Before deciding who to support for a political position, such as for President, Congressman, or another public official, you most likely would have a list of questions for your candidate. Potential employers and clients view you in a similar fashion. They ask themselves, what can you bring to the table, how can you help me or my company accomplish its mission.
Before applying for any position, you should know the answers to these key questions.
- Could you provide a brief overview of your career; describe your position's goal and top three skillsets and responsibilities?
- Could you tell me what position interests you and why?
- Could you tell me about your proudest achievement or what is the best compliment you have ever received about your work?
- What do you find most challenging? Describe a bad day?
- Do you enjoy collaborating on projects? Do you prefer to work in a team setting or independently?
- Where do you see yourself in three years? In five years?
- If your manager/supervisor were asked about your strengths, what would he/she say?
- What weaknesses were identified in your last performance appraisal? What have you done to overcome them?
- If your colleagues were asked about your interpersonal skills, what would they say?
- What motivates you?
Companies want to capitalize on their team member’s uniqueness to build a stronger sense of team, keeping in mind that each person has his or her own strength and weaknesses. By knowing where you stand, can help them learn how to keep the balance while maximizing results.
