Interview Advice

Interview Tips

A recent survey commissioned by the New York Times Job Market found that 84 percent of hiring managers in the New York metropolitan area believe a positive, enthusiastic attitude is the most appealing behavior displayed by candidates during an interview. As part of the survey, 250 hiring managers were asked to rate traits and behaviors they consider most and least appealing during a job interview. In order of importance, managers cited traits that are considered appealing:

• Confidence (79%)
• Being articulate(78%)
• Honesty (76%)
• Timeliness (75%)
• Good listening skills (74%)
• Eye contact (71%)
• Good body language (68%
• Firm handshake (59%)
• Traditional business attire (46%)

In contrast, the following traits are considered unappealing:

• A negative attitude (83%)
• Tardiness (79%)
• Poor listening skills (76%
• Being inarticulate (69%)
• Arrogance (64%)
• Inappropriate body language (63%)
• Poor eye contact (60%)
• Lacking confidence (59%)
• Focus on salary/benefits at (56%)
• Initial interview (51%)
• Revealing too much personal information (50%)
• Casual attire (31%)

Now that you know this,understand that any candidate that exhibits the traits on the top part are likely to get offers. Conversely, we have never placed anyone who exhibit any of the traits of the bottom section.

Questions an employer may want to ask during an interview:

1. Please describe your present job responsibilities. Which are the most difficult and why? Which are the most enjoyable?
2. What accomplishment in your present job are you most proud of? What was your best idea (regardless of implementation)?
3. What would you like to have accomplished, but haven’t, in your present job? What prevented you from doing so?
4. What particular strengths and weaknesses would you bring to this position?
5. What do you know about our company and this position?
6. What would it take to succeed in this position?
7. What elements are important to your job satisfaction and that of your subordinates?
8. Describe what qualities would make an ideal boss for this position?
9. What are your short and long term career objectives?
10. What are the biggest frustrations in your career?
11. What might your present company and department do to become more successful?
12. What are your hobbies and interest? Are they useful to your career or in balancing the rest of your life?
13. How would you describe your personality? How would your associates describe you?
14. How do your spouse children feel about this possible change?
15. Why are you leaving?
16. Why should we hire you?
17. Can you work under pressure, deadlines, etc.?
18. What is your philosophy on management?
19. Do you prefer staff or line work? Why?
20. What features of your previous job did you dislike?