I remember my first job interview like it was yesterday. Well, it wasn’t a “real” job interview. It was more of a mock interview. My grandfather had some connections with WorkReady, a summer work program placing students in summer youth service projects in Philly (or Philadelphia for the prestigious folk).

On my “interview day” I had the wardrobe part down pat. I came in sharp with my little gray pants suit and my black Payless heels (hey, I was like 16, don’t judge me).
Though I felt super official I was nervous as hell. I didn’t know what to expect and to make matters worse, the interviewer was so cute! SMH

Much of the interview process was a blur (It was more than 5 years ago and I barely remember what I did last week) but the one thing I do remember is probably one of my most embarrassing moments.The cute interviewer asked me to tell him about myself and my 16 year-old-tryna-be-cute self said “Well, my name is Terri and I’m a nice person… unless you get on my bad side…” PAUSE

 Why? Why? Why? What was I thinking? The world will never know! If I could go back in time and have a conversation with my 16 year old self this would be the first question I’d ask. And to top that off, I was chomping on a big piece of Bubbaliciious bubble gum (we all know to never chew gum in an interview).

I’ve come a long way from those days of bombing interviews, but it took countless failures, preparation and a ton of practice. Over 100 interviews later, I’ve noticed that I’ve been asked a variation of the following 5 questions, numerous times. Here’s a little cheat sheet on how to answer these 4 questions with poise and confidence (unlike 16 year old Terri). Feel free to tailor make the sample responses below for your next interview.

 

1. Tell me about yourself

The interviewer is not asking for your life story or a verbal recap of your resume ( which is sitting right in front of them). This is the time to market how well-rounded you are as a person. You can share special skills, hobbies or values close to you or anything that makes you stand out professionally.

Sample:

“My name is Terri Lomax, I’m a Resident Director at Salisbury University and I’m pursuing my Master’s in Conflict Analysis. I have excellent customer service skills and my passion in life is to motivate at-risk youth to succeed by sharing my story of overcoming adversity. I currently have a blog dedicated to empowering young women. I’m also very goal-oriented and I thrive in positive environments. I’m applying for this position to grow as a professional and also to share my experiences with your department.”

2. Why this job?

Before your interview, research the company or organization and find a few (at least 2)  key factors that contribute to why you want to be a part of their team. There’s nothing worse than responding to this question with a blank stare because you failed to research.

Sample:

“After thoroughly researching your company’s website a few things stood out to me.

I love what <insert company> represents and prides itself on.  I notice that you all value your students and you provide them with the resources that they need in order to maximize their success. You also value academic excellence and sustainability and these too are important to me. I want to be in a place where I can relate and where I share some of the same core values and <insert company> is that place for me.

Also, I know that outstanding customer service is imperative to the <insert position title>position and I possess excellent customer service skills.

Lastly, it means a lot to me to be in place where I am challenged and supported as I grow and learn in any position and according to my research I will receive this feedback and opportunity at <insert company>. “

3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

What a dreadful question! Well, at least the second half of it. Who really wants to talk about weaknesses? Should you give a fake weakness (a strength disguised as a weakness)  or a “real” weakness. Honestly, it’s up to you. Just remember, you are trying to get a job… this isn’t confession time! I go the minor-weakness-with-how-I’m-improving route. But most importantly, no matter what order the question is asked, ALWAYS present your weakness first and then your strength. End on a positive note 🙂

Sample:

“As far as opportunities for growth (See that? you my friend, don’t use the word weakness, it’s opportunity for growth! Weakness sounds so…. negative!) I believe that <insert “good weakness” > could be stronger, and I’m constantly working to improve it by <insert action plan>. When it comes to strengths, I have exceptional organizational skills, communication skills, and I work very well with diverse groups of people. I’m also a team player and I consider myself to be a visionary.”

“Good Weaknesses”

 Bitng off more than I can handle

 I have the tendency to be a workaholic

I tend to be a perfectionist and when I do things I really work even to the small details

Good Strengths

Organizational skills

Management skills

I’m a helpful and friendly customer service representative

I’m open-minded

I am very optimistic

4. Do you have any questions for us?

Whether or not the interviewer answered all of your questions ALWAYS have questions! Failing to ask thoughtful questions communicates carelessness and disinterest. I say thoughtful because you shouldn’t be asking questions that can be found easily on the company website.

Sample:

When can I expect to hear from you about an offer?

How would you describe the culture of your company/organization?

What do you view as the most challenging part of this position?

What qualities are you looking for in a <insert position>?

What do you like most about this company/organization?

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