500 Questions

I know that there is turnover in every job. Could you tell me what percentage of the people you hired in the last 3 years are still with the firm? Turnover rate is the term applied for the percentage of people who leave a job or a company within a certain period of time. This…

Technological change is a fact of life. How is your company utilizing the Internet to access sources of consumer information? A basic kind of change is now being brought about by technology. A thoughtful question about the impact of technological change on your company or job can help present you in a positive light and…

What is your organizational mission? This question indicates a central desire to make a contribution and to have your work make a difference. If this is important to you, your career happiness will be closely tied to the organization’s mission and values. What is the timetable for filling this position? When would you need me…

On the basis of what you’ve heard so far, do you believe I have the qualifications you are looking for? Eliciting your interviewer’s reaction to your performance takes the spotlight off you for a moment and gives you the time to regroup. A negative response from an employer is a gift when you take it…

What do your spouse and children think about our company? This may be an illegal question if it leads to questions about specific family members. The employer may be trying to find out if you have children or are married. Indicate only that you have established a strong support for whatever you undertake. Do you…

Do live in a house or an apartment? Whether you own a house or rent, this is an illegal question and may not be asked by an interviewer or prospective employer. This question could easily lead to discrimination based on your economic status or anticipated stability. Do you have a car? This is an illegal…

Can I have your Social Security number? This is an illegal question and may not be asked by an interviewer or prospective employer. Once you have accepted employment, you will have to provide your social security number, but not before. You have an accent. Where are you from? This may be an illegal question and…

If we told you the job is yours, what would you say? Most interviewers will expect you to take some time to consider all aspects before accepting a job in order to make a fully informed decision. Let them know you are interested and would like to think about it for a short time. If…

We’ve received many top-notch candidates for this job and it will take some time to sort through them. Begin your answer by giving congratulations to the employer and telling them that the job deserves a top-notch candidate. Then bring up your unique qualifications again, highlighting those skills most suited to the position. Would you accept…

If you could work anywhere in the world, where would it be? You may be tempted to pick an exotic place. However, it might be more prudent to show the employer you are happy working in this area. Make the job you’re interviewing for your chief objective. Frame your answer so that you let the…

If you had to rate me as an interviewer, what would you say? This question is designed for its shock effect and is known as a stress question. The interviewer isn’t really looking for a true evaluation of his or her interviewing techniques, but is interested in how well you will respond. Stay calm, be…

Tell me about the problems that you have living within your means. This question is meant to catch you off guard. Your best defense is first of all to know that it exists, and second to give it a very short response. Let your interviewer know that you are aware that few people are satisfied…

Have you ever been asked to leave a company? If so, please describe the situation. If the answer is yes, be prepared to discuss the situation in detail and answer several follow-up questions. Do not say anything negative about your previous employer. If you were laid off as part of a general workforce reduction, be…