Dated September 21, 2005
How do I answer questions about myself, reasons for quitting my previous job, salary expected, etc in an interview?
Anurag Kashyap
Hyderabad
These are key questions, right answers to which can help you clinch the job. Answer with positive, work-oriented adjectives, such as conscientious, hard working, honest and courteous, plus a brief description or example of why each one fits you well.
Avoid speaking ill of your former employers, state reasons such as career growth, better pay, greater scope for talent realisation, etc as a reason for quitting your earlier job.
Understand employer expectations about the position, skills required and the job fit. It is always better not to take a decisive stance during the interview on the matter of pay packages.
If you are pushed into a corner and have to state something, state a package that is commensurate with your skills and industry standards. Also add that you are open to negotiations, if they find the quote too high. However, rather than getting into a fix and losing out on the job because of a salary quote, throw the ball in the employer's court and ask how much they would be willing to pay.
What are some of the dos and don'ts that one has to follow in an interview?
Sailesh Kothari
Via email
Arrive on time or a few minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.
If presented with an application, do fill it out neatly and completely.
Greet the interviewer by his last name if you are sure of the pronunciation. If not, ask the employer to repeat it. Give the appearance of energy as you walk. Smile! Shake hands firmly. Try and seem to be genuinely glad to meet the interviewer. Do wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright, look alert and interested at all times. Be a good listener as well as a good communicator. Look a prospective employer in the eye while speaking.
Follow the interviewer's leads, but try to get the interviewer to describe the position and the duties to you early on in the interview so that you can apply your background, skills and accomplishments to the position.
Make sure that your good points come across to the interviewer in a factual, sincere manner. Stress achievements. For example: sales records, processes developed, savings achieved, systems installed, etc. Always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on opportunity. Do not answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain and elaborate whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself, which relate to the situation.
Answer questions truthfully, frankly and concisely.
Do not make unnecessary critical remarks about your present or former employers.
Do not inquire about salary, vacations, bonuses, retirement, etc., in the initial interview unless you are sure the employer is interested in hiring you. If the interviewer asks what salary you want, indicate what you've earned but that you're more interested in opportunity than in a specific salary.
The FAQ column deals with career concerns addressed to the C&K Management Ltd. P.O. Box 2178, Secunderabad 500003 or emailed to faqs@cnkonline.com
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