Oh, I Wish I Had an Interview Guru…

I’ll be the first to admit, I’m not the greatest at interviews. In fact, I’m pretty darn bad at them. Something about being critiqued for how I speak, how I dress, and how I act just does not appeal to me. I get nervous, my hands get shaky, and I start stammering my words. So before each interview, I search the internet for tips on what questions will be asked and how to answer them. When it comes to people like me (who can’t think on their feet), practicing my responses verbatim may be just what I need to impress my next interviewer. So here, I have constructed a little something to assist me next time I happen to score an interview.

Q: What motivates you?

A: I am motivated mostly by my own desire to succeed. I always push myself to do well in whatever I am doing, both for my own satisfaction and for my employer.

Q: Why should we hire you?

A: I believe I’m the best person for the job. Not only do I meet all the qualifications required for this position, I believe I would be willing to work harder than anyone else applying. I am sure there are many other qualifying candidates, but I have the passion and drive for this work as well.

Q: Do you consider yourself successful?

A: Yes, I do. I am a very goal-oriented person. I always make sure to complete my projects and to meet deadlines.

Q: What kind of people do you like to work with?

A: In the past, I’ve worked with both men and women from very diverse backgrounds. I actually enjoy working with all kinds of people, and I believe each person has something different to offer. I’m not a confrontational person, so I usually don’t have any problems getting along with people.

Q: Are you able to work under stressful environments?

A: Yes. I never let stress affect my work ethic. No matter the situation, I stay calm and always do my best.

A: Yes. In fact, I work really well under pressure. I thrive in high-pace environments and am able to stay calm during stressful situations.

Q: Why do you want this job?

A: I love the work environment here. I admire the setting and what this company stands for. I think this would be a great experience for me, and I also think I would make a great employee here.

Q: If you could be any kind of animal, what would you be and why?

A: I would be a lion because I am a leader. I enjoy being part of a team and motivating others.

A: I would be a peacock because I am unique and have a colorful personality. I always have a bright and friendly attitude.

A: I would be a cat because I am intelligent, and independent. I am hard-working and can take care of all types of situations.

A: I would be an eagle because I am strong and a free spirit.

Q: What does being a leader mean to you?

A: Being a leader means inspiring people. To be a leader is to give direction and motivate others in order to achieve a common goal.

Now, please note that these responses may not be the best answers out there. They are merely suggestions. Also, it would help if these answers didn’t sound so rehearsed, so memorizing anything word-for-word may not be the best idea unless you are a master of making things sound natural. And obviously these questions are more general. The more personal questions are up to you.