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Some Common and Sample Interview Questions:

Tell me about a time when you had to work really hard to get something done? How did you set priorities, and what was the result?

Key Components in Your Response:

Briefly describe the situation.
"There was an instance recently when I had two tests and a research proposal due one week and was asked to take on an extra shift at work. I am also the Vice President of the Accounting Club, where I typically facilitate monthly meetings. One was also scheduled for this same week. It was clear that my time constraints might impact one or more of these responsibilities and that I needed to develop a strategy to get things done."

Identify the steps that you had taken to respond to the situation.
"Since some of these responsibilities were expected, I had prepared for this week by conducting my literature review for the research proposal well in advance and had completed everything except the summary prior to this busy week. When asked to work an extra shift for another employee, I inquired further and learned that my coworker only needed a portion of this shift off. I agreed to work for three hours of the six-hour shift so that she could meet her goals and I could attend to mine. I was then able to budget my time effectively to study for my tests, while delegating some responsibility to other club members in facilitating our monthly Accounting Club meeting."

Identify the outcome (positive or negative). If negative, it is very important to state what it is you learned from the situation and what you would do differently next time.
"I submitted my proposal on time, and received an A on one test and a B on the other. My coworker expressed appreciation for my willingness to compromise by working a partial shift. Our Accounting Club meeting was productive, and it was great to see others take some ownership in the meeting by being responsible for various segments of the agenda.

Interview Attire
• The key here is to dress conservatively. Men are typically encouraged to wear a suit and a tie, while women are encouraged to wear a skirt or dress pants with a dress shirt and a coordinating jacket/blazer/sweater. It is wise to consult someone in the industry or a member of the Career Center for specific information.
• Jewelry would also be worn conservatively (small earrings/necklace etc.), and belts should match the shoes that are worn for the interview. It is important for shoes to be properly maintained.
• All apparel is clean and pressed. Attending to these details tells the employer whether or not you are serious about the job.
• Refrain from wearing fragrances, as many people experience adverse reactions to them. (chemical sensitivities)


Some Predictors of Success• Ambition and motivation
• Problem-solving skills
• Related work experience
• Creativity and intelligence
• Self-confidence
• Teamwork capabilities and work habits
• Strong communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Adaptability
• Leadership ability
15 Knockout Factors
(reasons why candidates receive rejection replies)
1. Lack of proper career planning; inability to define career goals and objectives
2. Lack of knowledge of field of specialization; not well-qualified
3. Inability to express self clearly
4. Insufficient evidence of achievement or capacity to excite action in others
5. Not prepared for interview; no research on company
6. No real interest in the organization or the industry; merely shopping around
7. Narrow location interest; unwilling to relocate later
8. Little interest and enthusiasm; indifferent
9. Overbearing, overaggressive and/or conceited
10. Interested only in best dollar offer
11. Asks no or poor questions about the job
12. Unwilling to start at the bottom; expects too much too soon
13. Makes excuses; evasive; hedges on unfavorable factors in record
14. No confidence and poise; fails to look interviewer in the eye
15. Poor personal appearance and grooming