***Interviewing: Top Ten Questions and Answers

When going through a career change, it’s important to know what you can expect every step of the way. This includes the interview process. Below we’ve outlined top of the most common interview questions and how to best answer them.

1. "Tell me about yourself..."
Although technically not a question, this is often how job interviews will start out. As someone in a career transition, you need to outline the most important past events in regards to education, professional positioning and skills in a few minutes flat. Be bold, be brief and be honest.

2. "What do you consider your most significant accomplishment?"
Don’t ramble on about everything and anything you’ve done from winning first prize in a science fair to having children. Instead, discuss your hard work and company accomplishments. Make a list before the interview of the most significant achievements in the work force, narrow it down and then discuss that detail in two to three minutes.

3. "Why are you leaving your current position?"
This is the question everyone dreads, especially someone going through a career change. You are probably contemplating this question yourself every night, especially when the pay checks stop coming in. Whatever you do, don’t badmouth your previous employer or old co workers. Instead, focus on the personal journey and staggered stop that occurred in your last position.

4. "What do you consider your most significant strength?"
Make sure you choose strengths that are compatible with the job at hand. Being really outgoing is not going to help you if you work on your own. Be prepared to discuss five key strengths with specific examples from the past.

5. “How have you handled stressful/frustrating/difficult situations in the past?”
The interviewer is looking to see if you can deal with petty problems on a daily basis. Make sure you address your common sense, perseverance and patience in these situations.

6. “Our company has to deal with …. how would you handle this?”
It’s time to think of your feet- make sure you are specific and organized in your thought process.

7. “Why do you think you are qualified for this position?”
Ugh! This can be such an annoying yet important question, especially during a complete career transition. You need to pick two or three main ideas about the job and about yourself and connect them. It’s a good idea to target the skills that are directly related to the position and then provide a brief anecdote to prove your success in the past.

8. “Where do you see yourself in five or ten year’s time?”
On a beach in Mexico... no, just kidding. Make your goals realistic. Too much ambition does not look good in an interview. Promotions usually come in 1-3 years so work with that.

9. “Why should we hire you for this position?”
You need to summarize your skills and look towards what you have learned about the position from the interview. Be thoughtful, be organized and be genuine.

10. “Is there anything you would like to know about the company?”
This is often the last question asked. It’s a good idea to have a few questions prepared regarding the position and the potential for growth. Leave questions about vacation time and pay rise at home.