What are your weaknesses? How do you overcome them?

I'm always ready to learn new skills and adapt my methods to become better at what I do. If I become aware of a weakness in my knowledge base or in the way I perform my duties, I do my best to fill that gap whether through formal training, informal training, or directly from my colleagues.

Advice from the recruitment consultant

Avoid directly answering this question, if possible. Naming a weakness will only invite a response like If you're aware of this weakness, why haven't you taken corrective measures to fix it? A popular approach is to name a positive weakness such as I'm too persistent or I'm too ambitious . Make sure that your answer is sincere and not too glib, or you will be revealing a weakness without even knowing it.

 

You've been out of work for a long time, haven't you?

I chose to spend time evaluating my options before deciding on my next career move. I have been offered jobs since my last employment but I wanted to wait until I found a job that fulfilled my career goals.

Advice from the recruitment consultant

This can be a very difficult question to answer. Evaluate your situation carefully and consider all the reasons you have been out of work. In this day and age many people take brief career breaks. Do not be afraid to state this in an interview. Highlight any achievements (e.g. travel, personal projects) you made between jobs as these can speak to new abilities you gained between jobs.

What do you know about this organization?

I know that XYZ Corp. has been in existence for four years. It was founded by John Rush in his garage and he has built it into the third largest office supplies firm in the state with aspirations to make it number one within two years. It's renowned as an ambitious and highly progressive company and I believe it has a very bright future. I also like the fact that XYZ Corp isn't a company that rests on its laurels.

Advice from the recruitment consultant

The interviewer wants to know how hungry you are for this job. If you haven't even prepared for the interview, by doing the most basic research, then the chances of you getting the job are close to zero. You can be sure that other candidates will have done their research. Check out the firm's website (if they have one) and business directories in your local library. You should also contact the firm itself, through their Public Relations department.

 

What do you think it takes to be successful in an organization like this ?

I think that determination, a willingness to work hard and a desire to excel in everything you do are key attributes for a successful employee in a company like XYZ Corp. A successful employee would also need to handle pressure well, be a great communicator and an excellent team member. These are attributes that have helped me succeed in my past positions and ones that I would like to apply in XYZ Corp..

Advice from the recruitment consultant

The interviewer wants to know if you're prepared to give what it takes to contribute to the firm. The question also alludes to your understanding of the firm's ethos, and how well you will fit in. Use this question to highlight the qualities that you bring to the firm.

 

What concerns you about this company?

I have no concerns about this company. My research has shown that ABC Corp is dedicated to the development and advancement of its staff. I've also learnt that the benefits package is one of the best within the industry.

Advice from the recruitment consultant

The interviewer is trying to assess how well you think this company matches your needs and goals. The more concerns and doubts you have, the more you're telling the interviewer how you're the wrong person for the company (and the job).

 

Where do you see this company going?

XYZ Corp is the number three firm in the corporate security sector. The company does not hide the fact that it wants to lead the sector within two years. I believe that the firm can achieve this. It's a young company with a dynamic workforce and a tremendous growth rate. XYZ Corp's bright future make it a very attractive place to work.

Advice from the recruitment consultant

The interviewer is trying to find out how much you know about the firm's future plans and corporate vision - after all, you're interviewing to be part of that vision. If you know about the industry in question this could be a straightforward question to answer. If you don't have the knowledge to hand, contact the firm's Press or Public Relations office. Most firms, even small ones, have corporate mission or policy statements that will help color your answer.