Sample job application form

Chapter 1:
HOW TO FILL OUT A JOB APPLICATION FORM
When you apply for a job, you are usually required to fill out a job application form. Most
employers review your application before they choose to see you. It can also form an important
first impression of you. To increase your chances for an interview, follow these guidelines:
1. Read the entire form carefully. Know what is being asked before filling out the form. Answer
each item truthfully. Employers may use the application form to judge how well you follow
instructions and how careful you may be as an employee.
2. Fill in the blanks completely, accurately, neatly, and to the best of your ability. Print or write
clearly so it is easy to read. Answer all questions. Answers should be brief and consistent. Write
"does not apply" where not applicable. Check your answers for correct spelling, grammar,
punctuation, completeness, and accuracy.

3. Type the form if possible.

4. Describe all of your skills and abilities.

5. Know the deadline for applying and where to deliver your application.

6. Be prepared to answer the following basic parts of an application form:

PERSONAL INFORMATION: List name, mailing address, phone number, and social security
number. If you do not have a phone number, have a number where messages can be left for you.

POSITION DESIRED: Spell correctly the job for which you are applying. Specify full-time or
part-time, type of employment (permanent, temporary, or summer only), and the date you can
start.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING: List academic, vocational, and professional education and
schools attended. Be prepared to attach copies of certificates or other documents.

SPECIAL JOB-RELATED SKILLS, TRAINING, LICENSES,
ANDACCOMPLISHMENTS: Listing these will make you stand out from other applicants. List
the types of equipment and tools that you are able to use and the licenses you have. List ability to
speak and write other languages as well if relevant to the job for which you apply.
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EMPLOYMENT HISTORY (BEGIN WITH MOST RECENT JOB): List employer's name,
current address and telephone number, supervisor, job title, dates of employment, salary, and
reason for leaving. Describe your job duties clearly. Use action verbs. Concentrate on skills
which will interest the employer. The job description can provide clues about important skills.
Explain gaps in your work history.
REFERENCES (CHARACTER AND/OR PROFESSIONAL): Provide names, current
business addresses, and current phone numbers of people, not including relatives, who can speak
positively about you. Clergy members, teachers, counselors, friends who are in business, and
leaders of organizations and in the community usually make good references. Be sure to ask for
their permission before listing them and verify where they can be reached. You may also want to
give them a copy of your resume so they know more about you. Have enough references so that
no one person is constantly called about you.
7. Sign and date the application in the space(s) provided.

8. Have copies of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other documents ready to attach to
your application form.

9. Keep a copy of your completed application so you can review it before your interview.

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1.1 Sample Job Application Form 1
It is our policy to comply with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in
employment on race, age, color, sex, religion, national origin or other protected classification.
Name:

______________________ _________________ ___________ Date:___________
Last First Middle

Address: ____________________ ___________________ _____________ _______________
Street City State Zip Code

Telephone: ________________

Are you over 18 years old? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Are you a U.S. citizen or otherwise authorized to work in the U.S. on an unrestricted basis? [ ]
Yes [ ] No
How did you learn of this opening? _________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Have you ever worked here before? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Are there any hours, shifts or days you cannot or will not work?
_____________________________________________________________________
Shift preferred: Part-time ____ Full-time____
Are you willing to work overtime as required? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Have you ever been convicted of a felony? [ ] Yes [ ] No
(Conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant for employment.) If yes, describe
conditions:_____________________________________________________
1.2 Sample Job Job Application Form 2
NAME (Last, First, Middle)
________________________________________
SOC. SEC. #
___________________

ADDRESS (Number and Street, City, State, Zip Code)
________________________________________
PHONE NO.

(___)______________

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POSITION DESIRED
________________________________________
Full-time
___
Part-time
___
Temporary ___

HAVE YOU WORKED FOR THIS COMPANY BEFORE? Yes ___ No ___

IF YOU ARE A MINOR UNDER AGE 18, DO YOU HAVE
A CERTIFICATE OF AGE OR EMPLOYMENT? Yes ___ No ___
EDUCATION

NAME AND ADDRESS
OF SCHOOL MAJOR
DEGREE/
DIPLOMA
High
School _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
____________
____________
____________
____________

____________
____________

College _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
____________
____________
____________
____________
____________
____________

Trade, business,
other
____________
____________
____________
____________
____________
____________
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SPECIAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS: List job-related licenses, skills, training,
honors, awards, and special accomplishments
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY: (START WITH PRESENT OR LAST POSITION)
Employer: _____________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________

Supervisor: ____________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________________
Position Title: ___________________________
From: ______________ To: ______________
Duties: ____________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Salary: _______________ _______________
(first) (last)
Reason for leaving: _____________________
Employer: _____________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________
Supervisor: ____________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________________
Position Title: ___________________________
From: ______________ To: ______________
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Duties: ____________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Salary: _______________ _______________
(first) (last)
Reason for leaving: _____________________
Employer: _____________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________
Supervisor: ____________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________________
Position Title: ___________________________
From: ______________ To: ______________
Duties: ____________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Salary: _______________ _______________

(first) (last)
Reason for leaving: _____________________
MAY WE CONTACT YOUR PRESENT EMPLOYER? Yes _____ No _____
REFERENCES: (EXCLUDE RELATIVES AND FORMER EMPLOYERS)

Name/Title Address and Phone No. Occupation
I CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS APPLICATION IS
TRUE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTAND
THAT ANY FALSE INFORMATION ON THIS APPLICATION MAY BE GROUNDS
FOR NOT HIRING ME.
DATE________________SIGNATURE______________________________
1.3 Job Application Form 3
Instructions: Print clearly in black or blue ink. Answer all questions. Sign and date the form.
PERSONAL INFORMATION:
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First Name _____________________________
Middle Name ___________________________
Last Name _____________________________
Street Address
_______________________________________________________
City, State, Zip Code
_______________________________________________________
Phone Number
(___)___________________________________
Are you eligible to work in the United States?
Yes _______ No_______
If you are under age 18, do you have an employment/age certificates?
Yes ___ No ___
Have you been convicted of or pleaded no contest to a felony within the last five years?
Yes_______ No_______

If yes, please explain: _________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
POSITION/AVAILABILITY:
Position Applied For
________________________________________
Days/Hours Available
Monday ____
Tuesday ____
Wednesday ____
Thursday ____
Friday ____
Saturday ____
Sunday ____
Hours Available: from _______ to ______
What date are you available to start work?
________________________________________
EDUCATION:
Name and Address Of School - Degree/Diploma - Graduation Date
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
Skills and Qualifications: Licenses, Skills, Training, Awards
_____________________________________________________________
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY:
Present Or Last Position:
Employer: _____________________________________________________
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Address:______________________________________________________
Supervisor: ____________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________
Email: ________________________________
Position Title: _________________________
From: ______________ To: ______________
Responsibilities: ____________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Salary: _______________
Reason for Leaving: ____________________________________________
Previous Position:
Employer: _____________________________________________________
Address:______________________________________________________
Supervisor: ____________________________________________________
Phone: _______________________________
Email: ________________________________
Position Title: _________________________
From: ______________ To: ______________
Responsibilities: ___________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
Salary: _______________
Reason for Leaving: ____________________________________________
May We Contact Your Present Employer?
Yes _____ No _____
References:
Name/Title Address Phone
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
I certify that information contained in this application is true and complete. I understand that false
information may be grounds for not hiring me or for immediate termination of employment at any point in
the future if I am hired. I authorize the verification of any or all information listed above.
Signature______________________________

Date__________________________________
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1.3 Applicant Information
Applicant Name _____________________
Home Phone _______________________
Other ____________________________
Email Address _____________________
Current Address:
Number and street ____________________
City ________________________________
State & Zip ____________________________
How were you referred to Company?:___________________________
Employment Positions
Position(s) applying for:________________________________
Are you applying for:
Temporary work – such as summer or holiday work? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Regular part-time work? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Regular full-time work? [ ] Y or [ ] N
What days and hours are you available for work?___________________________________________
If applying for temporary work, when will you be available?
___________________________________________
If hired, on what date can you start working? ___ / ___ / ___
Can you work on the weekends? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Can you work evenings? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Are you available to work overtime? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Salary desired: $________________________________
Personal Information:
Have you ever applied to / worked for Company before? [ ] Y or [ ] N
If yes, please explain (include date): ________________________
Do you have any friends, relatives, or acquaintances working for Company? [ ] Y or [ ] N

If yes, state name & relationship: ________________________________
If hired, would you have transportation to/from work? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Are you over the age of 18? (If under 18, hire is subject to verification of minimum legal age.) [ ] Y or [ ]
N
If hired, would you be able to present evidence of your U.S. citizenship or proof of your legal right to
work in the United States? [ ] Y or [ ] N
If hired, are you willing to submit to and pass a controlled substance test? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Are you able to perform the essential functions of the job for which you are applying, either with / without
reasonable accommodation? [ ] Y or [ ] N
If no, describe the functions that cannot be performed
_____________________________________________________________
(Note: Company complies with the ADA and consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be
necessary for eligible applicants/employees to perform essential functions. It is possible that a hire may
be tested on skill/agility and may be subject to a medical examination conducted by a medical
professional.)
Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense (felony or misdemeanor)? [ ] Y or [ ] N
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If yes, please describe the crime - state nature of the crime(s), when and where convicted and disposition
of the case.________________________________________________________________
(Note: No applicant will be denied employment solely on the grounds of conviction of a criminal offense.
The date of the offense, the nature of the offense, including any significant details that affect the
description of the event, and the surrounding circumstances and the relevance of the offense to the
position(s) applied for may, however, be considered.)
Education, Training and Experience
High School:
School name: ________________________
School address:________________________
School city, state, zip:________________________________
Number of years completed: _______________
Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N

Degree / diploma earned: _______________
College / University:
School name: __________________________
School address:________________________
School city, state, zip:________________________________
Number of years completed: ________
Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Degree / diploma earned: __________________
Vocational School:
Name: ________________________
Address:______________________
City, state, zip:________________________________
Number of years completed: ________
Did you graduate? [ ] Y or [ ] N
Degree / diploma? : __________________
Military:
Branch: ________________________
Rank in Military:________________________
Total Years of Service: ________
Skills/duties: ________
Related details:________________________________
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Chapter 2:
INTERVIEW
2.1 Before the job interview
Know the company.
Your knowledge of the prospective employer will contribute to the positive image you want to
create. Research the company before the interview. Talk to others who work there; ask for
information about the firm and for a job description when the interview is set up; use the Internet
and your local library reference books on public and private organizations.

Know the job.
Learn everything you can about the job you're interviewing for and how your previous experience
and training qualify you for this position.
Know yourself.
Review your resume before the interview to have it fresh in your mind, because it will be fresh in
the mind of the person who interviews you. Better yet, have it in front of you on the table.
Prepare questions of your own.
Employers are as interested in your questions as they are in your answers. And they'll react
favorably if you ask intelligent questions about the position, the company and the industry.
(Examples: Where does this position fit into the company as a whole? Is there any problem on
this job with waste/accuracy/meeting quotas, etc.? What is the largest single problem facing your
staff now?).
Get the big picture.
Visualize the entire interview, from start to finish. See yourself as performing with style and
confidence. How will the interview end? Will you get a job offer or be called back for a second
interview? How much salary do you want? What kind of benefits? The research you do ahead of
time will give you an idea of what to expect. Be ready for any eventuality.
2.2 During the job interview
Make a Good First Impression.
The outcome of the interview will depend largely on the impression you make during the first
five minutes. To succeed, you must project a professional, competent and enthusiastic image.
Your aim is to convince the interviewer that you would be an asset to the company. Keep the
following in mind:
Be punctual.
Do whatever it takes to arrive a few minutes early. If necessary, drive to the company the night
before and time yourself. Allow extra time for traffic, parking and slow elevators.
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Dress right.
Your clothing should be appropriate for the position you're seeking. Attire must fit well within
the office and be immaculate. If you don't know what the typical attire at the company is, call and

ask! Shoes should be polished; pants/skirts and shirts pressed.
Shake well.
A firm handshake is appropriate and projects confidence. Make eye contact when you shake.
Speak correct body language.
Send the right message by standing straight, moving confidently, and sitting slightly forward in
your chair.
Let the employer lead into conversations about benefits.
Your focus on salary, stock options and vacation time can turn off an otherwise-interested
interviewer.
Be honest.
Tell the interviewer about your work skills, strengths and experience, including any volunteer
work you have done. If you haven’t had a particular kind of experience, say so, but also
demonstrate your ability to learn new skills by changing the focus back to a time when you did so
for a prior employer.
Be enthusiastic.
Show your clear interest in the job you are seeking and in the business. Smile and make frequent
eye contact. Listen attentively and take notes.
Find common ground.
Pictures, books, plants, etc., in the office can be conversation starters.But beware! I once heard of
an applicant who, spying a picture on the employer’s desk said: "Hey, Tommy Lasorda. Have you
met him?" "Her", corrected the hiring manager. "That's my wife".
Have your own agenda and know where the interview should be heading. This will give you
confidence and help you move from one area of questioning to the next. Remember: Most
interviewers are as uncomfortable as you are. They just want the position to be filled as fast as
possible. If you can put the interviewer at ease by helping things move smoothly, you'll improve
your chances of being hired. Remember the following:
Listening skills.
Listen carefully and ask questions to probe deeper into what the interviewer is telling you. Most
interviewers are delightfully surprised by a question such as, "How could I help you solve the
problem you've just described?"

Negative statements
about previous jobs or employers. NEVER make them. Instead, be diplomatic. No matter how
bad your last job or boss was, there's probably something good you learned from the experience.
Emphasize the positive - with a smile.
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2.3 After the job interview
Follow Through.
This is a crucial and often-overlooked final step in the interviewing process. Remember: No home run or
350-yard golf shot was ever hit without a proper follow-through. It's essential that you write a thank-you
note to every person you met at the company. Your most important letter(s) should go to the
interviewer(s). In your letter, be sure to summarize your conversation and re-emphasize the skills you
would bring to the position. Thank them for their time and ask if it's all right to call later in the week to see
how their search for a candidate is going.
That candidate may well be you!
2.4 Interview Questions
Behavioral interviewing
Most interviews include behavioral questions. Be prepared.
What is it?
Behavioral interviewing is a technique used by employers in which the questions asked assist the
employer in making predictions about a potential employee's future success based on actual past
behaviors, instead of based on responses to hypothetical questions.
In behavior-based interviews, you are asked to give specific examples of when you demonstrated
particular behaviors or skills.
General answers about behavior are not what the employer is looking for. You must describe in
detail a particular event, project, or experience and you dealt with the situation, and what the
outcome was.
Examples of behavioral interview questions:
Describe a time when you were faced with problems or stresses at work that tested your coping
skills. What did you do?
Give an example of a time when you had to be relatively quick in coming to a decision.

Give me an example of an important goal you had to set and tell me about your progress in
reaching that goal.
Describe the most creative work-related project you have completed.
Give me an example of a problem you faced on the job, and tell me how you solved it.
Tell me about a situation in the past year in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or
co-worker.
Give me an example of when you had to show good leadership.
Traditional Interview vs. Behavioral Interview
In a traditional interview, you will be asked a series of questions which typically have straight
forward answers like "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" or "What major challenges and
problems did you face? How did you handle them?" or "Describe a typical work week."
In a behavioral interview, an employer has decided what skills are needed in the person they hire
and will ask questions to find out if the candidate has those skills.
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Instead of asking how you would behave, they will ask how you did behave. The interviewer will
want to know how you handled a situation, instead of what you might do in the future.
Questions in a Behavioral Interview
Behavioral interview questions will be more pointed, more probing and more specific than
traditional interview questions:
 Give an example of an occasion when you used logic to solve a problem.
 Give an example of a goal you reached and tell me how you achieved it.
 Describe a decision you made that was unpopular and how you handled implementing
it.
 Have you gone above and beyond the call of duty? If so, how?
 What do you do when your schedule is interrupted? Give an example of how you
handle it.
 Have you had to convince a team to work on a project they weren't thrilled about?
How did you do it?
 Have you handled a difficult situation with a co-worker? How?
 Tell me about how you worked effectively under pressure.

Follow-up questions will also be detailed. You may be asked what you did, what you said, how
you reacted or how you felt.
Preparation for the Potential Behavioral Interview
What's the best way to prepare? It's important to remember that you won't know what type of
interview will take place until you are sitting in the interview room. So, prepare answers to
traditional interview questions.
Then, since you don't know exactly what situations you will be asked about if it's a behavioral
interview, refresh your memory and consider some special situations you have dealt with or
projects you have worked on. You may be able to use them to help frame responses. Prepare
stories that illustrate times when you have successfully solved problems or performed
memorably. The stories will be useful to help you respond meaningfully in a behavioral
interview.
Finally, review the job description, if you have it, or the job posting or ad. You may be able to get
a sense of what skills and behavioral characteristics the employer is seeking from reading the job
description and position requirements. Take a look at what employers are advised about
developing the job posting for a behavioral interview on the About Human Resources site.
During the Behavioral Interview
During the interview, if you are not sure how to answer the question, ask for clarification. Then
be sure to include these points in your answer:
 A specific situation
 The tasks that needed to be done
 The action you took
 The results i.e. what happened
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It's important to keep in mind that there are not right or wrong answers. The interviewer is simply
trying to understand how you behaved in a given situation. How you respond will determine if
there is a fit between your skills and the position the company is seeking to fill. So, listen
carefully, be clear and detailed when you respond and, most importantly, be honest. If your
answers aren't what the interviewer is looking for, this position may not be the best job for you
anyway.

2.5 Resources of Interview Questions
2.5.1 IN WHAT WAY DO YOU THINK CAN CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR COMPANY?
Education
1. How does your experience and education qualify you for this job?
2. How does your education qualify you for this job?
3. Why did you choose to attend the college that you are attending?
4. What aspect of your education applies to this position?
5. What training have you received that qualifies you for this job?
6. What have you done outside of formal education to improve yourself?
7. What training opportunities have you taken advantage of and why?
8. What additional training will we have to provide for you if we hire you?
Experience
1. Tell us about yourself. How are you qualified for this job?
2. How does your current job qualify you for this position?
3. How does your experience qualify you for this job?
4. Describe a typical day at your present position.
5. What were your three greatest accomplishments on your last job?
6. What are some of the things on your current job you have done well?
7. What is the most difficult assignment you have had?
8. What accomplishment on the job are you the most proud of?
9. What steps have you taken to improve your job skills?
10. What significant contributions have you made to the operation of your work group?
11. How has your current position prepared you to take on greater responsibilities?
12. What makes you more qualified than the other candidates?
13. Why do you want to leave your current job?
14. How has your job prepared you to take on greater responsibility?
15. Tell us about your qualifications for this position.
16. What actions have you taken in the past 10 years to prepare you for this position?
17. What steps have you taken in the past two years to improve your qualifications?
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18. In the areas where your experience falls short for this job, what steps will you take to make up
for this shortfall?
19. Describe yourself.
20. What skills and abilities do you have?
21. Recall an incident where you made a major mistake. What did you do after the mistake was
made? What did you learn from this mistake?
22. What is the greatest failure you've had? What would you have done differently?
23. What action on the job are you the least proud of?
24. Tell us about a difficult situation that you encountered and how you resolved it.
Resume
1. Take us through your resume.
2. What are you most proud of on your resume?
Tell me a story.
Many interviewers like to hear 'stories' or examples from your work life. So pick something that
is more usual than not (not the day of a plant explosion and you saved 10 lives!) but a story that
shows how you handle yourself, handle difficult people or situations. Can you think on your
feet? Do you adhere to the rules? Consider the type of organization you are aiming at each has
its own culture. The World Wrestling Federation entertainment culture is different than the
American Bible Society and also different from Amazon.com. Gear your stories to give the
listener a feeling that you could fit in you could do the job here.
In what way do you think you can contribute to our company?
Preparing to answer this question requires a 2-step preparation: assessing your skills and
researching the needs of the company. An integral part of skill assessment (looking at your own
experience, education and talents) is to 'skill-match'. Considering the job opening, what are the
skills needed? Make a list of the requisite skills (in priority order) and then list concrete
examples of your possession of the skill. For example: a sales representative would need good
interpersonal skills, the ability to deal with difficult people. For 'proof' of this skill, you could list
experiences and examples of how you were successful in a difficult situation. These matched
skills are your key selling points.
Next, what appears to be the current problems at the organization, based upon your research?

What are their needs that you can meet? In other words, given the specifics of the company,
what value can you add? After these two steps, you are in a great position to come up with
concrete examples of what you can offer the company. This question, by the way, is just another
version of "Why should we hire you?". In the interview, when asked this question, you could
respond with: "In my experience in sales, I know having the ability to deal effectively with all
types of people is not merely a positive element it is an essential one. With your plans to
expand into ____ market, a sales representative with a proven ability to meet with all types of
people and to be able to assess and meet their immediate needs would be a great asset. In the past
__ years, I have increased sales __ "
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2.5.2 DESCRIBE A CHALLENGING WORK ISSUE YOU HAD TO FACE, AND HOW
YOU DEALT WITH IT.
1. Tell us about the passion in your life as it relates to your work.
2. What aspects of your work do you get the most excited about?
3. What are your most outstanding qualities?
4. If you were to start your own company, what would that company do?
5. Tell me about the last book that you read.
6. If you were a cucumber in a salad and somebody was about to eat you, what would you do?
7. What are your worst qualities?
8. What is your favorite color and what does it reflect in your personality?
9. Rate yourself from one to ten on your work ethic with ten being the best .
10. Describe yourself.
Why do you feel we should hire you for this position?
Before you submit a resume or draft a cover letter and certainly before you go to an interview
you should do 2 things:
1. Research the job and the organization. What do they need? What are the requirements for
the position? What role does this job play in the overall goals of the organization?
2. Research yourself. What skills and experiences and interests can you offer? How will you
add value to the organization? How can you prove that you have the required skills and
experience needed for the job?

Do a skill matching exercise: The organization/job needs (skill/experience) and I have it because
I did The organization needs and I can provide Be certain to have specific examples of
how you have added value in the past and be enthusiastic on how you can add value to this
organization.
Do not forget the organization is looking to solve a problem and you are selling yourself as a
solution.
Describe a challenging work issue you had to face, and how you dealt with it?
Consider what would be the requirements of the 'new' job/organization and find something in
your past that highlights a skill, experience or situation that might occur or be needed going
forward. It is always a good idea to make lists in preparation for interviews:
New job will need I can provide Proof/example
For your proofs, list (for yourself) examples of when you used the skill, exhibited the
characteristic or handled the problem. This will not only give you 'short stories' to relate in an
interview, it will also bolster your confidence and target your job search.
If you were on a merry-go-round, what song would be playing? If you were going to be an
animal on the merry-go-round, what would you be?"
Congratulations! You have found the unusual interviewer asking a rare question. Don't feel
stupid just feel like you have run into a very unusual situation. If you are interviewing for a
creative position, then the question is most appropriate because the interviewer may be
attempting to evaluate your creativity and your ability to deal with an offbeat question. have fun
with it. Give the question your focused attention and go with your instincts. Be ready to say why
you chose the tune you did. Perhaps tell a brief story that reminds you of merry go rounds in
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your own experience. Or if you are really clueless give a song that you have always liked, has
real meaning for you or is important for whatever reason and attach it to the merry go round but
refocus the question to he importance of the song and make it brief but interesting "words tell but
stories sell." As for the animal, give the animal that you want to be (even if you think the
question is ridiculous and you really need this job) your total attention and focus.
On the other hand, the person you are dealing with may not have a clue and just asked because
he/she felt like it. We know one person who asks the question and feels it is meaningful. She is

into Yoga and looks for the person to be thoughtful in response. We have never heard her say
anyone was rejected because of the animal selected.
2.5.3 HOW DO WE HANDLE THE CONFLICT?
1. Tell us about your inter-personal skills.
2. What experience have you had working with external agencies?
3. How do you deal with conflict?
4. Tell us about a situation in which you were required to work with people at various levels
within your organization? What was the most important step that you took to work effectively
with these people?
5. To what extent have your assignments required interface with other departments?
6. Tell us about an incident in which you dealt with an irate customer, which would demonstrate
your ability to work effectively with others?
7. In what kinds of situations do you find it most difficult to deal with people?
8. Describe to us the extent to which you have worked with executive or top management.
9. What has been your experience in working with community organizations?
10. Tell us about your experience in working with volunteers.
2.5.4 INTERVIEW IN DEPTH
How do you handle conflict?
On the job, there are many possible sources of conflict. Conflicts with:
• fellow employees
• management
• rules, procedures
• clients, customers
• demands of work vs personal life, family
The best way to approach a good answer is to look at if from the employer’s point of view they
want to be your first priority and they want you to solve problems (not bring them any). "I know
everything cannot run smoothly at work all the time. When there is a conflict I usually try to
determine the source of the problem and see if it can be solved. This might involve other
members of the work team discussing the problem and offering possible solutions. I would then
try to pick the solution which appears to have the best outcome and put it into action."

A natural follow-up to this would be: Tell me when you solved a conflict at work. So, have a
brief example a short story to illustrate your approach. Even if not asked, you can offer your
story! If it proves your point and accentuates a skill needed for the position, go with it.
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2.5.5 TELL ME ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU TRIED AND FAILED.
Confidence
1. How confident are you that you can successfully perform the duties of this position and why?
2. Tell us about a situation that would demonstrate the level of confidence that you have in
yourself.
3. Tell us about a situation that would demonstrate the level of confidence your manager has in
you.
4. Tell us about a situation that would show the confidence your coworkers have in you.
Creativity
1. Are you creative? Give us one example of your creativity.
2. Describe a situation where you came up with a creative solution to a problem.
Independent/Self-Starter
1. Provide us with an example of your ability to work independently.
Give an example. The example may relate what you did in an emergency situation. If this is
an entry level position, use an example from school, church, or other volunteer activities.
Pressure
1. What experience have you had in pressure situations?
2. Tell us about a pressure situation you were in that would demonstrate your ability to work
under pressure.
3. Provide us with an example of how you’ve asserted yourself in an emergency or high-
pressure situation?
4. What does it take to get under your skin?
5. What are some constructive methods of dealing with stress?
6. Why are manhole covers round?
A test of your ability to think under pressure; Would a round manhole cover or a square
manhole cover fall through the hole?

Responsibility
1. Briefly describe the most significant responsibility you have had in your career and what it
taught you?
2. How do you handle responsibility?
Risk
1. How do you deal with risk on the job?
2. Name the greatest risk that you've taken?
3. Name the greatest risk that you've taken which resulted in failure.
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Tell me about a time when you tried and failed?
Has this ever happened to you? No one expects perfection actually, employers are more
interested in your ability to cope, to learn from mistakes, and to deal with others who are less than
perfect. If you have an example, certainly pick one that happened a while back, was not earth
shattering in the results, and one which you learned and applied this knowledge recently.
This is a version of 'damning with faint praise' by picking an incident that was minor in scope
but, since you are so wise and are always willing to learn, has taught you a valuable lesson.
2.5.6 TELL US ABOUT YOUR ANALYTICAL SKILLS.
1. Are you analytical? Give us one example of your analytical abilities.
2. Tell us about your analytical skills.
3. Tell us about a particularly difficult problem that you analyzed and what was your
recommendation.
4. What steps do you take when analyzing complex problems?
5. How would you rate your analytical ability? Why?
6. How would your manager rate your analytical ability?
7. Tell us about a situation where the analysis that you performed was incorrect. What would
you have done differently?
2.5.7 TELL US ABOUT YOUR ANALYTICAL SKILLS.
This should be easy if you have done a realistic skill inventory for yourself, listing what skills
you do have and how you can offer proof of this skill (where you learned it, last used it).
Working off your inventory, focus on various analytical skills and match them to the skills you

feel are most important for the job you are considering. You can now give specific examples of
skills you can offer. (Do not neglect skills obtained in extracurricular activities, such as volunteer
work.)
2.5.8 WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU FIND DIFFICULT TO DO?
Strengths
1. Why should we hire you?
2. What are your three greatest strengths?
3. What can you contribute to our organization?
4. Assume that you are a candidate in the coming general election. Tell me why you are the best
candidate in the field.
5. What is your greatest strength?
6. We've interviewed a number of highly qualified students for this position. What sets you
apart from the others?
7. What are your strengths?
8. What part of your current job are you the most comfortable with?
9. What are your strong points and how have they helped you to succeed?
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Weaknesses
1. What is your greatest weakness?
2. Name your three greatest weaknesses.
3. Which is the worst of your three greatest weaknesses and why?
4. What are your weaknesses?
5. What part of your current job are you the least comfortable with?
6. What are your weak points and how have you overcome them?
7. What about yourself would you want to improve
8. In which area do you need to make the improvement in?
2.5.9 WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU FIND DIFFICULT TO DO?
The interviewer is looking to determine how well you know yourself, how you react to difficult
situations/tasks and credibility. Look back over your work experience for examples of
challenges speaking in public at a meeting, disagreeing with a manager over an important issue,

being asked to use a software program you have not had an opportunity to learn
These 'stories' should illustrate a lesson learned, a problem overcome or a weakness being dealt
with.
"I always seem to need a day or two to prepare myself to give a presentation to department
heads. When I know I have to give a report on my projects, I plan out all the details in advance
and rehearse. One time, there was a problem with a supplier and I was asked to update senior
management immediately. The supply chain was crucial to the completion of an important
project we had been working on for 5 months and decisions had to be made based on the
information I had to prepare and present on a moment's notice. I gathered the information and
presented it simply and in detail. It was much easier than I thought without the hours of concern
and practice. The facts spoke for themselves. Since I understood the situation, I was able to
make it clear to management and get a rapid decision. I still prefer advance notice but I know I
can deliver when asked to."
2.5.10 WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT AND LONG TERM GOALS?
1. Where do you want to be 5 years from now in your career?
2. What are your long term career goals?
3. What prompted you to take your current job?
4. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
5. Why did you make a career change?
6. Why do you want to leave your current position?
7. Five years ago, where did you see yourself today?
8. What is your career goal?
2.5.11 WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
This is the interviewer trying to see how you are in making long range plans and if you have
goals that mesh with the organization's. One way to answer this question is to look back on your
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accomplishments to date: "I started out in my profession as a junior clerk while I completed my
college studies during the evenings. Once I had my degree, I applied for a transfer to a more
advanced position, citing my on-the-job training. This has been my pattern for my career with
my past 2 employers. I learn quickly on the job and am willing to take classes and workshops to

augment my experience. I have been able to assume greater responsibilities and add more value
to the organization. I do not think in terms of titles I think more in terms of "How can I solve
this problem? Since this has been my career style to date, I do not imagine it to change. In five
years, I feel I will have continued to learn, to grow into a position of more responsibility and will
have made a significant contribution to the organization."
2.5.12 WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT AND LONG TERM GOALS?
No one can make goals for you. It comes down to where you are in your professional life and
what you want to do. Most people have 5-6 careers in their working lifetime some with 2
careers going at the same time (like us).
The best advice is to be certain to relate your answers to the organization that interviews you. Do
not make a point of having goals that cannot be realized there ("I want to work in Paris."
Organization is strictly domestic.) If you do your research into the organization, and into what
you truly want to do in the future, you will be able to come up with reasonable responses. No one
is going to come back to you in five years and chastise you for not meeting these goals! You will
not be held to them it is only an interview and they are interested in how you see yourself (and
they want to see you in the job.)
2.5.13 WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY?
1. What is the most attractive aspect of the job you are interviewing for?
2. What is the least attractive aspect of the job you are interviewing for?
3. In order to successfully meet the responsibilities of this position, which of your personal
qualities will be of the greatest benefit?
4. What part of the job that you interviewing for do you look forward to the most?
5. What part of the job that you are interviewing for do you look forward to the least?
6. What aspect of our organization has the greatest appeal for you?
7. Knowing our organization and the position that you’re interviewing for, where can you make
the greatest contribution?
8. How will the job you’re interviewing for, fit into your career plans?
9. Why did you choose this profession and this specific job?
10. What do you think your responsibilities will be if you’re hired?
11. Why are you interested in the position?

12. What are you seeking from this job?
13. What challenges do you think that you will face in moving from your current position to this
position?
14. What aspect of the job announcement interested you the most?
15. In comparison to your current position, what do you think will be different in your new
position?
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16. Our company is more widely recognized than the current company that you're working for,
why do you think that is?
17. Tell us why you believe you are ready to promote to the next level of management.
18. What can you contribute to our company?
19. What do you know about our company?
20. What interests you about a career in (field of new job)?
21. Why should we give you a chance to perform in this job?
22. Why should we hire you instead of the the other candidates?
23. We have 24 candidates. A number of the candidates have more experience than you do.
Why should we hire you instead of one of the other candidates?
24. Why do you want this job and how does it fit you?
25. What do you intend to accomplish as a (title of new job) with our company?
26. Why should we hire you?
27. What additional training or development will you need to perform in this position?
2.5.14 WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY?
If you can relate your knowledge to the area that you would be involved in, it would show that
already you have an active interest in the organization. For example, if you were interested in
marketing, "I understand that you are one of the top 10 companies in sales to Europe but are
currently interested in expanding your market into Asia. Competition is keen in that area but you
have an advantage in that you product offers features that others do not, such as "
It is not only showing that you have done the research but also that you like/know what you have
learned about the company and have applied it to how you can add value in the position.
2.5.15 WHY DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE THIS JOB AFTER ONLY FOUR MONTHS?

Well, why did you? What is the closest to the truth:
1. Job was not as it was described to me
2. Organization changed its focus/goals
3. Organization could not effectively use my talents/skills
4. Change in management wanted to bring in own staff
5. Downsizing, reorganization
All of these will probably prompt a follow-up question. Do not fabricate but most interviewers
have heard these stories before and really are not interested in all the gory details. (Note that this
job need not be included on your resume since it was of such a short duration but may have to be
included in a application form if it looks to account for all your time.)
Circumstances also come to play did you leave your other job to take this 4 month job? or did
you 'try' it while already unemployed hoping for the best? If you were recruited to change jobs,
there is a lot of room for exaggeration in a sales pitch, and many employees have been misled.
If you have held other jobs for substantial periods and you took the other job in good faith, stress
your past performance. You are not a capricious person job hopping. You have skills to offer
and want to put them into good use.
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2.5.16 WHAT DO YOU WISH TO GAIN FROM OUR COMPANY?
Excellent question! Research is the answer (know everyone is tired of hearing this but we feel
this is one great way for applicants to make a difference in their candidacy). Determine some of
the key elements in the corporate structure, product base, employees/management team or recent
history. What appeals to you about working at this company? Go with what you know.
"In the past, I have had opportunities to work on new products being launched. I am very excited
about your plans to start an entire new line of products. With my prior experience I know I can
provide insights and make contributions immediately and I will also learn so much from the
excellent team you have in place. Having done single products, I would love to be in on the give-
and-take meetings planning the new line there is much I can offer but also much for me to
learn."
Finding something specific the opportunity to use a new technology, a new skill, to work with
'experts on their team" are ways for you to find job satisfaction, which is another way of asking

this question
2.5.17 WHAT DO YOU THINK THE EMPLOYEE'S RESPONSIBILITIES ARE TO THE
COMPANY?
As an employee you have several responsibilities to your employer. They are as follows:
• to perform a good day's work
• to be loyal
• to act as part of the team
• to value the relationship
• to earn the employer's trust
• to grow with a passion for the product/service.
2.5.18 WHY DO YOU WANT TO CHANGE JOBS?
When asked on an application, "If presently employed, why do you wish to change
positions", what do you put down. The reason I am changing positions because the
company I am applying at is known nationwide I want to work for a company with their
background and one that I can retire from.
This same question is sometimes asked on interviews as well so it is important to have a good
answer. Additionally, if you decide to leave your current employer, it is also wise to have
consensus as to the reasons that you are leaving.
It already sounds like you have positive reasons for wanting to work for the national company
go with that. Use your research to put forth several points about the company that you feel will
be a great match (for the company) and suit your particular skills and experiences. Emphasize the
fact that this opportunity to work for them is 'just what you have been looking for' because and
then go into several ways you can add value to the organization.
Remember, when asked why you left, do not downgrade in any way your prior/current
employer leave the interviewer with the feeling that you have only been associated with
winners! Do not go into the 'I can retire from this job' aspect; it can have negative connotations.
Present yourself as a vital, enthusiastic employee that can offer experience to their
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organization for many years to come. Note: If appropriate, point out that you are not just
'looking around' but are sincerely interested in working for this particular company and that you

are not a 'job-hopper' but are interested in a long-term career move.
2.5.19 WHAT THINGS MAKE A GOOD TEAM MEMBER?
Entry Level
1. What are the characteristics of a successful team?
2. Tell us about an unsuccessful team of which you were a member. What, if anything, could
you have done differently?
3. Tell us about a successful team of which you were a member. What was the most outstanding
characteristic of that team? What did you contribute?
4. What are the important qualities a person should have to become an effective team member?
5. What qualities do you have that make you an effective team player?
6. Do you work better by yourself or as part of a team?
7. What can you contribute to establish a positive working environment for our team?
8. What type of people do you work best with?
Advanced
1. What factors would you consider in assembling a project team?
2. Name some of the pitfalls to be avoided in building an effective team.
3. Through what tools can a committee become more useful or productive?
4. What actions can a supervisor take to establish teamwork in the organization?
5. You supervise a group of civilian employees. Your employees appear to be at odds with the
uniformed personnel. What steps can you take to improve the teamwork between civilian and
uniformed personnel?
6. What are the advantages, if any, of establishing team goals as opposed to individual goals?
2.5.20 WHAT THINGS MAKE A GOOD TEAM MEMBER?
Consider first the situational context of the question. What is the team environment of the
organization that you are interviewing do they have a strong, organized team-based work
environment or is it based on informal authority and fluctuating teams? Ideally, you should have
had an opportunity to research and ask some questions about the organization to determine how
they operate (and if indeed you want to work in that environment.)
Model your responses to the organization. Obviously, you are describing yourself = good team
member. My ideas of what makes a good team member may be very different from yours and

from the organization. Also depends on where you are in the team new member, leader,
support. How do you see
yourself? How do you make yourself fit into a new team? How do you elicit cooperation from
other team members? What do you think the organization's biggest problem is relative to teams
and team-building? And, what solution could you provide?
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