Interviewing Questions
Questions Employers Ask
Some typical questions employers ask in
interviews with college students:
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why are you interested in our
organization?
3. Tell me about a project you initiated.
4. What do you believe to be your 3 greatest
strengths? (you can use your StrengthsFinder®
results) Weaknesses?
5. What experience has been most valuable to
you and why?
6. Describe a specific problem you solved.
How did you approach the problem? What was the
outcome?
7. 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?
8. Describe a situation where you had a
conflict with another person and how you dealt with
it.
9. What are your team-player qualities? Give
examples.
10. Describe your leadership style.
11. How have your educational and work
experiences prepared you for this position?
12. Describe two specific goals you set for
yourself and how successful you were in meeting
them. What factors led to your success in meeting
your goals?
13. What challenges are you looking for in a
position?
14. What frustrates you the most?
15. We are looking at a lot of great
candidates; why are you the best person for the
position?
16. What two or three accomplishments have
given you the most satisfaction?
17. What else should I know about you?
Questions Candidates Ask
Ideas of what you can ask the interviewer to show
your enthusiasm and sincere interest in the position.
 1. Could you describe the specific
responsibilities that are involved with this
position?
2. What qualities and characteristics are you
looking for in the person you want for this
position?
3. How long have you been with _______? What
do you like and/or dislike about it?
4. Why is the position available?
5. What professional development
opportunities are available in this organization?
6. How does this position interact with other
departments?
7. Would you tell me more about (pick a topic
you want to know more about)?
8. What kind of training program is provided?
9. What is the next step in the selection
process?
Other Tips:
*You may ask questions that stem from the research
you have done about the company. Be sure to find out if
they are planning any expansion or downsizing.
*The initial interview is not the time to ask about
salary, benefits, or vacation!
For more information, stop by or call the Center
for Calling & Career , 614-8630.
The Northwestern Lindquist-Endicott Report, Copyright
1989, The Placement Center, Northwestern University,
Evanston, IL. |
