Why Should We Hire You?

Why Should We Hire You?

D-1:    Why should we hire you?

D-2:    What do you know about our company? 

D-3:    Why do you want this position?

D-4:    Why do you want to work for this company?

D-5:    When can you start?  

D-6:    What is your commitment to this job?  

D-7:    Aren't you overqualified for this job?  

D-8:    What salary are you expecting?

D-9:    Why should we pay you the salary you're requesting?

D-10:  Are you considering offers from other employers?  

D-11:  Do you have any questions?

D-12:  Is there anything else about you I should know?

D-13:  What have you heard about our company that you don't like?

D-14:  What aspect of this job appeals to you the least?

D-15:  How will you handle the parts of this job you like the least?

D-16:  What are you looking for in your next job?

D-17:  What did you do at your current (or last) job that increased profit, reduced expenses,         or improved efficiency?

D-18:  Do you know who are major competitors are?

D-1:  Why should we hire you?  

Take several minutes to answer this question, incorporating your personality traits, strengths, and experience in to the job you're applying for.  A good answer is to focus on how you can benefit the company.  You can best do this by matching your skills and qualifications to those needed for the job and be ready with examples of how your skills, talents, etc., mesh with the needs of that particular company.  

Sample answer 1:  "You should hire me because I have considerable experience and success in marketing software products to small companies.  I know that your organization has not done well serving the small business sector and would like to greatly expand sales in this segment. At Acme, I was able to increase small business accounts 60 percent in just two years. At XYZ Corporation, I single-handedly brought in 260 new small business accounts in just three years, which was a company record.   Currently, your company has a very high turnover rate among sales recruits, approximately 60 percent.  I succeeded in reducing employee turnover by more than 30% at both Acme and XYZ.   I also had great success in leading and motivating new sales recruits.  A large percentage of those I have trained have gone on to be stellar performers.  This is why you should hire me.  I can make a positive impact on sales and help reduce your labor costs, making this company more competitive and profitable."

Sample answer 2:  "I believe I am the best person for this position because you need an office manager who can work effectively with diverse employees in a very fast-paced hectic environment.  I have more than a decade of experience supervising clerical workers from diverse cultures, helping them to become more productive and efficient.  I have reduced employee turnover by more than 20% in the past three years, which saved my employer more than $1 million in related hiring and training costs each of those three years.  I also eliminated the need for 10% of the office staff by automating several processes, saving my employer a small fortune in labor costs.  I am confident that I can resolve your current labor problems, reduce your labor costs significantly while improving worker morale and productivity."  

D-2: What do you know about our company?    

Those who answer this question with, "Not much," will probably not be offered the job.  You should always research a company before the interview.  Learn about their products / services, size, plans, current events, etc.  If you cannot find information about a particular company, call their offices and ask the receptionist to send you information about the company in the form of a brochure, etc.  You should also research the industry in which the company operates so you are up on what's happening.  You can find links to research sites at http://www.resumagic.com/interview_preparation.html.  

D-3: Why do you want this position? 

Your answer should offer what you think are the most interesting aspects of the position.  More responsibility and opportunity, including a higher salary, are acceptable answers, but state them in a way that isn't blunt.  For example, "because it pays more" is not a good answer.  However, stating that, "The position offers more responsibility, challenges and interesting opportunities, as well as a higher salary," is a good answer.

D-4: Why do you want to work for this company? 

Don't answer this question with, "Because you advertised for an X at monster.com."  Your answer should offer what you think are the most interesting aspects of the company, for example, "because it is on the cutting edge of technology" or "because you are the industry leader".  The research you do on the company in order to prepare for the interview should give you an answer to this question.   

D-5:  When can you start?  

It is customary for most employees to give at least two weeks notice to their current employer.   Those in management positions are expected to give longer notice.   You will not earn points if you express disrespect toward your current employer by telling the interviewer that you plan to quit your present job without giving sufficient notice.  He will assume you will show his company the same amount of disrespect.   It is also a good idea to tell the interviewer you plan to start learning about your new position / employer on your off-hours (i.e., reading employee training manuals, etc.)  Telling the interviewer you can't begin work for a few months because you want to take some time-off is not a good idea.  

D-6:  What is your commitment to this job?  

Most people would respond with an answer avowing a deep commitment to the company and the job; however, a better answer would be to state that your commitment would grow as you get to know the company and the people in it.   

D-7:  Aren't you overqualified for this job?        

Note that employers don't like to hire overqualified people because they won't stay around long.  But since it is probably obvious that you're overqualified, admit that you are, but also emphasis the positive.  For example, "I am overqualified in some ways.  I have more experience that is required for this job, but you are looking for someone who is an expert in X, and that's me.  However, that doesn't mean I'm completely overqualified.  I feel that I have much to learn in the area of X, which is a big part of this job and I know it will keep me challenged . . . ."   

D-8:  What salary are you expecting?  

Don't sell yourself short when asking for a specific salary.  Studies have found that those who negotiate for a higher salary often get it.  You should do some research before the job interview so that you don't ask for too much or too little.  You might be asked to justify why you are worth the salary you are asking, so be prepared with an answer (i.e., tell them how your skills and experience will benefit the company so much that your salary will be a bargain for them.)  

The best salary resource on the Internet is Salary.com where you can find out what people earn at various experience levels and in every region of the USA.  At the time this was written, you could search the Salary.com database free.  You also need to consider the cost of living in the area you will be relocating to, if applicable.  There are cost of living calculators on the Internet.  A good one can be found at Homefair.com.  With a cost of living calculator, you can find out how much you will have to earn in your new location to maintain the same standard of living you enjoy in your present location.

A good answer:  "After doing some research at Salary.com and a few other sites on the Internet, I am asking for a starting salary of $100,000.  I base this figure on the fact that I have seven years of experience in the field and have proven myself a great asset to my past employer.  I realize that this figure is $20,000 more than I am presently earning; however, the cost of living is considerably higher in the San Francisco area and I have included an amount to cover the higher costs I would have to pay if I relocated here."

D-9:  Why should we pay you the salary you're requesting?      

Answer this question by convincing the interviewer that you deserve the salary you're requesting.  The best way to do this is to point out how you have benefited your past employers in terms of increasing profit, reducing expenses, improving efficiency, etc.

Good answer:  "Last year I exceeded my annual sales quota by $500,000 and gross profit by 30 percent.  I achieved over $3.5 million in sales in a two year period setting a company record for most new accounts created in one quarter.  I intend to bring in much more each year for your company than I will earn.  Therefore, I believe this is a very fair salary."

D-10:  Are you considering offers from other employers?  

It is recommended that you NOT disclose any other offers you have received or discuss the companies with whom you have interviewed.  Therefore, a good answer to this question is to state that you do not have offers from other companies.  (Of course, if for some reason you believe you would have a better chance of getting the job offer if you disclosed this information, then do so.)  

D-11:  Do you have any questions?  

This question is usually one of the last questions an interviewer will ask, as it is a logical way to end the interview.  Never go to an interview without preparing questions to ask beforehand.  Avoid asking about salary, vacation time, employee benefits, and such until you have asked a number of other questions that demonstrate your interest in working for the company.  Good questions to ask the interviewer:

Why is this position available?

Is this a new position?  How long has this position existed?

How many people have held this position in the last two years?

Who would be my supervisor?  To whom would I report?

Whom will I supervise?

With whom will I be working most closely?

What do you like about working for this company?

What are the current plans for expansion or cutbacks?

What kind of turnover rate does the company have?

How financially sound is this company?

What projects and assignments will I be working on?

What happened to the person that held this position before?  Was he promoted or fired? What is this company's culture, (i.e., is it rigid and formal or relaxed and flexible?) What are the current problems facing the company (or my department)?

What do you like the most about working for this company?  The least?

What is the philosophy of the company?

What do you consider to be the company's strengths and weaknesses?

What are the company's long and short term goals?

Describe the work environment.

What attracted you (the interviewer) to this organization?

Why do you enjoy working for this company?

Describe the typical responsibilities of the position.

What are the most challenging aspects of the position?

Describe the opportunities for training and professional development.

Will I receive any formal training?

What is the company's promotional policy?

Are there opportunities for advancement within the organization?

When can I expect to hear from you?

Is there any reason why you can't offer me this position today? (see question D-12 below)

You can also ask questions regarding information you found when conducting research about the company.

D-12:  Is there anything else about you I should know?             

This question is usually one of the last asked.  Don't answer with a simple, "No."  Instead, use this question to try to get the job offer.  You can do this by answering, "Yes, you should know that I really want this job.  After talking with you today, I feel that this is a position that would provide me with lots of opportunities to grow and stretch my wings and I feel I could really contribute to this company.  I have the sales experience and ability you're looking for and the required supervisory skills as well. Is there anything that prevents you from offering me this position today?"

D-13:  What have you heard about our company that you don't like?

You will probably have to do research to answer this question, particularly if the company isn't well known and you haven't heard anything about the company.  If you don't know of anything negative, then answer "I honestly haven't heard anything negative about your company.  I did do some research on your company before answering your classified ad and I didn't come across anything negative."  If you have heard some bad news about the company, such as the fact that it is unstable or operating in the red, then say so, "I have heard that last year's profits were way down and I am concerned about this."  

D-14:  What aspect of this job appeals to you the least?

In asking this question, the interviewer is trying to determine if you dislike doing a major part of your job.  For example, if you're a file clerk, you obviously don't want to answer by stating that you hate to file.   Like most people, you probably hate doing the routine, boring administrative tasks that everyone has to do; therefore, you might want to answer accordingly, "I don't particularly like compiling the monthly sales reports.  I love the sales process, meeting and negotiating with clients, working out in the field all day.  Sitting in front of a computer for a few hours each month doesn’t particularly appeal to me.  I know it needs to be done, and I've always done this task as required in my previous jobs, but I don't particularly like doing it."   

D-15:  How will you handle the parts of this job you like the least?

This question is very similar to D-14 and should be answered positively, "I will perform all of the tasks my job requires on time and to the best of my ability regardless of whether or not I enjoy them."

D-16:  What are you looking for in your next job?          

A good way to answer this question is by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to grow and develop and be promoted to the next level. In addition, your answer should be relevant to the job you're seeking.  A good answer:  "In my current position, I have worked on numerous teams designing computer software products and on occasion have acted in the capacity of project manager. I am looking for a position where I can be project manager on a regular basis as I have excelled at doing that whenever I had the opportunity.  I enjoy the process of leading the team, organizing and strategizing and managing the workflow in order to develop an effective product."

D-17:  What did you do at your current (or last) job that increased profit, reduced expenses, or improved efficiency?

Sample answer 1:  "I increased profit 30 percent my first year on the job by developing a new training program for the sales agent.  Not only were sales increased, but employee turnover was cut in half."

Sample answer 2:  "As file clerk, I was in charge of maintaining client records.  The sales staff was having problems locating files when clients called in, so I reorganized the filing system and computerized it so that they could locate a client's file within 10 seconds without leaving their desks.  This greatly improved efficiency."

Sample answer 3:  "The restaurant was losing a large amount of inventory every year through employee theft, so I told the owner he should install a new security system.  He took my advice and as a result employee theft was reduced significantly and the restaurant owner saved more than $30,000 the last three years in lost inventory.  The owner was also losing a lot of money due to employees submitting fake orders and such.  I recommended a computerized ticketing system that reduced employee theft to almost zero and increased profits $10,000 last year."

Sample answer 4:  "As secretary at Acme, it is my responsibility to make travel arrangements for all the executives in the office.  I researched travel packages on the Internet and negotiated with several vendors for discounts and was able to save $18,000 last year in travel-related costs."

D-18:  Do you know who our major competitors are?

You do not want to answer this question "No."  In fact, being able to discuss who their competitors are in-depth can only help you get the job.  You need to research this question before the interview and know who their top competitors are.  A good answer:  "Yes, your three major competitors are A, B, and C.    Currently, you are the industry leader, however, B has plans to enter the X sector and challenge your dominance in this market."  You might want to learn about each company's strengths and weaknesses as well. If they are publicly traded companies, you can learn more about them by examining their SEC papers.  Visit http://www.resumagic.com/interview_preparation.html for links to websites. 

Questions That Make You Squirm

Questions That Make You Squirm            

C-1:    Why do you want to leave your present employer?

C-2:    What did your last supervisor criticize most about your performance?

C-3:    Have you ever been fired or asked to resign?  

C-4:    Why haven't you received a job offer yet? 

C-5:    Which previously held job do you consider to be your favorite and why? 

C-6:    Would you choose the same career if you could start over again?  

C-7:    Why have you stayed with the same employer for so long?

C-8:    Why have you changed jobs so frequently?

C-9:    Who was your favorite boss and least favorite boss and why?

C-10:  How could you have improved relations with your least favorite boss?

C-11:  What is the most foolish thing you've ever done?

C-12:  Have any of your past employers refused to give you a reference?

C-13:  Why are their gaps in your employment history?

C-14:  Would your present employer be surprised to know you're job hunting? 

C-15:  How would your co-workers describe you?

C-16:  What would you do if a supervisor asked you to do something you knew was wrong? C-17:  What types of people do you have trouble getting along with?

C-1:  Why do you want to leave your present employer? 

You could state that you want a more challenging position, higher salary, or more responsibility.  Don't mention personal conflicts with your present boss or bad- mouth your current employer or co-workers as this will harm your chances of being offered the job.  Keep in mind that interviewers love people who are looking for more challenging positions or responsibility because it shows drive, ambition and motivation. 

C-2:  What did your last supervisor criticize most about your performance?  

A good way to answer this question is to offer a criticism you received that is not very important or not directly related to the position you're applying for.  For example, telling the interviewer that you were constantly criticized for coming to work an hour late is not a good idea.   However, revealing a minor criticism and telling the interviewer what steps you took to improve yourself is a good way to answer this question.  In fact, if you can state that you have already solved the problem and received a higher mark on a subsequent performance review, then say so.  

C-3:  Have you ever been fired or asked to resign?  

When answering this question, keep in mind that the interviewer knows that almost everyone has been fired at least once and it is usually due to a personality conflict with the boss or coworkers.  So, if you have been fired then admit it, but do so without attacking your former boss or employer, and without sounding defensive or bitter.  Do not mention that you have been fired many times unless asked specifically, "How many times have you been fired?"  Have a sense of humor when discussing your firings so that the interviewer doesn't get the idea you are a nut who might come back to the workplace with an assault rifle if you're fired.   Tell the interviewer what you learned from being fired.  If you have been fired many times, mention what steps you have taken to improve yourself (i.e., I have read self-help books about . . . getting along with others . . . improving my time management . . . improving knowledge, work habits, etc.).  Also, point out any past jobs you held when you got along well with your boss and coworkers or received good performance reviews or a promotion.  

C-4:  How long have you been searching for a job?  Why haven't you received a job offer?  Why have you been unemployed for so long?  

It is always better to answer this question with "I just started looking" but this is not always possible, particularly if your resume indicates you've been unemployed for the last six months.  If you can't hide the fact that your job search has been taking awhile, then state you're being selective about whom you will work for.  Of course, stating this might prompt the interviewer to ask, "What offers have you turned down?" which could land you in hot water if you haven't actually received any job offers. (It isn't a good idea to lie in answering this latter question.)  

A bad economy and a crowded market are good reasons one might have trouble finding a job.  However, be aware that many interviewers will hold this against you even if the job market was very bad and many people were having trouble finding employment.  

C-5:  What previously held job do you consider to be your favorite and why?  

This is actually a trick question asked to determine if you enjoy the type of work the position you're applying for involves.  Therefore, the answer to this question should be a job that requires the same or similar work that you will be required to perform in the new job.  If you do not have a previous job wherein you performed similar tasks, then offer an answer that does not suggest you are ill-suited for the position.  For example, if you are applying for a high-stress, demanding job in a chaotic environment, don't tell the interviewer you loved your position with Acme because of the mellow, low stress "work at your own pace" atmosphere.  

C-6:  Would you choose the same career if you could start over again?  

How you answer this question depends on whether or not you are trying to win a job related to your career history or are trying to enter a new field.   No matter how much you despise the career you originally chose, do not admit this fact to the interviewer because it tells him you consider your work to be drudge.  If you are trying to enter a new field, of course, tell the interviewer that you would choose the field you're now trying to enter if you had it to do all over again -- that's why you're trying to enter it now.  

C-7:  Why have you stayed with the same employer for so long?           

Just as moving from job to job too frequently can harm you, so can staying with the same employer for too long -- particularly if you've never been promoted and your resume indicates you haven't been intellectually challenged in years.  Your answer should state something about your having worked successfully with many people both inside and outside of the organization, including different bosses and co-workers, as well as interacting regularly with various types of organizations and customers.

C-8:  Why have you changed jobs so frequently?          

Reasons for job-hopping should be based on your past employers' failure to challenge you, failure to give you enough opportunity for advancement, because you needed more money, or for family reasons, and never on the fact that your past employers were incompetent, dumb, or unfair.   Do not indicate in any way that you are hard to get along with or get bored and leave at the drop of a hat, and make sure you point out any jobs you did hold for a long time.  Mention that your current goal is long-term employment and back that up with any proof you have to want job stability such as a new baby, new marriage, new home, etc.  If the job you're applying for offers you the challenges and environment you were always looking for, make sure you point out this fact.  

Good answer 1:  "Well, at ABC Corporation, I was hired as an entry level salesman with the promise of rapid promotion to management within one year.  After a year and a half, I realized that I wasn't going to be promoted as promised and took a position elsewhere because I could not support my family without the commissions that were promised.  At Acme, I was told that the job was very challenging and exciting with significant opportunities for advancement within one year, but this did not materialize. The job was very unchallenging and the company seemed to be failing.  I felt like I was capable of doing much more than sitting around with little to do, so I left.  I admit that my resume shows some job hopping of late, but this is why I am so interested in the position with your company.  I feel certain that this position offers very challenging and interesting work, as well as opportunities for advancement for those willing to work hard.  Your company is very profitable and stable and has a good reputation in the industry.  I know that this will be a position I will stay with a very long time."  

Good answer 2:  "I do not believe that my work history is an accurate reflection of who I am.  I am actually a very stable person who would enjoy very much working for the same employer for a long period.   Note that on my resume, it indicates that I worked for XYZ Company for five years in the early 1990s.  I admit that my resume indicates some job hopping in the late 1990s, but this was because I was caring for my elderly, sick mother between 1995 and 2001.  Caring for her required being available nights and on weekends, so I was not able to work overtime as the job at Acme required.  I had to resign after working there for only a year.  At XYZ Industries, I had to resign after only one year because they insisted on transferring me to the west coast.  I simply could not move away from my mother who was too elderly and ill to make such a move.  My mother passed away in 2001, I got married a year later and had a child.  Now, I have a wife and child to support and a mortgage to pay.  I am eager to settle down and work for a company like yours for a long period of time."

C-9:  Who was your favorite boss and why?  Who was your least favorite boss and why?  

These are two of the most difficult interview questions to answer unless you understand what the interviewer wants to hear, and if you realize that you can answer both questions with the same answer.  Employers are looking for employees who are interested in contributing to the company and improving their job skills.  So, instead of insulting or demeaning your past bosses by telling the interviewer that he was always "hogging all the credit" or was "totally incompetent", state that you wished he had offered you more feedback about your job performance, provided you with more job training, or challenged you more by providing you with more opportunities to show what you can do, etc.   You can answer the question, "who was your favorite boss and why?" using the same answer:  "John Doe was my favorite boss because he offered me lots of feedback about my job performance, taught me almost everything I know about marketing, and gave me plenty of opportunities to prove myself by giving me very challenging projects to complete."   Never put down your past employers or blame them for anything in a demeaning or insulting way, since it makes you come across as petty. 

C-10:  What could you have done to improve your relationship with your least favorite boss?  

Again, refrain from stating negativities about your former boss.  Put a positive spin on your answer by telling the interviewer that, if you had it to do all over again,  you would have requested more feedback from your boss regarding your performance and requested to be assigned more projects, etc.   

C-11:  What is the most foolish thing you've ever done?            

Do not answer this question by claiming that you have never done anything foolish, because everyone has done something foolish.  The ideal answer would be to admit a foolish thing you did in your personal life a long time ago (perhaps as a teenager) rather than admit a foolish mistake done in your recent professional life.  For example, one might answer, "When I was 14 years old,

I decided to steal my father's car keys and go for a joy ride.  Unfortunately, my driving skills weren't as good as I thought they were and I crashed into a telephone pole less than a mile from home.  I was so afraid of my father's reaction, that I left the car there and ran to a friend's house.  I did do some other silly things as a kid, but fortunately, I've never done anything I consider to be foolish as an adult or at work.  Of course, I have made some mistakes at work, but I've learned from them and didn't consider them to be foolish."

C-12:  Have any of your past employers refused to give you a reference?

Of course, the best answer to this question is "no", but if you have to answer "yes", explain why in a professional manner.  In other words, don't complain bitterly about the employer who refused to give you a reference.  Sample answer:  "Yes, John Wilson at Acme refuses to give me a reference because he is unhappy that I resigned from the company.  This is unfortunate because John and I really liked each other and worked well together.  I did receive excellent performance reviews and two raises based on performance while at Acme, so his refusal to give me a reference is not based on poor performance.  As I said, he is angry at me for resigning because he considers my doing so to be disloyal to the company."  Sample answer 1:  "Yes, Acme Corporation refuses to give me a reference; however, this is not based on performance.  Acme has been sued many times by former employers so they have adopted the policy of confirming only job title, work dates and salary through HR.  If you contact Mr. Wilson at Acme, he will likely not respond or will refer you to HR.  This is not based on my performance, but rather, on company policy."

C-13:  Why are there gaps in your employment history?            

Answer this question by explaining each recent gap in your work history that is longer than six months.  You should try to put a positive spin on your answer.  Good reasons to explain away employment gaps are that you took some time off to raise your children or to go back to school and get your degree or obtain necessary training to get a better job.  Although not ideal, acceptable reasons to explain employment gaps are that you took a year off to travel or that the economy has been very bad and you simply couldn't find work in a year and a half.  Don't say it was because "no one would hire me" or "I kept getting fired" without putting a positive spin on your answer.  Mention that your current goal is long-term employment and back that up with any proof you have to want job stability such as a new baby, new marriage, new home, etc.  If the job you're applying for offers you the challenges and environment you were always looking for, you should point out this fact. 

Good answer 1:  "The reason that there is a two year gap in my employment history is that I could afford to be very choosy as I had a substantial amount of money in savings, which allowed me to spent almost two years looking for the right position.  I resigned from Acme Corporation because the work was very unchallenging and I wanted to make sure that I found a new position that offered me the type of challenging, interesting work and advancement for opportunities that I was searching for.  So, I interviewed for many positions and was offered quite a few of them, but I turned them down because they were not right for me."

Good answer 2:  "When I was younger, I did some foolish things, one of which was not having any idea of what I wanted to do with my life, so I was generally unfocused and ended up quitting several good jobs so I could attend school full-time and get the necessary training to enter a new field.  The two-year employment gap between my job at Acme and XYZ Industries occurred because I was attending university full-time while my wife supported us financially.  The most recent employment gap occurred because I again decided to go back to school and earn a degree so I could qualify for much better jobs."

C-14:  Would your present employer be surprised to know you're job hunting?  

Never answer this question with negative information such as "My current boss wouldn't be surprised in the least to hear I'm leaving since he's been trying to shove me out the door for years!"  Always tell the interviewer that you are happy with your current employer and job, but are simply looking to stretch your wings out and take on a job with more challenge, and yes, more salary and opportunities for advancement.   

C-15:  How would your co-workers describe you?         

Obviously, you don't want to say your co-workers would describe you as a troubled loner.  The only correct answer to this question is to say that they would describe you as a pleasant person who works well with others.  Put forth other positive traits about yourself as well:  hard-working, efficient, dependable, easy going, funny, witty, etc.

Good answer:  "My coworkers would describe me as a pleasant, nice person who is very dependable and hard-working.  I tend to be shy at first, but after people get to know me, I come out of my shell and am very fun to be around."

C-16:  What would you do if a supervisor asked you to do something the wrong way?

The interviewer is testing how insubordinate you might be.  Never answer this question by claiming you would refuse to do something the way the supervisor told you to do it unless you are required by your company or by law to follow certain procedures.  Instead, tell the interviewer you would tell the supervisor you think it should be done another way, but if the supervisor insisted you do it his way, you would do so.

Good answer:  "If I was aware that there was a more efficient or better way to perform a task, I would tactfully point this out to the supervisor.  However, if she still wanted me to do it her way, I would do so."

C-17:  What types of people do you have trouble getting along with?

You don't want to answer this question with "Hard-working people who make lazy people like me look bad."  You want to be the hard-working, nice person who doesn't like lazy or difficult people.  However, be careful, the position you're interviewing for might come with an unpleasant, difficult supervisor and the interviewer is asking you this question for that reason.

Good answer 1: "I don't get along well with people who don't hold up their end of the job, who are constantly coming in late or calling in sick.  They don't really respect their co-workers and bring the whole organization down."

Good answer 2:  "I don't get along well with people who are opinionated and close-minded.  They always seem to be complaining about one thing or another and they're depressing to be around." 

What jobs did you have as a teenager?

What jobs did you have as a teenager?          

Answer this question honestly.  Either you had jobs or you didn't.  Household chores, mowing lawns, shoveling snow, and lemonade stands all count as jobs.  

Good answer 1:  "I worked part-time at both Burger King and McDonalds between the ages of 16 and 20 in order to earn money to buy my first car and help my parents pay for my college education.  I was able to handle both work and school without my grades suffering.  And when I was younger, around 13 to 16 years old, I babysat for families in the neighborhood on weekends."

Good answer 2:  "I didn't have any jobs as a child other than chores I was expected to do around the house such as helping my parents with housekeeping, mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, and babysitting my younger sister and brother.  My parents placed tremendous emphasis on academics and extracurricular activities, and would not allow me to work."

Who are your references?  

It is a good idea to type up the names and contact information of your references on a sheet of paper and present it to the interviewer when the topic comes up.  Ideally, one should provide the names of current and former supervisors as references since these are the people prospective employers most want to speak with about your work performance.  Giving the names of others as references -- such as co-workers, friends, family members, etc. -- might be an indication that you do not want the interviewer to contact your supervisor.   If you do not have any work history, use teachers, professors, or business people you or your family knows as references.  

A good answer to this question:  "I have prepared a list of references here I would like you to have.  I have selected my current supervisor, Jane Doe, as my major reference since she can speak about my most recent work performance and accomplishments.  I also list the names of my previous two supervisors at Acme, Jack Wilson and Norma Smith."  

If one does not have any work references, a good answer might be, "I asked two of my engineering professors to be references for me and they agreed to do so.  I typed up their names, phone numbers and contact information on this sheet of paper.  They can attest to the work I completed as an intern over the past two years.  I also list Mrs. Sally Wilson, who is a prominent attorney and a friend of the family.  She has known me since I was a child and can attest to my character."  

  Do you mind if I contact your references? 

You should always inform your present employer that you are looking for a new position and someone will be contacting them to discuss your work history. If you don't want your current boss to know you're searching for a new job, then tell the interviewer that:  "I would prefer that you not contact my current employer as she is not aware that I am looking for another position, but you may contact Mr. Jack Smith, my former supervisor at Acme.  He supervised me for four years and agreed to be a reference for me.  Of course, if you decide to offer me this position, please let me know so that I can inform my current employer, and then, yes, you may contact her once I have received an offer of employment and given notice."

On the other hand, you might have already informed your current employer that you're interviewing for other jobs.  In this case, your answer might be, "Yes, you may contact my present supervisor, Mrs. Smith.  She is well aware of the fact that I am searching for a new position and knows that you will be calling her in the near future."

Will you take a lie-detector test?        

The interviewer is asking this question (1) because it is a requirement to get the job, or (2) to find out if you are afraid of the prospect of taking such a test.  Therefore, the only correct answer to this question is "Yes, I would be willing to take a lie detector test."  You don't need to say anything else.

How do you feel about air travel?  

Obviously, the interviewer wouldn't be asking this question if traveling by air wasn't an important component of the job, so the only correct way to answer this question is "No, I have no problem with air travel."  You might want to expand your answer by telling the interviewer that you traveled a lot in a previous job or in your personal life.  If you tell the interviewer you are afraid of flying or cannot do so for some other reason, such as a medical condition, you will not get the job offer.

Have you ever owned your own business?

The best answer to this question is yes since it shows initiative and that you have had some experience marketing services or products.  Good answer:  "Yes, I ran my own business while in high school.  I went door-to-door asking people if they needed their lawns mowed.  I earned quite a sum of money in just a few months, enough to pay for a car and my first year of college."

Are you in good health?

The interviewer is asking this question because providing health insurance to employees costs employers a small fortune.  Consequently, many employers prefer to hire those who try to maintain their health to keep the number of claims down and insurance rates as low as possible.  Keep in mind that employers can find out your medical history and many of them make the job offer contingent upon your passing a physical examination, therefore, it wouldn't be a good idea to blatantly lie about your medical history.  That doesn't mean you should offer information you don't have to, such as "I smoked cigarettes for thirty years, but gave them up last year" or "I've had two heart attacks and a stroke".  If your health is generally good, then answer this question briefly:  "Yes, I'm in good health" or "I have no health problems that would prevent me from doing this job" and don't elaborate further. 

What do you do to maintain your health?

Obviously, if you're in good shape, answering this question is easy:  "I jog two or three nights a week and lift weights at the Acme Gym three times a week.  I try to eat a balanced diet; I eat lots of salads and try to maintain my weight." 

If you're overweight or obese (as are 65% of adult Americans) answering this question isn't going to be easy.  Sample answer:  "Well, obviously I'm overweight, so I can't tell you that I get up and jog for an hour every day, but I do walk my dogs for 45 minutes every night.   I recently started the Atkins program and have already lost seven pounds.  It's a diet I can live with, so I know this time I'll be able to lose all the weight and start taking better care of my health." 

Do you have any physical problems that would limit your ability to perform this job?

Employers have to be very careful about asking this question as too much prying can violate your civil rights.  Therefore, they won't ask too many prying questions and you don't need to offer them very much information.  The best way to answer this question is to keep it short and simple:  "No, I don't have any physical problems that would affect my ability to perform this job."   

 What organizations are you a member of?    

The interviewer is interested in work-related memberships, not personal ones.  The fact that you are a member of the American Business Association is more important than the fact you participate in your local PTA (which reveals the fact that you have children).   It is also a good idea not to reveal religious and political affiliations, such as memberships in the Christian Business Association or the Republican Party or ethnic and cultural affiliations.

How do you balance career and family?

On the surface this questions appears to be illegal (see Section G), but it isn't the way that it's worded. The interviewer is hoping you will reveal information about things he isn't allowed to ask, such as if you are married, single, divorced, have children, or are straight or gay. If you don't want to reveal information about your personal life, offer a vague simple answer: "I haven't had a problem balancing my work and private life.   One has never interfered with the other.  I am capable of getting the work I need to get done without it interfering with my personal life." 

On the other hand, you might want to reveal a great deal of information if you think it will help you get the job offer:  "I can easily balance my career and family life as my children are now in college and my wife is starting a new career as a real estate agent.  We both work hard and have flexible schedules to work when we need to, but we still have a good personal life, spending time with friends and family every week." 

Apprenticeship Training Scheme

Apprenticeship Training Scheme

In India, the system of formal Apprenticeship was introduced in the Apprentices Act 1961, which requires employers in notified Industry to engage apprentices in specified ratios in relation to the workforce.

To regulate the programme of training of Apprentices in the Industries so as to confirm to the prescribed syllabi / approved programme, period of training etc. as laid down by the Central Apprenticeship Council.

To utilize the facilities available in the Industry for imparting practical training with a view to meet the requirement of the skilled workers/supervisors in the Industries.

The Apprentices Act makes it obligatory on the part of Employers both in Public and Private sector Industries to engage trade apprentices according the ratio of apprentices to workers other than unskilled workers in designated trades prescribed under the Rules. In order to locate facilities for apprenticeship training, the training places are located on the basis of findings of surveys conducted in the Industrial Establishments. The duration of training for trade apprentices varies from 6 months to 4 years depending upon the requirements of the specified trade. The syllabi for different trades are prepared and finalized by the respective Trade Committee comprising trade experts from Industry. The engagement of apprentices is done throughout the year. At the end of the apprenticeship training period the trainees are trade-tested by the National Council for Vocational Training. Successful candidates are awarded National Apprenticeship Certificates.

Apprenticeship Training is given to ITI passed trainees and Fresher in Industrial Establishments. While the I.T.Is produce semi-skilled workers. Apprenticeship Training moulds them as skilled workers. The apprentices gained practical training in shop floor in Industrial Establishment and Theoretical knowledge in the Related Instruction Centre during Apprenticeship Training up to the period of March 2007. As per DGET’s instructions letter No.DGET-16(2)/2006-AP, dated 22.03.2007, related instructions classes were abolished for trainees from April 2007.

During Apprenticeship Training, the apprentices are given stipend as follows by the Establishments: The DGE&T have communicated the revised stipend rates.(G.S..R. 662 (E) dated 22.09.2014)

a)         During the first year of training     70% of minimum wagesof semi-skilled workers notified by the respective state/UT

b)        During the second year of training            80% of minimum wagesof semi-skilled workers notified by the respective state/UT

c)         During the third year of training    90% of minimum wagesof semi-skilled workers notified by the respective state/UT

d)        During the fourth year of training 90% of minimum wagesof semi-skilled workers notified by the respective state/UT

Apprenticeship Training is implemented in 111 designated trades out of 252 trades.

Apprenticeship Training Scheme is implemented in 11 Related Instruction Centres and 3 Govt. I.T.Is in Tamil Nadu as follows:

1. Guindy RIC           8. Cuddalore RIC

2. Ambathur RIC      9. Trichy RIC

3. North Chennai RIC          10. Madurai RIC

4. Vellore RIC           11.Tirunelveli RIC

5. Salem RIC 12. Thanjavur ITI

6. Coimbatore RIC   13. Metturdam ITI

7. Hosur RIC 14. Dharapuram ITI

Apprenticeship Training, in the case of Fresher starts with Basic Training which is to be imparted by the employers himself in a separate building or in a section of the Workshop in the Establishment, if the employers employees 500 or more workers in his establishment. He shall also equip his basic training centre with necessary infrastructure such as machinery, tools and other equipments as prescribed in the syllabus of the designated trades. In Tamil Nadu, some of the Private establishments have been given permission to run their own Basic Training Centre.

All India Trade Test under Apprenticeship Training Scheme is conducted during April/May and October/November every year. After completion of prescribed training period and successful apprentices are issued with National Apprenticeship certificate.

Skill Development Initiative – Modular Employable Skill (SDI-MES)

A demand driven short-term training Modules have been introduced under the scheme titled “Skill Development Initiative - Modular Employable Skill” (SDI-MES) to enable the school drop outs and college drop outs to acquire skill in a short span.

The scheme offers multi-entry and multi exit options, flexible delivery schedule and lifelong learning. Courses are available for persons having completed minimum 5th standard and attained the age of 14 years. Testing of skills of trainees is being done by independent assessing bodies, which are not involved in training delivery, to ensure that it is done impartially. Under the scheme, so far 558 courses have been developed. Testing of skills of trainees is being done by 35 independent assessing bodies. 12,352 persons have been enrolled during the year 2014-2015 and are getting trained.

This scheme is 100% funded by the Central Government in form of reimbursement of training cost to the training providers. This scheme is implemented through 1099 Registered Vocational Training Providers comprises of 62 Government ITIs, 13 Central Prisons, 1 Central Government Institute and 1023 other Private bodies.

To reduce the burden for the poor students, the State Government bears the cost of training on their behalf at Government ITI VTPs. In the year 2014-2015, through Government ITIs 1888 candidates and through Private VTPs 10464 candidates are being trained under this scheme.

Ongoing Training

Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation is a non-profit organization registered under Section 25 of Indian Companies Act 1956. It is formed with an objective of imparting employability skills to youth for gainful employment. TNSDC for the current financial year has conducted 2 Board of Directors meetings and from other departments has so far approved various skill development training programmes at an estimated cost of Rs.5701.56 lakhs to 1,04,723 youth.

Skill training programmes under implementation

•           1. Taking into account the need for trained persons in security services to man business enterprises and commercial complexes, skill training in security services through State Police Department

•           2. Taking into account demand for skilled persons in Hospitality sector training is imparted through Commissionerate of Food Safety.

•           3. Taking into account demand for skilled persons in Retail sector short term skill training through Cooperative training institutions

•           4. Short term skill training programme through TAHDCO

•           5. Short term skill training under Construction Sector is imparted through Central Government’s Construction Industry Development Council

•           6. In Plastic engineering and technology Skill training is imparted through the CIPET.

•           7. Through Hotel Management training institutions in Chennai and Trichy Training

•           8. Training through ATI, Chennai. Training programme commenced on 20.01.2014.

•           9. Construction sector skill training through L&T

•           10. Banking and Financial Service sector skill training through ICT Academy

•           11. Welding and Plumbing skill training through SRATI Training institutions

•           12. Health services skill training through Apollo Med skill

•           13. Leather and leather goods manufacturing skill training through FDDI

•           14. Handicrafts skill training through KVIB

•           15. HMV Driver Training Programme by Ashok Leyland Driver Training Institute, Namakkal

•           16. BFSI (Banking Sector) skill training in TVS Training and Services,

•           17. Women Empowerment skill training - through Avinashilingam Jan Shikshan Sansthan, Coimbatore

•           18. Short term skill training programme WRI, Basic and Advanced Welding

•           19. Skill training in Light Engineering through TVS Training Services

•           20. Placement linked Skill Development Training Programme under Plastic Engineering Technology Sector for Unemployed Urban/Rural Youth through CIPET, Madurai

•           21. Skill Development Training Programme under Plastic Engineering Technology Sector for Unemployed Urban/Rural Youth through CIPET.

•           22. Skill training for Auto Driver, Nursing and Technical writing through British council.

•           23. Skill development Training Programme in Basic Auto Mobile Training through IRTT, Erode

•           24. Skill development Training Programme under Light Engineering Sector through IRT polytechnic colleges

•           25. Implementation of Integrated skill Development Scheme (ISDS) during XII Plan by Director Sericulture and Director Handlooms

•           26. Skill Training in health Care sector through IRT medical college, Perunthurai.

•           27. Short term skill training in HMV Driver Training Programme by The Institute of Road Transport, Taramani, Chennai

•           28. Short term skill training through Polytechnic for rural unemployed youth through Commissioner of Technical Education

•           29. Leather Sector Skill Training through Leather Sector Skill Council (LSSC).

•           30. Entrepreneurship training to 20,000 Government Arts and Science students.

•           31. Short term training in Health Services in Association with KG Hospital, Coimbatore.

•           32. Short term training in Automotive Sales & After sales service for School / college Dropouts By CII- Bosch.

Training Partners

•           1. State Police Department, Chennai

•           2. Commissionerate of Food Safety, Chennai.

•           3. Cooperative training institutions, Chennai

•           4. Construction Industry Development Council

•           5. Central Institute of Plastic Engineering and Technology.

•           6. Hotel Management training institutions, Chennai and Trichy

•           7. Advance Training Institution, Chennai.

•           8. Larsen &Turbo

•           9. ICT Academy

•           10. Sri Ramakrishna Advanced Training Institute, Coimbatore

•           11. Apollo Med skill, Chennai

•           12. Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI)

•           13. HMV Driver Training Programme by Ashok Leyland Driver Training Institute, Namakkal

•           14. BFSI (Banking Sector) skill training in TVS Training and Services,

•           15. Avinashilingam Jan Shikshan Sansthan, Coimbatore

•           16. Short term skill training programme WRI, Basic and Advanced Welding

•           17. TVS Training Services

•           18. CIPET, Madurai

•           19. CIPET, Chennai.

•           20. British council.

•           21. IRTT, Erode

•           22. IRT polytechnic colleges

•           23. IRT medical college, Perunthurai.

•           24. The Institute of Road Transport, Taramani, Chennai

•           25. LSSC

•           26. KG Hospital, Coimbatore.

•           27. CII- Bosch.

ADVERTISED VACANCIES 2015

ADVERTISED VACANCIES 
Staff Selection Commission has notified vacancies for various posts – Junior Investigator, Research Assistant, Artist Retoucher, Data Processing Assistant, Junior Scientific Assistant etc. Last date to apply – 05-06-2015 For further information – http://ssc.nic.in 

Power Grid Corporation of India Limited has notified vacancies for candidates having M.Tech / PhD in Engineering subjects. Last date to apply online – 31-06-2015 For further information – www.powergridindia.com 

Financial Intelligence Unit of Ministry of Finance has notified vacancies for various administrative posts. Last date to apply – 22-06-2015 For further information – http://fiuindia.gov.in 

Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology has notified vacancies for Research Associates and Research Fellowships. Last date to apply online – 31-05-2015 For further information – http://www.tropmet.res.in 

India Security Press, Nashik has notified vacancies for Supervisor Technical-Printing, Supervisor Technical- Mechanical and Junior Office Assistant. For application format – Employment News, dated 9-15 May 2015 Last date to apply – 08-06-2015 For further information –http://ispnashik.spmcil.com 

Office of the Commissioner of customs has notified various vacancies in Group “c” cadres For application format – Employment News, dated 9-15 May 2015 Last date to submit the application - 07-07-2015 

Coast Guard Region , Kolkata has notified vacancies for the post of Driver. Last date to apply – 08-06-2015 For further infomation – Employment News, dated 9-15 May 2015 

BSNL has notified 400 vacancies for the post of Management Trainees. Last date to apply online – 14-06-2015 

Indian Ordinance Factories has notified 333 vacancies in Group –c Industrial Employees. NTC/NAC holders please visit for more detailswww.vfi.nic.in. 

TNPSC has notified 1241 vacancies in Group II services for the posts of Deputy commercial Tax Officer, Probation Officer, Assistant Section Officer, Sub Registrar, Junior Employment Officer, Revenue Inspector etc Last date for submission of application – 29-05-2015 Apply online at www.tnpsc.gov.in To this exam, free coaching classes are being conducted at all District Employment Offices. 

TNPSC has notified 268 vacancies for the post of Assistant statistical Investigator in the Department of Economics and Statistics Last date for submission of application – 03-06-2015 Apply online at www.tnpsc.gov.in 

Staff Selection Commission has notified Combined Graduate level Examination 2015 for various posts. Last date to apply – 01-06-2015 For further information – http://ssc.nic.in 

Naval Dockyard , Mumbai invites application for the post of Tradesman(Skilled) Last date for submission of application – 20-05-2015 Apply online at www.godiwadabhartee.com 

Ordinance Factory, Trichy has notified vacancies for the post of LDC, Durwan and MTS Last date for submission of application – 28-05-15 Apply online at www.ofbindia.gov.in 

Airports Authority of India invites application for various administrative posts. Last date for submission of application – 10-06-15 Apply online at www.aai.aero 

Ministry of Defence invites application from Male candidates for the post of Tradesman Mate and Fireman For application format- check Employment News, dated 2-8 May, 2015 Last date for submission of application – 25-05-15 

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited has notified various posts - Scientific Officer, Medical Officer, Dy Manager( HR/Finance/Public Relation) etc. Last date to apply online -31-05-15 Apply online at – www.npcilcareers.co.in 

National Institute of Biologicals, Noida has notified vacancies for the posts of Scientist , Training Officer etc Last date for submission of application – 01-07-15 Application format is available at http://nib.gov.in 

Hindustan Copper Limited requires professionals in Executive positions Last date to apply online - 19-05-15 Apply online at –www.hindustancopper.com

ADVERTISED COURSES 
The Indian Navy offers course to become Short Service Commisioned Officers. Applications are invited from unmarried Male candidates. Last date to submit the online application - 06-06-2015 For further information –www.joinindiannavy.gov.in 

South Eastern Railway offers Apprenticeship for ITI holders – 663 seats. Last date to apply online – 08-06-2015 For further information –Employment News, dated 9-15 May 2015 

Central Electronics Limited offers 6 months certificate course in System Sizing, Installation and Maintenance of Solar Photovoltaic Systems. Last date to submit the online application - 05-06-2015 For further information – Employment News, dated 9-15 May 2015 

FDDI offered BACHELOR , MASTER, INTEGRATED PROGRAMMES in Footwear design and others. (100%placement record) It has 8 campuses including Chennai. For more details please visit www.fddindia.com

Central Footwear Training Institute Chennai introduces a new course of 18months PG Higher Diploma in Footwear Technology and Management Studies.Engineering /MBA/Science graduates please visit www.cftichennai.in 

NSIC Technical Service Centre, Chennai offers short term courses on various skills( Solar Photo –voltaic Power system, Embedded System, CNC Programming, Android Application development , CAD etc) For further details – No B 24, Ekkaduthangal, Chennai – 32. Ph No: 044-22252335/6/7 

Makhanlal Chaturvedi National university of Journalism and Communication, Bhopal, Madya Pradesh offers courses on journalism and communication like M.A- Mass communication / Broadcast Journalism / Media Research, MBA Entertainment Communication, Corporate Communication etc. Apply online at www.mponline.gov.in 

National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Sonepat, Haryana offers various UG and PG courses in food technology and its management. For meritorious students, scholarships are given. For further details at www.niftem.ac.in 

Regional Institute of Education , Bhubaneswar offers integrated four year BA B.Ed and B.Sc B.Ed courses and B.Ed / M.Ed courses. For further details www.rieajmer.raj.nic.in 

Footwear Design & Development Institute, Noida offers various UG and PG courses on Footwear design, Retail, Fashion etc. For further details – www.fddiindia.com 

National Institute of Homeopathy, Kolkata announces admission notification for the year -2015-16 for BHMS. For further details –http://www.nih.nic.in