30 Phone Interview Questions & Answers
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
How to Answer
Many interviewers will start off with this question, which could throw you off a bit. You've done all of this research on the company but have you prepared to talk about yourself?
The interviewer is looking for relevant information about the position for which you applied. Respond by mentioning your education, how many years of experience you have in your field, and be sure to give some details about your most current position. Conclude your response with a statement about what you are looking for in a role at this time.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have a B.A. in Communications and Journalism from the University of Michigan. I have three years of experience in Marketing and Communications. My most recent position was with Amazon as a Marketing Coordinator, and I'm currently looking for a position that will allow me to grow into a leadership opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
Admin
"With pleasure! I have over ten years of experience in the professional services industry and am interested in growing my career to the next level, and become an executive assistant. On a more personal note, I love to read, go hiking and spend a lot of my extra time volunteering with the humane society."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
Manager
"I am a calm and quiet leader, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Even though I am quiet, I can motivate my team and keep morale high. I was recently awarded 'Most Productive Manager' in my organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Marketing
"I graduated with a B.A. in Economics and started my career in sales. After a successful three years, I decided to begin making the moves to the marketing side. Freelancing on the side to shore up my creative skill set prepared me for the leap to my first marketing position as an inbound marketing coordinator. I am still with the same organization, but now as a content manager. I help build out the marketing calendar and execute its items from blog posts to social media to email marketing efforts. In my next role, ideally with your company, I am looking to achieve the next step towards a director position."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Retail
"I started my career in retail very young. My first job at sixteen was as a sales associate at a large department store, and I have stuck to retail ever since. After high school, I achieved my associate's degree in fashion merchandising and continued to a four-year university where I obtained my B.A. in communications. Since then, I have held various leadership and management positions in both small boutiques and large department stores. I am currently looking to take my experience and career to the next level by pursuing this position as the department manager in your highest volume department."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Sales
"I started my sales career in a large corporate setting, and there I received a promotion within only a few months. I decided that I wanted to stretch my wings and made the leap to a startup. There, I earned the fastest promotion in company history and followed that up with the fastest deal to close after promotion. I have had continued success here and am in my preferred sales territory. However, I feel that I may have outgrown the position and right now, there isn't an opportunity for a managerial position here, so I'm looking at outside opportunities, such as this one."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
Teacher
"I am super excited and passionate about my job, the language, my students, and continual learning. I feel so privileged to have a job that I leap out of bed for every morning. I am a mom of boys, and I am a fitness enthusiast: as their soccer coach, the high school soccer coach for freshman girls, and a runner in my spare time."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Animals and music are my passion. I grew up with dogs and cats and horses on a small farm outside NYC. I am friendly, driven, and have a good sense of humor. I love volunteering at animal shelters and nursing homes for the older generation of people. I have an incredibly strong work ethic, as well. I have a dog and a cat whom I love dearly and make my days fully wonderful."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds as though you live a happy, fulfilling life! When it comes to your love of animals and your compassion for others, be sure to tie this into your future success in the role in question.
2. Why did you apply for this position?
How to Answer
Now is the time for you to express your enthusiasm for the company, and the position to which you applied! Express your passion for your field of study or talk about how this role will provide you with the career growth you have been seeking. Be sure to compliment the company and give a strong reason why you want to work for them.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I applied for this position because I am seeking a more challenging opportunity in my field. Your job posting was especially exciting to me because your organization is well known for its unmatched level of professionalism and growth opportunities. I would be thrilled to work for your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
Admin
"Your organization is a leading player in the e-commerce space. I am an advocate of your platform and frequent shopper of your products. I think I can add a lot of value to this role and am excited to learn more about this online customer support opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Manager
"I want to work for a small company with a family-like feel, just like yours. I have always worked in large organizations where I am a number, not an individual. This 'corporate giant' type of environment made it difficult for me to flourish as a manager and a leader. I appreciate the workplace culture you have cultivated."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Marketing
"I have been a client of yours for several years now and targeted your company as a top prospect for which I hoped to work, over a year ago. As soon as this position came up, I knew it was right for me. I was excited to write my cover letter to you and hit send on my application!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Retail
"I have shopped here since I was a little girl. My grandma used to take me here, and it's where I bought my grad dress! To come full circle and work here in the very same department all these years later would be not only exciting for me, but very special. Your store means something to me personally, and I would do everything in my power to make it successful and continue to make special memories for others!"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Sales
"I have been looking for a high-growth startup for quite a while, and your company is what I've been seeking in a work environment. You value your people and have an awesome culture centered around achievement, growth, and accountability. You are disrupting an industry that needs some shaking up, and you have science that is allowing that disruption. The energy in here is contagious, which only make me even more excited about the opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Teacher
"Your district is one of the top rated in the state, is considered a thought-leader in the educational community, and it is the district that I grew up attending. So, it's not only full-circle for me in setting, but also the place where I decided I wanted to become a teacher, so this is an extraordinary opportunity. I have always said I wanted to come back to teach in District ###, so this would be so exciting for me on both a professional and personal level."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I was delighted to see this opportunity with Qatar Airways. I have been looking for an overseas company where I can meet new people. This is an excellent opportunity that I sincerely hope I am considered for."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a great and honest answer.
3. How many years experience do you have in your field?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to quickly gauge if you are qualified for this role, or not. If they have called you, chances are - you have something on your resume that they like. Most job postings will specify the number of years of experience that the employer is looking for but it's often a flexible number.
Let's say the interviewer is looking for five years experience in a specific field or skill, and you have 15 years. Avoid being labeled as overqualified by saying: "I have more than five years' experience in your direct field. My most recent position was similar to this role, and I was a top performer for the entire seven years of my employment there. I am eager to continue my path of success with your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have more than five years' experience in your direct field. My most recent position was similar to this role, and I was a top performer for the entire seven years of my employment there. I am eager to continue my path of success with your company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
Admin
"I have been working in an administrative position for approximately four years. I also spent a great deal of time helping my dad with his bookkeeping business as a teen. I was exposed to organizing files, making appointments, and double checking the details of his work before he passed it back to his clients."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Manager
"I have over ten years of experience in my field, with seven years in your specific industry. Although I have a lot of experience I am always learning new management techniques to that, I can better myself and improve the productivity of my team."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Marketing
"I have six years of marketing experience, from freelance to inbound marketing coordinator, and now as a content manager. Before that, I worked in sales for a CPG company, so I understand the business from varying perspectives. I look forward to continuing to learn about how your organization operates."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Retail
"I have been in the sales field since I was in high school, so for half of my life. I have worked my way up through the ranks from a part-time sales associate in various departments to assistant manager, to department manager. I know that I have learned much of what I need to succeed in this role and I look forward to exceeding your expectations as I gain even more knowledge."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Sales
"I have three years of sales experience in a traditional setting, and have been selling in some capacity since high school in a retail environment, and as a bartender while putting myself through University."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Teacher
"I understand that you are looking for a teacher newer to their career. Although I have eight years' experience as a teacher, you will find that I am very open to learning new classroom techniques. I am a huge proponent of continued learning and pivoting my teaching style based on the needs of each classroom."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I have over seven years of experience. Although I have a lot of experience, I am willing to learn new opportunities."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Rather than finishing your answer with a willingness to learn, try focusing on the expertise that you have already gained in these 7 years. How will you add to the employer vs. take from their resources? I have offered a starter, below.
"I have seven years of experience in the field of (name your industry). Through these seven years, I have gained strong skills in (list your areas of expertise). I am eager to take this experience and knowledge and apply it to this role by (what action steps will you take to make a difference for the hiring company?)."
4. When would you be available to start?
How to Answer
Before your interview, make sure you have a start date in mind for the new employer. You may need to give two weeks to your previous position. If you are unemployed, perhaps you can start right away. In either situation, be prepared with an affirmative answer.
If you are currently working, you should always show professionalism by offering two weeks' notice to your current employer. No hiring manager is ever impressed when they hear 'I can quit my job today and start tomorrow!' Show that you are professional and reliable in all situations.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I'd be available soon enough cause right now I already resigned from my last company."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
No need to disclose your resignation.
"I am available to start as soon as possible."
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5. What is your long-range career objective?
How to Answer
Onboarding new employees is a time consuming and costly endeavor, so the interviewer wants to make sure that this role will be a long-term fit for you. Be open to the interviewer about your dreams within this company, on a long-term basis. Share what promotions you hope to eventually receive and discuss what you wish to learn from being a part of their organization. The key to answering this question is to express to the interviewer that you plan to stay with the company for many years to come.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"My long range career goal is to elevate myself to a manager position and supervise a staff."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a great goal.
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6. What are the top duties in your current position?
How to Answer
A great way to prepare for your interview is to reflect on the main tasks in your current position and how that experience would make you a strong candidate for the job for which you are applying. The interviewer wants to know if you have the knowledge and skills required to be successful in this position. Make sure you are familiar with the job description before your interview! You will want to draw on that valuable information.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"Currently, my primary duties as an Implementation Team Leader and Network Engineer, I provide solutions-based customer service. I mostly handle Cisco devices (wireless, switch, router, and ASA), as well as Fortigate and Riverbed. There are many transferable skills I can bring to this position at Qatar Airways."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
Fantastic response!
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7. Why are you looking for a new position?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks you this, make sure you always keep your answer positive. If you are leaving your position because you don't like your boss, be sure to phrase it more eloquently. If you aren't sure how to reply, remember - it's always a safe bet to focus your answer on career growth and exciting opportunities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I am looking for a new position because I want to grow in my career, so I can continue being a valuable asset to the company I am working for. Ohio University has grown so much since my first year, and I want to be a part of that growth in the future."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
This answer to me communicates why you are looking for a position at Ohio University. However, I think your response should address why you are leaving your old position. If you just graduated, that would be your answer (that you are just now entering the workforce).
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8. What do you know about this position?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks this question, they are trying to gauge how prepared you are, and your level of interest in the position. An employer wants to know you are enthusiastic about their organization. Express how keen you are by doing your research on the company history, values, goals, competition, and by examining their culture and what makes them unique. To impress the interviewer, pay particular attention to their blogs, events, and social media profiles for unique information that inspires you to work for them.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"It is similar to what I did at my previous store. So I would be leading the team together with the Store Manager and be responsible for training, mentoring, and making sure all visual standards align with your company's policies. I would work on inventory and inventory accuracy. I would also create a fun and inspiring work environment."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It looks like you have a good handle on the job duties, as per the job description. I have reworded to help with the flow.
"This position is similar to what I have done at the Apple store when it comes to leading the team, together with the store manager, in a creative and inspiring work environment. I am prepared to be responsible for inventory, training, mentoring, and meeting visual standards according to Gucci's policies."
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9. What is the most important thing you are looking for in your next company?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to make sure they can offer what you are looking for in your next position. Discuss with the interviewer the things you are missing in your current role. You can also talk about what aspects of this particular company excite you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"Honest, open culture. No talking behind someone's back. And the ability to grow and develop myself so that I could also learn from my senior peers."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
I recommend personalizing your response to Gucci so the interviewer can picture you specifically in their role.
"When I join Gucci, I would like to gain knowledge from my senior team, while enjoying a collaborative and honest culture. It's important to me that everyone works cohesively, ready to help each other."
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10. Are you actively interviewing with other companies? Are you close to offer stage with anyone?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to gauge better if their hiring timeline fits with your current schedule. Your answer will determine if they continue to engage with you, based on their timing and needs.
If you are actively interviewing: "Yes, I am very active in my search and have had multiple invitations to interview. Currently, I am in the second interview stage with one company and third interview stage with another."
If you are not interviewing with other companies: "I just started my search, so I am not in final interviews with any other company. I am aggressively seeking, however."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I am currently in the first stage with another company, and I am aggressively searching as well."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
This would be a great opportunity to ask the interviewer what their hiring timeline looks like, as well as confirm why you are interested in this particular role. I have provided an example below.
"I am currently in the first stage of interviews with another company and am aggressively looking for a new opportunity. Could you share with me your hiring timeline for this role? I am very keen on this opportunity because (give your reasoning)."
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11. Our company is looking for a team member with flexible work hours. Are you able and willing to work overtime, as needed?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask! Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations.
If it turns out 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 for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"What amount of overtime? Are we compensated for this overtime? I don't mind having a flexible schedule, but I need to understand what flexible means."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's good to have questions, and you should definitely know the expectations before accepting a job. However, there is a more delicate way to uncover this information. I have offered a revision, below.
"I am prepared to offer flexibility in my schedule. Could you share with me the average overtime expectations, and how you arrange compensation around these needs?"
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12. Would your current employer be willing to provide a reference for you?
How to Answer
Before your interview, make sure you have your references prepared just in case the interviewer requests them. If you don't feel comfortable using your current employer as a reference, explain that you have other references better suited at this time. Those can be past supervisors.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I am happy to provide you with a reference from my previous employer. Should you need this information, please do not hesitate to ask."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer.
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13. I'm interested in knowing more about the type of work you are seeking, and your ideal workplace culture. What is your ideal position at this time?
How to Answer
The type of culture you are looking for will vary based on your field and personality. However, every candidate is looking for a positive work environment and growth opportunities, so be sure to stress these aspects in your response. In regards to the position, think of three traits that get you excited about your ideal job. What work elements evoke happiness? Be sure to demonstrate to the interviewer how excited you are about this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I want to work for a company where the employees feel valued and appreciated. I want them to feel that their world is celebrated and appreciated. Also, as I mentioned before, open feedback and open working culture are important to me."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It may feel like semantics; however, statements such as 'as I mentioned before' or 'like I said' are psychologically harmful statements in business. I have reworded, below.
"My dream position is working for a company where employees feel valued and appreciated, and where diversity and inclusion are celebrated topics. Ideally, this is in a leadership opportunity where I can apply my social leadership skills."
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14. Briefly walk me through your work history. Please include why you left each position listed on your resume.
How to Answer
Briefly describe your work history, starting at the least recent position. Be brief and decisive, outlining one or two main achievements in each role. Be sure to include why you left each job while maintaining a positive tone. Avoid complaining about any past jobs or previous employers.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"During my undergrad, I had completed three internships. One was at the Ohio State House of Representatives because I wanted to be in politics. Even though I loved my time there, I knew politics was a career I did not want to pursue. My other two internships were in the field of public relations. Through both, I was able to improve my communication skills, writing skills, editing skills, and independence. I left each position because the internship had ended."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer! I would consider adding some responsibilities you held in each position and/or the impact you made in each position.
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15. What would you change about your current role, if you could?
How to Answer
Be sure when you respond to this question that you do not want to change aspects of your current position that are also the primary duties in the role for which you are applying. If you do this, the employer might think you are not that interested in the position and its functions. Keep your answer brief and avoid any negativity!
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I really like my current role responsibilities, but if I can change only one thing about my role, maybe I will change the framework that we use right now to something else more popular or has a large community something such as Symfony or Laravel, I noticed that you use one of that and that one of that reasons that encouraged me to apply for this role."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Cindy Ramsey Reviewed the Above Answer
Great! I like the way you connect the changes you'd opt for with what the company offers. It helps establish you as a good fit. To enhance your answer, you could also discuss why this is important to you or the organization, or its mission.
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16. You have a few gaps in your resume. Can you explain these?
How to Answer
When responding to this question, make sure you answer honestly about your gaps of employment, whether your discrepancies are due to staying home with the kids, an illness, taking care of an ailing parent, or taking some time off to think about a career change.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I do have one gap in my resume. I took a break in my career, after the birth of my second daughter, to spend time raising my young family. It was a decision that I am confident was the right thing to do for my family. After my children were all of elementary school age, then I went back to work, part-time at first, and then increasing to full time. The transition back to work was smooth, and I've been working full time in the city for over ten years now."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent! You did what was right for your family, and should be very proud. It's great that you mention how smooth your transition was, back into the workforce. Your answer is very confident and professional.
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17. Tell me more about your post-secondary education. Are you interested in expanding your education, or gaining any other certifications?
How to Answer
Employers want to know if you are willing to grow with their company by investing in your industry related knowledge. Depending on the position description, relate your desire to gain additional education or certifications to the position for which you are applying.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I currently have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management. I am interested in expanding my education in higher education or public relations. However, I would like to gain experience outside of school before entering a Master's program."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer.
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18. After reviewing our job description, are there any required skills listed that you feel you are lacking?
How to Answer
This question can be tough to navigate! As a potential candidate, it can be challenging to show weakness for fear the company will lose interest. When you answer this question about a skill that you feel you are lacking, explain how you plan to become stronger in that skill.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I have read through the job description and feel that I have a lot of the requirements; however, I haven't done recruitment before."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
If recruitment is one area you know you fall short, take the time to research a bit about how Gucci recruits, showing that you have an invested interest in learning. I have provided an example below.
"The job description mentioned recruitment efforts, which I understand Gucci takes on through a variety of online job ads, a robust employee referral program, and the use of third-party recruitment agencies. I am happy to learn more about your selection progress, and how to properly read a resume and interview candidates."
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19. How do you feel this position would fit in with your long term career goals?
How to Answer
Before applying for any position, it's best to have an idea of your long-term career goals, and a great sense of the potential growth the hiring company offers. This way, you can highlight for the interviewer all of the great reasons why this position will fit into your long-term goals!
Maybe you hope to be in a management position with them down the road! Whatever your reasons, be sure to provide a response that allows the interviewer to see your desire to stay with them long term.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I feel that this position would fit my long term career goals because prospective students and families are always on social media, and it is a big way for schools to recruit new students. Today, there are many relationships that are built over social media, and it is a great way to instantly reach out to students. The number of applications received or students accepting, is a great way to determine whether that specific strategy is working."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Be sure to define your long-term career goal. I'm inferring from this & your other questions that it's to be in social media, but it would be good to state that here.
"My long-term career goal is to get into social media marketing. I feel this position is a good start because a lot of relationship-building and recruiting is done through social media. Social media is a great way to reach out to students instantly. Additionally, by learning what draws students to apply and attend this university, I can apply that information to a future role in social media marketing for this university if the opportunity arises."
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20. All of our candidates must pass a criminal record check and education verification. Is there any reason why you would not be comfortable with this?
How to Answer
Background checks are widespread in many industries. If you are keen for the position, you much comply fully with their onboarding process. Show that you are cooperative. If there are any marks in your history, this is the exact time to disclose them.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I am comfortable with any background checks required."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer.
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21. Where did you find our job posting?
How to Answer
The employer would like to know what methods and resources you are using in your job search so they can determine which of their advertising methods is working best. You can expand your answer to include any other exposure you have had to the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I found this job posting on Indeed. However, I applied for the position on the University Employment website."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer.
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22. We are quickly moving into second interviews. What is your availability like over the next few days?
How to Answer
This question means excellent news! If the interviewer is asking for your availability over the next few days, chances are you are moving to the next round. Try to be as flexible as possible with your availability. Finish your answer by asking for the interview!
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I am available every day as I currently do not have a job."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Rather than expressing your availability due to lack of work, position it in a way that shows eagerness for the role.
"I am eager for the next step in the interview process and will make myself available at your convenience."
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23. Tell me one valuable skill that you are currently working on.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are the type of employee dedicated to professional growth. Give an example of a skill that you wish to develop. Bonus points if you can tie that skill in with a talent mentioned in the job posting!
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I'm currantly starting to learn more about cloud technology and also Project management."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
Great response. I assisted with grammatical edits.
"I am currently learning more about cloud technology and ways to expand my Program Management knowledge."
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24. What challenges are you looking for in a position?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that the challenges you look for in a position are ones that will push you to grow in your career. Interviewers want to see that you are never complacent and that you like to set goals for yourself. Also, if you have read the job posting, you should address the challenges present in this role and how they align with what you are seeking.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I am looking for challenges in this position because challenges motivate me, especially when I cannot figure out how something works or fix something that is broken. In the job description, it mentioned the ability to learn new programs. Having learned new programs, like InDesign, I know there are many challenges when not being able to understand how to do something."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
You do a good job of explaining why you are open to challenges, but it's a little unclear what type of challenges you are hoping for. Do you want to learn new programs, or are there other ways you are hoping to be challenged?
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25. Are you willing to travel?
How to Answer
There is no right or wrong answer to this question, but you do need to be honest. If the interviewer is asking for travel in this role you should clarify just how much, and what type of travel, will be required of you. Keep your answer brief and ask as many questions as you need until you fully understand the travel requirements.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I am willing to travel. Can you share with me the travel expectations for this role?"
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Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
Good answer.
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26. Describe a typical work day in your current role.
How to Answer
When you walk the interviewer through a typical workday, you are allowing them to visualize you in their position. From your answer, the interviewer will also be able to gauge if your activities match the seniority level of this position. If they are calling you for a junior role, for instance, and you let them know that you currently manage a team of 20 people, they will likely conclude that you are overqualified for the position. If you have a job description in front of you, do your best to match the list of role responsibilities with the day-to-day activities in your current, or most recent, position. Keep your answer as brief as possible. With open-ended questions like this one, it is easy to begin rambling.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"My days are rarely the same; however, my primary responsibilities on a daily basis include project execution, management, and giving guidance to the regional leads or junior staff. Mainly, I focus on the progress of projects by honing in on the current issues and strategizing proactively about fast approaching milestones. Your role's primary duties are very similar to what I do now but for a different therapeutic area."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You do a good job qualifying yourself for this new opportunity at the end of your answer! Great job in providing a high-level overview of your current role.
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27. Tell me one thing about yourself that is not on your resume.
How to Answer
This question is another open-ended one where it can be easy to ramble on and on. Avoid this by preparing a couple of statements regarding what makes you a stand-out candidate, but may not be on your resume. For instance, you may want to mention some current volunteer work, an exciting hobby, your favorite books on business or leadership, a pipe-dream that you have (career-related) or even additional languages that you speak. However, you choose to reply, ensure that it remains on track with a career conversation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"One thing that you would not know about me is that I love reading books "” not fiction books but self-development books, such as those by Jack Canfield and Tony Robbins. I am going to a Tony Robbins conference next month."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Perfect! Your response shows a keen mind for self-development which any interviewer should appreciate.
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28. When was the last time you helped out a coworker?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see how far back you need to reach, to answer this question. Are you a highly collaborative person, or do you spend most of your day with your head buried in your work and not looking for opportunities to be a team player? Big or small, quickly think of a time when you assisted someone else, helping them to be successful in their role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"The last time I helped a co-worker was toward the end of my internship when a new assistant was hired into the SCE office. It was close to the housing lottery/selection, so I was helping her answer students' questions."
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Alexandra E. Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a good example. I recommend elaborating on your example. What action did you take and what was the impact?
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29. How does this position fit your long-term career plans?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that this position would not be a temporary fix but a longer-term career move. Employers do not expect you to stay with them forever, but they do like to hear there is at least a 5-year plan where you can see yourself growing. Do not offer a timeframe but offer up information as to why this may be a long-term fit.
Here are some factors that could determine a long-term fit:
- Unbeatable workplace culture and a positive environment
- Continual challenges and opportunities to learn
- Cross-departmental training and opportunities to diversify your role
- A team environment that feels like family
- Competitive compensation packages including health benefits and vacation days
- Strong career trajectory and history of promotion among top performers
- Genuine and integrity-driven leadership, ownership, or c-suite
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I applied to your company because you have multiple locations which would have numerous opportunities."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
This response is vague, sounds disengaged, and would not be a hit with the interviewer. I have added an alternate response, below.
"This position fits in well with my long-term career goals because it provides the luxury sales management piece that I have been missing. I would love to excel in this role and then earn a promotion to a leadership position where I can mentor sales team members on the art of luxury sales."
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30. What type of manager do you best work with?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like assurance that you are going to get along well with the manager whom you would be reporting to in this role. There are many different management styles, and perhaps you do well with a variety of them. Tell the interviewer about your favorite manager in the past, and why you worked so well together. You should also ask the interviewer in return if they can describe the working style of the person to whom you would be reporting.
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 9th, 2018
User-Submitted Answer
"I am the type of manager that prefers action over just words. I hate when people always come unsettling and confuse other people around them."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Certainly, avoid the word 'hate' or excessively negative words in an interview. How can you re-frame this response to be positive? The question is asking what you best work with - not what you dislike, so there is no need to go to the dark side :)
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