5. What influenced you to choose this career?
Sample
excellent response:
My past experiences have shown me that I enjoy facing and overcoming the challenge of making a sale. Without a doubt, once I have practiced my presentation and prepared myself for objections, I feel very confident approaching people I don't know and convincing them that they need my product. Lastly, I like sales because my potential for success is limited only by how much of myself I dedicate toward my goal. If any profession is founded on self-determinism, it surely must be sales.
My past experiences have shown me that I enjoy facing and overcoming the challenge of making a sale. Without a doubt, once I have practiced my presentation and prepared myself for objections, I feel very confident approaching people I don't know and convincing them that they need my product. Lastly, I like sales because my potential for success is limited only by how much of myself I dedicate toward my goal. If any profession is founded on self-determinism, it surely must be sales.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
6. At what point did you choose this career?
Sample
excellent response:
I knew that I wanted to pursue information systems technology about my sophomore year in college. It was then that I realized that that my hobby (computers) was taking up most of my time. My favorite courses were IT courses. I also realized that I was doing computer-oriented work-study that I enjoyed so much I would have done it for free.
I knew that I wanted to pursue information systems technology about my sophomore year in college. It was then that I realized that that my hobby (computers) was taking up most of my time. My favorite courses were IT courses. I also realized that I was doing computer-oriented work-study that I enjoyed so much I would have done it for free.
7. What specific goals have you established for
your career?
Sample
excellent response:
My goals include becoming a Certified Financial Advisor so I can obtain a better working knowledge of financial research analysis, which would allow me contribute to my client base as a better financial consultant since I would have that extra insight into the companies they are seeking to invest in. Also this is the foundation block to advancing my career to portfolio manager or even branch office manager.
My goals include becoming a Certified Financial Advisor so I can obtain a better working knowledge of financial research analysis, which would allow me contribute to my client base as a better financial consultant since I would have that extra insight into the companies they are seeking to invest in. Also this is the foundation block to advancing my career to portfolio manager or even branch office manager.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
8. What will it take to attain your goals, and
what steps have you taken toward attaining them?
Sample
excellent response:
I've already done some research on other workers at Merrill Lynch to see how they achieved similar goals. I know that Merrill Lynch encourages the pursuit and will reimburse for tuition of a graduate degree. I plan on pursuing a MBA to give me an even more extensive knowledge of business and financial analysis
I've already done some research on other workers at Merrill Lynch to see how they achieved similar goals. I know that Merrill Lynch encourages the pursuit and will reimburse for tuition of a graduate degree. I plan on pursuing a MBA to give me an even more extensive knowledge of business and financial analysis
9. What do you think it takes to be successful in
this career?
Sample
excellent response:
I believe successful salespeople put forth that extra effort that turns potential clients into first-time customers. Salespeople who attend to the details by doing whatever it takes to win over a prospective customer distinguish themselves from the countless others who don't go to any extra effort. Second, I think that if you label success as an attainable goal, you will never consistently remain successful. You can only succeed if you learn all there is to learn about your product, your competitors, and personal selling. Since this learning process is continuous, it's an unattainable goal. With good reason, salespeople should not consider success an attainable ending point but an objective that will always linger slightly beyond their reach.
I believe successful salespeople put forth that extra effort that turns potential clients into first-time customers. Salespeople who attend to the details by doing whatever it takes to win over a prospective customer distinguish themselves from the countless others who don't go to any extra effort. Second, I think that if you label success as an attainable goal, you will never consistently remain successful. You can only succeed if you learn all there is to learn about your product, your competitors, and personal selling. Since this learning process is continuous, it's an unattainable goal. With good reason, salespeople should not consider success an attainable ending point but an objective that will always linger slightly beyond their reach.
10. How do you determine or evaluate success?
Give me an example of one of your successful accomplishments.
Sample
excellent response:
Last semester I was hired by university's Council for Student Activities. The group negotiates contracts of entertainers, sets up sound equipment, markets the entertainers to students, and generally decides what kind of programming should be done. When I got hired, I didn't know the first thing about how fill any of those responsibilities. I decided, however, that I wasn't going to fail. Four months later, I have become the Webmaster for the group. I also write our campus newsletter and created Game Night, a student competition of table games. That event yielded the biggest audience ever for a non-concert event.
Last semester I was hired by university's Council for Student Activities. The group negotiates contracts of entertainers, sets up sound equipment, markets the entertainers to students, and generally decides what kind of programming should be done. When I got hired, I didn't know the first thing about how fill any of those responsibilities. I decided, however, that I wasn't going to fail. Four months later, I have become the Webmaster for the group. I also write our campus newsletter and created Game Night, a student competition of table games. That event yielded the biggest audience ever for a non-concert event.
11. Do you have the qualifications and personal
characteristics necessary for success in your chosen career?
Sample
excellent response:
I believe I have a combination of qualities to be successful in this career. First, I have a strong interest, backed by a solid, well-rounded, state-of-the-art education, especially in a career that is technically oriented. This basic ingredient, backed by love of learning, problem-solving skills, well-rounded interests, determination to succeed and excel, strong communication skills, and the ability to work hard, are the most important qualities that will help me succeed in this career. To succeed, you also need a natural curiosity about how systems work -- the kind of curiosity I demonstrated when I upgraded my two computers recently. Technology is constantly changing, so you must a fast learner just to keep up or you will be overwhelmed. All of these traits combine to create a solid team member in the ever-changing field of information systems. I am convinced that I possess these characteristics and am ready to be a successful team member for your firm.
I believe I have a combination of qualities to be successful in this career. First, I have a strong interest, backed by a solid, well-rounded, state-of-the-art education, especially in a career that is technically oriented. This basic ingredient, backed by love of learning, problem-solving skills, well-rounded interests, determination to succeed and excel, strong communication skills, and the ability to work hard, are the most important qualities that will help me succeed in this career. To succeed, you also need a natural curiosity about how systems work -- the kind of curiosity I demonstrated when I upgraded my two computers recently. Technology is constantly changing, so you must a fast learner just to keep up or you will be overwhelmed. All of these traits combine to create a solid team member in the ever-changing field of information systems. I am convinced that I possess these characteristics and am ready to be a successful team member for your firm.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
12. What has been your most rewarding accomplishment?
Sample
excellent response:
A recent satisfying accomplishment I was sent to one of our branch banks that was notorious for not growing their loan base. The branch had logged $75,000 in new loans in an 18-month period prior to my arrival. Having a reputation as a "hired gun" when it came to loan production I was successful in the solicitation and booking of $700,000 in my first six months at the branch.
A recent satisfying accomplishment I was sent to one of our branch banks that was notorious for not growing their loan base. The branch had logged $75,000 in new loans in an 18-month period prior to my arrival. Having a reputation as a "hired gun" when it came to loan production I was successful in the solicitation and booking of $700,000 in my first six months at the branch.
13. If you could do so, how would you plan your
college career differently?
Sample
excellent response:
I wouldn't change anything. All that I have done was a great learning experience that I will carry forward throughout the rest of my life.
I wouldn't change anything. All that I have done was a great learning experience that I will carry forward throughout the rest of my life.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
14. Are you more energized by working with data
or by collaborating with other individuals?
Sample
excellent response:
I like the validity of information and also like the energy that comes with working with people. The best thing about working in a group is combining the great minds from different perspectives and coming up with something extremely great, compared with when you're working alone. At the same time, information can generate vitality in the project you're working on. No matter how many heads you've got together, without information, you can't go very far. The perfect situation would be a combination of working with information and people, and I'm confident of my abilities in both areas.
[Submitted by "Stacey"]
I like the validity of information and also like the energy that comes with working with people. The best thing about working in a group is combining the great minds from different perspectives and coming up with something extremely great, compared with when you're working alone. At the same time, information can generate vitality in the project you're working on. No matter how many heads you've got together, without information, you can't go very far. The perfect situation would be a combination of working with information and people, and I'm confident of my abilities in both areas.
[Submitted by "Stacey"]
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
15. How would you describe yourself in terms of
your ability to work as a member of a team?
Sample
excellent response:
I have had many opportunities in both athletics and academics to develop my skills as a team player. My tenure as a rower with my college's crew team serves as a good example. I learned a great deal about teamwork while rowing because all the rowers in the boat must act as one, which meant that we incessantly worked to keep each movement in the boat synchronized. On an individual basis, we still worked toward group goals through weightlifting and land-rowing. My experience as a marketing research team leader also helped me to learn the role of "team player." I viewed my position as that of group leader and of group member. I ensured that everyone in the group had equal opportunity to contribute, maintained excellent communication among group members, and coordinated their energies toward reaching our team's goal.
I have had many opportunities in both athletics and academics to develop my skills as a team player. My tenure as a rower with my college's crew team serves as a good example. I learned a great deal about teamwork while rowing because all the rowers in the boat must act as one, which meant that we incessantly worked to keep each movement in the boat synchronized. On an individual basis, we still worked toward group goals through weightlifting and land-rowing. My experience as a marketing research team leader also helped me to learn the role of "team player." I viewed my position as that of group leader and of group member. I ensured that everyone in the group had equal opportunity to contribute, maintained excellent communication among group members, and coordinated their energies toward reaching our team's goal.
16. What motivates you to put forth you greatest
effort?
Sample
excellent response:
You would think that because I am interested in sales, only financial compensation would motivate me to achieve. Although monetary rewards are important to me, I am driven to succeed internally. More than anything, I want to be respected by my friends and coworkers for being the best at what I do. Whether I am considered to be the best car detailer in my hometown or the best columnist for my college newspaper, I want to be recognized as the best.
You would think that because I am interested in sales, only financial compensation would motivate me to achieve. Although monetary rewards are important to me, I am driven to succeed internally. More than anything, I want to be respected by my friends and coworkers for being the best at what I do. Whether I am considered to be the best car detailer in my hometown or the best columnist for my college newspaper, I want to be recognized as the best.
17. Given the investment our company will make in
hiring and training you, can you give us a reason to hire you?
Sample
excellent response:
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 college and at my previous jobs, I have consistently reached for becoming the very best I can become. I think my leadership awards from my college, and my management positions are the result of possessing the qualities you're looking for in an employee.
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 college and at my previous jobs, I have consistently reached for becoming the very best I can become. I think my leadership awards from my college, and my management positions are the result of possessing the qualities you're looking for in an employee.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
18. Would you describe yourself as goal-driven?
Sample
excellent response:
Yes, and I demonstrated my goal orientation as president of the local Jaycees, a community service organization. I am very proud of the fact that I set a goal of signing 50 new members by the end of the year, and I accomplished that.
Yes, and I demonstrated my goal orientation as president of the local Jaycees, a community service organization. I am very proud of the fact that I set a goal of signing 50 new members by the end of the year, and I accomplished that.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
19. Describe what you've accomplished toward
reaching a recent goal for yourself.
Sample
excellent response:
My first few years in banking had me on the fast track to branch management. I realized at some point along the way that my true passion was in offering financial advice not limited to checking accounts and loans. It was at that point that I made the necessary arrangements to go back to school full-time to pursue my goal, which I am just about to achieve.
My first few years in banking had me on the fast track to branch management. I realized at some point along the way that my true passion was in offering financial advice not limited to checking accounts and loans. It was at that point that I made the necessary arrangements to go back to school full-time to pursue my goal, which I am just about to achieve.
20. What short-term goals and objectives have you
established for yourself?
Sample
excellent response:
My short-term objectives are to graduate from the Professional Development Program before the standard two years and begin developing a clientele. As an intern, I prepared ahead of time by studying for the Series 7 and Series 64 exams that constitute a majority of a beginning financial consultant's time. I'd like to make make the company that hires me wonder what it ever did without me.
My short-term objectives are to graduate from the Professional Development Program before the standard two years and begin developing a clientele. As an intern, I prepared ahead of time by studying for the Series 7 and Series 64 exams that constitute a majority of a beginning financial consultant's time. I'd like to make make the company that hires me wonder what it ever did without me.
21. Can you describe your long-range goals and
objectives?
Sample
excellent response:
My primary objectives are to learn as much as possible about your company's product offering, organizational structure, and professional sales techniques so that I may become the most productive member of your sales team.
My primary objectives are to learn as much as possible about your company's product offering, organizational structure, and professional sales techniques so that I may become the most productive member of your sales team.
22. What do you expect to be doing in five years?
Sample
excellent response:
Although it is hard to predict the future, I sincerely believe that I will become a very good financial consultant. I believe that my abilities will allow me to excel to the point that I can seek other opportunities as a portfolio manager (the next step) and possibly even higher. My ultimate goal continues to be -- and will always be -- to be the best at whatever level I am working at within Merrill Lynch's corporate structure.
Although it is hard to predict the future, I sincerely believe that I will become a very good financial consultant. I believe that my abilities will allow me to excel to the point that I can seek other opportunities as a portfolio manager (the next step) and possibly even higher. My ultimate goal continues to be -- and will always be -- to be the best at whatever level I am working at within Merrill Lynch's corporate structure.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
23. What do you see yourself doing in ten years?
Sample
excellent response:
Ten years from now I see myself as a successful consultant for a world-class firm like yours. I want to have developed a wonderful bond with my employer I will have proven myself a highly competent systems analyst and will represent my company in helping others find solutions to their information-systems needs in a professional and timely manner.
Ten years from now I see myself as a successful consultant for a world-class firm like yours. I want to have developed a wonderful bond with my employer I will have proven myself a highly competent systems analyst and will represent my company in helping others find solutions to their information-systems needs in a professional and timely manner.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
24. How would you evaluate your ability to deal
with conflict?
Sample
excellent response:
I believe I am quite good at handling conflict. Working in retail and in the residence halls required that I make many unpopular decisions at times, whether it was terminating an associate or taking judicial action on a resident. Often the person in conflict with me would be upset and sometimes physically outraged. I would always make sure that I fully explained the situation, the policies behind my decision, and why those policies exist. Usually by the end of the conversation, the person could see the other side of the situation.
I believe I am quite good at handling conflict. Working in retail and in the residence halls required that I make many unpopular decisions at times, whether it was terminating an associate or taking judicial action on a resident. Often the person in conflict with me would be upset and sometimes physically outraged. I would always make sure that I fully explained the situation, the policies behind my decision, and why those policies exist. Usually by the end of the conversation, the person could see the other side of the situation.
25. Have you ever had difficulty with a
supervisor or instructor? How did you resolve the conflict?
Sample
excellent response:
Yes, I had an incident with my Spanish professor. I turned in an essay that she said was too good to be mine. I was honest with her; I told her that I had a native speaker review the essay, but he made very few corrections. However, I had broken the Golden Rule of Spanish Composition -- the essay must not even touch the hands of a native speaker. To prove to her that I was capable of producing an essay that exceeded her expectations of a non-native speaker, I offered to re-write another essay in her office. I earned an A-minus.
Yes, I had an incident with my Spanish professor. I turned in an essay that she said was too good to be mine. I was honest with her; I told her that I had a native speaker review the essay, but he made very few corrections. However, I had broken the Golden Rule of Spanish Composition -- the essay must not even touch the hands of a native speaker. To prove to her that I was capable of producing an essay that exceeded her expectations of a non-native speaker, I offered to re-write another essay in her office. I earned an A-minus.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
26. Tell
me about a major problem you recently handled. Were you successful in resolving
it?
Sample
excellent response:
While working at K-mart, I was one of three people to work in the electronics department. One day upon arriving at work, I was told the district manager was coming the next day to do a store inspection. The two other people who worked in electronics were both over 55. Neither could lift heavy objects, and one refused to work at all. As a result, the electronics department was usually left to me to keep stocked with product and kept in order. I had about five hours of work time to get the entire department in order. Those five hours passed around, and there was still a substantial amount of work to be done. I asked the store manager if I could stay and work after hours while the overnight stockers were there. He said that because of the employment budget, he could not let me. I was faced with bringing the entire store's rating down, so I suggested a creative staffing solution, allowing me to work the extra hours while temporarily reducing the hours of the other two members of the department. Because of this solution, in a matter of hours, the department was in tip-top shape -- and still under budget. And the results? The electronics department got a score of 95 out of 100.
While working at K-mart, I was one of three people to work in the electronics department. One day upon arriving at work, I was told the district manager was coming the next day to do a store inspection. The two other people who worked in electronics were both over 55. Neither could lift heavy objects, and one refused to work at all. As a result, the electronics department was usually left to me to keep stocked with product and kept in order. I had about five hours of work time to get the entire department in order. Those five hours passed around, and there was still a substantial amount of work to be done. I asked the store manager if I could stay and work after hours while the overnight stockers were there. He said that because of the employment budget, he could not let me. I was faced with bringing the entire store's rating down, so I suggested a creative staffing solution, allowing me to work the extra hours while temporarily reducing the hours of the other two members of the department. Because of this solution, in a matter of hours, the department was in tip-top shape -- and still under budget. And the results? The electronics department got a score of 95 out of 100.
27. Would
you say that you can easily deal with high-pressure situations?
Sample
excellent response:
Yes. My past experience as an Administrative Coordinator required me to deal with many serious situations since I held emergency on-call duties as a supervisor. One example was when I was called by a Resident Assistant to deal with an attempted suicide on her residence hall floor. The situation required that I think clearly and quickly in this life-and-death situation. I had to weigh the many tasks that needed to be completed. I had to assign RAs to call 911, make sure that EMS could get into the locked building, while at the same time applying first aid, and ensuring that the rest of the residents on the floor were OK. I also had to make sure the privacy of the resident in need was respected. I basically prioritized and dealt with each task by its importance. I delegated responsibility to RAs for things that they were capable of handling because I could not physically be in many places at once. Once the resident was taken to the hospital, I was responsible for paperwork and follow up to make sure the staff members, residents, and the resident-in-need adjusted back to "normal" life. I know this is an extreme example not found in the financial consulting field; however, it shows just how well I can deal with extreme pressure.
Yes. My past experience as an Administrative Coordinator required me to deal with many serious situations since I held emergency on-call duties as a supervisor. One example was when I was called by a Resident Assistant to deal with an attempted suicide on her residence hall floor. The situation required that I think clearly and quickly in this life-and-death situation. I had to weigh the many tasks that needed to be completed. I had to assign RAs to call 911, make sure that EMS could get into the locked building, while at the same time applying first aid, and ensuring that the rest of the residents on the floor were OK. I also had to make sure the privacy of the resident in need was respected. I basically prioritized and dealt with each task by its importance. I delegated responsibility to RAs for things that they were capable of handling because I could not physically be in many places at once. Once the resident was taken to the hospital, I was responsible for paperwork and follow up to make sure the staff members, residents, and the resident-in-need adjusted back to "normal" life. I know this is an extreme example not found in the financial consulting field; however, it shows just how well I can deal with extreme pressure.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
28. What
quality or attribute do you feel will most contribute to your career success?
Sample
excellent response:
My greatest strength is my flexibility. I have learned that work conditions change from day to day and throughout the day, as well, no matter where I have worked in the past. I also have realized that certain projects require individual attention and others involve a teamwork approach. These are just a few examples of the changes that happen in the financial consulting field, as you are well aware. My flexibility to adapt to the different demands of the job has allowed me to surpass my supervisor's expectations.
My greatest strength is my flexibility. I have learned that work conditions change from day to day and throughout the day, as well, no matter where I have worked in the past. I also have realized that certain projects require individual attention and others involve a teamwork approach. These are just a few examples of the changes that happen in the financial consulting field, as you are well aware. My flexibility to adapt to the different demands of the job has allowed me to surpass my supervisor's expectations.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
29. What
personal weakness has caused you the greatest difficulty in school or on the
job?
Sample
excellent response (shows how he recognized his weakness and worked to
improve):
My greatest weakness had been delegation. I would take it upon myself to do many small projects throughout my shift as a manager that could have been done by others in an attempt to improve my workers' efficiency. Once I realized that I was doing more work than the other assistant managers, and they were achieving better results, I reevaluated what I was doing. I quickly realized that if I assigned each person just one small project at the beginning of their shift, clearly state expectations for the project, and then follow up that everything would get done, and I could manage much more efficiently and actually accomplish much more.
My greatest weakness had been delegation. I would take it upon myself to do many small projects throughout my shift as a manager that could have been done by others in an attempt to improve my workers' efficiency. Once I realized that I was doing more work than the other assistant managers, and they were achieving better results, I reevaluated what I was doing. I quickly realized that if I assigned each person just one small project at the beginning of their shift, clearly state expectations for the project, and then follow up that everything would get done, and I could manage much more efficiently and actually accomplish much more.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
30. What
were your reasons for selecting your college or university?
Sample
excellent response (tells how education specifically will benefit the
employer):
My college has always had a reputation as having an excellent accounting department, so I knew that if I enrolled there, I would achieve first-class preparation for my chosen career field. It is also a highly accredited school known for satisfying employers with the preparation of its graduates -- that's why companies like yours recruit at my school -- the school produces top graduates. The school offers an excellent liberal-arts background, which research shows equips graduates with numerous qualities, such as versatility and strong critical-thinking skills. Finally, having visited the campus before enrolling, I knew that the business school emphasized group projects. During my four years in the school, I participated in more than 35 group projects, which taught me invaluable teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.
My college has always had a reputation as having an excellent accounting department, so I knew that if I enrolled there, I would achieve first-class preparation for my chosen career field. It is also a highly accredited school known for satisfying employers with the preparation of its graduates -- that's why companies like yours recruit at my school -- the school produces top graduates. The school offers an excellent liberal-arts background, which research shows equips graduates with numerous qualities, such as versatility and strong critical-thinking skills. Finally, having visited the campus before enrolling, I knew that the business school emphasized group projects. During my four years in the school, I participated in more than 35 group projects, which taught me invaluable teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
31. If
you could change or improve anything about your college, what would it be?
Sample
excellent response:
My major department had a wonderful internship program, and I was able to complete three valuable internships with my department's guidance. Some other departments in the business school don't have internship programs that are as strong as my department's. I'd like to see all the departments have strong internship programs so all my school's business grads would have the same opportunities that I had.
My major department had a wonderful internship program, and I was able to complete three valuable internships with my department's guidance. Some other departments in the business school don't have internship programs that are as strong as my department's. I'd like to see all the departments have strong internship programs so all my school's business grads would have the same opportunities that I had.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
32. How
will the academic program and coursework you've taken benefit your career?
Sample
excellent response (response is very specific to the job he is interviewing
for):
As you will note on my resume, I've taken not only the required core classes for the finance field, I've also gone above and beyond by double majoring in accounting. I doubled majored since I knew that the financial consulting field requires much knowledge of portfolio analysis and understanding of the tax laws. I believe that my success in both areas of study have specifically prepared me for this area. But it's not just taking the classes in these two areas that allows me to offer Merrill Lynch clients more. I minored in Spanish to understand the growing Hispanic clientele in the Central Florida area, which as you are well aware is a growing source of revenue for the industry. If you like, I can elaborate on other aspects of my education further.
As you will note on my resume, I've taken not only the required core classes for the finance field, I've also gone above and beyond by double majoring in accounting. I doubled majored since I knew that the financial consulting field requires much knowledge of portfolio analysis and understanding of the tax laws. I believe that my success in both areas of study have specifically prepared me for this area. But it's not just taking the classes in these two areas that allows me to offer Merrill Lynch clients more. I minored in Spanish to understand the growing Hispanic clientele in the Central Florida area, which as you are well aware is a growing source of revenue for the industry. If you like, I can elaborate on other aspects of my education further.
33. Which college classes or subjects did you
like best? Why?
Sample
excellent response:
My favorite classes have been the ones pertaining to my major, which is marketing. These classes have laid the groundwork for my career in marketing. They have also taught me skills that I can bring to my employer, ranging from communication skills to interacting with others.
My favorite classes have been the ones pertaining to my major, which is marketing. These classes have laid the groundwork for my career in marketing. They have also taught me skills that I can bring to my employer, ranging from communication skills to interacting with others.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
34. Are you the type of student for whom
conducting independent research has been a positive experience?
Sample
excellent response:
Yes, I love it. I thoroughly enjoyed my senior research in college while many others in my class were miserable. I was never tired of learning more about my topic and found it exhilarating to be researching something that had not been studied before.
Yes, I love it. I thoroughly enjoyed my senior research in college while many others in my class were miserable. I was never tired of learning more about my topic and found it exhilarating to be researching something that had not been studied before.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
35. Describe the type of professor that has
created the most beneficial learning experience for you.
Sample
excellent response:
My favorite professors were the ones who gave me hands-on learning experiences that I can apply to my career. Any person can make you memorize the quadratic equation, but someone who can show you how to use it, and why, were the professors I liked. I liked teachers who realized that sometimes there is more then one answer and everyone thinks differently.
My favorite professors were the ones who gave me hands-on learning experiences that I can apply to my career. Any person can make you memorize the quadratic equation, but someone who can show you how to use it, and why, were the professors I liked. I liked teachers who realized that sometimes there is more then one answer and everyone thinks differently.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
36. Do you think that your grades are an
indication of your academic achievement?
Sample
excellent response:
I have focused much of my energy on work and obtaining real-world experience. I commend my classmates who have earned high GPAs, but I also feel it's important to be well-rounded. In addition to work experience, I participated in sports and extracurricular activities in school. These activities taught me leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Sometimes my heavy load has not allowed me to keep up with some of my studies, but I have learned an enormous amount that I can apply in my future industry. As you will discover if you talk to my supervisors, my ability to work effectively is much more reflective of my future potential than is my GPA.
I have focused much of my energy on work and obtaining real-world experience. I commend my classmates who have earned high GPAs, but I also feel it's important to be well-rounded. In addition to work experience, I participated in sports and extracurricular activities in school. These activities taught me leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Sometimes my heavy load has not allowed me to keep up with some of my studies, but I have learned an enormous amount that I can apply in my future industry. As you will discover if you talk to my supervisors, my ability to work effectively is much more reflective of my future potential than is my GPA.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
37. What plans do you have for continued study?
An advanced degree?
Sample
excellent response:
I plan to continue my education for the rest of my life. In any technology-related field, keeping up to date through continuing education is of the utmost importance. Continuing education can include on-the-job training, courses sponsored by the employer, and courses taken in new technologies as they emerge. I plan to be not only a career employee but a career student so that I can be the best information systems analyst I can be. I will ensure, however, that any education I pursue not only doesn't interfere with my job or the company's policies, but will enhance my value as an employee.
I plan to continue my education for the rest of my life. In any technology-related field, keeping up to date through continuing education is of the utmost importance. Continuing education can include on-the-job training, courses sponsored by the employer, and courses taken in new technologies as they emerge. I plan to be not only a career employee but a career student so that I can be the best information systems analyst I can be. I will ensure, however, that any education I pursue not only doesn't interfere with my job or the company's policies, but will enhance my value as an employee.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
38. Before you can make a productive contribution
to the company, what degree of training do you feel you will require?
Sample
excellent response:
My background has been focused on preparing me for the financial consulting industry, so I can be productive right away. I already have obtained the educational credentials and skills to allow me to become an immediate asset to Merrill Lynch. After interning for a semester, I am well aware of the shared beliefs of the organization and its corporate values. I already have a very good working knowledge of the financial consulting business. I am confident of my ability to get up to speed quickly in any assignment with which I'm not familiar.
My background has been focused on preparing me for the financial consulting industry, so I can be productive right away. I already have obtained the educational credentials and skills to allow me to become an immediate asset to Merrill Lynch. After interning for a semester, I am well aware of the shared beliefs of the organization and its corporate values. I already have a very good working knowledge of the financial consulting business. I am confident of my ability to get up to speed quickly in any assignment with which I'm not familiar.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
39. Describe the characteristics of a successful
manager.
Sample
excellent response:
A successful manager should have the vision and capabilities to formulate strategies to reach his or her objectives and communicate these ideas to his or her team members. In addition to serving as a positive role model for co-workers, successful managers must also be capable of inspiring others to recognize, develop, and apply their talents to their utmost potential to reach a common goal. These are the traits I hope to demonstrate when I'm a manager.
A successful manager should have the vision and capabilities to formulate strategies to reach his or her objectives and communicate these ideas to his or her team members. In addition to serving as a positive role model for co-workers, successful managers must also be capable of inspiring others to recognize, develop, and apply their talents to their utmost potential to reach a common goal. These are the traits I hope to demonstrate when I'm a manager.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
40. Why did you decide to seek a position in this
field?
Sample
excellent response:
I want to work in the marketing and PR industry because ever since I took my first marketing course in college, I have felt very passionate toward the industry and cannot imagine myself doing anything else.
I want to work in the marketing and PR industry because ever since I took my first marketing course in college, I have felt very passionate toward the industry and cannot imagine myself doing anything else.
41. Tell me what you know about our company.
Sample
excellent response:
You're large and respected worldwide. You're both a clinical and teaching hospital. Over the last 60 to 70 years you've produced award-winning research. In reviewing your Web site, I've familiarized myself with many of your corporate goals and objectives.
[Submitted by "Judy"]
You're large and respected worldwide. You're both a clinical and teaching hospital. Over the last 60 to 70 years you've produced award-winning research. In reviewing your Web site, I've familiarized myself with many of your corporate goals and objectives.
[Submitted by "Judy"]
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
42. Why did you decide to seek a position in this
company?
Sample
excellent response:
I am convinced that there would be no better place to work than Accenture. You are the top consulting firm in the United States. You provide your employees with the tools they need to stay competitive and sharpen their skills while working in an open, team-based environment. I am also aware that you provide a mentor for all new employees, and I would embrace any opportunity to work with a mentor and eventually become one myself.
I am convinced that there would be no better place to work than Accenture. You are the top consulting firm in the United States. You provide your employees with the tools they need to stay competitive and sharpen their skills while working in an open, team-based environment. I am also aware that you provide a mentor for all new employees, and I would embrace any opportunity to work with a mentor and eventually become one myself.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
43. Do you have a geographic preference?
Sample
excellent response:
Although I would prefer to stay in the Mid-Atlantic area, I would not rule out other possibilities.
Although I would prefer to stay in the Mid-Atlantic area, I would not rule out other possibilities.
44. Why do you think you might like to live in
the community in which our company is located?
Sample
excellent response:
Just a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to spend several days in your community, and I fell in love with it. I love the fact that you have a thriving riverfront. I'm impressed with the many cultural opportunities here -- opera, theater, art, and independent films. I've also already become a fan of the Saints and the other sports teams based here. I have conducted significant Internet research on this city, so I am quite comfortable with your location.
Just a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to spend several days in your community, and I fell in love with it. I love the fact that you have a thriving riverfront. I'm impressed with the many cultural opportunities here -- opera, theater, art, and independent films. I've also already become a fan of the Saints and the other sports teams based here. I have conducted significant Internet research on this city, so I am quite comfortable with your location.
45. Would it be a problem for you to relocate?
Sample
excellent response:
I'm open to opportunities within the company; if those opportunities involve relocation, I would certainly consider it.
I'm open to opportunities within the company; if those opportunities involve relocation, I would certainly consider it.
46. To what extent would you be willing to travel
for the job?
Sample
excellent response:
I am more than willing to travel. I understand the importance of going above and beyond the call of duty to satisfy customer requests is sometimes required and that Merrill Lynch's customer focus belief means that travel is expected in some circumstances. I am willing to make this commitment to do whatever it takes to develop that long-term relationship with a small business or client. It is only through this relationship that loyalty can be maintained and financial gains and growth can occur for both the client and Merrill Lynch. It is my understanding from other financial consultants that I have interviewed at Merrill Lynch that this occurs maybe one or two times a month.
I am more than willing to travel. I understand the importance of going above and beyond the call of duty to satisfy customer requests is sometimes required and that Merrill Lynch's customer focus belief means that travel is expected in some circumstances. I am willing to make this commitment to do whatever it takes to develop that long-term relationship with a small business or client. It is only through this relationship that loyalty can be maintained and financial gains and growth can occur for both the client and Merrill Lynch. It is my understanding from other financial consultants that I have interviewed at Merrill Lynch that this occurs maybe one or two times a month.
47. Which is more important to you, the job
itself or your salary?
Sample
excellent response:
A salary commensurate with my experience and skills is important, but it's only one piece of the package. Many other elements go into making up a compensation package, but more importantly, it's critical to me to enjoy what I'm doing, fit into the corporate culture, and feel I'm making a genuine contribution.
A salary commensurate with my experience and skills is important, but it's only one piece of the package. Many other elements go into making up a compensation package, but more importantly, it's critical to me to enjoy what I'm doing, fit into the corporate culture, and feel I'm making a genuine contribution.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
48. What level of compensation would it take to
make you happy?
Sample
excellent response:
I am not depending on money to make me happy. What makes me happy is having a satisfying job that provides challenge and new situations daily.
I am not depending on money to make me happy. What makes me happy is having a satisfying job that provides challenge and new situations daily.
49. Tell me about the salary range you're
seeking.
Sample
excellent response:
I am sure that I am the candidate you are looking for. If you feel the same, the I'm sure your offer will be fair and commensurate with the value I can bring the company.
I am sure that I am the candidate you are looking for. If you feel the same, the I'm sure your offer will be fair and commensurate with the value I can bring the company.
See also this page of our Job Interviewing Tutorial.
50. Describe a situation in which you were able
to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way?
Sample
excellent response:
Recently my company asked for bids on a phone system for our new college campus. Two companies came in very close with their bids, and most of my department wanted to go with a vendor that we have used in the past. After I looked over the proposals, it was clear that this was the wrong decision. So, I talked individually with each member of our staff and was able to change their minds and get the best product that would save money and provide the highest quality.
Recently my company asked for bids on a phone system for our new college campus. Two companies came in very close with their bids, and most of my department wanted to go with a vendor that we have used in the past. After I looked over the proposals, it was clear that this was the wrong decision. So, I talked individually with each member of our staff and was able to change their minds and get the best product that would save money and provide the highest quality.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
51. Describe an instance when you had to think on
your feet to extricate yourself from a difficult situation.
Sample
excellent response:
When I was a resident assistant at my college, a student I did not know asked me if he could use my phone to call another room. Although I did not know the student, I allowed him into my room. He used the phone and in the course of his conversation, he stated that he had just come from a fraternity party and was high from taking some drugs. Well after his conversation, I had to enforce the student conduct code by writing him up. He became very hostile towards me and would not give me any identification or information. I stood in the doorway to prevent him from leaving. I noted the serial numbers on his keys, so when the situation got to the point where I felt unsafe, I allowed him to leave. I still preformed my job without jeopardizing my or his physical welfare.
When I was a resident assistant at my college, a student I did not know asked me if he could use my phone to call another room. Although I did not know the student, I allowed him into my room. He used the phone and in the course of his conversation, he stated that he had just come from a fraternity party and was high from taking some drugs. Well after his conversation, I had to enforce the student conduct code by writing him up. He became very hostile towards me and would not give me any identification or information. I stood in the doorway to prevent him from leaving. I noted the serial numbers on his keys, so when the situation got to the point where I felt unsafe, I allowed him to leave. I still preformed my job without jeopardizing my or his physical welfare.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
52. Give me a specific example of a time when you
used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
Sample
excellent response:
I had a client come into the bank where I worked and request a $5,000 personal loan to "pay off some bills." In the customary review process, I determined that what was really needed was a $25,000 debt-consolidation loan. Rather than giving the customer a "quick-fix" to the problem, I logically solved the problem in a way that was in the best interest of both the bank and the client.
I had a client come into the bank where I worked and request a $5,000 personal loan to "pay off some bills." In the customary review process, I determined that what was really needed was a $25,000 debt-consolidation loan. Rather than giving the customer a "quick-fix" to the problem, I logically solved the problem in a way that was in the best interest of both the bank and the client.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
53. By providing examples, convince me that you
can adapt to a wide variety of people, situations and environments.
Sample
excellent response:
I've shown my ability to adapt by successfully working in several very different jobs. For example, I lived with a native family in Costa Rica. I worked as a nanny for a famous writer in Cape Cod. I was responsible for dealing with Drug Court participants. And I catered to elite country-club clientele. I did it all well and had no trouble adapting.
I've shown my ability to adapt by successfully working in several very different jobs. For example, I lived with a native family in Costa Rica. I worked as a nanny for a famous writer in Cape Cod. I was responsible for dealing with Drug Court participants. And I catered to elite country-club clientele. I did it all well and had no trouble adapting.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
54. Describe a time when you were faced with
problems or stresses that tested your coping skills.
Sample
excellent response:
Arriving at the language school I was attending in Costa Rica in the middle of the night with very minimal Spanish-language skills, I found my way to a very small town with no street addresses or names and found my temporary residence. I was scared, but I handled the situation very well, very calmly. In very stressful situations, I am always the one in the group to stay calm and focused. My friends, family, and professors have always said that I am an oasis of calm in a storm.
Arriving at the language school I was attending in Costa Rica in the middle of the night with very minimal Spanish-language skills, I found my way to a very small town with no street addresses or names and found my temporary residence. I was scared, but I handled the situation very well, very calmly. In very stressful situations, I am always the one in the group to stay calm and focused. My friends, family, and professors have always said that I am an oasis of calm in a storm.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
55. Give an example of a time in which you had to
be relatively quick in coming to a decision.
Sample
excellent response:
This happens often in the IT industry, but one recent example was when we had a core backbone switch die. It died at the worst possible time -- during exams -- as they always seem to do, and I needed to get it back up and running quickly. I analyzed the logs and system status, and using my previous experience, I made some quick decisions that rectified problem and got the equipment back up only minutes later.
This happens often in the IT industry, but one recent example was when we had a core backbone switch die. It died at the worst possible time -- during exams -- as they always seem to do, and I needed to get it back up and running quickly. I analyzed the logs and system status, and using my previous experience, I made some quick decisions that rectified problem and got the equipment back up only minutes later.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
56. Describe a time when you had to use your
written communication skills to get an important point across.
Sample
excellent response:
As an Administrative Coordinator, I had a staff of 27 students. Having such a large student staffs all working different shifts and having varying class schedules meant that meetings could not be held with everyone at one time. I needed to communicate with everyone about important policies and information often, so I came up with the idea of designing a Web page for my staff with written announcements. Each Desk Assistant was required to check the Web page daily at the beginning of his/her shift. I also sent email communications by a distribution list that allowed each Desk Assistant to keep informed about anything. The one situation that stands out in my mind is a last-minute summer camp that decided to come in a day early with only one day's notice. I had no staff scheduled to check in the camps or to organize the keys. I posted an update to the Web page and sent an email. Within four hours, I had the following day completely staffed and desk assistants there to organize room keys for the campers that night.
As an Administrative Coordinator, I had a staff of 27 students. Having such a large student staffs all working different shifts and having varying class schedules meant that meetings could not be held with everyone at one time. I needed to communicate with everyone about important policies and information often, so I came up with the idea of designing a Web page for my staff with written announcements. Each Desk Assistant was required to check the Web page daily at the beginning of his/her shift. I also sent email communications by a distribution list that allowed each Desk Assistant to keep informed about anything. The one situation that stands out in my mind is a last-minute summer camp that decided to come in a day early with only one day's notice. I had no staff scheduled to check in the camps or to organize the keys. I posted an update to the Web page and sent an email. Within four hours, I had the following day completely staffed and desk assistants there to organize room keys for the campers that night.
57. Give me a specific occasion in which you
conformed to a policy with which you did not agree.
Sample
excellent response:
When I worked at Home Depot as an assistant manager, I was always looking for way to boost my employees' morale. Unloading trucks is a very routine and physical job and can become very boring and exhausting, so to improve the unloaders' attitude toward their duties and make the best of the situation, I put a radio in the receiving dock. It worked; however, the district manager did not approve of the radio in the workplace even though it did not interfere with any set policy of company objectives. The radio was also out of any areas where customers would hear the music. I did not agree with my DMs decision to remove the radio; however, I understood his point of view once he explained it to me and promptly complied with his request. The employees were not happy that their radio was gone, so I found an alternative method of reward and morale boosting by implementing a program in which we provided lunch for the unloaders from any restaurant of their choice if they unloaded the trucks faster than normal. This program succeeded by increasing their unloading time from 2 1/2 hours to only 1 1/2, a savings in payroll of 8 percent of sales for that shift.
When I worked at Home Depot as an assistant manager, I was always looking for way to boost my employees' morale. Unloading trucks is a very routine and physical job and can become very boring and exhausting, so to improve the unloaders' attitude toward their duties and make the best of the situation, I put a radio in the receiving dock. It worked; however, the district manager did not approve of the radio in the workplace even though it did not interfere with any set policy of company objectives. The radio was also out of any areas where customers would hear the music. I did not agree with my DMs decision to remove the radio; however, I understood his point of view once he explained it to me and promptly complied with his request. The employees were not happy that their radio was gone, so I found an alternative method of reward and morale boosting by implementing a program in which we provided lunch for the unloaders from any restaurant of their choice if they unloaded the trucks faster than normal. This program succeeded by increasing their unloading time from 2 1/2 hours to only 1 1/2, a savings in payroll of 8 percent of sales for that shift.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
58. Give me an example of an important goal which
you had set in the past and tell me about your success in reaching it.
Sample
excellent response:
As a senior in high school, my goal was to attend college and play college golf. But I was nowhere near the player I needed to be to play or even get on the team. So over that summer I worked on my golf game to the point where I won almost every tournament I entered. I spent every hour I had during the day to make myself a better all-around player. I eventually walked on my freshmen year and was exempted from qualifying because I played so well in my first outing.
As a senior in high school, my goal was to attend college and play college golf. But I was nowhere near the player I needed to be to play or even get on the team. So over that summer I worked on my golf game to the point where I won almost every tournament I entered. I spent every hour I had during the day to make myself a better all-around player. I eventually walked on my freshmen year and was exempted from qualifying because I played so well in my first outing.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
59. Describe the most significant or creative
presentation that you have had to complete.
Sample
excellent response:
The most significant presentation I have ever had to present was at a national research symposium. I was presenting research I had completed on digital analysis of mammograms and had to present to a panel of more than 100 judges who were at the top of their field. I focused on the research, which could sell itself, and just let the information flow. It went over very well, and I received many more invitations to present the research, including on national television.
The most significant presentation I have ever had to present was at a national research symposium. I was presenting research I had completed on digital analysis of mammograms and had to present to a panel of more than 100 judges who were at the top of their field. I focused on the research, which could sell itself, and just let the information flow. It went over very well, and I received many more invitations to present the research, including on national television.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
60. Tell me about a time when you had to go above
and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.
Sample
excellent response:
Although I had already punched out, I stayed behind to help a colleague solve a problem. A customer was very angry as he had waited very long for his coffee. My colleague was new, she was quite slow. I came out and explained things to the customer. Although he was very angry at first, I just listened to him and told him that we try to bring our best out to each customer who walks in to our store. After a one-hour discussion, he left with a happy face and was satisfied.
[Submitted by "Fizah."]
Although I had already punched out, I stayed behind to help a colleague solve a problem. A customer was very angry as he had waited very long for his coffee. My colleague was new, she was quite slow. I came out and explained things to the customer. Although he was very angry at first, I just listened to him and told him that we try to bring our best out to each customer who walks in to our store. After a one-hour discussion, he left with a happy face and was satisfied.
[Submitted by "Fizah."]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
61. Give me an example of a time when you were
able to successfully communicate with another person even when that individual
may not have personally liked you (or vice versa).
Sample
excellent response:
During my time in the theater, I had one director with whom I absolutely did not work well. However, because of my track record, she would assign me as stage director and/or assistant director. I was usually involved in the day-to-day operations of the play and the details of how the play would be performed. I handled the operation for the play by directing scenes the best way I could and then showing them to her for approval. If she did not like the way a scene worked, I gave her my opinion as to why it should be my way. If we still could not compromise, I would follow her directions to the best of my ability. Understanding that people don't usually have malicious intentions is key, and understanding that you will never be able to convince some people that your way is right is the best way to avoid conflict and still get the job done.
During my time in the theater, I had one director with whom I absolutely did not work well. However, because of my track record, she would assign me as stage director and/or assistant director. I was usually involved in the day-to-day operations of the play and the details of how the play would be performed. I handled the operation for the play by directing scenes the best way I could and then showing them to her for approval. If she did not like the way a scene worked, I gave her my opinion as to why it should be my way. If we still could not compromise, I would follow her directions to the best of my ability. Understanding that people don't usually have malicious intentions is key, and understanding that you will never be able to convince some people that your way is right is the best way to avoid conflict and still get the job done.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
62. Sometimes it's easy to get in "over your
head." Describe a situation where you had to request help or assistance on
a project or assignment.
Sample
excellent response:
It's impossible to know everything in the IT field because of rapidly changing technology, so recently when we were having troubles with our circuit emulation over our ATM network, I had to call in some engineers from North Carolina to come help me out. The nice thing about asking for help is that when you get the assistance, you can learn from what you are told and apply it to future situations.
It's impossible to know everything in the IT field because of rapidly changing technology, so recently when we were having troubles with our circuit emulation over our ATM network, I had to call in some engineers from North Carolina to come help me out. The nice thing about asking for help is that when you get the assistance, you can learn from what you are told and apply it to future situations.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
63. Give an example of how you applied knowledge
from previous coursework to a project in another class.
Sample
excellent response:
Last semester I was taking a microeconomics and a statistics course. One of the microeconomics projects dealt with showing the relationship between the probability that customers would stop buying a product if the price was raised a certain amount. Through what I learned in statistics I could find the median where the price was the highest and still kept most of the customers happy.
Last semester I was taking a microeconomics and a statistics course. One of the microeconomics projects dealt with showing the relationship between the probability that customers would stop buying a product if the price was raised a certain amount. Through what I learned in statistics I could find the median where the price was the highest and still kept most of the customers happy.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
64. Describe a situation where others you were
working with on a project disagreed with your ideas. What did you do?
Sample
excellent response:
I was on a project team in a business class in my freshman year in college, The group brainstormed ideas for the video we were assigned to produce, and everyone but me was leaning toward an idea that would be easy. I suggested instead an idea that would be more difficult but would be something different that no other group would be doing. I used my communications skills to persuade the rest of the group to use my idea. During the project, we really learned what teamwork was all about, became a close team, and ended up putting a lot of hard work into the project. All the team members ended up feeling very proud of the video, and they thanked me for the idea -- for which we earned an A.
I was on a project team in a business class in my freshman year in college, The group brainstormed ideas for the video we were assigned to produce, and everyone but me was leaning toward an idea that would be easy. I suggested instead an idea that would be more difficult but would be something different that no other group would be doing. I used my communications skills to persuade the rest of the group to use my idea. During the project, we really learned what teamwork was all about, became a close team, and ended up putting a lot of hard work into the project. All the team members ended up feeling very proud of the video, and they thanked me for the idea -- for which we earned an A.
65. Describe a situation in which you found that
your results were not up to your professor's or supervisor's expectations. What
happened? What action did you take?
Sample
excellent response:
Recently I was asked to put together a proposal for a migration of network systems. Misunderstanding my boss, I thought it was just an informal paper. When I presented it to him days later, he was upset with the quality since it had to be presented to our VP. I explained my misunderstanding, apologized, reworked the paper, and had it back to him with enough time for him to review it before he presented it successfully at the meeting.
Recently I was asked to put together a proposal for a migration of network systems. Misunderstanding my boss, I thought it was just an informal paper. When I presented it to him days later, he was upset with the quality since it had to be presented to our VP. I explained my misunderstanding, apologized, reworked the paper, and had it back to him with enough time for him to review it before he presented it successfully at the meeting.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
66. Tell of a time when you worked with a
colleague who was not completing his or her share of the work. Who, if anyone,
did you tell or talk to about it? Did the manager take any steps to correct
your colleague? Did you agree or disagree with the manager's actions?
Sample
excellent response:
During a group project in college, we had one member who would do no work whatsoever. The project was to compare and contrast four companies in a single industry, so his work was vital. We first discussed the situation and asked for the bare-bones minimum of what we needed from him. We got just below that. As a result we as a group went to the professor and told her our situation -- not expecting or requesting action -- just informing her the situation we were dealing with. Then we as a group split up the non-contributor's work, and completed our work collectively on his share. In phase two in which we analyzed the information and reported how each of our companies fared compared to the others, we did not get a paper from the group member. As a result, we told the teacher that we had our work done, and were willing to do the extra paper but that we would rather spend time polishing our own work, and not picking up slack. She agreed and said to focus on the three companies we had compiled the most info on while not entirely neglecting the fourth. The papers came out very well, but were understandably weak when comparing the fourth company. The professor understood, and we received the grades we deserved. I was pleased with our teamwork and the way we handled the situation.
During a group project in college, we had one member who would do no work whatsoever. The project was to compare and contrast four companies in a single industry, so his work was vital. We first discussed the situation and asked for the bare-bones minimum of what we needed from him. We got just below that. As a result we as a group went to the professor and told her our situation -- not expecting or requesting action -- just informing her the situation we were dealing with. Then we as a group split up the non-contributor's work, and completed our work collectively on his share. In phase two in which we analyzed the information and reported how each of our companies fared compared to the others, we did not get a paper from the group member. As a result, we told the teacher that we had our work done, and were willing to do the extra paper but that we would rather spend time polishing our own work, and not picking up slack. She agreed and said to focus on the three companies we had compiled the most info on while not entirely neglecting the fourth. The papers came out very well, but were understandably weak when comparing the fourth company. The professor understood, and we received the grades we deserved. I was pleased with our teamwork and the way we handled the situation.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
67. Describe a situation in which you had to
arrive at a compromise or guide others to a compromise.
Sample
excellent response:
My first semester in college, I was a political-science major. My introductory government class professor had a differing political view then I. We disagreed on everything, and many classes were filled with criticizing each others' view. However, on one test I answered a question with the view I believe in, and she marked it wrong. So I asked her how an opinion can be wrong, and she said because her opinion is the way she taught it in class. I pointed out that my answer showed I understood the concepts of the question. She agreed, and I also agreed not be so combative in answers on tests. Compromise is the key to problem resolution.
My first semester in college, I was a political-science major. My introductory government class professor had a differing political view then I. We disagreed on everything, and many classes were filled with criticizing each others' view. However, on one test I answered a question with the view I believe in, and she marked it wrong. So I asked her how an opinion can be wrong, and she said because her opinion is the way she taught it in class. I pointed out that my answer showed I understood the concepts of the question. She agreed, and I also agreed not be so combative in answers on tests. Compromise is the key to problem resolution.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
68. What steps do you follow to study a problem
before making a decision.
Sample
excellent response:
Following standard models for problem-solving and decision-making can be very helpful. Here are the steps and how they helped me solve a problem with a group project:
Following standard models for problem-solving and decision-making can be very helpful. Here are the steps and how they helped me solve a problem with a group project:
1.
Define the problem to be solved
and decision to be made. For a project in an introductory management class the
assignment was to report on the corporate structure and financial situation of
a couple of companies. The decision to be made was what companies to profile
and how to present the information.
2.
Gather the necessary
information. Some group members wanted to report on automakers, while others
wanted to do electronics firms. We gathered information on both types of
company.
3.
List all possible choices. We
made lists of companies in both categories.
4.
Consider possible outcomes for
each choice. We decided that a report about car companies could have a positive
outcome, but one about electronics firms might be more futuristic with
high-tech products such as HDTV, video game consoles, and DVD players.
5.
Check out how you feel about
each of the choices. Given that this was a group project, we had to consider
the feelings of all group members.
6.
Relate the choices to your
values and priorities. Again, all group members weighed in on their values and
priorities.
7.
From the possible alternatives,
choose one. We decided that we'd do electronics companies because we could
bring in products from each company and show what lies ahead.
8.
Commit yourself to your chosen
decision and disregard the others. Concentrate your energies in one direction.
Once we made our decision, we focused all our work on electronics forms.
9.
Take steps to turn your decision
into positive action. All group members got interested in how the companies
were doing.
10.
Evaluate your progress from time
to time. Change your decision if necessary. We were pleased with our progress
and didn't feel a need to change our decision. We got an A on the project.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
69. We can sometimes identify a small problem and
fix it before it becomes a major problem. Give an example(s) of how you have
done this.
Sample
excellent response:
When I worked in a large retail store, the standard procedure was to leave a product on the shelf until it ran out, then place more items out. This practice obviously wasted a lot of man-hours. Of interest particularly to me were the air conditioners. Not only did I have to put the heavy thing on the shelves, but they were selling at a very high rate. So if somehow AC units ran out on a day in which I could not restock them, they would not be available to customers. As a result I started making a list of products (including the AC units) that the overnight stock people could put on the shelves. As a result, the people on duty always had a job to do, so labor hours were not wasted, and the shelves were always stocked full of product.
When I worked in a large retail store, the standard procedure was to leave a product on the shelf until it ran out, then place more items out. This practice obviously wasted a lot of man-hours. Of interest particularly to me were the air conditioners. Not only did I have to put the heavy thing on the shelves, but they were selling at a very high rate. So if somehow AC units ran out on a day in which I could not restock them, they would not be available to customers. As a result I started making a list of products (including the AC units) that the overnight stock people could put on the shelves. As a result, the people on duty always had a job to do, so labor hours were not wasted, and the shelves were always stocked full of product.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
70. In a supervisory or group leader role, have
you ever had to discipline or counsel an employee or group member? What was the
nature of the discipline? What steps did you take? How did that make you feel?
How did you prepare yourself?
Sample
excellent response:
As president of a community-service organization, I was faced with a board member not carrying out his duties as management development vice president. I consulted with him as to what we could do together to fix the problem. We agreed that he really couldn't devote the time that it took to carry out certain projects, and he ended up resigning his position, but he also stated he would help his replacement in whatever capacity he could. It made me feel as though we had come to the conclusion together, rather than him thinking I was criticizing his performance, which was not the case. I had a plan of action and carried it out successfully.
As president of a community-service organization, I was faced with a board member not carrying out his duties as management development vice president. I consulted with him as to what we could do together to fix the problem. We agreed that he really couldn't devote the time that it took to carry out certain projects, and he ended up resigning his position, but he also stated he would help his replacement in whatever capacity he could. It made me feel as though we had come to the conclusion together, rather than him thinking I was criticizing his performance, which was not the case. I had a plan of action and carried it out successfully.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
71. Recall a time from your work experience when
your manager or supervisor was unavailable and a problem arose. What was the
nature of the problem? How did you handle that situation? How did that make you
feel?
Sample
excellent response:
My supervisor was absent once when I was in charge of a soccer game. An actual assault took place at the game. A player hit the referee. With no supervisor to turn to, I immediately called the police, who quickly restored order to the situation. I felt I made an effective decision.
My supervisor was absent once when I was in charge of a soccer game. An actual assault took place at the game. A player hit the referee. With no supervisor to turn to, I immediately called the police, who quickly restored order to the situation. I felt I made an effective decision.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
72. Recall a time when you were assigned what you
considered to be a complex project. Specifically, what steps did you take to
prepare for and finish the project? Were you happy with the outcome? What one
step would you have done differently if given the chance?
Sample
excellent response:
I had to give a marketing presentation while attending community college. The project was about Anheuser-Busch. We were assigned to report on key management personnel (CEO, Chairman of the Board, President, key VPs), divisions and subsidiaries, major products/brands/services, key financials for the most recent year (sales revenue, expenses, total income, net income, sales growth or loss for the last year), market share, key competitors, mission statement, product positioning, and number of employees. Among the steps I took were visiting the company's Miami branch to interview employees and gather visual aids for the project. I spent a lot of time organizing and writing the presentation. Then I spent time reviewing my speech over a period of several days. As a result I was calm while giving the presentation and received an "A" for the project. The one additional step I perhaps wish I'd taken would have been to talk to some consumers and store owners about the product.
I had to give a marketing presentation while attending community college. The project was about Anheuser-Busch. We were assigned to report on key management personnel (CEO, Chairman of the Board, President, key VPs), divisions and subsidiaries, major products/brands/services, key financials for the most recent year (sales revenue, expenses, total income, net income, sales growth or loss for the last year), market share, key competitors, mission statement, product positioning, and number of employees. Among the steps I took were visiting the company's Miami branch to interview employees and gather visual aids for the project. I spent a lot of time organizing and writing the presentation. Then I spent time reviewing my speech over a period of several days. As a result I was calm while giving the presentation and received an "A" for the project. The one additional step I perhaps wish I'd taken would have been to talk to some consumers and store owners about the product.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
Displaying
Interview Questions 73-80
73. What was the most complex assignment you have
had? What was your role?
Sample
excellent response:
My senior research was my most complex assignment. It took two semesters to complete and was made up of many components. I had to make many critical decisions along the way that would affect the outcome of my research. I made these decisions independently with minimal influence from my professor. I was very successful and happy with my final product.
My senior research was my most complex assignment. It took two semesters to complete and was made up of many components. I had to make many critical decisions along the way that would affect the outcome of my research. I made these decisions independently with minimal influence from my professor. I was very successful and happy with my final product.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
74. How was your transition from high school to
college? Did you face any particular problems?
Sample
excellent response:
The transition was somewhat challenging for me because I traveled a great distance to attend college. To help myself adapt, I got involved with as many organizations as I could. I also made it a point to get to know my professors. I used my interpersonal and communication skills to the best of my ability to make a lot of friends, and college became one of the best experiences of my life despite a beginning that seemed a bit overwhelming.
The transition was somewhat challenging for me because I traveled a great distance to attend college. To help myself adapt, I got involved with as many organizations as I could. I also made it a point to get to know my professors. I used my interpersonal and communication skills to the best of my ability to make a lot of friends, and college became one of the best experiences of my life despite a beginning that seemed a bit overwhelming.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
75. Tell of some situations in which you have had
to adjust quickly to changes over which you had no control. What was the impact
of the change on you?
Sample
excellent response:
The bank in which I worked instituted a policy that centralized the lending process. An application was to be taken from the client and sent off to be approved/declined, processed, prepared, and returned to the branch to be signed by the client. While the process was streamlined, it also took away valuable face-to-face knowledge about the client and the loan. If the employee did not have any prior lending experience, he or she couldn't answer simple loan questions from the client. While I appreciated the newly created time on my schedule, I felt that the clients were being slighted. I did adjust quickly to the new procedure and did my best to help those around me by sharing my knowledge.
The bank in which I worked instituted a policy that centralized the lending process. An application was to be taken from the client and sent off to be approved/declined, processed, prepared, and returned to the branch to be signed by the client. While the process was streamlined, it also took away valuable face-to-face knowledge about the client and the loan. If the employee did not have any prior lending experience, he or she couldn't answer simple loan questions from the client. While I appreciated the newly created time on my schedule, I felt that the clients were being slighted. I did adjust quickly to the new procedure and did my best to help those around me by sharing my knowledge.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
76. Compare and contrast the times when you did
work which was above the standard with times your work was below the standard.
Sample
excellent response:
I was involved in two group projects in a psychology class. In the first, we had to decide on a research experiment to conduct and garner results from it. The group I was in was not very motivated, and the members wanted to do a simplistic comparison on color preferences of men and women. I felt that project was below the standard I was capable of. For the second project, I proposed a study in which we compared how people of different age ranges valued money. I knew the project would go over well with the teacher and would not be difficult to conduct. I proposed the idea in a way that sounded fun. Instead of collecting data in someplace boring, I suggested we could go to the mall. The group agreed and worked relatively well on the project. Discussion is the key to mediation, and the key to my achieving a second project that I felt was above the standard.
I was involved in two group projects in a psychology class. In the first, we had to decide on a research experiment to conduct and garner results from it. The group I was in was not very motivated, and the members wanted to do a simplistic comparison on color preferences of men and women. I felt that project was below the standard I was capable of. For the second project, I proposed a study in which we compared how people of different age ranges valued money. I knew the project would go over well with the teacher and would not be difficult to conduct. I proposed the idea in a way that sounded fun. Instead of collecting data in someplace boring, I suggested we could go to the mall. The group agreed and worked relatively well on the project. Discussion is the key to mediation, and the key to my achieving a second project that I felt was above the standard.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
77. Describe some times when you were not very
satisfied or pleased with your performance. What did you do about it?
Sample
excellent response:
I failed my first business calculus test, which made me very unhappy. I wasn't going to let this incident set the trend for the rest of the semester. I went to my counselor and arranged to meet with a tutor once a week. My tutor helped me out incredibly. My grades soon improved, and I went on to redeem myself from my one slip-up on the first test.
I failed my first business calculus test, which made me very unhappy. I wasn't going to let this incident set the trend for the rest of the semester. I went to my counselor and arranged to meet with a tutor once a week. My tutor helped me out incredibly. My grades soon improved, and I went on to redeem myself from my one slip-up on the first test.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
78. What are your standards of success in school?
What have you done to meet these standards?
Sample
excellent response:
I don't believe in trying to get by with the least possible effort, and I am always willing to ask questions to learn how to perform an assignment successfully. In my human-resources management class, for example, we were assigned a paper on "Why corporate culture is a practical way to increase income and productivity." All of the literature on the subject was written in the language of PhDs. I asked some other students what they were doing, and they said just writing their opinions and not doing any research to back up the claims. I felt I could do better. So I worked closely with my professor, who "translated" the academic literature for me, and over time I understood what was being written. Working with the professor's guidance, I turned in a very good paper. Asking questions is one thing I am not afraid to do and realize that without them I will be turning in work that is not as beneficial as it could be.
I don't believe in trying to get by with the least possible effort, and I am always willing to ask questions to learn how to perform an assignment successfully. In my human-resources management class, for example, we were assigned a paper on "Why corporate culture is a practical way to increase income and productivity." All of the literature on the subject was written in the language of PhDs. I asked some other students what they were doing, and they said just writing their opinions and not doing any research to back up the claims. I felt I could do better. So I worked closely with my professor, who "translated" the academic literature for me, and over time I understood what was being written. Working with the professor's guidance, I turned in a very good paper. Asking questions is one thing I am not afraid to do and realize that without them I will be turning in work that is not as beneficial as it could be.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
79. How have you differed from your professors in
evaluating your performance? How did you handle the situation?
Sample
excellent response:
After I wrote a paper for an English class, my professor told me that I was not doing the paper in the proper format or with the proper content. I went to him and asked if he would help me learn the correct way so that I could succeed with the paper. He did help me, and I ended up doing well in the course.
After I wrote a paper for an English class, my professor told me that I was not doing the paper in the proper format or with the proper content. I went to him and asked if he would help me learn the correct way so that I could succeed with the paper. He did help me, and I ended up doing well in the course.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
80. Give examples of your experiences at school
or in a job that were satisfying. Give examples of your experiences that were
dissatisfying.
Sample
excellent response:
I turned a dissatisfying experience into a satisfying one when I was on the cross-country team in college and had never run the whole race in under 30 minutes. With only a month left in the season, I decided that I would run the race in 25 minutes. I ran every day to build up my stamina, and in that last race I achieved my goal time of 25 minutes, which was a very satisfying experience.
I turned a dissatisfying experience into a satisfying one when I was on the cross-country team in college and had never run the whole race in under 30 minutes. With only a month left in the season, I decided that I would run the race in 25 minutes. I ran every day to build up my stamina, and in that last race I achieved my goal time of 25 minutes, which was a very satisfying experience.
81. What kind of supervisor do you work best for?
Provide examples.
Sample
excellent response:
I like to work for a supervisor who allows me the autonomy to perform my job to the best of my abilities. I also like constructive criticism and feedback so I can improve myself and the organization. One example was my boss at a university. He hired me as an administrative coordinator because of my administrative and organizational skills. He knew that I had many new ideas and allowed me the opportunity to implement many new programs. Of course, I kept him constantly informed and sought advice when needed. I improved communications in the department by implementing a departmental Web page. I also streamlined the check-in process by preparing the amount of work that could be done the day before. I improved staff morale by implementing a desk-assistant-of-the-month, which led to lower turnover. These are just a few examples. I was given the Recognizing Outstanding Student Employees Award for my efforts and unique ideas. I gained not only my boss's confidence and support but his respect as well.
I like to work for a supervisor who allows me the autonomy to perform my job to the best of my abilities. I also like constructive criticism and feedback so I can improve myself and the organization. One example was my boss at a university. He hired me as an administrative coordinator because of my administrative and organizational skills. He knew that I had many new ideas and allowed me the opportunity to implement many new programs. Of course, I kept him constantly informed and sought advice when needed. I improved communications in the department by implementing a departmental Web page. I also streamlined the check-in process by preparing the amount of work that could be done the day before. I improved staff morale by implementing a desk-assistant-of-the-month, which led to lower turnover. These are just a few examples. I was given the Recognizing Outstanding Student Employees Award for my efforts and unique ideas. I gained not only my boss's confidence and support but his respect as well.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
82. Describe some projects or ideas (not
necessarily your own) that were implemented, or carried out successfully
primarily because of your efforts.
Sample
excellent response:
I had been recently given the duty of being the head swim team coach for the YMCA I was employed with. A swim meet was just around the corner, but only five swimmers had enrolled for the program, none of whom had ever been a part of an organized team. Funding would be cut for the team if more interest could not be generated. So I decided that I would take action and actively recruit people to join. Not only did I have to run the practices and correct any technical mistakes the swimmers were making, but I had to contact other local swim teams to invite then to join the meet. I had to meet with the parents and the children separately and organize a way to help pay for t-shirts, swimsuits, goggles, and swim caps. By the third week of the program, I had gained 15 more swimmers and every single one had beat his or her own time in practice. When the meet came, I organized the events, ordered ribbons, and recruited volunteers. At the end of the meet, my team had come in first place among four other teams. The parents were delighted, and the profits from the swim team had skyrocketed to the approval of the board of directors.
I had been recently given the duty of being the head swim team coach for the YMCA I was employed with. A swim meet was just around the corner, but only five swimmers had enrolled for the program, none of whom had ever been a part of an organized team. Funding would be cut for the team if more interest could not be generated. So I decided that I would take action and actively recruit people to join. Not only did I have to run the practices and correct any technical mistakes the swimmers were making, but I had to contact other local swim teams to invite then to join the meet. I had to meet with the parents and the children separately and organize a way to help pay for t-shirts, swimsuits, goggles, and swim caps. By the third week of the program, I had gained 15 more swimmers and every single one had beat his or her own time in practice. When the meet came, I organized the events, ordered ribbons, and recruited volunteers. At the end of the meet, my team had come in first place among four other teams. The parents were delighted, and the profits from the swim team had skyrocketed to the approval of the board of directors.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
83. Describe a situation that required a number
of things to be done at the same time. How did you handle it? What was the
result?
Sample
excellent response:
In my current job, I have to handle multiple responsibilities in developing new projects, maintaining existing ones, and maintaining good client relations. I allocate a certain amount of time for each area daily. That way clients can see very clearly that projects are progressing, and I have more satisfaction in accomplishing multiple tasks under pressure.
In my current job, I have to handle multiple responsibilities in developing new projects, maintaining existing ones, and maintaining good client relations. I allocate a certain amount of time for each area daily. That way clients can see very clearly that projects are progressing, and I have more satisfaction in accomplishing multiple tasks under pressure.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
84. Have you found any ways to make school or a
job easier or more rewarding or to make yourself more effective?
Sample
excellent response:
I find that taking a proactive mindset to recognizing and solving problems before they happen make any job more rewarding. It not only saves time and effort but gives me a sense of accomplishment and ownership in my job. I demonstrated my proactiveness when I worked with Food Lion. As a bookkeeper, I was responsible for the offices. The safe was kept outside of the office in front of the cash registers, where anyone could get inside of it if I or another office associate had it open to drop a deposit or get money in and out. I realized that the situation was a security hazard. Although we could not move the safe to the inside of the office where it was more secure, I ordered a time lock compartment and had it installed, and the safe could be opened only at a specific time when the store closed each day. Only money could be dropped through a slot in the compartment door. We kept large sums of money in that compartment. We kept operating cash on hand since we needed some excess money to perform daily functions. One month after I left that store to attend college, I learned that it was robbed. Because of my efforts and foresight, the robbers only got a small amount of cash. My previous supervisor thanked me for my efforts, which gave me a great feeling, and I carried this proactive mindset to my other jobs thereafter.
I find that taking a proactive mindset to recognizing and solving problems before they happen make any job more rewarding. It not only saves time and effort but gives me a sense of accomplishment and ownership in my job. I demonstrated my proactiveness when I worked with Food Lion. As a bookkeeper, I was responsible for the offices. The safe was kept outside of the office in front of the cash registers, where anyone could get inside of it if I or another office associate had it open to drop a deposit or get money in and out. I realized that the situation was a security hazard. Although we could not move the safe to the inside of the office where it was more secure, I ordered a time lock compartment and had it installed, and the safe could be opened only at a specific time when the store closed each day. Only money could be dropped through a slot in the compartment door. We kept large sums of money in that compartment. We kept operating cash on hand since we needed some excess money to perform daily functions. One month after I left that store to attend college, I learned that it was robbed. Because of my efforts and foresight, the robbers only got a small amount of cash. My previous supervisor thanked me for my efforts, which gave me a great feeling, and I carried this proactive mindset to my other jobs thereafter.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
85. How do you determine priorities in scheduling
your time? Give examples.
Sample
excellent response:
I took a time-management course in which I learned to prioritize all tasks on A, B, or C lists. I always try to tackle the A list first. In every working situation, co-workers have always complimented me on how well I manage my time. I enjoy the social atmosphere of the office, but I make it a point not to waste much time on chitchat with colleagues. I've also learned that the average office worker spends about an hour a day handling e-mail. I make it a point not to deal with my e-mail more than once or twice a day, and I filter my messages into folders so I can prioritize the way I deal with them.
I took a time-management course in which I learned to prioritize all tasks on A, B, or C lists. I always try to tackle the A list first. In every working situation, co-workers have always complimented me on how well I manage my time. I enjoy the social atmosphere of the office, but I make it a point not to waste much time on chitchat with colleagues. I've also learned that the average office worker spends about an hour a day handling e-mail. I make it a point not to deal with my e-mail more than once or twice a day, and I filter my messages into folders so I can prioritize the way I deal with them.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
86. Tell of a time when your active listening
skills really paid off for you -- maybe a time when other people missed the key
idea being expressed.
Sample
excellent response:
When I presented my senior research in college, I was questioned by the members of my major department as a "panel." My grade was determined largely on my ability to answer the questions effectively and smoothly, which depended very much on my ability to listen carefully to what was being asked. I had seen other students slip up when they misunderstood what the panel was asking because they didn't listen well enough. I succeeded in listening well and did well on my presentation.
When I presented my senior research in college, I was questioned by the members of my major department as a "panel." My grade was determined largely on my ability to answer the questions effectively and smoothly, which depended very much on my ability to listen carefully to what was being asked. I had seen other students slip up when they misunderstood what the panel was asking because they didn't listen well enough. I succeeded in listening well and did well on my presentation.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
87. What has been your experience in giving
presentations? What has been your most successful experience in speech making?
Sample
excellent response:
I have grown to be a confident presenter. My most successful presentation took place at my university when I was responsible for presenting a leadership-development program for a class of Resident Assistants. The point of my program was to teach each RA his/her leadership style, so he/she knew how to interact on his/her floor as a student leader. The most significant aspect of this program is that it taught them about their leadership styles without their knowing it. Each student filled out a general questionnaire that asked about preferences. Each person according to his/her responses were assigned to a group with a general name. I then gave each group a book to read. Each group had to read it aloud. After each group read each book, I then explained how each group tackled the task. They all had handled the task differently. Each student successfully understood how they approached tasks and from that how they would approach their job as a RA. Not only did I engage the audience in what was being presented, I have since seen the program adapted in other presentations by RAs in that class. Not only did they enjoy it, they learned something about themselves that would help them help their residents.
I have grown to be a confident presenter. My most successful presentation took place at my university when I was responsible for presenting a leadership-development program for a class of Resident Assistants. The point of my program was to teach each RA his/her leadership style, so he/she knew how to interact on his/her floor as a student leader. The most significant aspect of this program is that it taught them about their leadership styles without their knowing it. Each student filled out a general questionnaire that asked about preferences. Each person according to his/her responses were assigned to a group with a general name. I then gave each group a book to read. Each group had to read it aloud. After each group read each book, I then explained how each group tackled the task. They all had handled the task differently. Each student successfully understood how they approached tasks and from that how they would approach their job as a RA. Not only did I engage the audience in what was being presented, I have since seen the program adapted in other presentations by RAs in that class. Not only did they enjoy it, they learned something about themselves that would help them help their residents.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
88. Tell of the most difficult customer service
experience that you have ever had to handle -- perhaps an angry or irate
customer. Be specific and tell what you did and what was the outcome.
Sample
excellent response:
I was making business phone calls behind the membership office at the YMCA when an angry man came up to the counter demanding a refund. He began yelling at the membership workers and complaining about the swimming program, saying that it was a rip-off. The other workers were flustered, and even though membership services were not my department, I calmly asked the man what was wrong. He that his son had been in swimming lessons for four weeks and was still afraid of the water. Instead of instantly giving him the refund, I offered to personally give his son private swim lessons for a week, explaining to him that sometimes children react differently to each instructor's teaching techniques. He finally agreed to accept without the refund. After a week of private lessons, his son was no longer afraid of the water and he could swim nearly a lap of the pool. At the end of the lessons, not only did he sign his child up for another paid session of private lessons, but he bought a family membership and apologized to me for his behavior the week before.
I was making business phone calls behind the membership office at the YMCA when an angry man came up to the counter demanding a refund. He began yelling at the membership workers and complaining about the swimming program, saying that it was a rip-off. The other workers were flustered, and even though membership services were not my department, I calmly asked the man what was wrong. He that his son had been in swimming lessons for four weeks and was still afraid of the water. Instead of instantly giving him the refund, I offered to personally give his son private swim lessons for a week, explaining to him that sometimes children react differently to each instructor's teaching techniques. He finally agreed to accept without the refund. After a week of private lessons, his son was no longer afraid of the water and he could swim nearly a lap of the pool. At the end of the lessons, not only did he sign his child up for another paid session of private lessons, but he bought a family membership and apologized to me for his behavior the week before.
89. Give an example of when you had to work with
someone who was difficult to get along with. Why was this person difficult? How
did you handle that person?
Sample
excellent response:
As a Resident Advisor, I had another RA who often sought me as a person to confide her complaints to and shared quite a bit of information about activities she'd engaged in that violated the rules. Although I did not mind being a resource for this person, I knew that I could not compromise my integrity or her residents' safety. Although she became very outraged and angry with me, I talked to her about the situation and and told her that I would have to tell my supervisor. She eventually understood my responsibility and why I had to come forward with information. She knew that what she had done was against the rules, but never realized before I talked to her that she had jeopardized her residents' safety.
As a Resident Advisor, I had another RA who often sought me as a person to confide her complaints to and shared quite a bit of information about activities she'd engaged in that violated the rules. Although I did not mind being a resource for this person, I knew that I could not compromise my integrity or her residents' safety. Although she became very outraged and angry with me, I talked to her about the situation and and told her that I would have to tell my supervisor. She eventually understood my responsibility and why I had to come forward with information. She knew that what she had done was against the rules, but never realized before I talked to her that she had jeopardized her residents' safety.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
90. Describe a situation where you found yourself
dealing with someone who didn't like you. How did you handle it?
Sample
excellent response:
When I first began working as an OIC, I was the least experience amongst my colleague on the floor. An older colleague on the floor, When I first got there she barely acknowledged my presence, and through word of mouth I discovered that she thought that I was fresh to fulfill my duties because I was so inexperienced. She assumed I was immature. I did my job and took every opportunity to make a good impression. I was a very diligent worker and behaved in a highly professional manner at all
When I first began working as an OIC, I was the least experience amongst my colleague on the floor. An older colleague on the floor, When I first got there she barely acknowledged my presence, and through word of mouth I discovered that she thought that I was fresh to fulfill my duties because I was so inexperienced. She assumed I was immature. I did my job and took every opportunity to make a good impression. I was a very diligent worker and behaved in a highly professional manner at all
Times, learning quickly
the best way to do things. After about two weeks of the silent treatment from
her, she came up to me and told me how impressed she was with me. She told me
that I had done an excellent job and was the fastest learner that she had ever
seen. She apologized to me for ignoring me and took me under her wing and
shared what she knew with me.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
91. Give me a specific example of something you
did that helped build enthusiasm in others.
Sample
excellent response:
When I was coaching my swim team at their first swim meet, the swimmers on my team were intimidated by the other team because they were bigger and obviously more experienced. The other team members looked like pros in their matching swimsuits, unlike my swimmers' mismatched suits. I encouraged them and told them that they had practiced for so long and so hard that they deserved just as much respect as those other teams. I told them that it didn't matter whether we had matching swimsuits or not and that I would stand behind them 100 percent no matter what. They were so excited and pumped after my speech. They cheered each other on, and not only did every child break his or her own record, but my team won first place in the meet among four other teams that had been together for a much longer time.
When I was coaching my swim team at their first swim meet, the swimmers on my team were intimidated by the other team because they were bigger and obviously more experienced. The other team members looked like pros in their matching swimsuits, unlike my swimmers' mismatched suits. I encouraged them and told them that they had practiced for so long and so hard that they deserved just as much respect as those other teams. I told them that it didn't matter whether we had matching swimsuits or not and that I would stand behind them 100 percent no matter what. They were so excited and pumped after my speech. They cheered each other on, and not only did every child break his or her own record, but my team won first place in the meet among four other teams that had been together for a much longer time.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
92. Tell me about a difficult situation when it
was desirable for you to keep a positive attitude. What did you do?
Sample
excellent response:
While directing a play, I was faced with numerous problems. The sets were not coming together; the performers were fighting and not working hard; the technical aspects of the play were far from complete, and in general it was a mess. I was the "stage manager," which means that I tell people when to go on stage and tell the crew when to bring pieces of the set on stage. So I organized everything and told people to do specific jobs and asked them in a firm yet positive manner. People began to have fun, and the production went on extremely well (all performances sold out). The play was regarded as one of the smoothest shows to have been produced by the group.
While directing a play, I was faced with numerous problems. The sets were not coming together; the performers were fighting and not working hard; the technical aspects of the play were far from complete, and in general it was a mess. I was the "stage manager," which means that I tell people when to go on stage and tell the crew when to bring pieces of the set on stage. So I organized everything and told people to do specific jobs and asked them in a firm yet positive manner. People began to have fun, and the production went on extremely well (all performances sold out). The play was regarded as one of the smoothest shows to have been produced by the group.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
93. Give me an example of a time you had to make
an important decision. How did you make the decision? How does it affect you
today?
Sample
excellent response:
My sophomore year was about to begin and I had to decide on a major. I could not waste any more credits figuring out what I was interested in. I took some personality and career assessments to get a better handle on my interests, skills, and values. I talked to faculty in several departments to decide which faculty members I was most comfortable with. I studied the course offerings to see which courses appealed to me the most. I decided on communications studies and feel it is the best decision I ever could have made.
My sophomore year was about to begin and I had to decide on a major. I could not waste any more credits figuring out what I was interested in. I took some personality and career assessments to get a better handle on my interests, skills, and values. I talked to faculty in several departments to decide which faculty members I was most comfortable with. I studied the course offerings to see which courses appealed to me the most. I decided on communications studies and feel it is the best decision I ever could have made.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
94. Give me an example of a time you had to
persuade other people to take action. Were you successful?
Sample
excellent response:
I was the leader of my macroeconomics group in college. As leader, I had to delegate parts of the assignment to other group members. Not only did I do a written part for each paper, but I gathered all of the props we needed for our oral presentation, and I typed all of the five papers assigned. I was also taking four other classes at the time. By the fourth paper, I decided to persuade some of the other group members to edit and finalize it. I learned a lot about delegation and leadership when I discovered that they were happy to help out.
I was the leader of my macroeconomics group in college. As leader, I had to delegate parts of the assignment to other group members. Not only did I do a written part for each paper, but I gathered all of the props we needed for our oral presentation, and I typed all of the five papers assigned. I was also taking four other classes at the time. By the fourth paper, I decided to persuade some of the other group members to edit and finalize it. I learned a lot about delegation and leadership when I discovered that they were happy to help out.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
95. Tell me about a time when you had to deal
with a difficult person. How did you handle the situation?
Sample
excellent response:
When I was an agent we had a monthly incentives as team. I had to work with a group to meet our number and I had some personality clashes with one of the group members. However, I realized the importance of meeting our number in a prompt and efficient manner. I made it a point to put my differences aside and complete my part, along with offering assistance to the other group members. As a result, we exceeded our targets without any conflict and we got the monthly incentives.
When I was an agent we had a monthly incentives as team. I had to work with a group to meet our number and I had some personality clashes with one of the group members. However, I realized the importance of meeting our number in a prompt and efficient manner. I made it a point to put my differences aside and complete my part, along with offering assistance to the other group members. As a result, we exceeded our targets without any conflict and we got the monthly incentives.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
96. Tell me about a time you had to handle
multiple responsibilities. How did you organize the work you needed to do?
Sample
excellent response:
I became team lead OIC for 4 months. I was successful because I practiced good time-management skills and I made a to-do list every day. As I completed each task, I checked it off the list. It is funny how something so simple can keep you so organized. As a result of my to-do lists, I was able to visualize my daily progress.
I became team lead OIC for 4 months. I was successful because I practiced good time-management skills and I made a to-do list every day. As I completed each task, I checked it off the list. It is funny how something so simple can keep you so organized. As a result of my to-do lists, I was able to visualize my daily progress.
97. Tell me about a time when you had to make a
decision, but didn't have all the information you needed.
Sample
excellent response:
I had to make a decision recently between two configurations on one of our routers. Time was quickly moving away from me, and I had to have all the equipment back up in a matter of minutes. I chose the configuration that I had the most data on because I knew at least that I could better troubleshoot it if there was a problem. My decision was the right one.
I had to make a decision recently between two configurations on one of our routers. Time was quickly moving away from me, and I had to have all the equipment back up in a matter of minutes. I chose the configuration that I had the most data on because I knew at least that I could better troubleshoot it if there was a problem. My decision was the right one.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
98. What suggestions do you have for our
organization?
Sample
excellent response:
After examining several sources, including your company's annual report and Web site, as well as some of your competitors' sources, I see that you have a strong product line with good demographic segments, in a growing industry. I did notice that your competitors seem to direct more of their efforts to the baby boom market, and while that is certainly a large market for your products, I think you have a great opportunity to expand your target market and increase your market share by marketing your product line to the Baby Boomers' kids -- Generation Y. These teens and preteens are extremely brand conscious and have a high discretionary income -- and you are in a great position to attract them to your product and build a very large core of brand loyal consumers on top of your existing customer base.
After examining several sources, including your company's annual report and Web site, as well as some of your competitors' sources, I see that you have a strong product line with good demographic segments, in a growing industry. I did notice that your competitors seem to direct more of their efforts to the baby boom market, and while that is certainly a large market for your products, I think you have a great opportunity to expand your target market and increase your market share by marketing your product line to the Baby Boomers' kids -- Generation Y. These teens and preteens are extremely brand conscious and have a high discretionary income -- and you are in a great position to attract them to your product and build a very large core of brand loyal consumers on top of your existing customer base.
99. What is the most significant contribution you
made to the company during a past job or internship?
Sample
excellent response:
My organization was undergoing an accreditation process. I developed two detailed accreditation self-evaluation reports that documented how the organization met accreditation standards. These self-evaluations served as basis for accreditation site visits and enabled all eligible programs to be accredited in record time.
My organization was undergoing an accreditation process. I developed two detailed accreditation self-evaluation reports that documented how the organization met accreditation standards. These self-evaluations served as basis for accreditation site visits and enabled all eligible programs to be accredited in record time.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
100. What is the biggest mistake you've made?
Sample
excellent response:
The biggest mistake in my life that I have made is taking for granted the sacrifices my parents endured for me. I look back and realize that everything they did for me was so that I could succeed in life. I am thankful now and do everything to my best ability to make them proud because I am so thankful that they have been there for me so that I can give back to society and to my job the opportunities that they never had.
The biggest mistake in my life that I have made is taking for granted the sacrifices my parents endured for me. I look back and realize that everything they did for me was so that I could succeed in life. I am thankful now and do everything to my best ability to make them proud because I am so thankful that they have been there for me so that I can give back to society and to my job the opportunities that they never had.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
102. Give me a specific example of a time when a
co-worker or classmate criticized your work in front of others. How did you
respond? How has that event shaped the way you communicate with others?
Sample
excellent response:
Another manager became upset with me since some projects were not being completed. Without discussing the situation with me first, she criticized me in front of one of the employees I directly supervised. I was upset that she made me look bad in front of my workers, but I remained calm and asked her to step into the office so that we could talk about it in more detail. We discussed the problem, and she learned that the non-completion of the tasks was not my fault. Another manager did not receive his instructions telling him the tasks he needed to complete. After that I learned not to jump to conclusions when dealing with others that I work and that sometimes a miscommunication can lead to a much larger problem. I've learned to get the complete facts.
Another manager became upset with me since some projects were not being completed. Without discussing the situation with me first, she criticized me in front of one of the employees I directly supervised. I was upset that she made me look bad in front of my workers, but I remained calm and asked her to step into the office so that we could talk about it in more detail. We discussed the problem, and she learned that the non-completion of the tasks was not my fault. Another manager did not receive his instructions telling him the tasks he needed to complete. After that I learned not to jump to conclusions when dealing with others that I work and that sometimes a miscommunication can lead to a much larger problem. I've learned to get the complete facts.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
103. Give me a specific example of a time when
you sold your supervisor or professor on an idea or concept. How did you proceed?
What was the result?
Sample
excellent response:
Last summer, I wanted to help organize a summer camp for local low-income children. My supervisor knew the demand would be there but feared we would not have enough staff. I convinced her that since I went to the facility daily, I could network with acquaintances and convince them of the importance of this camp. My supervisor trusted me. We had hundreds of children sign up for the program, and I had reached so many people that we were able fully staff the camp, as well as have a backup supply of people who were willing to volunteer their time and services to the organization.
Last summer, I wanted to help organize a summer camp for local low-income children. My supervisor knew the demand would be there but feared we would not have enough staff. I convinced her that since I went to the facility daily, I could network with acquaintances and convince them of the importance of this camp. My supervisor trusted me. We had hundreds of children sign up for the program, and I had reached so many people that we were able fully staff the camp, as well as have a backup supply of people who were willing to volunteer their time and services to the organization.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
104. Describe the system you use for keeping
track of multiple projects. How do you track your progress so that you can meet
deadlines? How do you stay focused?
Sample
excellent response:
I keep an electronic hand-held organizer that I synchronize with a schedule on my computer. I keep track of each task in order of priority and due date. I use an electronic organizer because it is very portable and has an alarm to remind me of about what is due so I don't have to waste time by looking at my organizer every hour. I start with the projects with the closest due date and the highest priority. I take these tasks and then schedule times in my calendar for me to work on them to ensure I meet deadlines. I stay focused by going over my organizer each night before bed so I know immediately what I have accomplished and where I need to start the next day. Here let me show you
I keep an electronic hand-held organizer that I synchronize with a schedule on my computer. I keep track of each task in order of priority and due date. I use an electronic organizer because it is very portable and has an alarm to remind me of about what is due so I don't have to waste time by looking at my organizer every hour. I start with the projects with the closest due date and the highest priority. I take these tasks and then schedule times in my calendar for me to work on them to ensure I meet deadlines. I stay focused by going over my organizer each night before bed so I know immediately what I have accomplished and where I need to start the next day. Here let me show you
105. Tell me about a time when you came up with
an innovative solution to a challenge your company/class/organization was facing.
What was the challenge? What role did others play?
Sample
excellent response:
The trucks at Wal-Mart come loaded by personnel at by a distribution center, box-by-box. After receiving a few trucks, I noticed that my employees were unloading broken merchandise that took a lot of time to clean up before the rest of the truck could be finished. The broken glass, paint, or whatever material it was prevented the employees from preceding farther into the truck, causing more person-hours than normal. I noticed that the merchandise was broken because heavier boxes were on top of lighter boxes. After a couple of days of this situation, productivity decreasing, I learned that the rest of the stores in my district faced the same problem. As a result, I asked each store to take pictures of the mess so the distribution centers could see exactly what was happening. I also asked each one to write down how many additional person-hours it took to clean up the mess. After we gathered this information for a four-week period, we had a pretty a good estimate of how much the company was losing, approximately $9.50 per person-hour...an average of $125 per store times 15 stores times 30 nights a month amounted to a substantial sum. We took the information as a group to our district manager. Once he realized how much money his district was losing each month because of broken merchandise in the trucks, he contacted his regional manager, and the trucks after that were loaded more carefully. The district made our Profit and Loss the next month by a 9 percent increase.
The trucks at Wal-Mart come loaded by personnel at by a distribution center, box-by-box. After receiving a few trucks, I noticed that my employees were unloading broken merchandise that took a lot of time to clean up before the rest of the truck could be finished. The broken glass, paint, or whatever material it was prevented the employees from preceding farther into the truck, causing more person-hours than normal. I noticed that the merchandise was broken because heavier boxes were on top of lighter boxes. After a couple of days of this situation, productivity decreasing, I learned that the rest of the stores in my district faced the same problem. As a result, I asked each store to take pictures of the mess so the distribution centers could see exactly what was happening. I also asked each one to write down how many additional person-hours it took to clean up the mess. After we gathered this information for a four-week period, we had a pretty a good estimate of how much the company was losing, approximately $9.50 per person-hour...an average of $125 per store times 15 stores times 30 nights a month amounted to a substantial sum. We took the information as a group to our district manager. Once he realized how much money his district was losing each month because of broken merchandise in the trucks, he contacted his regional manager, and the trucks after that were loaded more carefully. The district made our Profit and Loss the next month by a 9 percent increase.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
106. Describe a specific problem you solved for
your employer or professor. How did you approach the problem? What role did
others play? What was the outcome?
Sample
excellent response:
When I was working as a receptionist at an apartment complex, a tenant argued that he had turned in his rent payment the day it was due. He stated that he had slipped it under the door because our office was closed for the day. I decided to consult my manager because I realized that maybe the office needed a sign that stated that we did not accept rent money that is slipped under the door. My boss agreed, and we posted the sign. We never again had a problem with tenants who claimed they'd paid their rent that way.
When I was working as a receptionist at an apartment complex, a tenant argued that he had turned in his rent payment the day it was due. He stated that he had slipped it under the door because our office was closed for the day. I decided to consult my manager because I realized that maybe the office needed a sign that stated that we did not accept rent money that is slipped under the door. My boss agreed, and we posted the sign. We never again had a problem with tenants who claimed they'd paid their rent that way.
107. Describe a time when you got co-workers or
classmates who dislike each other to work together. How did you accomplish this?
What was the outcome?
Sample
excellent response:
When I worked for a law firm, my co-workers and I had a huge mailing to complete. We had the choice of working more efficiently as a team -- or individually in a much more time-consuming manner. My two co-workers did not care for each other and they wanted to complete the mail-out on an individual level. When I presented them with the evidence that we would finish at least an hour earlier by working together, they decided that working together was the right path to take. As a result, we finished the mail-out in a short period of time and could work on other tasks that day.
When I worked for a law firm, my co-workers and I had a huge mailing to complete. We had the choice of working more efficiently as a team -- or individually in a much more time-consuming manner. My two co-workers did not care for each other and they wanted to complete the mail-out on an individual level. When I presented them with the evidence that we would finish at least an hour earlier by working together, they decided that working together was the right path to take. As a result, we finished the mail-out in a short period of time and could work on other tasks that day.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
108. Tell me about a time when you failed to meet
a deadline. What things did you fail to do? What were the repercussions? What
did you learn?
Sample
excellent response:
I recently failed to meet a deadline in my communications course with a project I had to do on the Internet. I did not meet the deadline because I underestimated the amount of time the assignment would take me to complete. Therefore, the assignment was incomplete when I turned it in. As a result I lost points on my final grade.I learned the importance of examining tasks more carefully so I can better estimate the amount of time required to complete them. I also learned to build some flex time into projects so that if my estimates are wrong, I'll still have time to complete the tasks.
I recently failed to meet a deadline in my communications course with a project I had to do on the Internet. I did not meet the deadline because I underestimated the amount of time the assignment would take me to complete. Therefore, the assignment was incomplete when I turned it in. As a result I lost points on my final grade.I learned the importance of examining tasks more carefully so I can better estimate the amount of time required to complete them. I also learned to build some flex time into projects so that if my estimates are wrong, I'll still have time to complete the tasks.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
109. Describe a time when you put your needs
aside to help a co-worker or classmate understand a task. How did you assist
him or her? What was the result?
Sample
excellent response:
I was studying right before a major finance test. As the class came into the classroom a couple of students indicated that did not understand a concept that I did. Although there was a small section of material that I had not completely mastered, I realized that I knew enough about that section that I could perform well enough to earn a good grade. I knew that the section that the other students did not understand was a major portion of the exam since the professor had an interest in this particular subject. I stopped what I was doing to explain to the small group about the Multiplier Effect of Bank Reserves on the overall supply of money. Those students learned enough from what I taught them that they did well on the exam. I missed a few points on the section of material that I had not mastered, but I did well enough to get an A, and the satisfaction I got from teaching others the concept made me feel proud.
I was studying right before a major finance test. As the class came into the classroom a couple of students indicated that did not understand a concept that I did. Although there was a small section of material that I had not completely mastered, I realized that I knew enough about that section that I could perform well enough to earn a good grade. I knew that the section that the other students did not understand was a major portion of the exam since the professor had an interest in this particular subject. I stopped what I was doing to explain to the small group about the Multiplier Effect of Bank Reserves on the overall supply of money. Those students learned enough from what I taught them that they did well on the exam. I missed a few points on the section of material that I had not mastered, but I did well enough to get an A, and the satisfaction I got from teaching others the concept made me feel proud.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
110. Give two examples of things you've done in
previous jobs or school that demonstrate your willingness to work hard.
Sample
excellent response:
The day we had inventory at Best Buy, I worked a 13-hour day. I did this because I knew we were understaffed and that a lot of the lower-level employees who would be working with the inventory team were very nervous about being in charge of the inventory when many of them had never done it before. Conveniently, I used to work for the inventory company that was handling our store, so I still had a fairly deep understanding of their processes and methods. I typically work 8-9 hour shifts, but I stayed longer after my shift to ensure that our lower-level employees felt comfortable and that the inventory got started on time and that it took off in the right direction. I met with a few of the the lower-level employees, and I told them a few tips on how to solve problems they may encounter, and it worked; they all seemed to feel a little more comfortable. Then I walked the store and made sure that it was presentable for our guests and in case we got a surprise visit from headquarters. I couldn't stay for the inventory myself because I had class in the morning, and it would've put me over my 40 hours for the week, but I was glad I could stay long enough to make everyone feel a little more comfortable, and that I had time to make them all feel appreciated.
The day we had inventory at Best Buy, I worked a 13-hour day. I did this because I knew we were understaffed and that a lot of the lower-level employees who would be working with the inventory team were very nervous about being in charge of the inventory when many of them had never done it before. Conveniently, I used to work for the inventory company that was handling our store, so I still had a fairly deep understanding of their processes and methods. I typically work 8-9 hour shifts, but I stayed longer after my shift to ensure that our lower-level employees felt comfortable and that the inventory got started on time and that it took off in the right direction. I met with a few of the the lower-level employees, and I told them a few tips on how to solve problems they may encounter, and it worked; they all seemed to feel a little more comfortable. Then I walked the store and made sure that it was presentable for our guests and in case we got a surprise visit from headquarters. I couldn't stay for the inventory myself because I had class in the morning, and it would've put me over my 40 hours for the week, but I was glad I could stay long enough to make everyone feel a little more comfortable, and that I had time to make them all feel appreciated.
Another example of
something that merited a lot of effort on my behalf was my marketing research
paper. I enjoy group projects because I enjoy learning about the perspectives
of others; however, sometimes the burdens appear to outweigh the benefits.
Having a group project such as this one with 5-6 team members was a difficult
task when most of us had school and jobs to juggle. We created an online survey
and sent it to everyone on our contact list. We were doing research for a museum,
and they had a contact list of award-winning artists whose perspectives they
wanted us to use in our project. Anyone whose email didn't work or who didn't
fill out the survey we tried to contact over the phone. Then we ran all of that
data through SPSS and started to create our paper -- in completion our paper
was 120 pages. The project was an amazing experience and I am so proud to say
I've done it, I love having the opportunity to talk about what I have
accomplished, but it merited a great deal of effort and a lot of learning along
the way. My group was good; they were a solid group of people who were smart
and willing to put in the time, and we got the highest grade in the class.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
111. Describe the last time that you undertook a
project that demanded a lot of initiative.
Sample
excellent response:
During my internship with World Market, we were asked to pick an area or a problem and create a way to improve World Market process. I noticed that our food vendors were not really pulling their weight -- with the economic downturn and the price of gas especially, our sales are down right now, which often means decreased payroll -- so at this juncture it was critical that our vendors perform up to par so we don't have to waste our payroll hours doing their work. Initially I just wanted to change our vendor survey. The survey had 4 questions for each vendor, who got rated green (good) or red (bad) on each question -- that was it. So I turned it into 10 questions that each fell under the categories of one of the initial 4 questions. I also changed the rating scale to a 1-5 scale, 1-2 were red, 3-4 were yellow, and 5 was green. I did a Likert scale rather than a simple red, yellow, green concept because I wanted to be better able to track improvement. This didn't seem like enough to me; I decided there were so many other ways I could tweak the process. So then I created a new vendor scorecard (their feedback -- this shows them their weekly ratings in each area) and a new Vendor notes card (this is where any comments go and shows them any specific dates we had problems with their products, like spoiled milk, for example). I also created a new vendor expectations guide that was a little more professional and attuned to be consistent with the changed I made to the survey. Finally I created an idea for development, putting the survey on a hand-held scanning device so the Team Leader in charge of that area of the store could take the scanner around with her as she did the survey, increasing its accuracy. The survey would also show the vendors' scorecard history (last month, quarterly average, biannual average, and annual average) so we could determine whether or not the vendor was improving.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
During my internship with World Market, we were asked to pick an area or a problem and create a way to improve World Market process. I noticed that our food vendors were not really pulling their weight -- with the economic downturn and the price of gas especially, our sales are down right now, which often means decreased payroll -- so at this juncture it was critical that our vendors perform up to par so we don't have to waste our payroll hours doing their work. Initially I just wanted to change our vendor survey. The survey had 4 questions for each vendor, who got rated green (good) or red (bad) on each question -- that was it. So I turned it into 10 questions that each fell under the categories of one of the initial 4 questions. I also changed the rating scale to a 1-5 scale, 1-2 were red, 3-4 were yellow, and 5 was green. I did a Likert scale rather than a simple red, yellow, green concept because I wanted to be better able to track improvement. This didn't seem like enough to me; I decided there were so many other ways I could tweak the process. So then I created a new vendor scorecard (their feedback -- this shows them their weekly ratings in each area) and a new Vendor notes card (this is where any comments go and shows them any specific dates we had problems with their products, like spoiled milk, for example). I also created a new vendor expectations guide that was a little more professional and attuned to be consistent with the changed I made to the survey. Finally I created an idea for development, putting the survey on a hand-held scanning device so the Team Leader in charge of that area of the store could take the scanner around with her as she did the survey, increasing its accuracy. The survey would also show the vendors' scorecard history (last month, quarterly average, biannual average, and annual average) so we could determine whether or not the vendor was improving.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
112.What is the most competitive work or school
situation you have experienced? How did you handle it? What was the result?
Sample
excellent response:
I worked at a retail store, where we had a competition to win an extra discount at the store. Our task was to get more credit-card applications than any other employee. I handled this task by presenting the customer with the benefits of signing up for the credit card and taking the time to explain to them what exactly they were getting into. This seemed to be a great way to deal with this task because people appreciated the honesty and were happy to get the card because of the benefits. I did very well with this task and ended up wining the contest.
[contributed by Keri]
I worked at a retail store, where we had a competition to win an extra discount at the store. Our task was to get more credit-card applications than any other employee. I handled this task by presenting the customer with the benefits of signing up for the credit card and taking the time to explain to them what exactly they were getting into. This seemed to be a great way to deal with this task because people appreciated the honesty and were happy to get the card because of the benefits. I did very well with this task and ended up wining the contest.
[contributed by Keri]
113. Describe a project or situation that best
demonstrates your analytical abilities.
Sample
excellent response:
During my Marketing Research course, we were assigned a group project to do marketing research for a local business. After we collected all of the data, we had to analyze the data in a meaningful way for the business and report the results. It turned out that I had the strongest analytical abilities in the group, so I led the rest of the group in analyzing the data. Because of my analytical skills, we found that the business had been targeting the wrong market all along and were able to show the owner the market segment that the business should be targeting.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
During my Marketing Research course, we were assigned a group project to do marketing research for a local business. After we collected all of the data, we had to analyze the data in a meaningful way for the business and report the results. It turned out that I had the strongest analytical abilities in the group, so I led the rest of the group in analyzing the data. Because of my analytical skills, we found that the business had been targeting the wrong market all along and were able to show the owner the market segment that the business should be targeting.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
114. Give an example of when you took a risk to
achieve a goal. What was the outcome?
Sample
excellent response:
When I decided to study abroad in the spring of 2007, I had to weigh the pros and cons of the decision. People who study abroad typically get worse grades abroad than at home because of the educational and cultural differences, so I had to consider the risk to my GPA. I also had to consider how expensive it would be to live abroad without being allowed to have a job, so there was a financial risk as well. On top of this, when studying abroad at this particular university, because of the difference in education, I was allowed to take only 3 courses, which was significant to me because I already was on a strict schedule from switching majors so late in my college career. So I also had to consider the risk of cramming my schedule with difficult classes in my senior year. But I knew that this was going to be a life-changing experience that I may never get to participate in again. So I took the risk and studied abroad. Now, I have that experience, and it has made me a better candidate for places in my career. It shows that I can overcome great challenges and have been immersed into foreign culture, which is important in my career in the art industry.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
When I decided to study abroad in the spring of 2007, I had to weigh the pros and cons of the decision. People who study abroad typically get worse grades abroad than at home because of the educational and cultural differences, so I had to consider the risk to my GPA. I also had to consider how expensive it would be to live abroad without being allowed to have a job, so there was a financial risk as well. On top of this, when studying abroad at this particular university, because of the difference in education, I was allowed to take only 3 courses, which was significant to me because I already was on a strict schedule from switching majors so late in my college career. So I also had to consider the risk of cramming my schedule with difficult classes in my senior year. But I knew that this was going to be a life-changing experience that I may never get to participate in again. So I took the risk and studied abroad. Now, I have that experience, and it has made me a better candidate for places in my career. It shows that I can overcome great challenges and have been immersed into foreign culture, which is important in my career in the art industry.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
115. Tell about a time when you built rapport
quickly with someone under difficult conditions.
Sample
excellent response:
While managing a high-end mall jewelry store in which the clientele are usually quite well-mannered and soft-spoken, I returned from a lunch break to find one of our newer sales associates struggling with an irate and somewhat irrational customer. Voices were escalating, with the customer spewing negative comments that could be heard from within the mall. While maintaining good relationships with our customers is a hallmark of our company, this particular situation was not ordinary by any means. I could tell the sales associate was in over his head with this encounter, so I quickly walked into the conversation -- argument -- and proceeded to ask the customer several key questions so that I could both calm her down while also discovering more about her situation so that I could then defuse the confrontation and restore order in the store. In the process of talking with her, I found we had a common love of dogs and were able to talk about our dogs -- sharing some funny stories -- before getting back to her specific problem with the store. In the end, it turns out the company that handles our credit card had been double-billing her account, and I was able to make a phone call and solve her problem.
While managing a high-end mall jewelry store in which the clientele are usually quite well-mannered and soft-spoken, I returned from a lunch break to find one of our newer sales associates struggling with an irate and somewhat irrational customer. Voices were escalating, with the customer spewing negative comments that could be heard from within the mall. While maintaining good relationships with our customers is a hallmark of our company, this particular situation was not ordinary by any means. I could tell the sales associate was in over his head with this encounter, so I quickly walked into the conversation -- argument -- and proceeded to ask the customer several key questions so that I could both calm her down while also discovering more about her situation so that I could then defuse the confrontation and restore order in the store. In the process of talking with her, I found we had a common love of dogs and were able to talk about our dogs -- sharing some funny stories -- before getting back to her specific problem with the store. In the end, it turns out the company that handles our credit card had been double-billing her account, and I was able to make a phone call and solve her problem.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
116. Some people consider themselves to be
"big picture people" and others are detail oriented. Which are you?
Give an example hat illustrates your preference.
Sample
excellent response:
I believe that to be successful, you have to be both a big-picture person and detail oriented. You can't get caught up in just the details or you will lose sight of the long-term goals. And you can't get caught up in just looking at the big picture, or you will fail because of the lack of detail. As the group leader of a project for my marketing class, I definitely had to be both a big-picture person and detail oriented. I had to make sure that everyone was doing their part and working toward the goal of the project while, at the same time, checking every piece of the paper to make sure even the minuscule parts of the paper were correct and in place. Through using both skills, we earned an A on the project.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
I believe that to be successful, you have to be both a big-picture person and detail oriented. You can't get caught up in just the details or you will lose sight of the long-term goals. And you can't get caught up in just looking at the big picture, or you will fail because of the lack of detail. As the group leader of a project for my marketing class, I definitely had to be both a big-picture person and detail oriented. I had to make sure that everyone was doing their part and working toward the goal of the project while, at the same time, checking every piece of the paper to make sure even the minuscule parts of the paper were correct and in place. Through using both skills, we earned an A on the project.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
117. Describe a situation where you felt you had
not communicated well. How did you correct the situation?
Sample
excellent response:
Recently I had a situation where I was giving a presentation to a company and one of the upper managers had to step out during my presentation. He returned after I was done and was taking down my setup, and he asked if he could ask a question, I jokingly replied "no more questions" and then offered, "yes, of course, I would be happy to answer a question for you." Despite the fact that he had laughed at my initial joke, it was clear to me that it had not been received well. I then made certain that I went up to him and apologized and made it clear that I meant no disrespect and that sometimes I just become comfortable with people very quickly. He told me that I needed to be aware of my audience. This is something I have always known, but I believe the sting of this specific event has really brought it to light for me.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Recently I had a situation where I was giving a presentation to a company and one of the upper managers had to step out during my presentation. He returned after I was done and was taking down my setup, and he asked if he could ask a question, I jokingly replied "no more questions" and then offered, "yes, of course, I would be happy to answer a question for you." Despite the fact that he had laughed at my initial joke, it was clear to me that it had not been received well. I then made certain that I went up to him and apologized and made it clear that I meant no disrespect and that sometimes I just become comfortable with people very quickly. He told me that I needed to be aware of my audience. This is something I have always known, but I believe the sting of this specific event has really brought it to light for me.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
118. Describe a time when you took personal
accountability for a conflict and initiated contact with the individual(s)
involved to explain your actions.
Sample
excellent response:
As a member of the executive board of my fraternity, I was involved in decisions with where to do our community-service projects at times. At one point, the community-service chairman asked me where I thought he should make the next event. I told him we should do an event at the Boys and Girls Club. Some fraternity members complained to the community-service chairman for the decision because they wanted an easier event. I took responsibility for the choice and spoke to the individuals about my reasoning. I told them that I felt the event would make more of a difference in the community than cleaning up a road as we usually do since it would allow us to be mentors to troubled youth as well as provide them with a cleaner building to use. It was better than simply doing manual labor and ended up being a successful event that everyone plans on doing again in the future.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
As a member of the executive board of my fraternity, I was involved in decisions with where to do our community-service projects at times. At one point, the community-service chairman asked me where I thought he should make the next event. I told him we should do an event at the Boys and Girls Club. Some fraternity members complained to the community-service chairman for the decision because they wanted an easier event. I took responsibility for the choice and spoke to the individuals about my reasoning. I told them that I felt the event would make more of a difference in the community than cleaning up a road as we usually do since it would allow us to be mentors to troubled youth as well as provide them with a cleaner building to use. It was better than simply doing manual labor and ended up being a successful event that everyone plans on doing again in the future.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
119. Give me an example of when you were able to
meet the personal and professional (or academic) demands in your life yet still
maintained a healthy balance.
Sample
excellent response:
My sophomore summer I studied abroad in Europe for six weeks with a program through my university. We were in Innsbruck, Austria, and I loved everything about the town and its surroundings, as well as every place I traveled to on the weekends. There was always something to see or do that was more fun and exciting than class, but I also knew that I couldn't make bad grades that would lower my GPA. To get the most time out of my weekend travels and weekdays in Innsbruck, I always did homework on the train on the weekends and for a few hours every day after class. I ended my summer abroad with many new friends, good grades, and great stories to tell of the cities I saw and adventures I went on.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
My sophomore summer I studied abroad in Europe for six weeks with a program through my university. We were in Innsbruck, Austria, and I loved everything about the town and its surroundings, as well as every place I traveled to on the weekends. There was always something to see or do that was more fun and exciting than class, but I also knew that I couldn't make bad grades that would lower my GPA. To get the most time out of my weekend travels and weekdays in Innsbruck, I always did homework on the train on the weekends and for a few hours every day after class. I ended my summer abroad with many new friends, good grades, and great stories to tell of the cities I saw and adventures I went on.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
120. Everyone has made some poor decisions or has
done something that just did not turn out right. Give an example of when this
has happened to you.
Sample
excellent response:
In my freshman psychology class, we had to do a group project and presentation, and we got to pick our group members. I was a freshman, and inexperienced with group projects, so I picked two of my friends, even though I knew that they were not hard workers and didn't care about their grades. At the time, I didn't care that they weren't good students, I just wanted to be comfortable with the people I was working with. I ended up doing most of the project very last minute and by myself because I couldn't get them to work on it with me. The project and presentation were both really bad, and all three of our final grades were almost 10 points lower because of it. Needless to say, I never picked a friend as a group member, again, unless I knew they were diligent in school. I learned to be more strategic about team members and also how to motivate people who are not as enthusiastic as I am.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
In my freshman psychology class, we had to do a group project and presentation, and we got to pick our group members. I was a freshman, and inexperienced with group projects, so I picked two of my friends, even though I knew that they were not hard workers and didn't care about their grades. At the time, I didn't care that they weren't good students, I just wanted to be comfortable with the people I was working with. I ended up doing most of the project very last minute and by myself because I couldn't get them to work on it with me. The project and presentation were both really bad, and all three of our final grades were almost 10 points lower because of it. Needless to say, I never picked a friend as a group member, again, unless I knew they were diligent in school. I learned to be more strategic about team members and also how to motivate people who are not as enthusiastic as I am.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
121. What do you do when you are faced with an
obstacle to an important project? Give an example.
Sample
excellent response:
When faced with an obstacle to an important project, I always find a way to complete the project in the best manner possible. As an intern at the insurance company I worked for last summer, I was responsible for designing the marketing materials that are handed out at the conventions and to insurance agents to keep the company on top of their minds. Since I was unfamiliar with the materials and the designing software, it took me a little while to get a grasp on it. By the end of the workday on the deadline, I did not have all of the materials completed. So I spoke to my supervisor and tried to work something out. She told me that I was not allowed to do more than a certain number of hours in a week and that the materials needed to be done to turn in to production early the next morning. So I suggested that I stay after work that day to complete the project without hourly compensation. After a little persuasion, she allowed it, and I had the materials completed for the next morning successfully.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
When faced with an obstacle to an important project, I always find a way to complete the project in the best manner possible. As an intern at the insurance company I worked for last summer, I was responsible for designing the marketing materials that are handed out at the conventions and to insurance agents to keep the company on top of their minds. Since I was unfamiliar with the materials and the designing software, it took me a little while to get a grasp on it. By the end of the workday on the deadline, I did not have all of the materials completed. So I spoke to my supervisor and tried to work something out. She told me that I was not allowed to do more than a certain number of hours in a week and that the materials needed to be done to turn in to production early the next morning. So I suggested that I stay after work that day to complete the project without hourly compensation. After a little persuasion, she allowed it, and I had the materials completed for the next morning successfully.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
122. Tell about the most difficult or frustrating
individual that you've ever had to work with, and how you managed to work with
that person.
Sample
excellent response:
I had a boss who would micro-manage every single project, often causing missed deadlines and frustration throughout the department. We all worried about our department's reputation within the organization, but since he was our boss, we felt helpless to try and change anything. It was indeed frustrating knowing you could complete a project on time, only to have your boss need to stop you and question what you were doing and suggest changes. But I got the idea that maybe if I talked with the boss and showed him that we could get more done as a department if we all worked together to have better communications and to trust each other to ask for help and direction when we needed it. Since we worked together, rather than against each other, the boss gained confidence in us to do our jobs, and we were able to do our jobs and also regain the reputation of the department.
I had a boss who would micro-manage every single project, often causing missed deadlines and frustration throughout the department. We all worried about our department's reputation within the organization, but since he was our boss, we felt helpless to try and change anything. It was indeed frustrating knowing you could complete a project on time, only to have your boss need to stop you and question what you were doing and suggest changes. But I got the idea that maybe if I talked with the boss and showed him that we could get more done as a department if we all worked together to have better communications and to trust each other to ask for help and direction when we needed it. Since we worked together, rather than against each other, the boss gained confidence in us to do our jobs, and we were able to do our jobs and also regain the reputation of the department.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
123. Tell about a time when your trustworthiness
was challenged. How did you react/respond?
Sample
excellent response:
For my public-relations course, we had to do a group project to make a public-relations campaign for an organization. At the same time, I had three other group projects and six classes that were becoming extremely challenging to juggle. Some of the group members knew this, so they expressed their concern and some doubt after I offered to take a significant portion of the project upon myself. I persuaded them to trust me and told them about the many things I am able to successfully juggle. I asked them to let me prove it to them, so in the end I completed my part early and we earned a high grade on the project.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
For my public-relations course, we had to do a group project to make a public-relations campaign for an organization. At the same time, I had three other group projects and six classes that were becoming extremely challenging to juggle. Some of the group members knew this, so they expressed their concern and some doubt after I offered to take a significant portion of the project upon myself. I persuaded them to trust me and told them about the many things I am able to successfully juggle. I asked them to let me prove it to them, so in the end I completed my part early and we earned a high grade on the project.
[contributed by M. Kearney]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
124. Describe a situation when you were able to
have a positive influence on the actions of others.
Sample
excellent response:
Last semester my organization raised more than $1,500 for a local organization, The Children's Home Society. It was a last-minute fundraiser. We did this over the course of a week, and it was right before the holiday season. There were 16 children who we were looking to help, and the goal of our campus was to raise $200 per child. Ultimately the campus just took the total amount raised and divided it by the number of children; it came out to about $179/child. This money was to help get these underprivileged kids who came from broken homes a good holiday season. What the math comes out to is that we made this happen for approximately 9 children. I was the one who took on this challenge and made and distributed fliers to the business-school faculty. I orchestrated the event, and I like to think that everyone in our organization feels as good about it as I do. I get goose bumps talking about it because it is one of the things of which I am most proud -- I really feel like I had a positive impact on a few lives, and that is what I live for -- I hope I made others in my organization feel the same. I am fairly certain I did.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Last semester my organization raised more than $1,500 for a local organization, The Children's Home Society. It was a last-minute fundraiser. We did this over the course of a week, and it was right before the holiday season. There were 16 children who we were looking to help, and the goal of our campus was to raise $200 per child. Ultimately the campus just took the total amount raised and divided it by the number of children; it came out to about $179/child. This money was to help get these underprivileged kids who came from broken homes a good holiday season. What the math comes out to is that we made this happen for approximately 9 children. I was the one who took on this challenge and made and distributed fliers to the business-school faculty. I orchestrated the event, and I like to think that everyone in our organization feels as good about it as I do. I get goose bumps talking about it because it is one of the things of which I am most proud -- I really feel like I had a positive impact on a few lives, and that is what I live for -- I hope I made others in my organization feel the same. I am fairly certain I did.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
125. Tell about a recent job or campus experience
that you would describe as a real learning experience? What did you learn from
the job or experience?
Sample
excellent response:
My recent internship would be the greatest learning experience I have had lately. The format of the internship is to work in each of the varying departments for a few days to get the lay of the land,. We were supposed to spend the rest of our 10 weeks working on our projects and running the store (acting as manager). I learned a lot about the processes of this specific organization and how they all work together, but I also learned a lot about applying management techniques. We had multiple training sessions that honed my leadership skills, but the application was where I really learned. I learned a lot about how to effectively interact with people. I made sure that before I would coach a team member on how to do something correctly, according to brand, that I knew exactly why that was the way we chose to do it, because I wanted them to understand. I learned that understanding is the key to implementing -- I guess that's why I've always liked math, if I understand why I need to do a formula a certain way, then I will remember it and even appreciate it.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
My recent internship would be the greatest learning experience I have had lately. The format of the internship is to work in each of the varying departments for a few days to get the lay of the land,. We were supposed to spend the rest of our 10 weeks working on our projects and running the store (acting as manager). I learned a lot about the processes of this specific organization and how they all work together, but I also learned a lot about applying management techniques. We had multiple training sessions that honed my leadership skills, but the application was where I really learned. I learned a lot about how to effectively interact with people. I made sure that before I would coach a team member on how to do something correctly, according to brand, that I knew exactly why that was the way we chose to do it, because I wanted them to understand. I learned that understanding is the key to implementing -- I guess that's why I've always liked math, if I understand why I need to do a formula a certain way, then I will remember it and even appreciate it.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
126. Describe a team experience you found
disappointing. What could you have done to prevent it?
Sample
excellent response:
I recently worked on a project where we had to make a film, a documentary of sorts, on any topic we wanted -- it was really just about the medium of film. My team picked the project of exploring Diet Fad trends through the decades; we thought it would be amusing to see the crazy things people have done for a better body image over the years. Although the project turned out very well, and I am pleased with the end result, I was disappointed in the communication, or lack thereof. Because of everything else I had going on this semester, I had opted not to be the group leader and thus the main communicator -- which was good for me. I like taking on the leadership role but once in a while I sit back and make sure somebody else does it so I still know how to be a supportive follower. Regardless, some of the group members did not turn in their research at the deadline, and our leader did not follow up with them on it. After it was a week overdue I had to jump in and map out a timeline for our team so we could get the project done. I had wanted to make sure we did not put it off because I knew film editing would be much more time consuming than we would anticipate. We got everything done with time to spare but most of our work ended up being during the busiest week of the semester for me and for some of the other members, so I wish the communications had been more thorough earlier on in the project. To improve the situation I could have jumped in earlier and been in touch with the leader about following up with the rest of the team, but I wasn't certain she hadn't followed up with them until I brought it up in class and they all asked, "wasn't that due last week?" The lesson I learned was to ensure that I am a consistently active participant even when I am not the leader; that way I am still maximizing my relationships with the group and working to improve my skills as well as those of the people working with me.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
I recently worked on a project where we had to make a film, a documentary of sorts, on any topic we wanted -- it was really just about the medium of film. My team picked the project of exploring Diet Fad trends through the decades; we thought it would be amusing to see the crazy things people have done for a better body image over the years. Although the project turned out very well, and I am pleased with the end result, I was disappointed in the communication, or lack thereof. Because of everything else I had going on this semester, I had opted not to be the group leader and thus the main communicator -- which was good for me. I like taking on the leadership role but once in a while I sit back and make sure somebody else does it so I still know how to be a supportive follower. Regardless, some of the group members did not turn in their research at the deadline, and our leader did not follow up with them on it. After it was a week overdue I had to jump in and map out a timeline for our team so we could get the project done. I had wanted to make sure we did not put it off because I knew film editing would be much more time consuming than we would anticipate. We got everything done with time to spare but most of our work ended up being during the busiest week of the semester for me and for some of the other members, so I wish the communications had been more thorough earlier on in the project. To improve the situation I could have jumped in earlier and been in touch with the leader about following up with the rest of the team, but I wasn't certain she hadn't followed up with them until I brought it up in class and they all asked, "wasn't that due last week?" The lesson I learned was to ensure that I am a consistently active participant even when I am not the leader; that way I am still maximizing my relationships with the group and working to improve my skills as well as those of the people working with me.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
Also, remember the S-A-R (situation-action-result)
technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
127. Recall a situation in which communications
were poor. How did you handle it?
Sample
excellent response:
I worked on a team with several members, and while we worked in the same building, we often used email to communicate with each other. One of the members was not as comfortable with email as the rest of the team, and would always slow the team process down by repeatedly asking people to repeat or rephrase their emails -- always reading way too much into whatever was written in the emails. At one point, after an agonizing day of emails back and forth trying to explain a critical part of the work, I decided I simply needed to go to her office and talk with her about the problem. We met, and I listened to her issues, and together we worked out a solution in which the team still did most of its communications via email, but whenever this team member did not understand something, instead of sending a confusing collection of emails, she would either pick up the phone or walk to the other person's office and solve the miscommunication quickly and efficiently.
I worked on a team with several members, and while we worked in the same building, we often used email to communicate with each other. One of the members was not as comfortable with email as the rest of the team, and would always slow the team process down by repeatedly asking people to repeat or rephrase their emails -- always reading way too much into whatever was written in the emails. At one point, after an agonizing day of emails back and forth trying to explain a critical part of the work, I decided I simply needed to go to her office and talk with her about the problem. We met, and I listened to her issues, and together we worked out a solution in which the team still did most of its communications via email, but whenever this team member did not understand something, instead of sending a confusing collection of emails, she would either pick up the phone or walk to the other person's office and solve the miscommunication quickly and efficiently.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
128. Describe a time when you had to make a
difficult choice between your personal and professional (or academic) life.
Sample
excellent response:
At the very beginning of my senior year of college, my best friend from home passed away. Classes hadn't even been in session for a week when I heard of the car wreck on Saturday night; at first the news wasn't very bad, but as days went on her condition got worse, and by Tuesday, the doctors declared that she would be brain dead forever. I was the mediator between her family and our friends, so when they made the difficult decision to let her go, I was the first to know and had to keep everyone else informed. I was in total shock in the beginning, so I immediately told my professors the situation and that I might be going home for the rest of the week. After getting upset and dealing with the pain that Tuesday afternoon, I realized that I couldn't skip a whole week of classes to go home because I would be way too far behind, and I didn't want to start my senior year like that. Even though I really wanted to be home with my family and friends during that whole week, the funeral wasn't until that Saturday, I didn't have Friday classes, and it was Labor Day weekend, so there was no class on Monday. I ended up finishing the week at school and still got to have a nice, long weekend at home to mourn over my great loss.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
At the very beginning of my senior year of college, my best friend from home passed away. Classes hadn't even been in session for a week when I heard of the car wreck on Saturday night; at first the news wasn't very bad, but as days went on her condition got worse, and by Tuesday, the doctors declared that she would be brain dead forever. I was the mediator between her family and our friends, so when they made the difficult decision to let her go, I was the first to know and had to keep everyone else informed. I was in total shock in the beginning, so I immediately told my professors the situation and that I might be going home for the rest of the week. After getting upset and dealing with the pain that Tuesday afternoon, I realized that I couldn't skip a whole week of classes to go home because I would be way too far behind, and I didn't want to start my senior year like that. Even though I really wanted to be home with my family and friends during that whole week, the funeral wasn't until that Saturday, I didn't have Friday classes, and it was Labor Day weekend, so there was no class on Monday. I ended up finishing the week at school and still got to have a nice, long weekend at home to mourn over my great loss.
[contributed by Carly Watson]
129. On occasion we are confronted by dishonesty
in the workplace or in school. Tell about such an occurrence and how you
handled it.
Sample
excellent response:
I worked for a magazine that had two main competitors, and at the time I worked there, the economy was a bit slow, and the competition for readers and advertiser among these three publications was fierce. We had just finished a market-research study that showed that our audience was just a bit larger and more attractive (better educated, higher incomes) than our competition. We sent the good news to our publisher, who called us in for a meeting to tell us he wanted to combine some numbers to make our position appear even stronger -- and then put those numbers in an ad campaign touting how much better we were than our competition. We told the publisher that he was mistaken and that you could not combine the numbers the way he suggested, but he replied he knew that, but no one else would, and it would strengthen our position in a bad market. It took a lot of courage, but after the meeting, I went back and talked with him one-on-one so as not to embarrass him in front of my colleagues, and told him that what he was doing was dishonest -- and could get us all fired. I knew I risked getting fired for even talking to him this way, but I felt pretty sure he was not dishonest at heart. He did not decide right then, bit he did call back the next day to say he decided not to run the ad.
I worked for a magazine that had two main competitors, and at the time I worked there, the economy was a bit slow, and the competition for readers and advertiser among these three publications was fierce. We had just finished a market-research study that showed that our audience was just a bit larger and more attractive (better educated, higher incomes) than our competition. We sent the good news to our publisher, who called us in for a meeting to tell us he wanted to combine some numbers to make our position appear even stronger -- and then put those numbers in an ad campaign touting how much better we were than our competition. We told the publisher that he was mistaken and that you could not combine the numbers the way he suggested, but he replied he knew that, but no one else would, and it would strengthen our position in a bad market. It took a lot of courage, but after the meeting, I went back and talked with him one-on-one so as not to embarrass him in front of my colleagues, and told him that what he was doing was dishonest -- and could get us all fired. I knew I risked getting fired for even talking to him this way, but I felt pretty sure he was not dishonest at heart. He did not decide right then, bit he did call back the next day to say he decided not to run the ad.
Also, remember the S-A-R
(situation-action-result) technique and see a sample
S-A-R story.
130. What are the most important rewards you
expect to gain from your career?
Sample
excellent response:
I expect to be challenged and grow as a result of my career. I would like to improve myself as a person and as an asset to this company and this industry. I am confident that this position is one that will hone my leadership skills, improve my knowledge of the industry, and challenge me such that I continue to grow and improve within the company.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
I expect to be challenged and grow as a result of my career. I would like to improve myself as a person and as an asset to this company and this industry. I am confident that this position is one that will hone my leadership skills, improve my knowledge of the industry, and challenge me such that I continue to grow and improve within the company.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
131. How would you define "success" for
someone in your chosen career?
Sample
excellent response:
Success is being able to attract new patients and physicians while ensuring the happiness of those who are current. It is the ability to brand the company effectively toward a target market to ensure continued customer loyalty.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
Success is being able to attract new patients and physicians while ensuring the happiness of those who are current. It is the ability to brand the company effectively toward a target market to ensure continued customer loyalty.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
132. What qualifications do you have that will
make you successful in this company?
Sample
excellent response:
I began as an intern for Atlanta Medical System in August of 2007 and have been working as the Public Relations Assistant since January 2008. Because of this experience, I have a comprehensive understanding of the hospital itself and the Tenet Healthcare System. I also earned by marketing degree from Georgia Tech in May of 2008 and throughout my college career participated in numerous organizations that gave me the opportunity to have hands-on event-planning and management experience. I planned the first annual Alpha Delta Pi Big Catch fishing tournament at the Georgia Tech that raised more than $4,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities, and I was the Marketing and Public Relations Chair for the Student Alumni Association at my university and handled all Homecoming promotions, as well as promotions for other events.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
I began as an intern for Atlanta Medical System in August of 2007 and have been working as the Public Relations Assistant since January 2008. Because of this experience, I have a comprehensive understanding of the hospital itself and the Tenet Healthcare System. I also earned by marketing degree from Georgia Tech in May of 2008 and throughout my college career participated in numerous organizations that gave me the opportunity to have hands-on event-planning and management experience. I planned the first annual Alpha Delta Pi Big Catch fishing tournament at the Georgia Tech that raised more than $4,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities, and I was the Marketing and Public Relations Chair for the Student Alumni Association at my university and handled all Homecoming promotions, as well as promotions for other events.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
133. What skills have you acquired from your work
experience/internships and part-time jobs?
Sample
excellent response:
As part of my internship with Target, I completed various training courses ranging in subject area from ways to work with employees and coaching them on how to improve, to creating my own individual development plan fostering my current and future growth. I was also put in the role of Leader on Duty, where I was the acting store manager, as early as my second week with the company. My internship with Quintessential Careers taught me a great deal about working with a smaller, family business. I took the initiative to plan and implement our big events. My internship with Siemens made my experiences all inclusive as it gave me the opportunity to be one of the central components of such a large company and I was able to truly understand the impact of the political and legal systems on this industry's competitive environment.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
As part of my internship with Target, I completed various training courses ranging in subject area from ways to work with employees and coaching them on how to improve, to creating my own individual development plan fostering my current and future growth. I was also put in the role of Leader on Duty, where I was the acting store manager, as early as my second week with the company. My internship with Quintessential Careers taught me a great deal about working with a smaller, family business. I took the initiative to plan and implement our big events. My internship with Siemens made my experiences all inclusive as it gave me the opportunity to be one of the central components of such a large company and I was able to truly understand the impact of the political and legal systems on this industry's competitive environment.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
134. What have you learned from your experiences
outside the workplace/classroom?
Sample
excellent response:
I have learned that the real world is much different from what you learn in the classroom, that some things you learn are similar to what you were taught, but that for the most part learning is achieved through the process of doing. In the world of health-care marketing, things happen at a fast pace, and you must take everything one day at a time while still keeping an eye on the future.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
I have learned that the real world is much different from what you learn in the classroom, that some things you learn are similar to what you were taught, but that for the most part learning is achieved through the process of doing. In the world of health-care marketing, things happen at a fast pace, and you must take everything one day at a time while still keeping an eye on the future.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
135. What criteria are you using to choose
companies to interview with?
Sample
excellent response:
I want to work for a small company, preferably a family business like yours. I want a company that has similar values like honesty, individual development, and broadmindedness.
I want to work for a small company, preferably a family business like yours. I want a company that has similar values like honesty, individual development, and broadmindedness.
[contributed by Renee
Poulin]
136. If you were hiring for this position, what
qualities would you look for (in a new college grad)?
Sample
excellent response:
I would be looking for someone who has great communications skills, who can communicate with a variety of stakeholder groups, always keeping on message. I would also want someone who had a good mix of teamwork and leadership skills. I would seek a graduate who had a strong blend of academic success and industry experience. Finally, I would want someone who is ambitious, but also willing to learn from others within the organization.
I would be looking for someone who has great communications skills, who can communicate with a variety of stakeholder groups, always keeping on message. I would also want someone who had a good mix of teamwork and leadership skills. I would seek a graduate who had a strong blend of academic success and industry experience. Finally, I would want someone who is ambitious, but also willing to learn from others within the organization.
Interestingly, I would
want a college grad who had the same experiences and skills sets that I bring to
you.
137. How would you describe your leadership
skills?
Sample
excellent response:
I am a leader who likes to give the people I am leading the ability to shine. I think it is important to take everyone's opinion into consideration and be willing to listen to what they have to say. I think my job as a leader is to organize things and keep them in order. Being the leader does not mean I know everything there is to know because I can not possibly know more than everyone else about every topic. It is just not plausible.
[contributed by Keri]
I am a leader who likes to give the people I am leading the ability to shine. I think it is important to take everyone's opinion into consideration and be willing to listen to what they have to say. I think my job as a leader is to organize things and keep them in order. Being the leader does not mean I know everything there is to know because I can not possibly know more than everyone else about every topic. It is just not plausible.
[contributed by Keri]
138. Which is more important: creativity or
efficiency? Why?
Sample
excellent response:
I think that the key is a balance between the two, with efficiency being the most important. You could have an extremely creative piece, but if the message of the piece is not clear then it is not efficient and a waste of resources.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
I think that the key is a balance between the two, with efficiency being the most important. You could have an extremely creative piece, but if the message of the piece is not clear then it is not efficient and a waste of resources.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
139. How has college changed you as a person?
Sample
excellent response:
I have grown up during my college years. I am able to communicate better, think strategically, and multitask more than ever before. I can handle an appropriate level of stress and still get things done.
[contributed by Renee Poulin]
I have grown up during my college years. I am able to communicate better, think strategically, and multitask more than ever before. I can handle an appropriate level of stress and still get things done.
[contributed by Renee Poulin]
140. What have you accomplished that shows your
initiative and willingness to work?
Sample
excellent response:
A 120-hour internship while going to school full-time. I juggled the two effectively, completing my internship and classes with all A's. I was also able to apply the things I learned in each one to the other.
[contributed by Renee Poulin]
A 120-hour internship while going to school full-time. I juggled the two effectively, completing my internship and classes with all A's. I was also able to apply the things I learned in each one to the other.
[contributed by Renee Poulin]
141. What was the toughest challenge you've ever
faced?
Sample
excellent response:
The day after I turned 15 I had to get a job to help support my Mom and myself as my Mom struggled to find employment. During my sophomore year of high school I worked two jobs, approximately 45 hours a week, to help pay the bills. It was tough managing homework, six extracurricular organizations, and two jobs, but in the end I learned a valuable lesson about hard work and the value of a dollar.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
The day after I turned 15 I had to get a job to help support my Mom and myself as my Mom struggled to find employment. During my sophomore year of high school I worked two jobs, approximately 45 hours a week, to help pay the bills. It was tough managing homework, six extracurricular organizations, and two jobs, but in the end I learned a valuable lesson about hard work and the value of a dollar.
[contributed by Jessica S.]
142. What two or three things are most important
to you in your job?
Sample
excellent response:
I want to be happy. I want to work in a job that I am passionate about, and for a company that respects and rewards my contributions. I want to have co-workers whom I like and respect. I think these things all work together for a positive work environment -- which increases productivity -- resulting in happy employees and a happy employer.
I want to be happy. I want to work in a job that I am passionate about, and for a company that respects and rewards my contributions. I want to have co-workers whom I like and respect. I think these things all work together for a positive work environment -- which increases productivity -- resulting in happy employees and a happy employer.
I also seek fulfillment. I
don't want to work in a job that I feel is below what I am capable of doing. I
seek a job that will challenge me to perform at the highest levels and seek
ongoing professional development so that I can be even better at my job, making
an even stronger contribution to my employer. From everything I've researched
and seen, this job that I'm interviewing for meets all my criteria.
143. Some people work best as part of a group --
others prefer the role of individual contributor. How would you describe
yourself?
Sample
excellent response:
I like a mix of both. I like to work in a group and get group input. I think a lot of good ideas come from talking things out with other people. I also like to work by myself on some projects because I think there are some projects that are just done better if one person is working on them.
[contributed by Keri]
I like a mix of both. I like to work in a group and get group input. I think a lot of good ideas come from talking things out with other people. I also like to work by myself on some projects because I think there are some projects that are just done better if one person is working on them.
[contributed by Keri]
144. When given an important assignment, how do
you approach it?
Sample
excellent response:
I like to make a list, a timeline of how and by when things need to be done. I really like to get started on the assignment immediately because I've found that once I get started on a project I tend to get gradually more excited about it and involved in it, and I want to expand the project more and more as I go on. By getting started earlier, I can get the most out of the project and maximize it as much as possible while providing time to give it that extra review.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
I like to make a list, a timeline of how and by when things need to be done. I really like to get started on the assignment immediately because I've found that once I get started on a project I tend to get gradually more excited about it and involved in it, and I want to expand the project more and more as I go on. By getting started earlier, I can get the most out of the project and maximize it as much as possible while providing time to give it that extra review.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
145. If there were one area you've always wanted
to improve upon, what would that be?
Sample
excellent response:
Sometimes I have trouble admitting to people that I am not understanding something they want me to do or am struggling with a certain task, I can be reluctant to ask others for help. This is something that I want to improve on and am taking steps toward becoming better at asking those around me for help when I need it.
[contributed by Lauren Spalding]
Sometimes I have trouble admitting to people that I am not understanding something they want me to do or am struggling with a certain task, I can be reluctant to ask others for help. This is something that I want to improve on and am taking steps toward becoming better at asking those around me for help when I need it.
[contributed by Lauren Spalding]
146. When you have been made aware of, or have
discovered for yourself, a problem in your school or work performance, what was
your course of action?
Sample
excellent response:
I realized my freshman year that my writing was not up to par. I struggled not only in my first-year English courses, but in other courses that required writing papers. I used the university's writing lab as much as possible, but toward the end of that first year, I knew I needed to do more to overcome my deficiencies. My solution was taking two additional writing courses over the summer between my freshman and sophomore years to truly grasp the fundamentals of writing, but then to also take my writing to the next level. Some of my proudest moments later in college have been when professors have noted on my papers that they were impressed with my writing abilities.
I realized my freshman year that my writing was not up to par. I struggled not only in my first-year English courses, but in other courses that required writing papers. I used the university's writing lab as much as possible, but toward the end of that first year, I knew I needed to do more to overcome my deficiencies. My solution was taking two additional writing courses over the summer between my freshman and sophomore years to truly grasp the fundamentals of writing, but then to also take my writing to the next level. Some of my proudest moments later in college have been when professors have noted on my papers that they were impressed with my writing abilities.
147. What kinds of things have you done at school
or on the job that were beyond expectations?
Sample
excellent response:
When I received a research grant, the requirement was to present our information at some sort of poster contest. Instead of doing this, however, I was involved with a professional organization and presented my findings to faculty around the country at its annual conference. I was the only student presenter at the conference, and my presentation was one of the most highly attended. It was made clear to me that I went above and beyond by presenting at this convention as opposed to a poster competition.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
When I received a research grant, the requirement was to present our information at some sort of poster contest. Instead of doing this, however, I was involved with a professional organization and presented my findings to faculty around the country at its annual conference. I was the only student presenter at the conference, and my presentation was one of the most highly attended. It was made clear to me that I went above and beyond by presenting at this convention as opposed to a poster competition.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
148. What, in your opinion, are the key
ingredients in guiding and maintaining successful business relationships?
Sample
excellent response:
Communication is the key ingredient to guiding and maintaining successful business relationships. Being able to clearly communicate your ideas to others allows you to build and maintain a relationship with others. It is also very important to be an active listener and address any concerns or questions the other party might have. Also, to maintain a successful business relationship, you have to be able to compromise and do what is best for both parties involved.
[contributed by Lauren Spalding]
Communication is the key ingredient to guiding and maintaining successful business relationships. Being able to clearly communicate your ideas to others allows you to build and maintain a relationship with others. It is also very important to be an active listener and address any concerns or questions the other party might have. Also, to maintain a successful business relationship, you have to be able to compromise and do what is best for both parties involved.
[contributed by Lauren Spalding]
149. What sorts of things have you done to become
better qualified for your career?
Sample
excellent response:
I have experience in multiple fields and under very different circumstances. I have obtained internships that were very diverse so I could get the most out of each experience and feel like I am well versed in the areas of management and marketing. I have taken myriad classes at my university that have helped prepare me for a successful career in business. Further, my participation in our co-ed professional business fraternity has given me the opportunity to interact with other businesses and develop myself further personally and professionally.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
I have experience in multiple fields and under very different circumstances. I have obtained internships that were very diverse so I could get the most out of each experience and feel like I am well versed in the areas of management and marketing. I have taken myriad classes at my university that have helped prepare me for a successful career in business. Further, my participation in our co-ed professional business fraternity has given me the opportunity to interact with other businesses and develop myself further personally and professionally.
[contributed by Cynthia Buenger]
150. What motivates you to go the extra mile on a
project or job?
Sample
excellent response:
Fortunately, I am highly self-motivated and do not require a great deal of external motivation on projects and jobs. I have an extremely strong work ethic, and I am not really capable of doing anything less than going the extra mile. I enjoy the satisfaction of completing a a project that goes above and beyond expectations. Sure, I like to be praised for my work as much as the next person does, but the real reward comes in seeing an outstanding finished project, knowing my role in accomplishing the project, and realizing that I put more than my best effort into it.
Fortunately, I am highly self-motivated and do not require a great deal of external motivation on projects and jobs. I have an extremely strong work ethic, and I am not really capable of doing anything less than going the extra mile. I enjoy the satisfaction of completing a a project that goes above and beyond expectations. Sure, I like to be praised for my work as much as the next person does, but the real reward comes in seeing an outstanding finished project, knowing my role in accomplishing the project, and realizing that I put more than my best effort into it.
We've
pulled together a list of common behavioral-interview questions.
One of the keys to success in interviewing is
practice, so we encourage you to take the time to work out answers to these
questions using one of the suggested methods, such as the STAR approach.
Be sure not to memorize answers; the key to
interviewing success is simply being prepared for the questions and having a
mental outline to follow in responding to each question. For more tips, read
our article, Behavioral Interviewing Strategies.
Looking for some sample excellent answers to behavioral
interview questions? Then go to our Job Interview Questions Database, where we have traditional, behavioral,
and mixed interview questions for both experienced job-seekers and college
students and recent grads.
Here is
one list of sample behavioral-based interview questions:
ü Describe
a situation in which you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince
someone to see things your way.
ü Describe
a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your
coping skills.
ü Give
me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in
solving a problem.
ü Give
me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve
it.
ü Tell
me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence
someone's opinion.
ü Give
me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which
you did not agree.
ü Please
discuss an important written document you were required to complete.
ü Tell
me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order
to get a job done.
ü Tell
me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to
prioritize your tasks.
ü Give
me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
ü What
is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
ü Tell
me about a time you were able to successfully deal with another person even
when that individual may not have personally liked you (or vice versa).
ü Tell
me about a difficult decision you've made in the last year.
ü Give
me an example of a time when something you tried to accomplish and failed.
ü Give
me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.
ü Tell
me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer
or co-worker.
ü Give
me an example of a time when you motivated others.
ü Tell
me about a time when you delegated a project effectively.
ü Give
me an example of a time when you used your fact-finding skills to solve a
problem.
ü Tell
me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem.
ü Describe
a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventive
measures.
ü Tell
me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.
ü Please
tell me about a time you had to fire a friend.
ü Describe
a time when you set your sights too high (or too low).
