Interviewing Cheat Sheet
Interview questions to prepare:
A. Tell me about yourself
I worked in XYZ where I grew my skills in ABC (from the job description)
Aim for a story that progresses over time
If you’re making a career transition, say: You worked in XYZ (to explain a pivot or break). Decided to [go back to school, uplevel my skills in XYZ] in order to [professional goal] And now I’m looking to grow my skills and experience, shift my career to more of …. with your company [give specific example of how you could contribute to their company]
1. Why are you interested in this job/ company?
I am passionate about ___ (other work they do that you’re excited about) …
I am looking forward to applying my skills in XYZ towards the important work (with company) doing ABC
For the next section:
Have 3-4 examples prepared for each question using the STAR method
- Situation: Begin by briefly describing the situation or context in which you encountered the difficult teammate.
- Task: Explain your specific role or task within the situation.
- Action: Describe the actions you took to address the issue and work with the difficult teammate. Highlight your problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
- Result: Conclude with the positive outcomes or results of your actions. This could include improved teamwork, increased productivity, or a resolution to the issue.
2. Tell me about a time you solved a problem
3. a time you worked with a difficult teammate (no tea, just facts)
4. a time you failed
Example: XYZ happened but I handled that situation by (using skill that they ask for in the job description).
5. a time you are proud of/ accomplishment
Other common questions to have prepared:
6. How does this position fit in with your career goals?
7. What questions do you have for me?
Here are some of my favorites:
What are some of the day-to-day tasks and goals someone in this position should be ready to “hit the ground running” with?
What should I be ready to accomplish in the first month in this role?
What are some of the upcoming projects in the first 30-60-to-90 days?
Which other teams would ours work closely with?
What are some of the characteristics that you’re looking for in a candidate for this position
How would you describe the company culture? **Maybe :) This might be better for an informational
What are some of the challenges someone in this position typically faces?
How is the company looking to grow in the next 5-10 years? How will our team contribute to those goals? (Don’t ask if there is an easily accessible strategic plan, you’d ask instead - “what are some ways this position will contribute to the goals of —[name the ones you’re interested in that you’ve read about in their report]”)
What are the next steps?
Tips:
Review the job description for the “soft skills” they’re looking for and have your examples speak directly to how you used them. SHOW, not TELL :)
