Tough Interview Questions

General Questions

(1) Tell me about you!

Keep your answer short and concise; don’t ramble. Use your resume objective as a starting point.

(2) What do you know about our company?

Do your homework before the interview! Check out the company web site and spend some time online doing research. Find out as much as you can, including products, size, reputation, image, management talent, people, history and philosophy. Be informed, but allow the employer tell you about the company.

(3) Why do you want to work for us?

Here is where your research can pay off. Focus on their needs: You would like to be part of a specific company project; you would like to solve a company problem; you can make a definite contribution to specific company goals.

(4) What would you bring to our organization that someone else can not?

Relate past experiences that show you’ve had success in solving previous employer problems that may be similar to those of the prospective employer.

(5) What about the job offered do you find the most attractive?

Least attractive?
List three or more attractive factors and only one minor unattractive factor.

(6) Why should we hire you?

Because of your knowledge, abilities, skills, and past successes that you can bring to the table.

(7) What do you look for in a job?

An opportunity to use your skills, improve your skills and to be recognized.

(8) Please give me your definition of a .... (the position for which you are being interviewed).

Keep it brief-give an actions- and results-oriented definition.

(9) How long would you stay with us?

As long as we both feel I’m contributing, achieving, growing, etc.

Experience and Management Questions

(1) You may be overqualified for the position we have to offer.

Strong companies need strong people. Emphasize your interest in a long-term association, pointing out that the employer will get a faster return on investment because you have more experience than required.

(2) What is your management style?

(If you’ve never thought about this, it’s high time you did.) The 'Open-door management' policy is usually the best, provided it’s a theory you have or intend to practice.

(3) Are you a good manager? Give an example. Why do you feel you have top managerial potential?

Keep your answer achievement- and task-oriented; emphasize management skills-planning, organizing, and results focused.

(4) What do you look for when you hire people?

Skills, ambition, adaptability, and a desire to succeed.

(5) Did you ever fire anyone? If so, what were the reasons and how did you handle it?

Yes, I have had experience with this and it worked out in the best interest of both parties.

(6) What do you see as the most difficult task in being a manager?

Being able to plan and organize to get done on time and within the budget.

(7) What do your subordinates think of you?

Honest and fair... they can check your responses easily.

(8) What is your biggest weakness as a manager?

Be honest and end on a positive note, e.g. 'I don’t enjoy reprimanding people, so I try to begin with something positive first.'