How to make a list of work-related skills you'd like to learn?

Your employer will be interested in hearing about how you intend to become a better employee. Think about which skills will make you more competent in the position you're applying for. Public speaking, project management, team leading, and computer programs are usually beneficial. Find some books and upcoming conferences that would significantly improve your abilities. In an interview, tell the employer what you're reading and learning, and that you'd like to continue doing so. This is a list of the 7 most important job skills, wanted by employers, that a job seeker must have to be sure of landing a good job and just as importantly, keeping it.

• The ability to find relevant information: Research Skill Job seekers should possess the ability to systematically find relevant information through research not because they want a research job, but in order to do effective searches for the data needed by a particular activity.
• Logical thinking: Information Handling. Most businesses regard the ability to handle and organize information to produce effective solutions as one of the top skills employers want. The ability to make sensible solutions regarding a spending proposal or an internal activity is valued.
• IT Skill: Technological Ability Most job openings will require people who are IT or computer literate or know how to operate different machines and office equipment, whether a PC or multi-function copier and scanner. This doesn't mean that employers need people who are technology graduates. The simple fact that job seekers know the basic principles of using the technology is sufficient.
• Getting your words understood: Communication Skills Employers tend to value and hire people who are able to express their thoughts efficiently through verbal and written communication. People who land a good job easily are usually those who are adept in speaking and writing.
• Efficiency: Organizational Skills Organization is extremely important to maintain a harmonious working relationship in the company and the opposite, disorganization costs money. Hence, most employers want people who know how to arrange their work through methods that maintain orderliness in the workplace.
• Getting on with others: Interpersonal Skill Because the working environment consists of various kinds of personalities and people with different backgrounds, it is essential to possess the skill of communicating and working with people from different walks of life.
• Career Advancement: Professional Growth Employers prefer to hire people who are able to create a plan that will generate maximum personal and career growth. This means that you are willing to improve yourself professionally by learning new skills to keep up with developments in the workplace. These are just some of the top skills employers want. Take note of these skills which demonstrate how to get the job and be successful in your every job seeking endeavor.

How to Find a Job When No One Is Hiring

There are many people that are spending each and every day looking for a job. These people are hunting for jobs in some of the toughest economic times this country has ever faced. It may seem like there is no hope, but there is. It may appear like companies have shut their doors and are not letting anyone else in, but that is only the fear talking. In fact, many companies are hiring and on a daily basis. They are just being pickier about who they let in and how they let them in.

Communication should be at the top of everyone's mind that is looking for a job. Being on job sites and looking through newspapers all day is not a very productive use of time. Most jobs are not actually listed through these sources. Developing networks and getting in touch with different people is the way to secure a job. Most employers want to hire those they know can do the job. Networking lets people know a) the person needs a job and are searching, and b) the skills they possess that the employer needs.

Knowing which contacts to make requires knowing what careers are appealing. After finding companies that offer what the individual is looking for, then the next step is to find which positions need filling. This will typically come from the contacts made in sites such as LinkedIn and Twitter. These sites will allow the person to get to know individuals within the company. They can then learn what the company needs hiring, and who does the hiring for those specific jobs.

Once the person knows what jobs are hiring, they can then proceed to their resume. A resume can easily stand apart from the crowd. Take steps to ensure that the resume is related to the job at hand. Skills and qualifications should relate to the position that the person is applying. Resumes can really deliver the first impression many employers will ever have of the individual applying to the job. Then make sure to send an email or give a phone call to the person who will be reviewing the resume and deciding if an interview is needed.


Other ways of searching for jobs is to search in places that are not common. Everyone uses Monster; therefore, there are thousands of resumes being posted to one job link through that site alone. When things are tighter it is best to be as different as possible. Search for obscure job posting sites that have never or rarely been heard of before.

The key to getting jobs in a tighter economy is to think outside the box. With hundreds if not thousands of people doing the same thing to get a job, it is good to be the person that is standing far off in the corner by themselves. It means that person is different and is possibly doing things differently. Employers need these types of people to make sure they stay afloat.

50 Must-Do and Must-Know Tips For a Successful Job Search

You've heard the expression, "Getting a job is a job." No one knows more than you how many hours a week it takes searching, researching, applying, interviewing, reflecting, and so on, to get a job. It's not easy; but it was never intended to be. The harder the job, the harder it is to get the job. Essentially this means that if you are an entry level employee, it should be a fairly reasonable process. But if you are at mid-career and have held significant authority and responsibility, it's going to be a more lengthy and sophisticated course.

As someone who has been in the staffing industry for more than 18 years, I wanted to share an "insider's perspective" on what every job seeker should know about the process. I'm continually amazed that potentially great candidates for my jobs simply don't represent themselves as well as they could by not playing by the job-search rules. Yes, I agree there should be room for creativity in the process, and what works for one might not for the other, but there are some general rules that apply 99% of the time. Here are 50 recommendations to apply to your search:

The First Step - a Killer Resume

1. Don't worry about it being one page. Since most resumes are emailed and rarely printed, it's not a big deal to have a two-page document. Be sure to have your contact information at the top of the second page as well. You could possibly need a third page, but try to avoid that.

2. Put the best information at the top. Since resumes are viewed electronically (most often using MS Word), the top half of the first page is what is in view when the recruiter reviews your resume. If the most relevant and most compelling information isn't in that partial view, it is often not even opened or printed.

3. Replace your "Objective" with "Summary of Qualifications". That way you don't have to customize your resume with each position you send it for. This information is more meaningful to the reader as well. List your top professional skills at the top of the resume so it's the index to the rest of the document.

4. List your most recent job first. Resumes should list work history in reverse chronological order with the most recent at the top. Typically you would go back through the last ten years, but that's up to you based on how related and impressive your older jobs are. The point is that you don't have to go back to the jobs you had in high school.

5. Balance tasks with accomplishments. Recruiters want to know what you did, but not on a micro level. It's not necessary to list each and every task you do in a day. A general summary of your key responsibilities is important to have on your resume. Additionally, a bullet or two about your results as related to your tasks proves your success in your role.

6. Accomplishments should include quantifiable information. Include specific values in your statement (i.e. dollars saved, percent of increase or decrease, numbers of employees supervised, etc.). This information adds validation and credibility to your employment history and can really set you apart from others.

7. Save some information for the interview. Think of your resume as the Cliff Notes of a great book. You are just presenting the important highlights. The details and stories associated with the content are meant to be discussed in the interview.

8. Format your resume so it's easy to read. A plain font like Arial or Century Gothic is easy on the eyes. A "curly font" like Times New Roman can be distracting and busy looking. A font size of 10 to 12 works best. White space is important, so keep your margins to an inch on all sides.

9. Include Searchable Keywords. Most recruiters use keywords to search for resumes on the job boards and in their own databases. If your resume does not include the keywords they are using in their search, it won't pop up. Read job descriptions for your skill set and add recurring words from the description to your resume. Keywords usually are specific to education, equipment, and job titles. So, if the position required a bachelor's degree and experience with Vertical Milling Machines as an Industrial Engineer, the words bachelor's, Milling, and Engineer would be used to search for resumes.

10. It's okay to double dip. Most resumes are emailed these days, but why not use an old-fashioned technique of mailing a nicely printed hard copy as well? The extra step will serve as a reintroduction of your credentials and also show you are willing to go above and beyond to get the interview.

Don't Skip the Cover Letter

11. Have one. Whether you choose a full letter or a detailed email message, it is important to customize your resume by adding a specific message when you send it. This is an easy way to stand out as so many people simply attach their resume and do not bother to outline their experience.

12. Correlate what they want with what you have. Read the job description and requirements thoroughly and write three key bullet points that match their information with yours in your cover letter. This makes it easy for the reader to determine your qualifications quickly.

13. Use sir names. It is appropriate to refer to the recruiter or human resources representative by Mr. or Ms. in your written communication. Until you meet personally and are given permission to call them otherwise, it is best to be more formal.

Attention to Detail Goes a Long Way

14. Make finding your resume easy. When submitting your resume by email, include the title of the position you are applying for in the subject line. You can also include a short tag line that catches the eye. For example, Customer Service Manager-10 years experience in multi-channel center. And use your full name as the file name for your resume document so it can quickly be referenced.

15. You shouldn't be crazylazy@yahoo.com. Be sure your email address is appropriate for a job search and not personal. You can get additional email addresses at most domains like AOL, Yahoo, and Gmail.
16. Use a header for your contact information. Include your name, phone number, and email address at the top of each page of your resume. Especially at job fairs, resumes with multiple pages can easily be separated.

Where to Search

17. Surf the Net. A company with 100 or more employees is highly likely to post their position on one of the major job boards like Monster, CareerBuilder, HotJobs, and/or Craig's list. Be sure to get your resume posted to all those sites, so it can be searched by as many recruiters as possible. But, when searching through job postings, just use a site like Indeed.com which pulls positions from all the boards. That way you only have to visit one site to get the benefit of all of them.

18. Read the Sunday paper. Yes, printed Help Wanted ads are used less now that the Internet is so integrated for job searching, but smaller employers still use this resource since licenses for posting on the major job boards are expensive.

19. Stop in the CareerCenter offices. These state funded and operated centers offer one-stop information on getting a job, opportunities for training, hosting on-site interviews and job fairs, and networking opportunities. Plus, their services are free. Make it a point to visit a CareerCenter at least once a week during your search.

20. Brave your way through a job fair. What a great way to hit up a slew of employers all in the same day. Yes, you have to repeat your story and schmooze the whole day, but the efficiency is worth it. Don't pass by any booth without stopping to ask, "What kinds of positions are you hiring for today?" Employers are paying to be there and are interested in seeing many candidates. It's win-win to at least make an introduction with every employer there.

21. Spread the word. Connect with former coworkers and managers, friends and family, and just about anyone who knows people. Let them know you are in the market for a great job and give them permission to share your resume. Follow up with an emailed copy so they can easily forward it to their contacts.

22. Tap into social networking. Using sites like LinkedIn.com is helpful for researching positions, companies, and the people who work at them. Get your profile posted for free and join groups associated with your industry and interests.

Be Prepared for Being Screened on the Phone

23. Even though it's on the phone, it's still an interview. Recruiters often call candidates whose resume initially matches their requirements to get further information and make a decision about inviting them to an interview. Play the part and represent yourself in the same way you would if sitting in front of your interviewer.

24. Be sure the timing is right. If a recruiter calls you unexpectedly and it's not a good time, politely offer to call them back later in that same day. That way you can focus without distractions; they understand you have a life. Plus, you'll have time to review the details of the position and the company and collect your thoughts before returning the call. Better yet, when you are in job search mode, let your calls go into voicemail so you can take control of the return phone call.

25. Be a compelling communicator. Since there is not an opportunity to see facial expressions and body gestures on the phone, your voice qualities have to be top notch. Sounding confident, interested, cooperative, and pleasant is a skill that is worth practicing before going live.

26. At the balance of power. You are not in the driver's seat with the interview process. Let your interviewer guide the call and ask the questions. At the end, if they invite you to ask any questions, always find out what the next step of their process is. Close the call by thanking them for their interest and expressing your own.

Ace the Interview

27. Knowing a little means a lot. Visit the company's website and be familiar with their products or services. Determine what makes them different from others in their industry. That way when the question, "What do you know about our company?" comes up, you'll have a great response.

28. Dress the part. Keep the "one-up" rule in mind. Always dress at least one step up from what you would be wearing on the job. It's far better an option to be overdressed than it is to be underdressed, so respect the process and your interviewer by suiting up.

29. Go with your "Sunday Best". You never know what the taste of your interviewer will be, so it's always best to be conservative in your style and color choice. You can't go wrong with a solid color suit or separates and a button up shirt or blouse. Avoid open toe shoes and over accessorizing.

30. Arrive 10 minutes early. Not a half hour early. Not 10 minutes late. Ten minutes is enough time to settle down a bit before you actually meet. If for some reason you will be late, realize you have possibly blown the interview, but make a phone call to explain your situation.

31. Make a powerful introduction. Set the tone for a great meeting with a warm handshake, look in the eye, "happy to be here" smile, and "Hello, Mr. Insertnamehere, it's nice to meet you." Regardless of gender, it is proper in a business meeting to greet your host with a handshake. It should be appropriately firm and use the full hand.

32. Bring additional copies of your resume. This shows your interviewer that you are prepared and resourceful. Plus, now you get to show off that baby in its intended form; resume paper still exists.

33. Be polite. Wait to be shown where to have a seat. Don't put your personal belongings (ex. Padfolio, keys, and resume copies) on his/her desk without asking first. Accept the glass of water if offered. You may need it since you will be doing most of the talking, and being nervous can make you choked up and dry.

34. Honesty is always the best policy. A good part of the interview is centered on your work history. Be honest about your skills, contributions, and reasons for leaving. There is a way to present even not-so-pleasant situations in a reasonable and understandable way. Covering up, omitting information such as work history, or lying is sure to come to light eventually.

35. Show interest. When the interviewer is talking, you want to show signs of engagement by looking at him/her directly, nodding in acceptance, smiling, and showing interest. You can be enthusiastic without looking excitable. You want the vibe to be positive and open, so approach the meeting as such. Your body language will follow your mindset.

36. Don't wear out your welcome. You'll know when things are wrapping up. Have a few questions saved for the end, but don't go on too long. Most interviews are less than an hour, and often the interviewer's schedule includes more appointments after yours.

37. Ask the "must know" question. It is important that you know what the next step is in their hiring process. Often, more than one interview is required to get the job. Ask about the hiring process and when you can expect to hear from them next, and confirm that you have provided enough information to be considered for the next step.

38. Leave a lasting impression. There is no better way to do this than to shake their hand, thank them for their time, and express your interest in all that you heard. Saying something like "I am very excited about this opportunity and look forward to hearing from you by Thursday." reinforces your interest and confirms the timeline for next steps.

Following up is a Forgotten Art

39. Send a thank you note or email. This is as obsolete as rejection letters have become. But, it's one more opportunity to make a positive impression, so why not do it? As many times as you can get your name in front of the person responsible for hiring you, do it.

40. Follow up after a reasonable amount of time. Hiring the perfect fit takes time. But, if it's been more than a week, or later than you were told you'd be contacted, you should send an email to express your interest in the position and ask for information on where they are in their process. It's a good idea to attach another copy of your resume to this message.

41. Say thank you to "No, Thank You". If you get word that you have not been selected to move to the next step, reach out once more to thank the interviewer for his/her time and valuable information. You might have missed this opportunity, but additional contact could keep the door open for future positions.

Some Harsh Realities

42. It's a competitive job market. You read the job description and consider yourself perfect for the position. The problem is that others will feel the same about themselves. The way to stand out is by not only having all of the skills required of the position, but some additional or unique qualifications as well. Maybe your education is from an impressive university; perhaps your longevity is legendary; it could be that your accomplishments are more striking than most. The only way to know is to send your resume and cover message and point out those distinguishing features. It's okay to feel confident about your specialized skills and showcase them in this process.

43. Fast is not always fast. The advent of Internet recruiting has a down side - quantity verses quality. Recruiters get flooded with response immediately after posting their position. Their job is to filter the random to get to the right one, and that can be an exhausting and time consuming process. Keep track of the resumes you've sent and follow up after a week if you have not received a response.

44. A resume black hole does exist. Some companies have sophisticated applicant tracking systems, and others are quite unorganized and amateurish with their hiring process. It is not unusual for resumes to get overlooked or misfiled. If you feel truly qualified for the job and a week has gone by without a response, resubmit your resume and cover letter.

45. You are likely to not get any response to most of your resume submittals. Rejection letters faded away several years ago because the task of sending them became overwhelming due to the volume of candidates generated from Internet recruiting methods. Again, if you feel the position perfectly suits your background, follow up with another copy of your resume after a week has gone by. For added follow up, mail a printed copy as well.

46. Recruiters and Human Resources representatives often do not fully understand the job description. They may hire for every position in the company, so it's understandable they can't be an expert on the requirements for each job. Here is where LinkedIn.com can be helpful. If you have not had any response to your resume, and you feel you are truly qualified, search the company name on LinkedIn.com and consider sending it to someone in the company who may better understand your qualifications. It's a risky move, and could ban you for life with that recruiter, but it can also be a bold and resourceful move that gets you to the next step with the right person.

Preparing for the Emotions Involved with the Process

47. First there is the Fun Phase. When you first start your job search, it can be very exciting. There are a lot of positions out there, and so many seem to be a perfect fit for you. You spend time thinking about what's next, and how great it's going to be, which is very enjoyable. Bask in the fun phase; it usually doesn't last very long.

48. Then you move into the Frustrating Phase. After sending out countless resumes and getting no response, it's easy to get frustrated and annoyed. You attend every job fair and have circled through your network more than once with no job offers. No news is not good news in the job search process. Allow yourself permission to be in this phase, but pull yourself out quickly because it can be very defeating.

49. The worst is Futile Phase. When things aren't going your way, you start to give up because of your lack of controlling the process. You feel depressed and useless. The best way out of this downward spiral - be useful. Volunteer some of your time, tackle that list of things you've wanted to do around the house, take a break from the job search process for a few days and enjoy time with your family. Again, accept this phase as part of the normal cycle, but be aware of when you are in it and what it takes to get you out of it.

50. And then it's back to fun. The timelines associated with each phase vary with every person. It's okay to move through them at your own pace. It's helpful to have a good support system in place and to talk to others who are in the same situation. As much time as you can spend having fun with the process, the more productive you will be. Getting a job is a job-but it can be an interesting, informative, and inspiring one if that's the way you choose to work it.

10 Most Common Job Search Mistakes

And What You Must Do to Fix them
Relying on your own personal experience and philosophies
Most job seekers base their job search methods and techniques totally on their own set of experiences. To do so will only serve to limit your opportunities.
Think like a marketer. Marketing professionals do not design their product advertising around their own personal preferences; instead they test and utilize approaches that appeal to a broader audience. Job seekers should learn how to do the same.
Being Too Closed Minded
Actually this is closely related to reason number one. Most of us have difficulty stepping outside our comfort zone and embracing new and/or alternative ways of doing things. This attitude will only serve to limit our job opportunities. Don't rely on your own personal experience and philosophies, instead study and discover other methods that will open new career opportunities for you.
Using Only One or Two Resume Versions
One or two resume versions just won't work. Don't rely on a sample resume.  I've written extensively about this subject and my central message is that you have to "get inside the head" of the reader of your resume. The best clues for how to tailor your resume comes from the actual language of the specific job posting that you may be answering.
If you're providing a resume to an employer on an exploratory basis - when they may not have listed a specific job - research their website to see if you can find information about the areas of your specialty and use that language. If you still can't find information on the employer's website in such cases, take the most common ad language content from 10-20 job ads that you can find and use the most common words, phrases and ideas.
Relying Too Much of the Big Job Boards
There are no best job search boards or best executive job search sites. Only about 10% - 15% of all jobs are advertised on the major job boards at any one time. That's where your competition is the fiercest.
That leaves 85% to 90% of all jobs less visible. You've got to learn how to find them. Even among the 85% - 90% of available jobs, only a portion of them may be listed anywhere except possibly on employers own career websites. You have to learn which online job search engines to use that will search most of the employer websites from one location.
Failing to Properly Research Potential Employers
The question isn't why you research potential employers, it's how to research potential employers. You must conduct research of every potential employer that you pursue. They expect it and will almost always ask you about it.
One good method to use is to find something that you found interesting about the employer that hopefully may relate to your own job interests and skills. Be sure to bring that up during the interview when asked, and if you aren't asked, look for a way to introduce it into the interview discussion.
One potential way to do that is to when you're asked if you have any questions. You might repeat what you read in summary form, and then ask them for more information about it. This demonstrates your interest and desire to learn more.
Failing to Prepare Properly for the Actual Interview
Interview preparation tips can be invaluable. One such tip is to realize there are three types of interviews job seekers encounter that are most common and you must be prepared for each of them, or some combination of them. One is the more traditional, which usually follows the format of your resume.
The second type of interview is behavioral and this one has become very popular with many employers. It is more difficult to prepare for this type of interview, so the best way is to understand how to answer behavioral interview questions.
The third type of interview is the case interview where you are given either a real or hypothetical work situation and asked to discuss it with the interview team. These types of interviews are common for consultant, attorneys, but getting at least one mini-case question these days is very common.
Failure to Invest Enough Money in Yourself
With the coming of the Internet and all the information readily accessible to us, comes the attitude that we don't ever need to pay for anything. This usually rears its ugly head for a job seeker when they are reluctant to pay for more expert advice and access to more efficient tools and techniques to help us not only in our job search, but in our career as well. Most people spend more eating out, than they are willing to invest in their career. You must be willing to invest in yourself not only in furthering your education, but in getting career advice as well.
Placing Too Much Emphasis on Salary Too Early
When is the last time you bounded out of bed, eager to get to your job because you made x amount of money? It isn't likely that you've felt that way very often.
Most of us enjoy our work because of what we get to do, what we can learn and where our career is taking us. Of course all of us want to be compensated fairly and competitively. But to not be willing to explore a career opportunity because the first question we ask is, "how much does it pay?" is totally wrong headed.
First find out about the opportunity, both long and short term so you can understand how it may or may not fit your long term career goals, is simply short sighted.
Not having a Long-Term Career Vision
This picks up with the former mistake. If you don't know which direction you want your career to head is like a sailboat under full sail without anyone manning the rudder. You'll just end up wherever the wind takes you.
You must have a longer term vision for your career so that the decisions you make along the way takes you where you want to end up.
Not Being Open to New Opportunities All the Time
Now you've got a good job and your mind shifts totally away from looking for a job. Overall that is as it should be, up to a point.
When the headhunter calls or a colleague calls you about a career opportunity, are the first words out of your mouth, "I'm not looking or I'm happy where I'm at?" Both of those statements are true, but you should at least be open to explore the opportunity or hear more about it. Even if the time isn't right for you to make a change or the job isn't right, be open to suggest colleagues who may benefit from hearing about the opening.
Often the best opportunities come to you and without a lot of other competing candidates.
Failing to Build Career Networks 24 x 7
This is critical. Build your networks constantly and consistently so that when you need professional information or career guidance or help with a job search, you have a valuable network to rely on. It's the concept of digging your well before you are thirsty.
LinkedIn is the most valuable network for doing that. Join relevant groups there and contribute to the discussions. You'll be building your own reputation along the way. It's like creating a savings account of goodwill so you can cash in when needed. The number one rule is to give first, before asking for anything. That way, you'll have "cash in the bank" to use when you need it on short notice.

Interviews - Tips For Introducing Yourself

When you are looking for a job, one of the most important things you can do is make a positive impact at your first interview. If you make a good first impression, then the rest of the interview might also go well; however, if you don't make a good first impression, then you will spend the rest of the interview trying to make up for your weak introduction - not a good way to get to the second interview or land an offer. So how do you introduce yourself at the interview to leave a great lasting impression? Try these three interview techniques:
Handshake & Eyes: Use a firm handshake and look your interviewer in the eyes. In American culture, a firm handshake and direct eye contact conveys confidence. If you also smile while doing this, then it is a winning combination. People who introduce themselves in this way will create a favorable impression even before the first question is asked.
Posture & Poise: When you enter the office or conference room where the interview is to be conducted, walk in with confidence - a quick stride, head up, and shoulders straight. When offered a chance to sit down, then use the whole chair. Don't slouch, but do sit with your back straight against the back of the chair without your legs crossed. Good posture will also send a message just as much as any answer you give to a particular question. When asked a question, think about the question and pause before you answer. If you just blurt out whatever is top of mind, you might not answer the question, and worse, you might also say something that doesn't make sense. Pausing and then offering a good answer is one way to maintain your poise in the interview.
Clarity of Message and short answers: Obviously, if you think before you speak, you will have better responses. Further, if you have anticipated the likely questions, you might already have prepared answers. Regardless whether you are speaking impromptu or relying on prepared responses, try to keep your answers short and to the point. Short, clear messages add to the image of success and confidence. If you ramble on and on with a convoluted response, then you convey convoluted thinking, not confidence. Use short, clear sentences to respond to questions.
These three interview tips are simple, and easy to do. If you want to make a positive impression that increases your chances of success, practice these three techniques. Often it is the simple things that can make a big difference. With a little practice, these techniques will become second nature, and you will be able to introduce yourself with confidence. When you interview with confidence you will increase your chances of getting an offer and landing a job.

Job Interview Skills: Authentic Answers to Tough Questions!

Your goal in a job interview is to demonstrate to the interviewer a high level of assurance that you would be a good fit for the job. One way to build the necessary assurance the interviewer is seeking to respond to tough questions with well thought out authentic answers.
Unsuccessful job hunters frame their answers to downplay any weakness by parroting answers they find in interview preparation guides. Interviewers who see this approach easily conclude the candidate lacks authenticity, may be hiding something critical, and take points away. Often this ends the candidate's chances of getting a job offer.
Attempting to reframe a weakness or a difficult situation with only an affirmative answer can backfire on the candidate. Here are the most common tough job interview questions that job hunters make the mistake of attempting to turn a possible liability only into a strength.
1. "Everyone has things they need to improve, what is the thing you need the greatest improvement?" Here is the answer many candidates get out of an interview guide. "I tend to take the job home with me, and I'm frustrated when others are not as interested in the job as I am."
Trying to turn a supposed weakness into a strength, and saying something negative about others will not impress a reasonably skilled interviewer.
An effective answer to this type of question, and a follow-up question about your number two weakness should follow these guidelines: (1) Outline the problem, something that is job related and unique to you; (2) What specifically you did to overcome the problem; and (3) Results achieved.
Now you have an authentic answer to a tough interview question.
2. "Tell about a time you did not get along with your supervisor (a co-worker)?" Don't tell the interviewer that you never had a disagreement with you supervisor or a co-worker. This answer is unrealistic, displays a lack of skills in dealing with confrontations and in the interviewer mind is probably a lie.
Go back to the guidelines in answer number one. Make your answer unique to you and authentic. Tell the story, roadblocks overcame and a positive outcome and what you learned. Give examples of what you learned to successfully deal with other issues in this area.
3. "Tell me about something you tried and it failed?" To often the candidate will try to finesse this question by not admitting there were ever associated with a project or idea that failed.
This is the wrong way to answer this type of question. Is it really authentic to say you were never associated with failure? Everyone, in one form or another tried something that failed. The best way is to learn valuable lessons is through failure.
This is the way to frame the answer. Describe an initiative or project. Tell honestly everything you did to keep it from failing. Discuss why it failed and what you learned from the experience. Now take what you learned and relate how it helped you succeed in a related project.
This approach to answering tough interview questions is honest; is unique and clearly shows your authenticity and your ability to learn from adversity. All will build the necessary assurances in the interviewers mind that you are the leading candidate for the position.

Job Interviews - 10 Common Questions and How to Answer Them

One of the most important keys to succeeding in a job interview is preparation. And one of the very best kinds of preparation you can do is find out what kinds of questions the interviewer is likely to ask you, and give some thought to what your answers will be. This can make or break an interview. It can make the difference between you sitting there looking like a deer caught in the headlights, mumbling, "Um...ah... let me think..." and you looking calm and collected and impressively in control.
Here are some common questions, some really wrong answers, and some possible right answers. You may think of even better answers, but if all else fails, these answers will sound reasonably sensible.
Question 1: Tell me about yourself.
Wrong answer: Well, I was born on the coast, but we moved here a couple of years later, after my parents divorced. I'm currently single, although I was engaged for two years, but he cheated on me, so then...
Possible answer: I graduated from university three years ago, with a BBA, and then spent a year at Company X, in the marketing department, then two years at Company Y, also in marketing. Unfortunately, Company Y closed down, and then I heard about this opportunity at your firm, doing the thing I really love...marketing.
Reason: In almost all cases, your answers to the hiring manager's questions should be related to business, not to your personal life.
Question 2: Why do you want to work here?
Wrong answer: It's really close to where I live, and my sister works here. Also, you're the only people hiring right now.
Possible answer: I've read that your company is the second most successful manufacturer in this city, and I like the idea of working somewhere with a great future.
Reason: This is where research is essential, and where you can show the employer that you didn't just pick their company's name out of a hat - that you've done research and really want to work for them.
Question 3: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Wrong answer: Well, not still here, that's for sure!
Possible answer: I don't want to be someone who hops from job to job, like so many people do today. I'd like to stay at the same company for a long time, although maybe move up to higher positions within that company eventually.
Reason: Show you're not a job-hopper. Show them their training time and money won't be wasted on you.
Question 4: When people compliment you, what do they compliment you on the most?
Wrong answer: Usually on my naturally curly hair. They also comment that my eyelashes are unbelievably long!
Possible answer: I've been told I'm very decisive. Also, that I'm really good at motivating people.
Reason: See #1.
Question 5: What did you dislike about your last job?
Wrong Answer: The boss was a slave driver. It was nag, nag, nag. Always on my back about getting stuff done, hurry up, stop taking smoke breaks, get in earlier. What a jerk!
Possible Answer: There were a few challenges, but nothing I couldn't handle.
Reason: No one wants to employ a whiner, or a high-maintenance person.
Question 6: What kind of experience do you have for this job?
Wrong Answer: That depends. What do you do here?
Possible Answer: I know you're looking for someone with a high school education, and who has experience working with young children, and also a First Aid Certificate and CPR, and I have all those. Also, I worked at a day care two summers between semesters.
Reason: Once again, show you've done your research, and that your skills match their requirements.
Question 7: What would you say is your main weakness?
Wrong Answer: Well, I do drink/take drugs/steal office stationery/assault co-workers quite a bit.
Possible Answer: Obviously I have weaknesses, like everybody, but I really don't think I have weaknesses that will affect my ability to do this job well.
Reason: This is admittedly a kind of trick question, and it's hard to avoid the tendency to say things like, "I'm too much of a perfectionist" or "I work way too many hours." You could try the above answer, or come up with something even cleverer on your own. Either way, be prepared!
Question 8: Why did you leave your last job?
Wrong Answer: I'm sorry but I can't answer that until the trial's over.
Possible Answer: Unfortunately my company was downsizing and as one of the newest hires, I was one of the first to be laid off.
Possible Answer #2: I enjoyed my work at the last company, but there was no opportunity for advancement, and eventually I felt it was time to leave.
Reason: Never badmouth your last employer. It makes you look disloyal and bitter. If you left under awkward or difficult circumstances, take some time to think of a neutral, and non-hostile, non-self-pitying way to explain the situation. Tell the truth, but keep it unemotional and be as objective as possible.
Question 9: What kind of salary are you looking for?
Wrong Answer: I don't know. How much do you make?
Possible Answer: (if you don't have a clue) How much is the going rate for this position?
Possible Answer: (if you've done your research) I know that the average pay for this job in our city is about $12 an hour. Is that about what this position pays?
Reason: You don't want to ask for such an exorbitant salary that you price yourself out of a job. On the other hand, it's important to show that you value what you have to offer. So go online - you'll find government reports that give you the average salary or hourly rate being paid for your position in your area.
Question 10: Tell me about a time you... dealt with a difficult customer/ came up with an idea that saved the company money/ had problems with a co-worker/solved a problem no one else could...
Wrong answer: Um............I don't know.....you're putting me on the spot.
Possible answers: These are up to you. Before you go on any interviews, spend time thinking of all the scenarios you can come up with of situations at work where you dealt with problems, or had great success, or even small success. That way, you'll have lots of scenarios to share with an employer.
Reason: Telling the employer you're smart, a good motivator, innovative, a problem solver, mean nothing without concrete examples. Think of some BEFORE the interview. It will make a great impression.
There are so many other questions an interviewer could ask you. What is your energy level like? What was a typical day like in your last job? Define an ideal boss. Describe how one employee can affect the whole company. You can never think of them all, but if you do research, you'll be sure to ace at least a few of the questions, which is more than a lot of the applicants will be able to do.
Finally, make sure your answers are true, and not just what you think the employer wants to hear. Your goal is not to manipulate him or her, but to show yourself at your very best. You'll probably be way too nervous at the interview to think as clearly as you usually do, so do lots of preparation before you go. You'll feel and act way more confident, and it could make all the difference.

How to Answer Interview Questions: A Guide to Job Seekers

When seeking for a job, it is important that you are ready when you face your future employer. The most challenging part is the interview. To prepare for this, you can practice how to answer interview questions. Most interviewers have similar sets of questions. So being prepared will make the battle a lot easier. Below are some guides on how to answer interview questions.
Describe yourself.
A classic question often asked at the beginning of the interview. Make sure that you are comfortable when talking about yourself to start a pleasant conversation with the interviewer. Introduce yourself, your values, experience, achievements, qualifications, etc. Keep your answers in line with your career.
What are your strengths?
This is an easy question and you have to give them your best skills and traits. Skills are the once you have acquired from school and work which such as college degree, masterals, trainings, seminars, computer skills, typing skills, languages etc. While traits are unique character such as hard working, goal-oriented, punctual, flexible, etc. Through this question, your interviewer will have information as to what may be your future contribution to the company if they will hire you.
What are your weaknesses?
This is one of the toughest questions. We all know that everyone has a weakness but we cannot admit it during the interview. You may site only one trait skill or trait so that you will not take much time on this question. Ensure that it is a trait or skill that you can change. Then, explain to the interviewer on how you plan to overcome your weakness.
What do you know about our company/organization?
When applying for a job, you have to be resourceful. You can use the internet to search for the company's website and their services, product, history, profile and goal. You can also check their Careers area so you have an idea on what they can offer to you as an employee. You do not need to know everything about the company.
Through your research, you can come up with your reasons why you are interested in joining their team. Make sure that your reasons are good enough to convince them that you really took time to know more about the company.
Why do you want this job (or the position offered)?
Read the qualifications and responsibilities of the Job offered. You can tell them your traits and skills that match the qualifications for the job. Then, convince them that you are capable of doing the job effectively by citing your previous work experiences or achievements. Furthermore, you can mention that your career goal is aligned with the company's goal or that the company provides opportunities for advancement.
Why should we hire you?
Mention all your good qualities, skills, abilities and accomplishments. This is similar to selling a particular product. To convince a prospect buyer, you need to mention what is great about the product. So ask yourself this question, what is great about you to make you fitted on the job you are applying for?
Where do you see yourself five/ten/twenty years from now?
Your career goals should answer this question. Explain how you plan to move to another job position within the company. This will provide the interviewer the idea on what the company can gain from you if you achieve those goals.
Know yourself first, and then you will know how to answer interview questions. Have a positive attitude and be confident, this will greatly help in easily achieving the career you are aiming for.