UNB Alumni
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The interview: Expect the unexpected

Author: Young Alumni

Posted on Feb 11, 2016

Category: Young Alumni

Employers aren't only looking for job candidates who have the ideal skills on paper. They're also looking for personality traits that will fit well into their work environment. Your communication skills, professionalism and attitude all play a role in how well you interview, but if you feel unprepared and can't express yourself clearly, your personality may fade into the background.

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Preparation is key. Do your homework, research the company and practice some interview questions in advance to get comfortable. Expect the unexpected with these commonly asked questions:

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What are the top three most important things I should know about you that aren't listed on your resume?
  • What are your strengths?
  • What has been your greatest accomplishment?
  • What do you know about our company? (Do your research!)
  • What makes you the ideal candidate for this position? (Provide examples of how your past experience relates to the job responsibilities.)
  • Tell me about a situation in a past job (or school project, volunteer activity, etc.) where you were confronted with a conflict. How did you react and what did you do to resolve it?
  • What are your weaknesses? (Trick question!)
  • Why should we hire you?
Interviewers are often impressed by candidates who can not only provide thoughtful answers to their questions, but who can also ask intelligent questions about the company and job position at the end of the interview. Try some of these sample questions:
  • What skills does your ideal candidate possess?
  • How would you describe a typical day in this position?
  • What will be my greatest challenge in this position?
  • How would you describe the work environment/atmosphere?
  • Could you tell me a bit more about your company's mission?
If you already have questions up your sleeve during your next interview, you'll be one step closer to landing that dream job!