Tell me about yourself.

"I have an uncle who played a big role in my life, especially when I was a kid. He and I would game together, and when I was six years old, he taught me how to build my first computer, which we tricked out for our gaming. Later, he taught me how to develop my own software. Eventually, I outgrew the gaming but still loved programming and pursued this passion through school. After graduating with my degree, it made sense to go to the greatest computer company of all time and do my best and offer my services there. So here I am."

Spend some time reviewing IBM's blog. There, you can find an article offering advice from many of their recruiters on how to prepare for an interview with them. For example, one recruiter advises, "Considering the role you applied to, think about some questions the recruiter or hiring manager might ask you. Prepare your answers and practice them either in front of the mirror or with a friend. One great question to practice out loud is 'Tell me about yourself.'" Another of their recruiters suggests you "treat the interview as more conversational, as if someone just wants to learn more about you and your previous working experiences."

You can almost always count on this question at the beginning of an interview. It's your opportunity to deliver your elevator pitch and put your best foot forward. Not only do you want to showcase your personality while framing yourself as a good fit for their company and the role. But you also want to give them a snapshot of your professional journey and accomplishments. So hold their attention by telling them why you chose your career and how it defines you, why you are there, and how you reached this stage in your career journey, preparing you for this role. Tell them where your journey started and how you got to where you are today. Then share your career goals, where you would like to take your career, how you believe IBM will take you there, and what they stand to benefit from hiring you.

Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

"I noticed most of your job postings describe the position pay ranges as salary. I was curious about the intended context. Is this position considered salaried or is it an hourly pay rate? Also, I could find anything regarding the expectations of the number of hours a week, other than full-time. What are the average number of hours an employee is expected to put in weekly?"

Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. Some of the positions IBM offers are full-time salaried positions, as opposed to hourly. So, clarify that in your interview if asked this question. They also published a statement online over their working hours policy: "IBM will not exceed maximum hours of work prescribed by law and will appropriately compensate overtime. Employees will not be required to work more than 60 hours per week, including overtime, except in extraordinary business circumstances with their consent or where the nature of the position requires such work, as for exempt employees and employees in executive, managerial or professional positions. Employees should be allowed at least one day off per seven-day week."

If you couldn't answer this question in your research on the position and IBM's expectations, now is the time to clarify. If their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you can offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.

"I am available for full-time work, preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"

"If overtime is required in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever possible. My only restriction is that I cannot work Wednesday nights as I have an evening course those days."

What questions do you have for me?

"Thank you. I do have a few questions. Is this a replacement search or a newly created role? How long have you been trying to fill this role, and when would you like to have this position filled? What is your favorite part about working here?"

On one of their blogs, an IBM recruiter suggests, "An interview is a fantastic opportunity to not only ask questions about the job you applied to, but also about life at IBM, career growth plans, recognition opportunities, internal development culture, diversity and inclusion actions, corporate social responsibility activities, etc. Interviewers are always happy to answer questions." Another one of their recruiters goes on to say, "Ask about trainings, certifications, technical badges, and other learning opportunities that are available to enrich one's aspiration to be a leader, technical expert, etc."

It's crucial to have questions prepared for the interviewer. The more you research the position, company, and culture, the more questions you are likely to have. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure your questions are not mundane or redundant. Always make every effort to answer any questions you have on your own. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site.

"Thank you for asking. I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

"In college, I designed a social media platform for the hearing impaired. It also had an auto-translate tool that allowed for an alternate sign language emoji keyboard that would translate to roughly eighty out of the most common sign languages. A small feat, considering there are over three hundred sign languages."

The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is on your resume. Be creative. You can showcase your personality, unique skills, hobbies, or personal accomplishments that attest to your skills. Make yourself more memorable, be confident, and be yourself. Here is some additional advice from one of IBM's recruiters: "First, take a deep breath, and make sure to maintain your confidence regarding your experience and knowledge. Then, review the job description as many times as you can. And finally, organize your ideas, having three or four selling points that make you stand out from the crowd in your mind."

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I am also a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you."

What type of manager brings out the best in you?

"I enjoy working with transformation leaders who take the time to mentor and care about your development. I prefer encouragement and frequent constructive feedback. The more emotionally intelligent the leadership, the better."

Not only is your interviewer interested in learning what management style motivates you, and the environment where you'd thrive most. They are also curious whether you are familiar with the leadership culture within IBM. According to a few sources online, IBM fosters a transformational leadership environment. Here is an employee testimonial from their careers site that can offer a glimpse into their environment and culture: "From the way my managers treat and respect me, to my amazing colleagues always being there for me to make me feel included, I've been fortunate to experience an incredibly inclusive work culture at IBM. I've been able to find growth in a way that I don't feel uncomfortable, and I truly feel like I belong here."

"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best in an independent and autonomous environment. Can you describe the management style here?"

If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

"I would try to make an impact by setting as good of an impression on all of my coworkers as possible, learning their roles, gauging their pride and sense of ownership for what they've helped build, and learning from them. I would focus on earning their trust through hard work and humility. Once I have effectively collaborated with, and been accepted by, our teams, I would examine everything and try to come up with innovative ways to build upon what is already there in my own unique fashion."

When you start a new position, your primary goals should be learning why they do things the way they do, building relationships, and earning the trust of your coworkers. Going in assuming you can reinvent everything and do better than what they've built with pride will only serve to rub everyone the wrong way. So, take the advice of one of their recruits, and "try to find out more about the team you might be joining. Feel free to ask questions about the size of the team, how they work together, and what's the culture like within the team."

"When we spoke earlier about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPIs after 120 days. If hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPIs after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."

"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter, and year to identify any bottlenecks or shortfalls and set a plan to correct them."

Has your career progressed as you have expected?

"When I interned at Hewlard Packett, I felt like my skills weren't as utilized as they could have been. Instead, they had me running errands, doing data entry, and performing more secretarial tasks. It was a bit disappointing. That's why I turned down a position they offered me that would have been a waste of my degree. The truth is, I didn't feel like it was a good match, anyway. So that experience steered my focus on ensuring the values, ESG goals, culture, and working environment were a good fit. Skills will only take you so far."

Share with your interviewer the career progression you hope to see in the near future and how the career opportunities and recruitment value propositions at IBM appealed to you. "Define your career with IBM. Our curiosity runs deep. That's why we let you explore new paths at your own speed, making sure you're constantly learning. Discover the possibilities. Now it's time for you to join us on our journey to being a responsible technology innovator and a force for good in the world."

Career growth is the most relatable and justifiable reason for seeking employment elsewhere. Making a minor career change can slow down your progression. Career progression is rarely linear, and it is not uncommon to start on one career path and discover more attractive alternatives better suited to your personality or skills. Others may experience a lack of career progression due to a lack of opportunity, whether the growth from within was not as advertised or a lack of equal opportunity.

"Overall, my career has progressed slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."

"I have been very intentional with my career moves and progression and am happy with the path my career has taken me."

Why is this job with IBM right for you at this time in your career?

"I am diligent about keeping my career goals updated and charting the milestones I've achieved and the obstacles I've surpassed. One year ago, when I adjusted my career goals, I realized my current company could only take me so far, so I explored other opportunities and identified with everything IBM has done and what they are doing. So I charted my next tiers of career goals according to ready myself for this position. I feel that I have been ready for the last three months and have kept a close eye on your job board. So when I saw this position come available, I pounced."

Your interviewer is hoping to assess your experience level. How you answer will offer insights into how genuinely prepared you feel for this role. One of IBM's recruiters advises that you "ask yourself, 'what will I bring to this company,' and come prepared to answer the interview." Another suggests you "Get a basic understanding of the kind of work we do at IBM by reading our Careers Blog articles or looking at external blogs and forums. These could include employer rating sites, job discussion forums (i.e., Reddit and Glassdoor), and other job board communities where former and current IBM employees provide their own personal account of the culture and work life at IBM." Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change and how this particular role fits well with the changes you are seeking. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.

"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in IT while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."

"This job is right for me at this time in my career because I am prepared and ready to take on a management position. Your company would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training."

Why do you specifically want to work for IBM?

"I was drawn to IBM's commitments to sustainability and responsibility, not only regarding environmental and social justice but also being responsible for how we move forward with using and benefitting from AI. Not to mention, their encouraging environment and positive work culture align with what I am looking for in an employer."

Your interviewer is curious whether you are trying to land any job anywhere or if you have identified manners in which working for IBM would benefit your career goals. As one of IBM's recruiters suggests, "Research IBM and decide how this role fits into your career goals. And most importantly, be ready to answer, 'Why do you want to work at IBM?'" So enter your interview prepared to discuss how this opportunity with their company stands out among their competitors. Talk about what you feel IBM is doing right and how their values and opportunities align with your career goals and employment needs.

"I understand that IBM has some strong competitors, but when I was researching new employment opportunities, your company always seemed to have the most positive message. I also know a couple of people who have worked with IBM, and they had only great things to say about your compensation, culture, and growth opportunities."

"I feel that IBM would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training to support that growth."

"The technology industry is fast-moving, and innovation can come from a variety of fields. IBM, specifically through its commitment to open-source projects and open innovation with business partners, particularly IBM Garage, has fostered an environment that makes me excited to contribute to the advancement of technologies."

How would you describe your communication skills?

"I feel confident in my communication skills. I am skilled at nondefensive communication. I am a great active listener and reflective listener. I am empathetic, and when the person I communicate with isn't as skilled, I am always more than happy to meet them more than halfway."

The interviewer wants to affirm whether your communication style and skills will meet their expectations and the requirements for this role. How you answer could inform them whether you'll fit in well with their culture. So spend time researching their site for any insights into their preferred approach to communicating successfully. Spend time reading their blog and exploring any other insights they share there.

Here are some excerpts from one blog on their site: "We succeed when we listen well, offer valuable insights, and make space for all voices to be heard. Be authentic. Build conditions of trust. The conditions of trust are grounded in communication. Be respectful, selfless, empathetic, and clear. Provide a sense of purpose, fight for your people, and do all of this with high ethical standards. Listen more than you talk. Listening is a valuable skill. Reflective listening refers to the ability to listen to someone and then reflect back that person's point of view. It helps confirm what has been said and correct any miscommunications. This kind of purposeful listening can facilitate mutual understanding and better outcomes. When it's your turn to speak, offer thoughtful, prepared, well-organized, concise verbal communications. Everyone can contribute to more thoughtful exchanges by thinking ahead and speaking only when we have something of value to add. Make room for diverse voices. Effective communication in a business requires making space for all voices to be heard, not just those with the most power."

"I have been a client of IBM in the past and can truly say that positive communication with your clients makes you the most popular choice in the area. I am confident that my communication skills will work well here because I focus on simple solutions, easy-to-understand language, and a friendly tone."

Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?

"I prefer verbal communication because a lot can be misread with written communication due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression, and body language. I will always choose a face-to-face conversation whenever possible."

Being a skilled written communicator often translates to having strong attention to detail and ensuring the message you send is the message that is received in the clearest words possible. When sharing data, this is especially important. So whether you prefer to communicate verbally or through the written word, convey your skill level and willingness to over-perform in either mode, regardless of your preference.

As stated in one of their blogs: "Communication skills are an important factor in business decisions and a driver of successful business outcomes. Good communication often tops the list of skills employers look for, no matter the job or industry. How well you communicate affects everything, from small interactions with coworkers to the closing of large deals. And it's a critical skill. Communication is key. Good communication can help us make decisions that best serve our collective goals."

"I like to leverage both methods of communication when dealing with business. Sometimes, situations call for verbal communication, and other times, written. As a rule of thumb, I practice verbal communication with written follow-up. Utilizing multiple methods creates repetition and therefore change."

"I consider myself competent in either. It depends on the context or situation. For example, if there is no need for written documentation, and it seems expeditious to talk to someone in person, I would prefer that mode. But if there is something that needs to retain a record or would reduce rework by having everything in writing, I would certainly choose that mode of communication. Whatever I need to do to get the job done right, that would I would prefer."

We are asking for eight years of industry experience and you have just five. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?

"Well, I often advance beyond my peers and am skilled beyond my years. I graduated high school when I was barely sixteen and earned my bachelor's when I was nineteen. My track record has been consistent and steady with my last job as well, and I feel confident I have the equivalent experience of someone who has ten years."

To many employers, the number of years of experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Showcase your experience and work ethic by coming prepared for your interview by doing your homework on everything related to IBM and on yourself and meditating on how to align the two. Even IBM's recruiters state, "The candidates who do their homework and come prepared for the interview always impress me. Make sure to do the research about the role you apply for. Your preparation will be noticed and set you apart from the other candidates." This question presents an opportunity to sell yourself. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. Go in with confidence and be comfortable being yourself.

"Although I have five years of experience instead of eight, I can do this job well. In my previous role, I outperformed colleagues with 12 years of experience. It's all about drive and the ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."

"Along with my five years working in the IT industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career, such as telecommunications and securities. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."

How would you describe customer service standard?

"I would describe my standard of customer service as the highest quality. I treat my customers as part of the tribe. When a customer is dedicated to the company where you serve as a dedicated employee, then their goals are your own. So the relationships I build with every customer are built on this principle and trust."

IBM seeks to hire those with a passion for their approach to the industry. Before your interview, research IBM's values, goals, and environment. Take note of recurring keywords. "What our values are: Dedication to every client's success. Innovation that matters, for our company and for the world. Trust and personal responsibility in all relationships." Examine how your customer service standards and experiences would complement theirs, and speak their language with confidence.

"Your customers have a strong voice, and I noticed a consistent theme in your online reviews and presence. The theme was that you offer friendly, fast, and easy-to-understand service. I plan to contribute to this by learning my role quickly and continuing to be an approachable and helpful point of contact for the customers who need us."

"I will contribute to your high customer service standards by offering a listening ear and ensuring I fully understand your products and services. The more I know, the more I can offer your client base."

Give me an example of a time when you had to be extra diligent in order to meet a deadline.

"I only ever missed a deadline once. Afterwards, I analyzed my miscalculations and asked my superiors for feedback once I had determined the errors I made. From there I took their feedback and advise in stride, and have never missed a deadline since. I am now very proactive and systematic in my approach, and typically come in ahead of nearly all my deadlines."

Showcase your time management skills, and how you take ownership of your commitments and follow through on expectations. Exhibit that you are determined, complete your tasks on time, are resourceful, and recruit help when needed. If you ever have missed deadlines, and they ask you to volunteer that, showcase how you learned and grew from the experience, did not repeat the mistake, and moved on.

"Last month I had a client who made a lot of additional and last minute changes to our project. Despite the changes, our deadline remained the same. Our project lead was becoming increasingly stressed that we would not meet our deadline so I agreed to stay late three nights that week to ensure that all expectations were met."

"I am always diligent when it comes to deadlines. However, once I remember having an abnormally large order from a regular client once. I was a little stressed about making sure it was perfect, but I was confident, and we met our deadline with no issue."

Do you always double-check or proofread your work?

"Consistently. Especially when something distracts me from my work. For example, when my work is interrupted, I have a variety of earmarks that I employ, depending on the task at hand. This allows me to pick up where I left off and avoid unnecessary rework. But I will always pad the job and scrutinize my work for some additional diligence."

Many of the positions at the company require "attention to detail, strong data analysis, problem-solving, and active listening skills." So these skills, even when not mentioned in the job posting, are likely standard requirements. So when answering questions such as these, explain your routine, the steps and measures you take to ensure the accuracy of your work, and how you adhere to the work standard you set out for yourself. Walking your interviewer through your approach, or sharing your lens, will assure them you are diligent and submit good, clean work.

"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple-check my work if there is time! I feel that it is essential to submit error-free work."

"Yes, absolutely I do! Accuracy is essential in the IT industry, and I would never compromise quality to save time."

Are you willing to complete a full background check?

"I have no problem with that. Just out of curiosity, what does the background check entail? Other than a criminal background check, do you check other things, like credit scores? If so, will a soft check impact my credit score?"

As with many companies in the industry, IBM takes the privacy and protection of their customer's sensitive and confidential information very seriously. Therefore, they, and most companies in the IT and IT Services industry, need to be very cautious about who they hire and take appropriate vetting measures. So, IBM's recruiters advise you "verify your information and conduct relevant and appropriate legally permitted pre-employment and eligibility verification checks, as well as to assess your skills, qualifications, and experience." Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any background check they require.

"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I have a strong credit history. I do not participate in drug use, either. If you hire me for this role with IBM, I will maintain a clean record."

"Yes, I can certainly complete a full background check. I should disclose that I have a mark on my record from about eight years ago for a DUI. I can still travel and no longer have restrictions on my driver's license."

Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?

"I have a lot of integrity, and even though I have never been asked to sign one before, I stay true to my word and assume, unless otherwise specified, something disclosed to me should not be shared with anyone else. I am respectful and take others' privacy very seriously."

Companies may have confidentiality agreements for a variety of reasons. These could be to protect their trade secrets or to ensure that you do not bring clients over if you leave their company. IBM even states online that "everyone who possesses IBM Confidential information is required to protect this information, whether it is in physical or electronic form." Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on confidentiality agreements and express your willingness to sign one.

"I never have, to my knowledge, broken a confidentiality agreement. Despite my reasons for leaving a position, I would never choose to hurt a previous employer in any way."

"I understand the importance of confidentiality agreements and would never breach a sensitive agreement like that."

What are your thoughts on AI-driven chatbots?

"I think we are in something of an Oppenheimer moment. I don't think it will bring about the end of the world. But it is a tool with a wide variety of implications, and if placed in the wrong hands, it could be weaponized. So I agree with IBM's position. That it must be used responsibly and under clear guidelines."

Here are some statements on AI from IBM's website that offer glimpses of their position regarding this subject: "The AI capabilities that impress us today will soon be exceeded by greater, more disruptive advances to come. Possibilities that we are only beginning to imagine will become commonplace, and new technologies will lead to entirely new types of work. But to fully realize its potential and to be prepared for those future technologies, AI must be built on a foundation of trust and transparency. Taking ethical shortcuts in AI may lead to profits in the short term, but this approach is laden with risk. IBM believes that there are five fundamental properties of trustworthy AI: explainability, fairness, robustness, transparency, and privacy. IBM adheres to three fundamental principles in its development of AI: 1. The purpose of AI is to augment human intelligence. At IBM, we believe AI should make all of us better at our jobs. We believe AI should augment, not replace, human decision-making. 2. Data and insights belong to their creator. IBM clients' data is their data, and their insights are their insights. We believe government data policies should be fair and equitable and prioritize openness. 3. Technology must be transparent and explainable. Companies must be clear about who trains their AI systems, what data was used in training, and, most important, what went into their algorithms' recommendations."

Whenever you are asked your opinion on an industry-related topic, you should be honest but diplomatic. You also want to explore the company's stance on the subject. Whether you agree with their perspective or not, approach the subject with an open mind and avoid being divisive.

"Reviews are mixed, aren't they? In my opinion, any service that allows a client quick access to answers is a positive thing. Have you noticed a shift in your client relationships since implementing this solution?"

"I like the idea of AI chatbots as they support solutions. However, they can't be fully trusted, especially with their hallucinations."

How would your most recent manager describe you?

"My bosses would say that I am a team player who always backs up and supports their vision and the vision of the company. They'd say I frequently lead by example and set the pace and positive energy. They'd say I have a great attitude and that you should hire me. At least, that's what they told me to say to you if you asked."

Throughout your interview, you'll want to convey confidence and appear prepared and comfortable answering every question. Make every effort to let no question catch you off guard. Research their website and clues into their culture. IBM's recruiters advise you; "pick out specific keywords from the job descriptions and use them." Also, spend adequate time researching your work history, including past reviews, accomplishments, growth opportunities, and progress in furthering your development. Don't worry about whether they've already spoken with your previous employer, and don't guess what your manager thinks of you. Just focus on the question and your answer with confidence and sincerity.

"In my recent performance reviews and discussions, my manager describes me as a hard worker, motivated and consistent employee. I always strive to exceed expectations when I can. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference."

"My last manager and I had a close relationship. She appreciated my efforts in working overtime and taking my work home when required. I believe she would describe me as unique, reliable, and energetic."

When have you worked amongst a diverse group of people?

"I have several family members who are members of the LGTBQ community. Some identify as gay, others as non-binary, and others as poly. Also, most of my extended family married into families of color. So I feel more comfortable working for a company that champions fair and equal representation."

Your interviewer is curious about your prior work experience working in a diverse and inclusive environment. How you answer will offer them insights into your cultural competence and whether you could work with others from different backgrounds, cultures, or subcultures, and your openness to learn from those with different perspectives than your own. As stated on IBM's website, "It's well established that diversity boosts innovation and financial results. IBM has a rich heritage in diversity and inclusion and has many inclusive policies, collaboration tools, and benefits to support our LGBTQ+ community. Join us as we drive progress for people in every community."

"I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time at University. I am most comfortable and happy in this type of environment because it offers a great learning opportunity."

"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life offers different perspectives and can help us identify potential problems faster."

How do you stay up to date on industry changes and current events?

"The first thing I do in the morning is grab my iPad and scroll through my customized newsfeed, which is mostly tech-related industry news. Then, when I've finished combing through every new article, I bounce over to my email and read every newsletter I subscribe to. Once I've gone through that, I am ready to climb out of bed and get ready for my day."

Your interviewer is curious whether you stay up to date and could be relied upon to be a trusted resource of current information for your colleagues and clients alike. As they advertise to their clients on their site, "What makes us unique? Our people are what make us unique. Every individual from around the world with a quest for knowledge has a voice to add to our story." Therefore, staying current on industry terms, trends, and news is critical in a fast-moving industry like IT and IT services. Speak briefly about how you stay current on industry changes and current events by referring to specific sources. You can also ask the interviewer about their favorite resources.

"This industry is ever-changing, and I have a keen interest in keeping up-to-date on those changes. I regularly read a few great online publications, including PC Mag and Wired. Do you have any recommendations for great resources?"

"My current employer sends a daily email with the company and industry updates. This update is beneficial, and I read it thoroughly every day. I also set up Google alerts so that I am up to date on new trends and happenings in the industry."

"I follow multiple IBM Twitter feeds as well as other tech companies' research feeds. I constantly read articles on Medium as well as field-specific articles that detail innovative methodologies and technologies."

If you could take a course or workshop on any topic, what would you choose?

"Perhaps, eventually. I just graduated from university and am anxious to put my skills to the test and learn more in a real-world career setting than in class. But I would be interested in taking advantage of the learning opportunities IBM offers, such as SkillsBuild."

Working for a company that emphasizes the importance of continued education can be an enriching opportunity, especially one which offers educational platforms and certifications within their company for free. "Refine your skills with free courses. Explore SkillsBuild and gain new skills while earning credentials. IBM SkillsBuildPower your future in tech with job skills, courses, and credentials, for free. Power your future in tech with job skills, courses, and credentials, for free. Kick-start your tech journey with free courses and resources." Be prepared to talk to the interviewer about your interest in growing your knowledge base, learning on the job, and furthering your career and expertise while building your future with them.

"I love that IBM emphasizes continued education. This offering is one of the qualities I was looking for in my next opportunity. If I could take a course or workshop on any topic, I would focus on IT Management. My goal is to grow into a management-level position, and that would be a great stepping stone to get there."

"That is exciting to hear. I value continued education as well. If I could continue my education in any area, I would dive deeper into IT Security and IT Security Management."

"I have already taken a couple of IBM courses on applied Data Science. I am currently taken a third in AI engineering to grasp the underlying mathematics in the models. I would probably take courses in something outside of my realm of expertise, possibly business solutions and implementations."

Walk me through your education.

"I earned a bachelor's degree, graduating at the top of my class, but not in my field. I would like to earn a secondary degree in my field, furthering my expertise, and was enticed by the IBM apprenticeship program."

Your interviewer is offering you an opportunity to breathe some life into the educational experience you may have detailed on your resume. Take advantage of this and discuss any unique experiences or accomplishments that contributed to your growth as a professional. Also, take advantage of this opportunity to identify some of the unique offerings IBM provides to further the education of their employees, such as the IBM Apprenticeship program, "a full-time, earn-and-learn program for individuals who don't have a 4-year bachelor's degree in the field they're pursuing but have acquired knowledge in the domain. The IBM Apprenticeship program provides participants the unique opportunity to reinvent their careers."

"I completed my Bachelor of Applied Technology from Carnegie Mellon University in 2004. During that time, I specialized in Data Management and Analysis. I graduated with a 3.67 GPA, one of the top in my class. One of the biggest takeaways from my post-secondary experience was learning how to manage my time while working on multiple projects successfully. I perfected my multi-tasking skills and look forward to bringing those to work for IBM."

"Although I do not have formal post-secondary education, I have taken some courses in customer support, upselling, and a variety of software programs. I look forward to gaining even more knowledge in this role with IBM."

How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?

"I think it is important to recognize what you are feeling and face those feelings head-on when you experience them. If you don't, it could inadvertently affect your performance in ways you aren't aware of. So, when I suffer a setback, I know it affects me. So I allow myself a moment to process those emotions, determine why I am experiencing them, and acknowledge them in real time. The last thing I want is to be confused by them. So I process, then I try to objectify those emotions, and then objectify the situation, and learn what I can from the experience as a whole. This is not always easy, but I feel it is always necessary."

Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Your interviewer needs to know whether, when suffering a setback, you have the emotional intelligence to learn from such experiences, or if you become agitated and stressed out, and whether such setbacks further impede your ability to do your job. As IBM details in one of its blogs, "Soft skills are skills that require a high level of EQ. They are attributes that relate more to personality and presence that allow meaningful communication to take place in the workplace, rather than technical skills." Tell the interviewer how you typically cope with a setback in the workplace, showcasing how your soft skills align with what IBM is looking for in their ideal candidates.

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"

"Setbacks happen for a reason, and they do not affect me emotionally in the least. I am a very pragmatic thinker and stay focused despite the challenges that come my way."

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

"I would say one of my strengths is my time management skills, planning for contingency situations, and allowing myself extra room to over-deliver. But my leaders have shown me that this is a double-edged sword, as I sometimes work too hard and burn out too early in the game. I am getting better at looking at this as a marathon and not a race."

As IBM's recruiters advise, "Reflect on your prior experience and your strengths and weaknesses, and visualize the type of job you're aiming for." How aware you are of your strengths and weaknesses and how readily you can own and share them will attest to your experience level and emotional maturity. When sharing your weaknesses, showcase your strength of character, self-awareness, and focus on your development. Also, if you can share a weakness that also serves as a strength, all the better.

"I'd say that one of my strengths is in mentoring and developing others on my team. I strive to be a trusted resource and want to help further the goals of those on my team. As far as a weakness, I would say that I can be a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to the standard I set for myself in my work. I try hard to lead by example and put too much thought into living up to expectations. And when I don't live up to my standard, which I have been told is sometimes unrealistically high, I can be a bit hard on myself. But I am learning to be more forgiving."

How do you evaluate success among your team members?

"I don't have leadership experience in an official capacity, but I am all about setting a positive, can-do attitude, setting the pace, and leading by example. I am very encouraging of every member of the team and support the work of others wherever I can. I view success as sharing a sense of accomplishment with every team member, patting everyone, including myself, on the back, and looking forward to returning to work the next day."

Examine how IBM views success among their teams and identify the qualities they aim to foster in their leadership. "People who feel heard and respected by their leaders tend to be more productive, engaged, and loyal. IBM's leaders foster an honest, inclusive, and authentic environment, because we believe that when our people understand the purpose of their work and how they fit into the big picture, they become personally invested in the project's success. Good outcomes are all but guaranteed. Today's leaders must be authentic, approachable, trustworthy, and motivating, creating an environment that empowers and engages employees."

If you have prior leadership experience, that's great. If you don't, this is an opportunity to showcase your leadership potential, whether you have taken the lead in a group setting or taken ownership and responsibility for your development and career. How you answer this question will inform your interviewer of how you view success among your teams.

"I have a very in-depth and successful system for evaluating success among my team members. I check in twice per week with each member of my team. On Mondays - to set our goals together. Then, on Fridays, to discuss any successes and challenges. I have them self-evaluate, and then we create a plan for success for the upcoming week. I evaluate their success based on their follow through and willingness to work hard to reach their goals."

"I typically have KPI (key performance indicators) in place to measure the success of each of the members of the team. I also manage our overall success in working together. For example, are we hitting on key initiatives within the department, developing each other for succession planning, and having fun along the way!"

Tell me about your IT field service experience.

"Having just graduated from university, I don't yet have any service related experience, as the experience I do have is limited to a classroom setting and is purely theoretical. However, I would gladly jump at the opportunity to get some real world experience under my belt."

It is critical that you study the job description before your interview. When the interviewer asks this question, and you have relevant experience, highlight the related experience that you bring. If you are new to your career, and don't yet have field experience, that's okay. As one of IBM's recruiters advises, "Dare to recognize that if you don't have enough knowledge on a particular topic. Talk about how you have a growth mindset and a willingness to learn." And another of IBM's recruiters suggests that you "demonstrate your interest and explore more details about the challenges of the role, like technologies, clients, etc."

"I bring all of the experience that you are looking for in filling this position. In addition to being an expert user in SAP, I also bring five years' experience in desk side support and as a bilingual IT support agent."

"I have eight years of industry experience with Company ABC and XYZ. Both experiences taught me a great deal about IT, and I am excited to continue my career in this industry with your organization."

What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?

"In university I often led our groups or teams. I am proud of how we did, and have been told by my professors that I have a lot of leadership potential."

Your interviewer is curious about what the responsibilities you were entrusted with at your last job will say about your experience level, seniority, and potentially your work standard. How you answer could inform them of the types of decisions you are accustomed to making in the workplace, and the range of your comfort zone. This question aims to give them an idea of your ability to handle the requirements in the position you are interviewing for. Provide examples of how you have done have been decisive and quick on your feet in the past, and highlight how your experience has prepared you for a role like this one.

"In my previous position I was often required to make decisions on staff scheduling as well as hiring and terminating. I feel that role prepared me for this position. I have well-honed decision-making skills and my intuition, when it comes to hiring, has been elevated."

"I was responsible for planning the content calendar: emails, blog post topics, and timing, social media posts, in addition to actually executing the plans. That means everything from creating web copy, to choosing images, and the like. Also, I collaborate with management to decide what promotions and sales we will be running, and when."

Describe your ideal employer.

"I would say IBM. How IBM emphasizes approaching the next stage of the technological revolution with responsibility, with such progressive ESG goals, aligns well with my values and priorities."

A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You have your goals, and your interviewer has theirs. The more you can identify what they are looking for in an ideal candidate, the better you'll be able to position yourself as an ideal fit. For starters, IBM refers to its employees as IBMers. The best way to do this is to narrow in on the aspects of the culture, work environment, and values you most identify with. So take the advice of one of their recruiters to position yourself as their ideal IBMer: "Apart from researching the role you applied to, make sure to also look into the culture of the company. An inclusive culture makes the work exciting and empowering!" Once you've determined this, you'll be better positioned to tell your interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific, and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Also, avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.

"My ideal employer fosters positivity, collaboration, camaraderie, and passion. I work best with organizations with a penchant for learning and promoting their employees based on performance."

What characteristics or events have contributed towards your success as a leader?

"Well, as I don't have much official leadership experience, I can detail the type of leadership I have thrived under and would model myself after should I be entrusted with a leadership opportunity. One of the things I valued in my best mentors is that they were always available to talk with me and ready to offer me advice on my development. I asked for feedback, and they were always sure to deliver it, unsolicited or not, which I always viewed as a helping hand. I worked hard to earn their trust, and they, in turn, gave me opportunities to prove myself and earn and retain that trust."

Whether you have leadership experience or not, you want to align your approach as well as possible with the approach they celebrate in their company. IBM prides themselves on investing in their people. They discuss their approach to leadership in a blog on their website, saying, "IBM's leadership empowers and engages employees by providing the growth opportunities and autonomy that give them purpose and fulfillment in their work. By better understanding what employees need, we can attract and keep our talent. We believe hierarchical structures hinder people from doing their best work. And if they're not performing as well as they can, they are not solving our client's problems to the best of their ability. An open, accessible, approachable leadership makes all the difference. Employees who feel heard, valued, and challenged by their leaders are motivated to do their best work." Find this blog and read more on the six ways IBM's leadership demonstrates these qualities.

"There is a multitude of factors that have helped me to become a strong leader. First and foremost, I had an outstanding mentor from a young age. Secondly, I have studied leadership at great length. My personality has also contributed to my success as I am a natural coach, teacher, and leader."

When have you had to change a major component of your project due to new information being presented?

"I was leading a team project in school, and there were eight of us contributing. We were near completion when one of our members confessed that they left out a chief component of their findings and resubmitted their work. This created a great deal of rework for the rest of us. Everyone grew visibly upset, and a few of them seemed like they wouldn't be able to get past this. But then I commanded everyone's attention, began delegating tasks to get everyone on track, and kept putting one foot in front of another. We delivered the project right in the nick of time. But more importantly, we adapted and worked together as a team, and that was our true success."

Being able to adapt is a necessary skill. As stated in one of IBM's blogs, "Show your employer you have adaptability and a willingness to take on new challenges and tasks, deal with changing priorities and workloads, learn new skills, and keep calm and persistent in the face of difficulties." Explain to your interviewer that you don't suffer from task paralysis in such situations and can think quickly on your feet.

"I had a large project last month that was nearly complete when the client called to say that the dimensions provided were incorrect. Because of this, our team had to redo the entire proposal. It took us an additional four days of work, but in the end, the client was delighted with our work, and it resulted in new opportunities with them."

"Last year, we saw new federal regulations that affected 80% of our ongoing projects. We had to adjust our plans quickly; however, we were able to deliver a timely product that met federal regulations."

How do you make tough decisions knowing they may affect your entire team?

"I think it is important to involve others, especially those in positions of leadership. It's important to respect the chain of command. The last thing I'd want to do is overstep my bounds."

It can be difficult to make challenging decisions when you know your entire team will be affected. Most importantly, you want to answer with sincerity, speaking truthfully while aligning yourself with IBM's expectations. "What it means to work here: When you join IBM, you join a culture of openness, collaboration, and trust. You join a team of IBMers who are bringing change into the world, helping cure diseases, clean our oceans, and make technology work for good." Your ability to be decisive and diplomatic will make all the difference!" If you take a more team-oriented approach, share how you collaborate with the group by inviting everyone to discuss their opinions and come to a census. If you prefer to take charge of these situations, share how you prioritize the needs of your company and your teams.

"Leaders are truly set apart by their ability to make tough decisions respectfully and diplomatically. Last year we had to lay off 25% of our sales team. I knew feelings would be hurt, and it was challenging to do. I got through it by reminding myself I am the leader for a reason. I needed to trust my judgment but still be able to justify my decisions. When tough choices are in front of me, I will back up my gut feeling with data analysis. If the data supports my intuition, I know what the answer or decision needs to be."

"I believe that when you are working with a team, it is important to bring any questions or situations to the team before making a decision. Everyone should have input; however, the leader needs to be able to pull the trigger on all decisions in the end."

What would you do if the detailed procedures in place for client technical support did not appear to be working?

"I suppose there are always situations that require you to think outside the box. I pride myself on my ability to approach every problem from multiple angles. The procedures in place are likely there to protect either the company's assets or reputation. So I would take the intent of the policy in mind and proceed from there. I am by no means a habitual risk taker. I prefer to play it safe. But I recognize that sometimes playing it too safe poses a greater risk for the company. To answer this question, depending on the scenario, I would do my best to do my job."

The interviewer would like to understand how you handle high-pressure situations and unexpected difficulties in the workplace. Before your interview, spend time meditating on your approach to problem-solving and thinking swiftly on your feet. As they advise on their website, "The most important thing for a person is to enjoy what they do. There is always a new problem to solve, something new to learn, and an environment that enables freedom of solution. Apply your problem-solving and technical skills in small, medium, and complex scenarios."

"It is important to always have procedures in place, but I understand that sometimes those procedures do not encompass all client needs. If I came across a situation like this, I would rely on my knowledge and experience to troubleshoot and find a solution. If I did not have the answer, I would then ask for help from my supervisor or a colleague. It is important to stay calm in situations like these, so the client remains confident in our capabilities. I would never tell a client that I didn't have an answer. 'I will find out' is always the best answer."

"I do not mind going slightly off script if needed. There are sometimes extenuating circumstances where the process does not necessarily work. I will gain permission from my employer if it's a bigger concern than usual since I still want to follow the procedure as much as possible."

What are your salary expectations?

"Well, I am just out of college and very excited about this opportunity. Considering my success and track record, having graduated at the top of my class of letters of recommendation, I would think my pay rate doesn't necessarily come in the lower pay range. I met with a few head hunters who offered my $$ to $$$, which I feel gives me a fairer idea of my professional worth. I am also very excited about the prospects of working with IBM, and that's worth something."

The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current and projected earnings for the next year to justify your professional worth. Also, consider what you have to offer IBM and how well you have delivered your interview. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best. But try not to close out negotiations too soon. As one of IBM's recruiters advises, "Look for companies that will provide not only an attractive salary but also (and most importantly) an 'emotional salary'. Things like company values, diversity and inclusion, work-life balance, growth opportunities, and an environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of its employees. These will be the 'ingredients' that will help you grow both as a professional and a person."

"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

What part of this career brings you the most stress?

"I would say, being under-prepared. I am an active listener and try to be in the know about everything, as I hate being under-prepared. I set a rather high standard for my work and aim to be a supportive member of my team. So when I feel like I can't carry my weight in any situation, that stresses me out. So, I am always asking questions."

Your interviewer is curious about how well you manage your stress, navigate the unknowns, how resourceful you are, and whether you allow your stress or emotions to dictate your behavior and negatively impact your performance. You want to showcase that you can manage your stress, gather the information needed to do your job right, assess the tools you have at your disposal, and act decisively and in the best interest of your teams. Consider the advice of one of IBM's recruiters, "I'm a believer in understanding the scope of your role. Ask questions about who your key partners will be, what work-life balance is like on that team, how your team supports each other, and what professional growth opportunities you'll have access to. I always say, if there's a question that you've been thinking about asking, just ask it!"

"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to a lack of hustle on my team's part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are assisted properly."

"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire to be/do the best I can be. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."

IBM Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
3. What questions do you have for me?
4. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
5. What type of manager brings out the best in you?
6. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?
7. Has your career progressed as you have expected?
8. Why is this job with IBM right for you at this time in your career?
9. Why do you specifically want to work for IBM?
10. How would you describe your communication skills?
11. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
12. We are asking for eight years of industry experience and you have just five. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
13. How would you describe customer service standard?
14. Give me an example of a time when you had to be extra diligent in order to meet a deadline.
15. Do you always double-check or proofread your work?
16. Are you willing to complete a full background check?
17. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?
18. What are your thoughts on AI-driven chatbots?
19. How would your most recent manager describe you?
20. When have you worked amongst a diverse group of people?
21. How do you stay up to date on industry changes and current events?
22. If you could take a course or workshop on any topic, what would you choose?
23. Walk me through your education.
24. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?
25. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
26. How do you evaluate success among your team members?
27. Tell me about your IT field service experience.
28. What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?
29. Describe your ideal employer.
30. What characteristics or events have contributed towards your success as a leader?
31. When have you had to change a major component of your project due to new information being presented?
32. How do you make tough decisions knowing they may affect your entire team?
33. What would you do if the detailed procedures in place for client technical support did not appear to be working?
34. What are your salary expectations?
35. What part of this career brings you the most stress?

IBM Interview Questions

1. Tell me about yourself.

2. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

3. What questions do you have for me?

4. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

5. What type of manager brings out the best in you?

6. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

7. Has your career progressed as you have expected?

8. Why is this job with IBM right for you at this time in your career?

9. Why do you specifically want to work for IBM?

10. How would you describe your communication skills?

11. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?

12. We are asking for eight years of industry experience and you have just five. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?

13. How would you describe customer service standard?

14. Give me an example of a time when you had to be extra diligent in order to meet a deadline.

15. Do you always double-check or proofread your work?

16. Are you willing to complete a full background check?

17. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?

18. What are your thoughts on AI-driven chatbots?

19. How would your most recent manager describe you?

20. When have you worked amongst a diverse group of people?

21. How do you stay up to date on industry changes and current events?

22. If you could take a course or workshop on any topic, what would you choose?

23. Walk me through your education.

24. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?

25. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

26. How do you evaluate success among your team members?

27. Tell me about your IT field service experience.

28. What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?

29. Describe your ideal employer.

30. What characteristics or events have contributed towards your success as a leader?

31. When have you had to change a major component of your project due to new information being presented?

32. How do you make tough decisions knowing they may affect your entire team?

33. What would you do if the detailed procedures in place for client technical support did not appear to be working?

34. What are your salary expectations?

35. What part of this career brings you the most stress?