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| Title: | Sample Interview Responses: Change Weak Language into Strong Language | |
| Author: | Opus Scientific | |
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Many candidates feel that if they travel the middle of the road in answering interview questions, none of their responses can be “wrong”. In this competitive market, however, playing the middle of the road can be detrimental to one’s candidacy. Every candidate must distinguish themselves to have a competitive edge. Here are some Classic, middle of the road responses followed by better ones for the competitive market.
Classic Response: I am seeking a challenging job in a stable company in which I can use my skills to the best of my ability.
Competitive Response: In the immediate future I want a position in which I can use my skills in [insert major strengths] that I honed during my [select one previous job/education]. Once I am contributing to the growth and success of this company I would like to take on more responsibility in [name specific areas].
Classic Response: No, I have no questions- everything seems pretty clear from the job description.
Competitive Response: Yes, I have a number of questions, but the one area I’d really like to hear more about is [select an area that demonstrates your knowledge of the company and or specific project].
Classic Response: I am willing to do anything at your company because the company is so great.
Competitive Response: I am most interested in a position as a [insert title from a job opening on the website] in your [relevant] department. This will allow me to build on [describe experience] that I gained in my last job. However, another position of interest to me is that of [insert related title from job opening on the website]. In this role I could build on my experience from a recent internship. (You have to have visited the company website and know the company positions in order to answer like this, further demonstrating your passion for the company.)
Classic Response: I am looking for a new position because I want more challenges. I want to learn more and grow and develop as a professional.
Competitive Response: I am looking for a position in an entrepreneurial environment like this one that requires someone to be able to switch gears quickly, adapt and wear many hats. Being a member of a smaller team will stretch my creativity and use my skills in chemical engineering in a more impactful way.
Classic Response: Yes, it was difficult to find your office…Yes, I agree it is too cold…My flight was delayed and my trip was difficult...The commute today was horrible.
Competitive Response: Luckily, I left very early so there were no real problems getting here...I am not used to the cold but I adapt very quickly...I was able to catch up on many phone calls since my flight was delayed...Thankfully, I left early, because there was a terrible accident that caused a bit of traffic, but I just hope the people involved are okay.
Answers to Difficult Questions
Expect the interviewers to ask the hard questions. If you expect them, you are less likely to be caught off guard and come across as unprepared or defensive. In addition, in your responses never say anything negative about another person. Always discuss what you learned from the experience in a positive light. Never discuss a weakness (see below) always discuss a strength and how that strength reveals itself in your work ethic. Here are some responses that may help you craft your own:
Why do you think that with your level of experience you can do this job?
I know enough about the position to see where my skills would be of great use to this company. This position requires someone who can [name critical success factors]. I have done exactly that in my experience as a [name relevant internship]. In addition, when I began [previous internship] I had no experience in [name important skill mastered] and within three months I was training others.
You have never worked in this industry before. What makes you think that you can do this job?
I know enough about the position to see where my skills would be of great use to this company. This position requires someone who can [name critical success factors]. I have done exactly that in my experience as a [select position]. In addition, I have already begun educating myself through a [name a current course or certification program] that will help me to fill in the gaps in my knowledge.
Why do you want to work for this company?
Based on my research of your company, the position and my skills in [area] and previous experience with [technical] it seems like this is what I am looking for [demonstrate insider knowledge]. Today I hope to learn whether it is a good fit and find out more about the opportunities and benefits to working for this company.
What are your weaknesses?
I noticed in the job description that you are looking for someone with previous experience as a direct supervisor. Although I have never had direct reports, as the training manager for 3 years I managed the training for over 15 staff members from entry-level to experienced. Everyone in the department reported to me for training and I directly managed their accountability along with their direct supervisors.
What is your salary expectation?
When the time comes I am sure we can come to a mutually agreeable compensation package, but for now I would like to learn a little more about the opportunity and your company. By the way, what is the range budgeted by the company for this position?
Be ready for a follow up like “It depends on level of experience. What are your expectations?”
In my previous position I made $50,000, but for now I would like to focus on determining whether this position is a fit by getting more information on daily responsibilities and expectations from the person I will be reporting to. For me, salary is not the only thing to consider so please send me your written information about benefits. Would it be possible to have someone send me the benefits package? Could you please describe some of the benefits there are to working in your company beyond salary?
Closing the interview
Closing the interview is one of the most important aspects of the interview process. Just as the opening renders a powerful first impression, the closing offers lasting impressions that are just as important. If not offered the opportunity to close, make the opportunity. It is perfectly okay to say “If you have a moment, I’d like to leave you with a final thought regarding my candidacy.”
Here are some things to remember for your close:
If you are more interested in the position, be sure to indicate anything specific that was said or done during the interviewing process that impressed you about the company or position or changed your opinion. Concisely reiterate exactly three salient points about why you are a great match for the position. The points should offer more insight into you as a person than what was already discussed. Ask whether you can contact the individual directly with additional questions and ask what the next steps will be if there is continued interest in your candidacy. Be sure to thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Closing the interview well not only makes a lasting impression on the interviewer; it can give you an indication of whether the interview went well or not. If the interviewer asks for your availability for follow-up interviews or a start date and if the interviewer offers unsolicited information on the selection process, you are probably doing well. However, if the interviewer seems to be enduring your close, you may need to get in person advice about your close and interviewing skills in general from a Career Development Specialist at your most recent educational institution.
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Opus Scientific, based in Long Island and New York City, is a specialized professional staffing firm supporting biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, cosmetic, chemical, food and other scientific intensive industries that require skilled talent. The core focus areas include research & development, drug discovery, pre-clinical development, clinical research, manufacturing, regulatory affairs, quality assurance, quality control and sales & marketing. |
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Copyright, 2008, Opus Scientific Published with permission |
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