Job Interview

• Skype interview tips for questions and answers
• Preparing for the technical side of a Skype job interview
• How to create an attractive Skype interview background

Skype interview tips for questions and answers

Preparing to answer the questions in a Skype interview is one of the best things you can do to calm your nerves and maximize your chances for landing the job. You may have already done so in the past for phone interviews , but it never hurts to have a refresher. Here are some tips to make you as relaxed as possible so you can focus on conveying your skills and experience.

• Find a quiet, comfortable space that has no "foot traffic" and has decent lighting. Having a job interview in a Starbucks or at a family dinner is rarely a good idea. A nice clean out-of-the-way room with a window is a perfect choice. Feeling physically comfortable at your desk and seat is also important.
• If you're at home with family members - warn them beforehand! We all remember that viral video where the kids dropped in on the dad's BBC interview. That was adorable. But not all situations are. Rather avoid showing your potential employers glimpses of your family's daily routine.
• Prepare a notebook, a pen and maybe even a cheat sheet. Just make sure if you're using the latter, the text isn't visible in your webcam video (and don't stare at the piece of paper like a teleprompter, it's there only for emergencies).
• Get a glass of water. This seems trivial. It's not. You'd be surprised at how a simple drink of water can make a difference in clarity of thought and ease of speaking even during a 1-1,5 hour interview.

Preparing for the technical side of a Skype interview

No matter how many times you’ve rehearsed the right questions, if the technical side of the interview doesn’t work how it’s supposed to, you could leave the hiring manager with a bad impression through no fault of your own. There are slight differences between technical VoIP platforms, so Zoom or video interviews may have different priorities, so we’ll focus on Skype here for clarity.

Here are some simple tips to make sure your Skype job interview is crystal clear.

• Check your internet connection. Whether you’re using wifi that may have different signal strength throughout the apartment or an optic cable that may have been chewed on by your favorite dog - it won’t do to break off the interview half-way through a hiring manager’s greeting. It’s also not great if half of what you say comes out in a garbled robotic voice.
• Test your microphone, headphones and webcam. Do this well in advance - 15 to 20 minutes at least, since the fiddly nature of audio and video settings can be unpredictable. It’s better to get a little bored waiting than to try and fix your sound mid-call, wasting recruiters’ precious time.
• Close your browser tabs and unnecessary apps. Whether you will want to share your screen to show off your portfolio or you accidentally press the “screenshare” button, you don’t want any personal information being shown that you'd rather keep private. You don't want any system sounds being played either. You can't guess all the possible complications, so better play it safe.
• Remember that your cell phone is a source of distraction. Put it in silent mode, turn the phone screen away from your webcam or remove it from the camera's view entirely. No need to distract anyone by ringtone background noise or someone's picture lighting up the telephone screen.

Skype interview background

A clean and professional Skype interview background says a lot about you before you even begin to answer the first question. In this section we offer some Skype interview tips for making sure your background is attractive and effective in landing you the position.

• Certain rooms are better than others. Naturally a home office is ideal, but even if you don’t have one, try to avoid beds or kitchens in the background of your interview.
• Make sure the space behind you is tidy and clean. You don’t want the hiring manager getting distracted by piles of dirty laundry.
• Windows, mirrors or other bright objects can cause too much light to reflect back into the camera, placing you into a shadow.
• Orderly bookshelves, tables, plants, artwork or decorations can make for pleasant, yet neutral backgrounds.

In the following chapters, we’ll dive into some of our best Zoom interview tips, complete with examples and answers to all the most pressing Zoom interview questions.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

1. Zoom interview tips and tricks.
2. How to prepare for the most common Zoom interview questions.
3. The best Zoom interview backgrounds with examples.
4. Great Zoom interview outfits and how to decide what to wear.
5. Zoom interview questions for employers looking to hire great candidates.

Zoom interview tips

90% of Zoom interview success is about calmness, foresight and preparation. Unlike a phone call, the best and most basic thing to do is prepare your setup (this matters even if you’re not using your webcam).

VoIP software like Zoom is notoriously unpredictable, fiddly and is prone to spring unpleasant surprises on you. Video calls also often feel unnatural and it can be hard to feel comfortable. So let’s run through two short checklists of Zoom interview tips to make sure your video interview goes smoothly.

Here’s a short checklist of Zoom interview tips to run through before you dive into your Zoom session with a potential employer:

1. Set up a comfortable workstation
2. Check your audio equipment
3. Check your webcam view before the actual call
4. Make sure to have good wifi (an ethernet cable connection is even better)
5. Choose a Zoom interview background if you prefer not showing your actual living space
6. Prepare your clothes and put them on beforehand
7. Practice your answers in front of the mirror, with a friend or just talking out loud when you’re alone
8. Practice talking about yourself in general - nothing is as scary anymore when you’ve done it multiple times.

Zoom interview questions 

Many of the questions and answers in a Zoom interview will be similar to the in-person interviews you’re used to. However, the distanced nature of the interview means sometimes applicants can feel more nervous since it’s harder to read the interviewers facial expressions and body language. 

One of the best ways to overcome this is by practicing for the most common questions ahead of time. When you already have the best answer in mind, you can focus more on delivering it naturally. 

Here are some of the most common Zoom interview questions to expect:

1. Why should we hire you? (Or the more polite version - “Why do you think you’re a good fit for this role?)
2. Why did you choose our company?
3. Tell me about yourself (the infamous and dreaded recruiter move).
4. What type of past work experience do you have relevant to this role?
5. Could you tell me about your strengths and weaknesses?
6. Why did you leave your last job?
7. Can you give me an example of a work problem you solved?
8. Are you a team player or are you more effective working alone?

Let’s take a look at how to handle the answers to these below.

Zoom interview questions and answers

Memorising answers is never a good tactic. So, rather than give you copypasta templates that will only turn off your thinking and make you sound like a robot, let’s instead look at the HOW and WHY (the logic) for each Zoom interview question and answer.

Why should we hire you? (Why do you think you’re a good fit for this role?)

The main rule here is: don’t devalue yourself and be comfortable with your image. Without going into arrogance, just be positive about who you are - a human being with experience, intelligence and a work ethic. Imagine your future duties and work environment and sincerely describe how you imagine your hard work, past experience and desire to achieve something will contribute to the company. Practice this beforehand if you have to - in front of a mirror or just while doing your household chores.

Why did you choose our company?

Rule #1 to follow: never say that you don’t know or confess that it’s just because you happened upon a job listing. This shows disinterest and apathy. Research the employer beforehand and this answer will be easy. You chose them because it seems like a good place to apply your past experience, a place where you can grow, a place with good corporate culture and reputation, or one of the best reasons - you actually like their products, understand and use them yourself (if that’s true of course)! Be prepared and polite and this is an “gimme” Zoom interview answer.

Tell me about yourself.

What you need to understand: this Zoom interview answer is a chance to showcase your personality, social interaction skills and expand on your professional history and achievements. Most times, it’s what the recruiter is looking for. This is your professional pitch, your moment to shine. Dione Edwards, an expert career coach expresses her views and advice on the TMAY here. But in general, this Zoom interview answer may contain the bulk of your prepared material. Be relaxed, be confident and just talk about your work history and skills in a positive way.

What type of past work experience do you have relevant to this role?

Ideally, this Zoom interview answer will be mostly covered by the previous one (tell me about yourself). If it has already been asked and you’ve already answered, just go into some additional details relevant to the specific job role. If the TMAY question hasn’t been asked yet, cover it all in this interview answer.

Could you tell me about your strengths and weaknesses?

This interview question is also often dreaded by candidates and may feel like a trap for more introverted people. Take a breath, a small pause, and list your positive work qualities. Don’t dive too deep into actual “bad traits”, but perhaps note some areas you are working on (these shouldn’t sound like dealbreakers). Practice this Zoom interview answer beforehand as well! 

Can you give me an example of a work problem you solved?

The recipe here is simple: prepare a couple of good work stories that show you in a positive light BEFORE the interview. If you have trouble finding ones where you shined solo, think of a situation where you were part of a team that accomplished something.

Are you a team player or are you more effective working alone?

Rule of thumb is: never state outright that you’re a “lone wolf”. The ideal Zoom interview answer for this question will often sound something like: “I’m comfortable working in teams and love contributing to group efforts, but I do sometimes need a small pause to recharge and think on my own. That way, I can come back composed and focused.” This sounds balanced, sincere, human (just make sure it’s true).

Great Zoom interview backgrounds + examples

One of the most important parts of preparing for a Zoom interview has nothing to do with questions – your background plays a big role in a hiring manager’s perception of you as a candidate.

A great Zoom interview background doesn’t have to be complicated. Any place that’s neat, clean and free people or moving objects will help the hiring manager focus on what you have to say. A blank wall will certainly get the job done, but by creating a more interesting background, you can boost your professional presentation.

Here are some examples of simple Zoom interview backgrounds that get the job done:

• A bookshelf with books and photos
• An appropropriate painting or photograph
• A calendar, cork board or while board
• Houseplants or other decorative objects
• An office space with a desk or computer

Choosing the perfect Zoom interview outfit

Even if the digital format means the hiring manager will see less detail, your Zoom interview outfit still matters a great deal. The perfect Zoom interview outfit is one that sends the right message based on your field and position. There’s nothing wrong with a suit jacket or dress for a bank teller, but a zoologist may prefer something more practical. Pay particular attention to your top half, since it’s most likely to be seen on camera, but your entire outfit should be professional (no shorts or pajama bottoms.)

Zoom interview questions for employers

Let’s break this down into two parts: 

1. Zoom interview questions that candidates can ask employers;
2. Zoom interview questions for employers looking to connect with a candidate.

Both are important but have completely different ideas behind them. Let’s first take a look at the type of Zoom interview questions for employers that job seekers can benefit from asking.

What can a job seeker ask a potential employer during an interview?

In preparation for a Zoom interview, a lot of candidates focus so much on what is expected of them that they forget an interview can and should be a back-and-forth dialogue. It’s not only possible but often healthy to ask some of your own polite Zoom interview questions in return.

The best questions are usually related to a key piece of information said during the interview, but just in case your mind goes blank, it’s smart to have a few catch-all questions on hand. 

Here are some examples of good Zoom interview questions for employers (or hiring managers) that you can ask:

1. What do you think will be the biggest challenge for an employee in this role?
2. What value besides the basic job responsibilities would the company appreciate from someone in this role? (This is a really good once since you can follow up with how you can help in this regard).
3. Does the company have a mentorship program?
4. Could you tell me a bit about your corporate culture? Are there any team-building initiatives, corporate events or traditions?  (It’s good to provide the follow-up question to specify what interests you).

What can employers or hiring managers ask candidates to find out more about them?

If you’re an employer conducting interviews via Zoom or Skype , you may be wondering how you can best connect with candidates through the screen. Here are a few questions that can help you get to know applicants on a more personal level:

1. What does a typical work from home day look like for you?

This question helps you get a sense of how the candidate plans to spend their time. Do they prefer an early morning schedule in order to pick up the kids after school? Maybe they often work weekends to take the load off the weekdays.

2. Tell me about your ideal workspace.

This question helps you get a sense of an applicant’s personality and values. It’s also a good “culture fit” question. When working remote, new hires who can easily fit into the existing company environment will make the transition smoother for everything.

3. Would you prefer to continue remote or work in the office if the possibility opened up?

This is a great question to get a sense of a candidate’s long term goals. Maybe they are planning a big move next year and don’t see themselves as an office fixture. If the position requires relocation, this is also a good way to see how committed the applicant is to that idea.

By preparing and practicing, you can put your nerves to rest and go into your next video interview with confidence and charisma. Our video interview tips and answers to all the most common video interview questions will help you show off the great personality and experience that makes you an ideal candidate.

Here’s what will cover:

• Our top ten tips for acing your next video interview
• How to answer key video interview questions
• Insights on the technical considerations needed for digital interviews
• The most common types of video interviews (Hirevue, Zoom, Skype, etc.)
• Tips on completing one-way or recorded video interviews

Top 10 job video interview tips

Video interviews are a complex thing, since they showcase your personality as much as your professional side. Technology also complicates what used to be an age-old tradition of personal negotiation. So, a be-all-end-all guide on video interview tips could turn into an entire book. That being said, here are our top 10 job interview tips to help you succeed in your next digital interview:

1. Arrange your background

During a video interview, hiring managers are processing everything they see on the screen – including your background. A disorganized bedroom, a messy kitchen or a living room full of friends and family will distract the hiring manager from all the good things you want to present about yourself. A white wall is better than nothing, but if you can, try to arrange a professional-looking background. A bookshelf, some plants or a nice painting can all turn into a professional background for a digital interview.

2. Compose your shot

A video interview tip that can be used both by creative people and very organized logical people is: treat your video interview shot as a functional scene or picture (yourself included). Once you’ve created a pleasant background, you’ll want to double check that it also looks good with you in it. Make sure to sit about two feet away from the webcam so that you’re visible from the torso up. If you find that you are looking down at the screen, place some books under your laptop so that your camera is at eye-level. Finally, open your webcam on the platform that will be used for the interview. Make sure you are happy with everything that’s in view and that the plants don’t look like they’re growing out from your ear.

3. Plan for good lighting

Good lighting is arguably even more important than your background during a digital interview. You want a hiring manager to be able to see your facial expressions and react naturally to them. Poor lighting can cast unflattering shadows on your face while harsh lighting can wash you out making you look like a ghost with eyeballs. Natural day lighting is your best option, but when that’s not possible, a lamp placed behind and to the side of the webcam can work. Avoid windows behind you, or you will appear like a shadowy figure in comparison.

4. Check your connection

Poor internet connection or audio issues are the quickest way to dash your chances of a great video interview. Make sure your computer registers your microphone and that your network is strong enough to support video calling. Keep your phone nearby in case you need to create an internet hotspot in an emergency. Or, ask to do the interview at a friend’s house where the wifi is stronger. Do whatever you can to make sure the video interview can happen as scheduled.

5. Keep headphones nearby

If you’re in a completely silent room, you may prefer not to wear headphones. Otherwise it’s a good idea to use them. They help filter out background noise and allow you to concentrate more fully on what the interviewer is saying. And while you’re collecting things to bring to the digital interview, it can’t hurt to have a notebook and pen, your resume and any other documents handy to review.

6. Dress code for video interview

Just because you’re not showing up to an office doesn’t mean you get to throw out the dress code for a video interview. Wear whatever is most appropriate for a day on the job in your industry (that doesn’t always mean a button-up shirt or jacket, but it might!) so that you show the hiring manager that you take the job seriously – even when working from home. And the number one rule: make sure you wouldn’t be embarrassed if the interviewer were to see the bottom half of what you’re wearing.

7. Make eye contact with the interviewer

Maintaining natural eye contact is one of the most difficult parts of video job interviews, but it is extremely important. You may be tempted to sneak a look at yourself but you should avoid it as much as you can since it will create the appearance that you are looking down. Instead, focus your attention on the interview so that you can read their facial expressions and respond naturally.

8. Sit up straight

This video interview tip may seem trivial, but it directly affects not only the impression others get from you, but even your own mindset and mood. Great posture with both feet on the floor helps you convey confidence and authority about your experience. It also helps you feel more in control of your situation. You don’t have to take this video interview trick to the extreme by not allowing yourself any movement. The general idea is to be in control of your body.  Don’t pick at your fingers or give away your nervousness by fidgeting. Make sure to breathe naturally so that you give the impression of being at ease. 

9. Act natural

Don’t let the formal feeling of a video interview keep you from being yourself. Make small talk, show interest in the hiring manager and prepare questions to ask them at the end. If appropriate, you can still crack a joke or two. Handle any connection issues or cats popping up on screen with grace and humor. At the end of the call, sincerely thank the interviewer for their time.

10. Practice with a test call (and just practice!)

As far as video interview tips go, practicing may be your most valuable tactic. You may have the dream background with perfect lighting and ultra high-speed internet, but if you’re not prepared for the added stress of a video interview, it might not go as you hoped. Ask a friend or family member to call you on the exact platform and at the same time of day as the actual interview. Then, practice answering questions naturally, taking deep breaths and limiting the number of times you stop and start over. This may be the most important video interview tip of all: with practice, even the scariest things can become much easier. The more times you do something (even if it’s not your natural cup of tea), the more at home you will feel. You may never become as relaxed as an on-air personality, but you’ll definitely get better!

How to answer key video interview questions

There are a few questions that might come up in a video interview that otherwise might not. While they likely won’t be the focus, you should prepare for them just in case. Here’s our list of the top video interview questions and how to handle them:

What does your average work from home day look like? 

This video interview question would have been a weird one several years ago. Now, it may not only be appropriate but extremely relevant. Since you won’t be present in an office, an employer wants to know how you’re spending company time. Tell them the ways in which you’ve adapted to remote working including ways in which your productivity has increased. If you often work a certain schedule, like 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for example, you may mention that if you know the company offers flexibility in that regard. Remember that when answering this video interview question, you don’t need to go into too much personal detail (the interviewer doesn’t need to know about every home habit you have). What they’re interested in is how you establish productivity, during which hours you’re available (careful with this one, do some research on the job role), and whether you can lead a sustainable work day from home.

What have you accomplished professionally over the last year?

Especially in creative fields, an employer wants to know that you persevered in a difficult time and didn’t get completely stuck in a rut. Although it’s alright to be honest about any changes brought about by the pandemic, you should at least offer an example of professional development as evidence you are still active and interested in your field. People are often flummoxed by this video interview question, but it’s really not that scary or complicated. Just think about it beforehand and be positive about yourself!

Would you be willing to work in an office again in the future?

Many companies are now hiring for remote jobs with the expectation that you will relocate or come back into the office once it’s safe to do so. If the employer has outlined this as a condition of the position, be prepared to say “yes” to this video interview question and to mean it, otherwise you probably aren’t the right fit.

The majority of video interview questions will remain unchanged from an in-person interview, but you should practice answering them nonetheless. Here are some of the most common ones to be prepared for:

Tell us about yourself. The interviewer wants a brief synopsis of your professional journey. You might mention personal details like where you’re from, but keep this answer to a short one-minute max. This video interview question is not a cue to detail all your hobbies (unless one is SUPER relevant to your job, such as research or an applicable creative talent).

Why do you want to work for us?

Compliment the company and their achievements without coming across as fake. Explain key pieces of your experience that align with the company operations or goals.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hiring is a costly process so a HR manager wants some guarantee that your true intention is to stay within the industry. The only exception to this might be for an hourly job like store associate or server where the hiring manager is used to dealing with students and part time workers.

Tell me about your experience?

The tricky part about this video interview question is to give enough information that the hiring manager is interested without overloading them on the details. Ask for clarification if needed (for example, how far back would you like me to go?) and then choose the most relevant positions and tasks to the job you’re applying for. Don’t assume that the hiring manager has your resume memorized. You may need to offer a brief bit of background.

How to do a Skype interview

Skype is one of the video calling services that’s been around the longest so you shouldn’t be surprised if that’s where the interviewer wants to do the digital interview. Most of the video interview tips above apply to Skype interviews, but you can find more detailed information in our blog “How to do a Skype interview .”

How to do a Zoom interview

Meetings and job interviews on Zoom have become synonymous with working from home (#Zoomfatigue.) Job interviews on Zoom are just like on any other platforms but if you’re looking for more details on how to prepare, check out our blog dedicated entirely to Zoom interviews .

How to do a YouTube interview

Since YouTube doesn’t have a video calling feature, an interview on YouTube is one that you pre-record and post yourself. Related to a video resume , you’ll need to film yourself answering questions given to you by the employer and post them on your account. You’ll probably be asked to make the interview on YouTube private and send the employer a password-protected link.

How to do a FaceTime interview

FaceTime interviews aren’t much different than any other type of video platform except that you and the interviewer may both be using your phones. FaceTime interviews have a smaller field of view so your body will take up most of the frame.

Here are some FaceTime interview tips:

1. Unless told so, do not assume your interview will be on FaceTime since only Apple users have access to the service.
2. You may find it more comfortable to do the FaceTime interview from your Mac computer, if you have one. Check that your account is set up properly so that you will receive the call.
3. If using your phone for a FaceTime interview, remember all other video interview rules apply. Check your lighting and background, choose a great video interview outfit and prop up your phone at eye-level.

One-way video interview

Another popular video interview style is the recorded interview. This is often referred to as the one-way video interview because you'll be asked to speak into the camera without the presence of an interviewer asking you questions. Recorded interviews can often feel much more challenging because you won't have the body language or confirmation of another human to help you formulate your ideas. Generally, you'll be asked to log on to a platform like HireVue where you'll find a set of prompts. You'll be given a certain amount of time to record each answer and usually a retake in case you feel that you didn't do your best. 

Since one-way video interviews can feel more like reciting a speech than having a conversation, it's important to practice ahead of time to make sure you'll feel comfortable with the recorded interview. All the same top ten tips apply, only this time you can actually record a video of yourself answering the questions to see how you'll perform under pressure.

Key takeaways

1. Video and digital interviews are the new normal in hiring so you'll likely have to complete one if you plan to change roles soon.
2. While you'll find many typical questions in a video interview, you'll also want to prepare for inquiries into your work from home set-up and future plans.
3. Don't overlook the technical considerations like lighting, background and internet connection.
4. Digital interviews can often feel more nerve-wracking than in-person ones so make sure to practice until you feel comfortable.
5. Don't be surprised if a hiring manager asks for a recorded interview as the first step in the interview process.

You may think you’ve given it your best shot, for better or worse, and now all you can do is pray. But sending a thank you email after a job interview is a proactive step you can and should take that genuinely gets results. 

A thank you email after an interview with an expression of genuine gratitude accomplishes the following things:

• A thank you email after an interview is a sign of professionalism and etiquette
• It shows that you really want the job and are eager to get started
• Amid what may be a big pool of interviewees, it reminds the recruiter who you are
• It enables you to briefly restate your primary qualifications for the job
• The post interview follow up email allows you to establish a personal relationship with the hiring manager.

According to one survey of human resources managers, 22% said it was “very helpful” to receive a thank you message after an interview, while 58% said it was at least “somewhat helpful.” Yet only 24% reported receiving these thank you notes from job candidates after an interview. 

So what have you got to lose? Nothing but the job. Let’s look at some of the questions people ask about this topic and what advice can be offered based on hiring practices (note that most of this applies thank you emails after phone interviews , live interviews and even zoom calls).

How do you write a thank you email after an interview?

These are the basic components of a follow-up email after an interview (also known as the thank you email format):

• The subject line
• The greeting
• The body of the email (the actual “thank you”, plus your personal touch and “call to action”)
• A respectful sign-off.

Here is an example of a post interview thank you email that hits all the right notes:

Note that this thank you email sample is tailored to a more informal corporate culture (as is often the case with social media, advertising and marketing agencies). You should by no means copy the tone itself for a more conservative job (such as in finance or law). But you can draw some great conclusions based on the follow up email format, human touch and its action-oriented nature.

Let’s dive into the specifics of each thank you email element:

The subject line

Since this is a thank you note, you might as well get busy saying thanks. There are many ways of doing so in the subject line of your email (which you never want to leave blank):

Job interview follow up emails should be both professional and human in tone. You’re trying to establish or refresh your human connection with the hiring manager, but you should also be mindful to not become too casual once the interview is over.

The best thank you emails after an interview are a perfect blend of friendliness and professional etiquette, and your subject line is the very first place to showcase this. Of course, the attention to tone should be present in the entire follow up email.

Thank you email greeting

 “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last name here]” would be the most formal approach to the greeting in your email. If you sense that the potential employer stands on tradition and formality, this is the safest way to go. 

This is especially true if the person who interviewed you holds a very senior position in the company and/or is quite a bit older than you. If you interviewed with 70-year-old company CEO Thomas H. Higginbotham in his walnut-paneled office, he might not appreciate a greeting that says “Yo Tommy!”

On the other hand, if your interviewer was friendly and informal, if she said “Please call me Susan,” if she took you to lunch and gossiped about office politics like a pal, then there’s probably nothing wrong with a greeting that says “Dear Susan,” “Hello Susan,” or “Greetings Susan.”

What should I say in a thank you email? (The actual ‘thank you’ part)

 At least once, perhaps twice, you need to express your gratitude to the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. You may also want to thank the interviewer for giving you a tour of the company, for taking you to lunch, for making the experience a pleasure, or whatever else seems appropriate.

“Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today, for showing me around the campus, and in general for making this interview process such a pleasure.”

“I’m deeply grateful to you for inviting me to your office today, taking the time to study my portfolio, and having such a thoughtful conversation with me about what you’re looking for in a Marketing Coordinator.”

In your closing line, you might want to briefly reiterate your gratitude: “Thanks again for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you at your convenience.”

Besides the expression of gratitude, here are some additional goals to try and achieve in the middle part of your post interview thank you email:

• Express your interest in the job and your value proposition
• Add a personal touch to establish a human connection (mention some trivial/specific personal detail from the conversation)
• Supply any important details you might have forgotten during the interview (don’t overdo it though by writing out a whole paragraph).

Reiterate your interest in the job in your follow up email

Unless the interview somehow made you lose interest in the company, find a way to stress your continued eagerness to work there.

“I was pretty sure I wanted to work for your company before, but after visiting your HQ, I’m doubly sure.”

“Visiting your company and talking with you has only sharpened my already keen interest in joining your team.” 

Try to mention something specific or personal in your post interview thank you mail

Try to make some reference to something that came up during the interview, something personal or something that impressed you about the setting. 

“I was really struck by the collegial atmosphere of your office, where a couple of programmers might take a 15-minute break from creating the next killer app to sneak in a game of Ping-Pong.”

“You have such a beautiful campus! I loved the duck pond and the cherry blossoms.”

“You raised some great points about the highly competitive nature of the field, and I hope my skills can help address these issues.”

Offer to provide anything else the employer might need

Express your willingness to provide any additional information that the recruiter might want to see. Here’s an example of how you can supply additional information in your follow up email after an interview:

“If there is any further info I can provide to help you make an informed decision — additional samples of my work, references from past employers or anything else — please don’t hesitate to let me know.”

Did you forget anything, or does anything bear repeating?

It’s possible that in the heat of the moment, you forgot to say something important that you really want the hiring manager to know. Or perhaps you’ve thought of a much better answer to a question that caught you flat-footed before. A thank you note gives you an opportunity to fill in any blanks.

Also, there may be something in your experience that you did mention, but you really want it to stick in the recruiter’s mind. There’s no rule that says you can’t stress your greatest successes, even if you’ve mentioned them before.

“It occurs to me that in our interview I failed to mention that I was a co-winner of the 2006 Pulitzer Prize in Investigative Reporting for our series on the deplorable conditions at chicken farms in the South, which is linked here.”

Close with a professional sign-off

You may choose the time-honored “Sincerely” or any alternative that sounds professional and appropriate, including “Best regards,” “All my best,” or simply “Thanks again.” 

Below this, type your full name and repeat your key contact info, such as your phone number and email address.

How soon do you send a follow up email after an interview?

Ideally, you should send a thank you email within hours of an interview, or no later than the next day (use your common sense to choose the appropriate time, considering the time of day for the interview, the working hours of the hiring manager etc.). 

There’s really no good reason to wait any longer. The interview is fresh in your mind, and hopefully in the interviewer’s mind as well. Don’t make it an afterthought, as if it slipped your mind for three days.

Can I send a thank you email after an interview a week later?

Most recruiters would probably think it odd if you waited a week to send a thank you note. 

In fact, they might suspect that your tardy thank you is a sly way of nudging them to get back to you with an answer. You don’t want to run the risk of making it look like your thank you email is a stealthy attempt to get them to make a decision.

Sincerity is still valued in the corporate world, contrary to popular opinion (since we are all still human). A speedy “thank you” seems like genuine gratitude, while a follow up after a week might look like a pushy hint or lack of tact.

How long should a thank you email be?

A thank you note or follow up email after an interview should never be longer than one page — not does it need to fill the entire page. Three or four paragraphs should do the trick, just enough to address most or all of the topics discussed above.

Remember that recruiters and hiring managers are busy people. Consider two points:

• By showing them you value their time, you are more likely to win them over
• A relatively short but expressive email is more likely to be read, while an overly long email will likely just be closed with an irritated eye-roll.

Do employers respond to thank you emails?

Employers often don’t respond to thank you emails, but don’t read too much into this. 

If you haven’t received a “You’re welcome” to your “Thank you,” it may be because the company is still interviewing candidates, winnowing its list, preparing invitations for a second interview, or even drafting your offer letter. 

Be patient when waiting for a response, but don’t get upset if you don’t receive one. The job hunt is a numbers game and the best (and most successful) candidates are the ones that use interviews as a chance to improve and learn. Your life doesn’t center around one job application, but a philosophy of learning and growth can definitely lead to your dream job.

Best of luck in finding the job that’s right for you!

Resume.io is a leading global provider of resume templates , cover letter templates, occupation-specific examples and guides to writing these documents, and many other types of professional career advice. Browse through our pages to find real-world answers to questions that job seekers often ask.

So you got a job interview? Congratulations! That must be quite the resume and cover letter you’ve put together. What you want to do now is go to the interview and be so impressive that all other interviews are canceled and the hiring manager invests all of their stock in you, right?

With this interview guide, we’ll get you there.

We’ve put together an interview guide about what to do before, during, and after a job interview to get hired, covering everything from what to wear to what to say and do. We’ve even gone so far as to include tips on what to eat before the interview and how to get a good night’s sleep on interview eve. And just in case our tips weren’t enough, we asked some interview experts to chip in with their advice too.

Here are several things you should be doing before your interview:

• Prepare for your job interview by researching the company, rehearsing answers to common questions and preparing some questions of your own.
• Carry out a practice interview with a friend and get feedback on your answers.
• Plan out your journey ahead of time and aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
• Prepare your appearance — ready your outfit the night before and make sure you look the part, outfit smart, hair neat, teeth and fingernails clean.
• Pack printed copies of your resume, a list of references, and a notebook and pen into a bag to take with you.
• Work on your body language. Be ready to smile, maintain eye contact, and greet everyone you meet with a firm handshake.
• Get a good night’s sleep (eight hours if possible) and enjoy a healthy meal to set you up right for the big day.

In these pandemic times, it is likely that you will have a first-round job interview. It may be a phone or video interview first to limit exposure. That doesn’t mean you should skimp on any of these steps. First impressions count. Please wear pants as part of your interview outfit! Shorts are comfortable, no doubt, but they aren’t a great job interview “uniform”. You wouldn’t want to lose that dream job offer because the hiring manager saw something that made them uncomfortable.

What do employers look for during an interview?

Typically, a face-to-face job interview lasts around 45 minutes to one hour. While that can seem like a long time for you as the interviewee, it’s not a great deal of time for a hiring manager to fully assess whether you’re the right person for the job. As well as assessing your answers, our interview guide suggests they'll be looking for the following:

• Appearance — How well are you turned out? Are you dressed smartly and professionally in a way that fits with company culture?
• Body language — Are you someone with a presence that commands respect and gives off the vibe of success, or are you more introverted and withdrawn?
• Confidence — Do you show assurance; that you’re qualified for the role and able to handle challenges and responsibilities?
• Knowledge — Do you understand the language, etiquette and culture of the company?
• Personality fit — Are you the sort of person that the hiring manager would like to have around?

The tips we’ll get to soon will help you tick these boxes, but it’s worth knowing that an interview is more than a Q&A session.  

How to prepare for your job interview

You’ve probably heard the saying by Benjamin Franklin, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” You’ve also probably heard the saying, “You’ve only got one chance to make a great first impression,” (or some form of it) by Stephanie Perkins, among others.

They’re both great sayings. Because they’re both true. Especially when it comes to job interviews. While there will be other interviews, there won’t be another interview for this job if this one doesn’t go well. In the days before the job interview, you should set aside some time to prepare to make a good impression by doing the following: 

Research the company

Learn everything there is to know about the company and the job role you’re interviewing for. The internet has made this task easier than ever. The interview guide details where to look to find out about what the company does, its culture, achievements, and public perception.

• The company website — Read each page of the site thoroughly to learn about the team, understand the company's history, and its services. Social media profiles — You’ll find links to these on the company website. Social media will give you an idea of the company’s culture and how they portray themselves to the public. A LinkedIn company page will also give you links to employee profiles that you can use to see how people within the company describe their job roles. While you’re researching, take the time to follow the company’s accounts, like their posts, or leave a comment here and there. Engaging with posts can put you on their radar before the job interview. Don’t overdo it, though. Liking, sharing, and commenting on everything can come across as desperate.
• Google — Well, because Google. Search for any company news stories and press releases, particularly recent ones.
• Glassdoor — Millions of employees use this platform to review companies and provide their experiences of working there. Look for the company and see what current and previous employees have to say about it. It’s likely to reveal some things that you won’t find on the company website or social media. You may even find some job interview questions hiring managers like to ask.

Make an interview guide “cheat sheet” with bullet points and keep what you learned at the forefront of your mind in anticipation of the interviewer asking the “So, what do you know about the company?” question. If that does come up, use what you know in answers or questions of your own. A little example for you: A few years back I was interviewing for the role of a copywriter at an e-commerce company. A few days before the job interview I’d read an article about how the company was rolling out a purpose built content management system (CMS). I was able to bring that up in the interview to demonstrate my own credentials.

“I read in the local paper that you were rolling out your own CMS. Congratulations! I wrote the copy to describe and promote a new CMS last year. I know how big of an undertaking that is.” I doubt that answer alone got me that new job, but it certainly helped.

Know your resume inside out

Your resume will come up a lot in your job interview. The hiring manager will use it to fuel their questions, so you need to be ready to address everything in a way that backs up what you have down on paper. Print out copies of your resume and read through them thoroughly to etch them in your memory. Your resume presents your career path, so be ready to explain the moves you have made as well as the skills you have.

Practice, practice, practice

You won’t know exactly which questions an interviewer will ask until you get into the room, but interviews are fairly predictable in that questions are more or less along the same lines.

Glassdoor sifted through thousands of interview reviews to find the most common job interview questions. This list was 50 strong, but here are the 10 that stand out to us as the most likely to be asked:

• Describe yourself.
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Why should we hire you?
• Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years?
• Why are you interested in working for [insert company name here]?
• What are your salary requirements?
• What motivates you?
• What can you offer us that someone else can not?
• Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of.

As well as these standard questions, be ready to face a scenario-based question or two. These questions test your problem-solving ability and whether you will fit in with the team’s style.

For example, if you're interviewing for a management position, the interviewer might throw a leadership question at you: “You notice that a member of your team isn't following orders and seems constantly distracted or disinterested. What would you do in this situation?” Or: “Two members of your team don't get along and come to individually complain about each other. How would you resolve the issue?”

Write down your answers to these questions and practice your answers out loud in the mirror. Once you’re happy with your answers, ask a friend to play the role of the interviewer and give you some feedback on your answers. The more comfortable you are with your answers, the more confident you’ll be if and when these questions come up during the job interview process. Keep what you know about the company culture in mind when you write your questions.

What are the most common questions to ask an interviewer?

Job interviews are a two-way street. You’ll be given the opportunity to ask a few questions of your own and you’ll be expected to take them.

But don’t just ask questions for the sake of it. This part of the job interview can make or break you. Think carefully about what to ask. Your questions should show your interest in the role and the company. Avoid anything that’s been covered earlier in the interview or things that might show a lack of interest or work ethic.

Here are a few questions to ask that can work in your favor:

• Could you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the role?
• What types of training opportunities are available to employees?
• How would you describe the work culture?
• What kind of challenges are you facing in your role?
• How do you measure and review performance?
• Is there a possibility of a promotion in the future?
• What characteristics would you say are needed to succeed in this role?

If salary negotiation will likely be part of the job interview, make sure to do your research about what you can expect to earn and speak confidently about your wishes.

Now here are some questions you should avoid:

• What does your company do?
• How many hours will I have to work each week?
• Can I work from home?
• How much will I be paid?
• When can I book vacation time?
• Did I get the job?

If the hiring manager gives you a moment to add anything else, make sure to prepare a closing pitch about why you're the right fit for the job. In this interview guide's opinion, it is one of the most important things to say during an interview . 

Plan your journey

Do you know where the company is located? How does it take to get there? How are you getting there — car or public transport?

Plan your journey ahead of time. Have a dummy run in the week before the job interview, aiming to get to the company 10-15 minutes early. Time your trip. If you’re taking public transport, make a note of which train or bus you need to take and what time you need to set off to reach the station. And have a backup plan that factors in any road closures or delays. This might seem like overkill, but having your journey mapped out is one less stress on the day. If something happens that’s beyond your control and causes you to run late, call the interviewer and let them know. These things happen and most people are understanding. A phone call shows you respect their time.

Take these things with you

Dust off your smartest messenger bag or portfolio and fill it with these things:

• Five copies of your resume in case the recruiter didn’t get it to the hiring manager or the interviewer is someone you haven’t had previous dealings with.
• A pen and notebook to take notes. Taking notes isn’t something you have to do but it shows you’re keen and interested. Plus, they’ll give you some key points to touch on when following up. Avoid taking notes on a smartphone.
• A written version of the questions you plan to ask the interviewer and your cheat sheet of company facts. Spend a couple of minutes looking over them before you go into the job interview room.
• A list of references that you can hand to the interviewer if they ask. Check out our guide on how to seek references and when to use them.
• Some mints. Because everyone appreciates fresh breath.

Sleep well

You’re bound to be excited or nervous the night before the job interview, but you should try your best to get a good night’s sleep, ideally a good eight hours.

Here are some things you can do to help you relax and wind down.

• Take a warm bath or shower. Lifehacker says that a moderately warm (under 104°F) shower or bath of between five and 15 minutes adjusts your body temperature enough to make you feel nice and groggy. The idea is to not raise your body temperature too much so that you feel energetic.
• Turn off all screens at least an hour (better yet - two!) before bed. The blue light in TVs, computers, laptops, and mobile devices affect the levels of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin, causing you to feel more awake.
• Read a book (a print one not a digital one). According to The Sleep Council, 39% of people who are in the habit of reading before bed sleep very well.

Prepare your outfit beforehand

Get your outfit ready the night before the job interview. Make sure it’s free of creases, holes, and stains. Get your shoes ready too. Make sure they’re clean, polished, and free from scuffs or damage. You should wear what fits with the company. If you’re going into a corporate environment, traditional business attire is best — suit, shirt, tie, and formal shoes for men; suit, dress, blouse, skirt, or blazer, and formal shoes for women. Grey, navy, black, and white colors are best. If the company is more creative , you’ll probably be able to go with business casual.

What you wear can make a big difference. In fact, research shows that attractive applicants are more likely to land the job. If you’re not sure what to wear, call up the employer to ask. If you’re unable to find out, err on the side of caution and go formal. It’s better to be slightly overdressed. That shows that you’re making an effort. Going underdressed in the wrong environment, however, can give the impression that you don’t care. 

Enjoy a healthy breakfast on the morning of the interview

Breakfast is the most important meal of any day, but particularly so on interview day. A good, healthy breakfast fuels the brain, giving you energy and increasing your focus. Unfortunately, this means no Lucky Charms, Pop Tarts, or treacle bacon. Instead, you want to focus on protein, good fats, nutritious carbs, and fruit and vegetables.

If your job interview is later in the day and you need to grab lunch, stick to foods like salmon, chicken, and eggs, along with vegetables like broccoli, kale, peas, and spinach. Do not eat anything “fragrant” like onions or garlic, anything gassy like beans and Brussel sprouts, or anything that makes you lethargic like large amounts of potatoes, white bread, or pasta.  Water is good, but don’t drink so much that you’ll be running to the bathroom every few minutes. Coffee is good in moderation too — a cup 30 minutes before your job interview can make you less tired and more alert.

Stay calm

Inhale. Exhale. In through the nose and out through the mouth. Before you enter the building, find somewhere quiet to gather your thoughts, breathe, and compose yourself. You can use the STOP method to help you do this:

• Stop what you’re doing
• Take a breath
• Observe what is going on physically, mentally, and emotionally
• Proceed with what you were doing, making the effort to learn from what you’ve observed

Remember that interviews aren’t an interrogation, they’re a conversation to work out whether you’re a good fit for each other. And most importantly, remember: whatever happens in life - you’ll be fine. You’ve been through plenty of stuff, you’ll get through this as well, regardless of the outcome. Don’t raise the stakes for yourself, remember the big picture and be calm about your journey.

What to do during the job interview

Okay, you're fully prepared. You've arrived early and you're ready to go. Here's what you need to do when the interview kicks off.

Make sure you look the part

As much as we all deny judging people by their appearance, that’s exactly what we do. According to this article by Forbes, how we look is directly linked to the jobs we get and how much we get paid for work. When you enter the room, the interviewer will most likely look you up and down, probably subconsciously. You might not even notice it, but it will happen. We all do it. You need your appearance to make a good first impression.

We’ve already covered the outfit, but you should take time to make sure your hair is tidy, nails are clean, and breath is fresh. (This is where the mints come in handy). If you arrive early for the job interview, ask to use the bathroom and give your appearance the once over before you’re called in. It sounds superficial, but if you’re evenly matched with another candidate, dressing smartly can be the difference-maker.

Show off your good manners

Manners are great. They cost nothing, yet can work wonders in endearing you to a hiring manager and the company. Be polite and respectful to every person you encounter when you arrive at the company, from the security guard in the parking lot to the receptionist to the people you pass in the corridor. Greet everyone with a smile and a “Hi.” Expect that the potential employer will ask these people for feedback.  

Nail the body language

What you don’t say during the job interview is every bit as important as what you do say. Studies suggest that body language accounts for between 50% and 70% of all communication. Your facial expressions, gestures, and posture will tell a hiring manager a lot about you as a person. You need to come off as confident and accessible. This starts the second you walk through the door of the interview room.

• Start with a smile and a warm greeting. Offer a firm handshake (don’t attempt to crush any fingers) and introduce yourself . Tell the hiring manager that it’s great to meet them.
• Maintain eye contact throughout, breaking every so often so that it doesn’t feel threatening. This shows that you’re interested and paying attention.
• Sit up straight with your shoulders back. This indicates friendliness and openness.
• Keep your arms and legs unfolded to avoid giving the impression that you’re defensive or closed off.

These are all simple things to do that will help build a rapport with the hiring manager.

Be authentic

Given the situation, it’s hard to fully relax and be yourself in a job interview, but you shouldn’t put on an act either. The interviewer is trying to get an idea of whether you’re a good culture and professional fit for the team and you trying to be someone you’re not will affect you if you do get the job.

The best way to be authentic is to simply be truthful. Where possible, always link your answers to examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements. If you can’t answer a question, don’t be afraid to admit it. Honestly is always better than faking it, and a hiring manager will respect you for that.

Be concise with your answers

Time is of the essence during an interview so being able to speak well and concisely is one of the top skills that will get you hired . The hiring manager wants to learn as much about you and your skills as a candidate as possible. Keep your answers short, to the point, and related to the question you’ve been asked. Anecdotes about when you solved a problem, overcame a challenge, led a team, did something interesting, or made a mistake are fine, but don’t let your stories go off on tangents or ramble on too long. Here are a few ways to help make sure you get right to the point:

• Put together some key points you want to touch upon for common interview questions (see #3)
• Take a few seconds to process the question before answering. Use the pause to repeat the question in your head and gather your thoughts before speaking.
• Wear a watch and take a subtle look at how long it’s taking you to answer a question. Two minutes is a good timeframe for an answer.

Don’t bad mouth current or ex-employers

In her regular U.S. News column, Alison Green was asked a question from a reader about a recent job interview.

“My interviewer asked why I left a previous job, I answered that "I felt my managers were too immature for their position.” Green’s answer: “Ouch. Honestly? It's very unlikely that I'd hire a candidate who said that.”

The interview is about how you can fit into a team and help solve problems and that’s the narrative you should stick to. Any badmouthing of former co-workers or bosses, even if the experience was particularly unpleasant, can raise questions in the mind of the hiring manager — questions that are listed by Green as part of her answer:

• What's the other side of this story?
• Is this person impossible to please?
• Do they not have reasonable expectations of their manager? Will they be a pain in the neck to have on staff?
• Are they going to quit here, too, the first time something happens that they don't like?
• Are they going to be bad mouthing me someday too?
• Why doesn't this person realize that you don't say things like that?

You don’t want a hiring manager thinking these things about you during a job interview. If you’re feeling discouraged in your current role or felt aggrieved by how you were treated in your last job, reframe it as a positive. Talk about what you’ve gained from the experience and how you feel this opportunity is the right challenge, at the right time of your career.

What to do after the job interview

You've left the interview room and you're feeling good. Things went well. But you don't know whether you've landed the job yet. Here's what to do next.

Assess the interview

As soon as the interview is done, take stock of how it went. Write down the questions you were asked, along with your answers. This will be useful material to refer to if there’s a follow-up interview. It will also help you identify anything that you missed or wish you’d said so you can improve in future interviews. If you happened to mention one of these 14 things you should never say in a job interview , make note of that too, so you can prepare if you are given the opportunity to answer the same question in the future.

If you are ultimately turned down for the position, remember not to take it too personally. While it might really suck in the moment, there are more and better opportunities waiting for you. Just check out the real-life examples in our blog about rejection during job interviews .

Follow up

Follow up with the hiring manager by sending a thank you email after the interview as soon as possible, ideally on the same day. This will help you stay front-of-mind and make a good impression. Keep your email concise. Show the hiring manager you appreciate their time and the opportunity, and touch upon the following points:

• Something that you shared during the interview, a story or common bond, for example. Maybe you talked about your family or pets or the weather. Anything that is unique to your job interview that you can mention will make you memorable.
• Why you feel you’re the right fit for the company and how you’d love the opportunity to join the team. Reiterate how your skills and interests make you right for the role.
• Any information that can strengthen your case that you didn’t explain in the interview — a link or sample of work you’ve done that relates to a problem the company is struggling with, for example. You can use your job interview assessment to help you with this.
• If you met or had conversations with other members of staff during your visit to the company, consider sending an email expressing your gratitude to those people too. It can only help your case.

If you're lucky enough to land multiple job offers, you may need to decline one or more of them. Doing this with grace and professionalism can go a long way in helping you preserve a good relationship with the company – you never know when your paths might cross again. Here are our top tips for declining a job offer .

Job interview tips from the experts

Remember earlier how we mentioned interviews being a two-way street? Well, we wanted to get some perspective from the men and women on the other side of the table. We approached some interview experts — people who have been through the hiring process countless times — for their best tips on impressing an interviewer. They didn’t disappoint.

Stephen Hart, CEO, Cardswitcher

“Interview the person interviewing you. Interviews should be a conversation between you and the person conducting the interview on behalf of the business. It can be easy to forget that when you walk into a room, facing a stony-faced group of managers with notepads in front of them. You should be interviewing them, and finding out if the job is a good fit for you, as much as they should be interviewing you. Do your research on the company and come up with a list of questions that are uniquely tailored to that business and its situation.

As well as giving you a much better idea of the demands of the role and what the company is like to work for, this approach is really useful at leaving a good first impression.”

Rafe Gomez, co-owner, VC Inc. Marketing

“The key to differentiating yourself from other applicants in your job interview and making yourself irresistible to a prospective employer is to present yourself as the exact solution who can help the company to attain its specific goals. If — by using data, facts, and before/after anecdotes — you can prove that you have the experience to deliver make these goals a

reality, you will not only ace the interview, you'll also get the job.”

James Rice, Head of Digital Marketing, WikiJob

“Ask the interviewer if it would be OK to connect on LinkedIn and, if they give permission, send your request after the interview. This will help you to stick in their memory and make sure they can see your recently updated profile and recommendations. Even if they don’t choose to offer you the job on this occasion, you will be able to stay in touch and it could lead to opportunities later on.”

Maribel P. Aleman, MBA, PCC, Leadership and Executive Coach, Aleman & Associates

“Turn-off the “sell” mode. This is where you want to be authentic and engage in a real conversation. Listen to others at the table, respectfully share what you’re passionate about and find what you have in common.”

Danielle Roberts, co-founder, Boomer Benefits

1. “Something new in the world of interviewing is that companies like ours are conducting their first job interviews via video technology. The best way to prepare for an interview like this is to thoroughly read up on the company you are interviewing with before the interview because once you start the interview, you only have a minute or two to think before you must record your answers, so you don't want to be caught off guard on a question that asks about what you know of the company, its brand, its online presence, etc.”

Carlotta Zimmerman, J.D, Success Strategist and Writer, CarlottaWorldWide.com

“Have 3-5 talking points, i.e. issues that you want to stress to the hiring manager that speak of your experience, expertise and all the value you bring to the job. Don't wait to be asked kids, this is your time to SHINE, and don't presume they know about your secret skills and that time you saved the boss' hide: TELL. THEM. EVERYTHING.”

Jon Hayes, Marketer, Authority Hacker

“Be honest about your flaws. Honesty and openness are becoming an increasingly important trait in today's world. When I ask someone what their biggest weakness is, I'm really trying to find out how open and introspective the candidate is. If they come up with a canned response that's clearly not true, that instantly raises a red flag for me!”

Sara Curto, CHRL, CPRW, Career Management Specialist, SaraCurto.ca

“In the new world of interviewing the weakness question has evolved which means you can't use the typical weakness that isn't a weakness stock answer. Instead, focus on a journey story — describe a time in your career that you overcome an obstacle and how you are who you are today because of that obstacle.”

Jeff Rizzo, Founder and CEO, RIZKNOWS LLC.

“Companies, including our own, are increasingly moving toward implementing acumen tests during in-person job interviews. As such, candidates should inquire directly if there will be a skill test and, if so, what the test will entail—there is no shame in asking. In fact, we actually see it as a positive indicator that the individual is serious about the position and has thought critically about our business.”

Nooria Khan, Content Marketing Executive, Gigworker

“A person must be in full control of his/her body language because an interview is not just about where one is analyzed on the basis of area of interest, skills, and knowledge, but it's also a kind of psychological test nowadays. I'm saying this because the choice of words and body and face expressions say a lot about a candidate’s attitude and personality. Many businesses prefer uniqueness and good personalities in their employees.”

The job interview is about how you can fit into a team and help solve problems and that’s the narrative you should stick to. Any badmouthing of former co-workers or bosses, even if the experience was particularly unpleasant, can raise questions in the mind of the hiring manager — questions that are listed by Green as part of her answer:

• What's the other side of this story?
• Is this person impossible to please?
• Do they not have reasonable expectations of their manager? Will they be a pain in the neck to have on staff?
• Are they going to quit here, too, the first time something happens that they don't like?
• Are they going to be bad mouthing me someday too?
• Why doesn't this person realize that you don't say things like that?

You don’t want a hiring manager thinking these things about you during an interview. If you’re feeling discouraged in your current role or felt aggrieved by how you were treated in your last job, reframe it as a positive. Talk about what you’ve gained from the experience and how you feel this opportunity is the right challenge, at the right time of your career.

Key takeaways

The very fact you’ve landed a job interview guide is testament to your skills and accomplishments. You have what the company is looking for. You wouldn’t have got this far if you didn’t. The tips in this post are all about backing up your resume and reaffirming what the hiring manager already thinks.

Remember the key things:

• Prepare well. Do your research and use your knowledge of the company to impress the hiring manager.
• Practice like crazy. Write down the common questions and come up with answers to each. Have a friend play the role of the interviewer to help you fine-tune your responses.
• Be positive in how you greet the people you meet at the company and in your body language — good posture, warm smiles, and firm handshakes.
• Be authentic and concise with your answers. If you don’t know something - say so, the hiring manager will respect you for it.
• Job interviews are a two-way street. This is as much about seeing if the company is right for you as the company seeing if you’re right for them.

Nail these points and any hiring manager will have a hard time saying no.

Bam! Just when you thought you’d made it safely through your job interview, the boss drops a nightmare question on you. A question so unexpected that you didn’t even prepare for it. Your stomach churning, you try every possible combination of all the good interview words you know. Your interviewers smile as they show you the door, but you’re sure you’ve blown it thanks to that one, demon question.

Perhaps it was a weird question. Something designed to test your creativity or probe your personality. Or perhaps it was something HR wasn’t supposed to ask you about. Your age, your children, your ethnicity. Still, it makes you wonder: was there a better way I could have answered that question?

Resume.io wants you to be as prepared as possible for your next job interview. So, we surveyed 2,000 Americans to find out the worst questions they’ve ever been asked. We found out a lot about the way interviewers think, and also about the sexism and other discrimination jobhunters still have to navigate in interviews.

We also figured out the best way to answer difficult questions like these. Read on for the worst job interview questions people like you still get asked – and our new guide on how to answer them.

Key findings

• The most difficult question to answer according to our survey is: “How many gas stations are there in the United States?”
• Women are more likely than men to be asked why they should be hired and where they see themselves in 5 years.
• A quarter of interviewees (25%) have been asked about their relationship, and another quarter have been asked about their experiences with police and law enforcement.
• You are 18% less likely to be asked an illegal question at a job interview in the Midwest region.

Top 10 worst job interview questions (and how different groups feel about them)

Your job interviewer may think they’re being pretty original with their leftfield questions – but chances are, they’ve stumbled on a regular doozie. This interactive chart shows the questions consistently rated ‘hardest to answer’ by our survey participants. Click on a question to reveal the gender and age breakdown of those who rated it the worst question.

Just how many gas stations are there in the United States? It’s a bit of a trick question. Unless you’re interviewing for BP, your interviewer doesn’t really need this figure. Rather, they want to see how you think. Try to show a calm, methodical approach to guestimating the number. (The actual answer is around 111,000, but check our infographic below for a better way to respond.)

The top ten most difficult questions are divided between thought experiments like the gas stations and relatively sensible (but tough) ‘real world’ enquiries. What is your biggest weakness is the most-feared question by 11% of respondents. How to answer? Be honest about a professional weakness, but illustrate the steps you’re taking to improve.

The questions that interviewers ask women more than men and vice versa

Our survey data showed us that women and men don't get asked the same questions with the same frequency. So we compiled a couple of charts to show what you are more likely to be asked, depending on your gender.

Women are expected to prove their ‘worth’ in job interviews. They are more commonly asked about their strengths and weaknesses, and even why they should be hired. It’s hard not to feel that “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” is related to plans for having children. Of course, motherhood doesn’t impair a woman’s ability to do her job, but it can negatively impact colleagues’ perception of a mother’s competency – and her salary.

On the other hand, “employers read fathers as more stable and committed to their work,” according to Michelle Budig, Professor of Sociology at UMass. Instead of their plans, interviewers grill men about their legal, political, and religious backgrounds. And Black men are more likely to be asked about politics than white men. It seems that interviewers are most concerned with the competence of women and the potential of an unwelcome intellectual or criminal surprise from men.

How to answer the toughest job interview questions

You can never be 100% prepared for a job interview. However, if you work hard and learn to expect the unexpected you stand a pretty good chance of making a positive impression.

Try to learn not just the answers we’ve suggested to the toughest questions, but the thinking behind our suggestions. Stay calm, stay professional, and use those burning questions as a chance to demonstrate your experience or thought process to your interviewer. Perhaps you’ll 12 they didn’t expect.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

How did we find out the worst interview questions? 

We looked at articles on the “worst” interview questions from sources including Inc.com, Glassdoor, The Ladders, The Balance Careers and the Society for Human Resource Management (full list of sources below). From these sources we compiled a longlist of 272 terrible interview questions . We narrowed this down to 40 questions by selecting the ones that were frequently mentioned, and the ones deemed illegal or borderline illegal by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

How did we gauge public opinion? 

We worked with Savanta to conduct a survey with a representative sample of 2,000 American adults (18+). Using our 40 worst questions, we asked participants to select the ones they’ve been asked in interviews, and vote for the ‘worst’ question of all. Below you’ll find a breakdown of all the questions and answers:

Q1 Have you ever been asked any of the following types of questions in a job interview?

33% selected ‘Previous salary questions’
E.g. What were you earning at your last position?

23% selected ‘Questions about children’

E.g. Do you have children? Are you planning to have children?

20% selected ‘Offbeat personality questions’
E.g. If you were an animal, which animal would you be? If you were a superhero what would your superpower be?

18% selected ‘Task-based questions’

E.g. You have one minute to persuade me to buy this pen - GO!

17% selected ‘Disability questions’

E.g. Do you have a disability?

16% selected ‘Impossible thought experiments’

E.g. How many gas stations are there in America? How many lightbulbs are there in this building?

15% selected ‘Relationship questions’

E.g. Are you married? Are you single? Are you planning to get married?

13% selected ‘Questions about clothing’

E.g. Why did you come dressed like this today? What sort of clothes do you like to wear to work?

Q2 Have you ever been asked any of the following types of questions in a job interview?

 

30% selected ‘Age-related questions’

E.g. How old are you? What year did you graduate? When are you planning to retire?

25% selected ‘Questions about legal trouble’

E.g. Have you ever been arrested? Have you ever been stopped by the police? Have you ever been questioned or detained by the police?

23% selected ‘Questions about drug use’

E.g. Do you use drugs? Have you ever used drugs?

23% selected ‘Questions about ethnicity’

E.g. Where were you born? Where are you from?

18% selected ‘Questions about childcare’

E.g. Do you have adequate childcare? Do you have children you'll need to pick up from school? What happens if your child gets sick?

18% selected ‘Questions about religion’

E.g. Are there any religious holidays which you observe? Will your religious practices affect your ability to do your job?

12% selected ‘Questions about political views”

E.g. Who did you vote for in the last election?

10% selected ‘Questions about sexual orientation’

E.g. Are you gay?

Q3 Which of the following types of interview questions do you find hardest to answer?

20% selected ‘Questions about strengths and weaknesses’

E.g. What's your biggest strength? What's your biggest weakness?

16% selected ‘Self-promotion questions’

E.g. Why should we hire you ahead of any other candidate?

14% selected ‘Impossible math questions’

E.g. How many gas stations are there in America? How many lightbulbs are there in this building?

13% selected ‘Questions about specific experiences’

E.g. Can you tell me about a time that failed to complete your work on time? Can you tell me about a work situation where you solved a problem?

12% selected ‘Task-based questions’

E.g. You have one minute to persuade me to buy this pen - GO!

11% selected ‘Offbeat personality questions’

E.g. If you were an animal, which animal would you be? If you were a superhero what would your superpower be?

Q4 Which of the following questions have you been asked in job interviews?

42% selected - Why should we hire you?

41% selected - Why do you want this job?

40% selected - What are your greatest strengths?

39% selected - Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

38% selected - Why did you apply for this job?

38% selected - Why do you think you’re a good fit for our company?

34% selected - Are you a team player?

32% selected - What is your greatest weakness?

23% selected - Describe a time when you failed and how you handled it.

23% selected - What do you think your starting salary should be?

21% selected - What didn't you like about your last job?

19% selected - What would your last boss say about you?

18% selected - Can you explain these gaps on your résumé?

18% selected - How has your education prepared you for your career?

17% selected - What was the worst thing about your last job?

17% selected - How honest are you?

16% selected - What would your colleagues say about you?

13% selected - Aren’t you overqualified for this position?

13% selected - How do you feel about working for a younger manager?

11% selected - What is the worst decision you have ever made?

9% selected - What would your worst enemy say about you?

8% selected - Aren’t you underqualified for this position?

Q5 Which of these questions would you find hardest to answer?

16% selected - How many gas stations are there in the United States?

13% selected - You have one minute to persuade me to buy this pen - GO!

12% selected - Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

12% selected - Why should we hire you?

11% selected - What is your biggest weakness?

8% selected - Describe a time when you failed and how you handled it.

8% selected - Why do you want this job?

7% selected - If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?

6% selected - What would your worst enemy say about you?

6% selected - What was the worst thing about your last job?

 

Your phone buzzes and you get “the alert.” Your email inbox shows a new Zoom link.  You get a FaceTime notification from that recruiter you talked to. You discover a voicemail message with an invitation to a phone interview.  Regardless of which one of those methods was chosen for the conversation, this is your new job opportunity . The one you’ve been waiting for. It’s an email from that company you sent three separate applications to. And you might have messaged the VP on LinkedIn. Can anyone blame you for being eager to secure that job interview ?

Here’s the good news: They liked your application ! They want to talk to you more about the job on a phone call or in a Zoom session . 

But then you realize: Oh no. You need to prepare for a telephone interview. You’re terrible at phone interviews! Here’s the deal these days: You will be doing a lot of your work on the phone or a video call, so get used to it and get prepared. This is a great way to show recruiters that your professionalism will shine even in trying circumstances. On the plus side, most screening interviews will be by phone, so you won’t have to drag out your work clothes right away (although we will provide a quick primer with bonus tips for video interviews at the end of the article). Until employers feel more comfortable with in-person interviews and face-to-face meetings, this will be the norm.

In this article we will explore the following:

• 10 of the most common phone questions and how to answer them
• Discuss how to prepare for a phone interview
• Tips on how to make the most of a phone interview
• Consider which questions you might wish to ask the interviewer

Don’t stress. Every job seeker—from CEOs to apple pickers—has to get through critical steps in the search for their dream position. All you need is practice for when that phone rings.

10 phone interview questions and answers list

While it is never a good idea to over-prepare for specific telephone interview questions and answers, you can be relatively certain that some version of the most common questions will crop up. The question might sound slightly different, but the information that the interviewer will be looking to find out will be the same.

Here are ten of the most common questions:

1. Tell me about yourself.

It’s the infamous TMAY question. It comes in many forms but they all mean basically the same thing: Pitch me on yourself as a professional.

You should expect this question. The number one thing hiring managers are looking for in a phone screening is fit within the company culture, and TMAY questions are a good measuring tool for fit.

It’s a little tricky. How can you encapsulate an entire human life into a few sentences? Should you talk about every past job? College? Hobbies? Family? This confusion is why some people are more comfortable composing a resume (which is fact-based) than writing a cover-letter (which is similar to a TMAY screening in that it showcases personality).

Of course, it’s a balancing act, you want to give a quick but broad impression of yourself that doesn’t last more than 90 seconds. Give a sense of your professional self and offer a glimpse of your off-the-clock personality, within reason. What do you value in your work ethic? What are you proud of in your chosen profession and career history? Focus on things like that. Definitely leave out your crazy college escapades.

The key here is to end this question with a bang instead of that awkward fizzling conclusion by telling why you applied for the job. It’s a great strategy to make sure your TMAY answer brings you and the interviewer up to the present day.

Of course, it’s a balancing act, you want to give a quick but broad impression of yourself that doesn’t last more than 90 seconds.

To avoid that awkward fizzling conclusion, always end your answer with the reason you applied for the job. It’s a great strategy to make sure your TMAY answer brings you and the interviewer up to the present day.

2. Why did you decide to leave your last job?

We’ve talked about this trap before. Asking about your last position in a job interview invites a lot of negativity into the room. Whether you quit, were laid off, or your company simply dissolved, it’s a tempting opportunity to complain.

But that’s not only unpleasant for the interviewer, it is a big red flag that leaves them with the impression that you’re a complainer. Worse, they might conclude that you were the problem at your old workplace. So, whatever reason you left your last job, the critical thing is to be positive. 

One great way to flip the script is to focus on the things you’re looking for out of a new job rather than the things you disliked about the old one. Did you have a terrible manager? Now, you’re looking for a strong mentor.

Weren’t paid enough? Now you’re looking for a job with more growth potential. If you do it right, you’ll leave the interviewer thinking about how they can satisfy the things you’re looking for rather than what might have gone wrong at your last job.

If you are still working at your current job, you applied for the job because the opportunity was too good to pass up. If you do say that, be prepared for the obvious follow-up question: Why?

3. How did you become interested in your chosen career path?

Every superhero has an origin story , and now it’s time to share yours. Hiring managers know that passionate employees will perform better. It’s in their best interest to hire someone who is happy with their chosen career.

Hopefully, coming up with some reasons why you chose your career won’t be too tough. If it is, it might be time to reconsider your profession.

This question is a little tougher for people with rambling careers—which in this modern age is most of us. How does someone go from programming apps to writing screenplays to applying for an HR job?

Career advisors recommend thinking about your career as a story rather than a one-time decision you made back in college.  Focus on explaining briefly how each major step led to the next. And, most importantly, how they all came together to bring you to this particular telephone screening.

4. How did you learn welding/Python/dressage?

Especially if you’re applying for a technical position, questions about your skill set are common. So if you list a technical skill on your resume, expect to get asked about it.

Think of it this way: a juggler who doesn’t know how to juggle is not a great candidate for a job at the circus.

 

On top of that, asking about the ways that you acquired the skills you mention on your resume is a great way to learn about how you approach your job. Hiring managers are listening for the way you talk about your skills, not just a confirmation you have them.

That’s why we recommend telling a story about learning the particular skill you listed on your resume. Alternatively, talk about the last time you used it. It’s a great excuse during the interview process to let your interviewer know how learning it has made you better at your job.

5. Tell us about Position X at Company Y?

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. There’s a good chance your first interviewer did very little to prepare for your first telephone conversation. They’re probably calling a dozen other candidates today, so they haven’t had time to study your cover letter . They might not remember your work history or have had the time to google your LinkedIn profile.

So it makes sense that going through resume items is one of the most common questions you’ll get on a phone screening. It’s the easiest thing for them to ask about. The piece of paper is literally sitting in their laps.

But that’s no reason to take these questions lightly. The vast majority of hiring managers will reject any candidate they suspect of lying or exaggerating on their resume.

You’re also unlikely to get to the next level if you can’t inspire some interest in your experience.

That’s why it’s important to practice telling an interviewer something interesting about every item on your resume. If you can’t think of one, why is it on there in the first place?

While we’re on the subject of explaining resume items, need any help explaining a big gap ?

6. Describe your ideal workstation.

This is a question that I’ve gotten several times and have, at times, been unprepared for. After all, why should they care how I like to set up my desk?

I’ll tell you why. It’s another one of those infamous “culture fit” questions. The interviewer wants to know how you’ll fit in in their work environment.

Knowing if you dislike open-plan offices (like many do) or if you expect to work from home some days helps them to get to know your style of work and, again, that all-important “will you fit in with the company’s culture?”

Plus it’s a chance to get a flavor for your personality. Do yourself a favor and practice this answer so you won’t be caught flat-footed, as I have been.

7. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Some positions are designed for people who want to rise through the ranks, while others might be built for “lifers,” so to speak. Which are you?

That’s something your interviewer will want to know, and that’s why you’re likely to see a variation of this question. This is another way of asking you for your career goals.

For many hiring managers, reducing employee turnover is a major goal of the hiring process. It’s almost always in your interest to emphasize a vision that would let you stay at the company you’re interviewing at for the medium term.

And if you don’t know off the top of your head how you’d answer this question, you really should do some thinking. A career plan never hurt anybody!

8. Why do you want to join our company?

Eventually, your interviewer will turn from evaluating you to evaluating your interest in the position. As we mentioned, passionate employees perform better, so they’ll want to know you can be passionate about working with them.

This question is more about avoiding the wrong answers than hitting the right ones. Hiring experts agree that focusing on the pay is a bad idea for a number of reasons.

But a worse answer is “I don’t know” or “I haven’t looked it up yet.” Hiring Manager Benjamin Spiegel over at MediaBistro explained it this way:

“I cannot begin to tell you how many interviews have gone sour because the candidate was not prepared ... Trust me: Nothing is more frustrating than having to tell our story 100 times to them.”

So do your homework, and give an honest answer that focuses on something other than money or prestige. If they don’t like the honest reason you want to work there, it’s probably not a great fit .

9. Do you have any questions for me?

There is only one acceptable answer to this question: YES!!! Asking even just one thoughtful question about the company or the position will increase your odds of being hired. Make sure you are well-versed in both the job description and the company. That will help you ask more specific questions and show off the fact that you did your homework by analyzing the job posting, the company website and corporate culture.

Ideally, you’ll be struck by something interesting said during the interview. Just in case, keep these stock questions stored at the back of your mind:

1. When did you first join the company?
2. What do you think will be the biggest challenge for the person in this role?
3. What’s your favorite part about working for this company?
4. Does the company have a mentorship program?

Keep asking until your curiosity runs out. The interviewer will let you know if they’re running out of time.

10. Are you interviewing anywhere else?

Next to money questions ( like asking for a raise ), telling an interviewer about other interviews you have scheduled is one of the more awkward questions to field. Your interview knows you’re in the midst of a job search, so it won’t be a surprise if you are.

Executive Recruiter Mike Petras points out that companies ask this for two reasons.

1. To make sure you’re not about to sign on with someone else.
2. To get a taste for how desirable a hire you are.

So it’s a narrow needle that you’ll need to thread with this answer. That’s why it’s important to practice! You want to give the impression that you’re a desirable candidate, but that you’re still on the market.

I like to keep it vague. Something like: “I’ve been interviewing at a few places. I’m keeping my eye open for the right fit.”

Preparing for a phone interview

The inability to pick up on an interviewer's visual clues means that phone interview prep is somehow even more important that preparing for a face-to-face interview (where you have far better "live" feedback cues). Here are some things you might consider when preparing for a telephone interview:

Rehearse the stories you want to tell in your head.

You can't tell someone else your career stories unless you are clear yourself in terms of what happened and why. Some of these things may have been a few years ago, so rather than umming and arring to a complete stranger over the phone, make sure that you have approached the stories from multiple angles so that they seem as fresh as yesterday. 

Playing through them in your mind will make them seem that little bit more real and your subconscious will likely remind you of subtleties that have been long-since forgotten.

Be clear about why you want the job.

As the phone interview is often the first stage of the recruitment process, one of the most important things for any interviewer to understand is why you want the job. 

When you are clear about your motivations, your answers to the questions will fit around that narrative and everything will "make sense" for your interviewer. If you aren't quite sure why you want the job, your answers won't seem so cohesive.

Ensure that you are mentally prepared. 

While there are a thousand-and-one thoughts buzzing through your brain in the days leading up to any interview, it is vital that you are able to clear your mind in the minutes (and hours) before the call itself. Tell yourself that you have prepared enough, go for a walk for some fresh air and allow yourself to dream about what this new job might mean. 

Coming into a phone interview with a positive mindset will add a sparkle to your tone of voice that will be unmistakable. It is little things like that, which could make all the difference.

Telephone interview tips you cannot afford to ignore

As you are preparing for your phone interview, it is likely that you will have read a lot of content in preparation. From our perspective, you can never be too prepared, so here are four more phone interview tips that you may wish to consider:

What do interviewers look for in a phone interview? 

A phone interview is often the first part of the recruitment process and serves as a screening mechanism rather than an in-depth exploration. Many initial phone interviews will be conducted by HR professionals rather than hiring managers, so think carefully about the level of detail that you do wish to share. 

If a phone interview discussion does get in-depth with a hiring manager, keep your statements relatively brief so they have a chance to ask clarifying questions and keep the conversation on their desired track.

What to say at the beginning of a phone interview?

One golden rule of a phone interview is to let the interviewer set the initial tone at the beginning. Don't blather on about the weather or the latest sports results and make sure that you are professional and succinct in those initial exchanges. If conversation becomes awkward, that awkwardness is unlikely to disappear quickly.

You will sense that you have licence to be a little more expansive once the interviewer warms up, so much as you would love to launch into your career highlights, be patient and let the chat develop naturally.

How long should a phone interview last?

Typically, you should be made aware of the length of the interview beforehand, but if you are not sure, make sure that you ask! This is a very normal question and it is even worth clarifying at the start of the conversation. If you do not know how long you have to chat, it is hard to manage the length of your answers.

Is a phone interview a good sign?

Yes, of course, it is a great sign! Any indication that a company is interested in hiring you is fantastic. You should seize any opportunity to explore a potential fit and both phone and video interviews are understandably common for logistical and financial reasons. 

A phone interview is not an ideal way to get to know a potential hire, but there will likely be face-to-face interview stages later along the line. You have to make the most of the phone the phone interview first. 

Part of that includes finding out more about the role, your future boss and the company culture:

So you have been fortunate enough to land a job interview in the Customer Service arena. Congratulations! Obviously, you passed the first hurdle with an excellent resume. You must have great qualifications and communication skills that led to you getting a customer service  interview in the first place. 

Whether you will be starting out working from home or going into a call center, you need to present yourself professionally, by looking and sounding your best! Remember that as a customer service representative, you need to be calm and responsive—the very same skills you will need in a customer service job. The best way to ace your interview is simple: Be prepared!

Now it's time to take the steps that will have you negotiating your salary and accepting that job offer.

Preparing for Your Customer Service Interview 

Should you review common questions and answers? 

Of course, but that’s not your first step.

What is?

First, go back to the job description and reread it carefully. Then answer the following:

1. What are the exact skills listed?
2. Can I give an example of a time when I used that skill (even if it is not in a customer service role)?
3. Can I think of a time when I received great customer service that serves as a model for me? What was great about it?
4. What conflict resolution tactics do I use? Do I have an example of success with them?
5. Complete this sentence: Great customer service means _____.

Next, research the company’s products and services. You will need to be an expert in them if you get the job, so show that you are already knowledgeable. Also, research the company culture. If your prospective employer values team players, think of a way to show that you are one during your interview. 

Now you’re ready to prepare for the most likely job interview questions you will have to answer.

Customer Service Representative Interview Questions

It's important to think about the kind of questions the hiring manager might ask you. You don't want to be caught off guard or stumbling on words when you should be impressing them with your readiness. Think through your interview answers beforehand, but remember that you may still be surprised by a question. It’s OK—in fact, it may be a plus—to take a moment to gather your thoughts before you answer. Taking your time before speaking is a step toward good customer service.

Any business looking to hire superior customer service personnel takes the interview process very seriously, as it says something about your ability to communicate and work with people in high-pressure times. After speaking with several hiring managers, we have compiled a list of common interview questions and scenarios you might hear during your interview :

• Why do you feel that you are best suited to work in the customer service field?
• Describe a situation where you went above and beyond for a customer.
• In your past experience, how have you handled a disgruntled or difficult customer?
• Why do you enjoy working in the customer service field?
• What qualities do you have that make you well suited for a position in customer service?
• Tell us about a customer service experience you had, positive or negative, that has impacted the way you approach your work.

You can break these questions into categories: Some will ask details about your work experience or career goals, but others are behavioral interview questions. In other words, the recruiter wants to know how you behave in common customer service interactions and difficult situations. You may even consider asking a friend to roleplay a few situations to give immediacy to your responses. 

 

Remember that the interviewer is looking for the skills mentioned in their job listing. Take every opportunity to exhibit them during your interview. Customer service representative jobs can be stressful because you are tasked with managing all types of customers. Being prepared will help you stay cool during your interview! 

By taking the time to really think about these questions and formulate carefully thought out answers, you are ensuring that your interview process will be considerably easier and increase your chances of a better outcome. How you speak and your level of comfort when interviewing will all be key factors in how well you interview. If you are prepared, you will be more at ease, and that comfortability will be apparent in your overall demeanor and tone. Whether your interview is face-to-face (unlikely in these times) or via phone/video , preparedness will result in a more positive outcome and a better experience for everyone involved. Also, don't forget to sell yourself! The hiring manager is impressed with you, but it's up to you to show them just how great you are. Flaunt your best qualities and show them why hiring you will make all the difference in their company.

Ask Questions During the Interview

It sounds funny to say this, but also try to remember that your interview isn't all about you . Hiring managers say that they are always impressed by job seekers who listen well and take the time to ask questions about the position and company. Be inquisitive! Especially when considering interviews that take place in the customer service field, friendliness and reciprocity are of immense importance. Most hiring managers say they look for excellent listening skills, the ability to focus, empathy, and confidence. They want someone who communicates well, and communication is a two-way street. So do a little interviewing yourself, and take the time to show interest and commitment to the mission of the company.

Here are some potential questions you may ask your interviewer:

• How will you measure my job success?
• What are the opportunities for career growth here?
• What are some challenges I might face in this job?
• What are the qualities of a person who did a great job in this customer support role?
• Who is your top competitor and why?
• What do you like about working here?

Remember that in addition to being prepared and serious about the job at hand, you should also try your best to enjoy the interview. We know interviews can be nerve-wracking and not the most enjoyable of times, but a hiring manager looking for customer service representatives wants a social person who enjoys people and social situations. Do your best to keep the conversation fluid, talk slowly and clearly, and smile. They want to see how calm and cool you are, so try not to let those interview jitters stand in the way of letting your personality shine.

Finally, remember to follow up with a thank-you email .

Good luck and go get that job!

Your stellar resume got you the interview. That’s great! Now you have to get the job.

Most red-blooded individuals find the interview process a bit unnerving. You're meeting with someone who is judging you—judging your character, your work ethic, your past accomplishments, and your promise for the future. It’s even worse if you are faced with a panel of faces and don’t know where to look or who to address. You may be nervous and fumble over an answer. It is not the most comfortable of situations, and everyone understands that. Here at Resume.io, we have compiled a list of interviewing skills that will improve your experience and help you in your quest to get your dream job in 2022. 

1. Preparation

Part of having a successful interview comes from taking the time to prepare . Winging it rarely turns out well, and an interviewer can sense ill preparation from a mile away. So, what should your preparation entail? We suggest you re-read the job description several times so that you are capable of discussing the position and the requirements associated with it comfortably. Think about how you can illustrate the desired skills with the experience you have. 

Review your resume and know it well. It’s what got you to this point so you impressed a recruiter with it. Just be aware that your interviewer may not have read it thoroughly or remember it, so refresh their memory during your interview. One thing you can do to help your chances is make sure what you wrote in your resume matches what you say on the phone or your Zoom ( Skype , Google Meet, FaceTime, whatever) call. 

We realize eye contact is difficult on a video call, but there are a couple of things you can do to improve the impression you make. Take time before your interview to set up your camera so it shows you fully facing the screen and find a spot without concert posters or silly photos on the wall behind you. If you must, blur your background to avoid distractions, but be aware that blurring uses bandwidth.

According to Forbes, 2022 career trends will move toward video interviews. This means the interview process may take longer than ever before. Employers are nervous about hiring someone they haven’t met in person, and they may now schedule three to eight interviews before making a decision. 

By the way, dress from head-to-toe in interview clothes. Not only will this prevent any mishaps where a hiring manager sees your pajama bottoms, but it will get you in the proper frame of mind. 

 Before you get an in-person interview, you may have to pass a phone screening. Check out these commonly asked phone interview questions to help you leap that hurdle. Research common job interview questions asked of candidates in your field. Take some time to formulate appropriate answers to those questions. 

Being prepared also means learning about the company or organization with whom you are interviewing. You can’t answer the question “Why do you want to work here?” if you don’t know anything about the company. Get a feel for its philosophy and how it goes about business. How? FIrst, if you know someone in the company, talk to them. If not, check out the company’s website, but also peruse LinkedIn for more information. Do a Google search for news articles or manager interviews, too. It’s better to have too much information than too little.

Consider writing down information you want to mention in your interview because the act of physically writing helps you remember. It can also help to have those notes in front of you if you are worried your nervousness will get the better of you. Just make sure to still have a human conversation with the interviewer and not stare at your notes as if it’s an exam. Remember, they’re as much of a living, breathing person as you are ; )

Once you have done all of this, you will feel prepared, and feeling prepared means that you are.

2. Speaking skills

An interview is a lot like an acting audition. You need to think about your speaking skills and work on them prior to the interview. The interview process can be a tense experience, and because of that, many people talk fast, mumble, or speak too softly. This is NOT what you want to do. Take a deep breath and practice mindful speaking. Speak slowly, maintain a sense of calm, and remember that your interviewer should be able to hear every word you say without difficulty. If you speak slowly and confidently, your words will be better absorbed, and your self-confidence will be admired.

To help you speak up, remember your body language, too. Not only does lifting your spine and guiding your shoulders down and away from your ears show confidence, but it helps you breathe easier and project your voice better. Speaking well also demonstrates your communication skills to hiring managers. If you can get your message across well during the stress of a job interview, it speaks volumes about your ability to communicate once you get the job. 

Eye contact is equally important. It connects you to your interviewers and also projects confidence. If too much eye contact makes you nervous, try looking at the interviewer’s eyebrows or chin. It will still seem as though you are looking at their eyes. You can also practice in the mirror or with a friend to become used to eye contact.

3. Listening

There are going to be two people at your interview, maybe more. Showcasing your ability to be a good listener is incredibly important. Listening skills demonstrate your thoughtfulness and ability to work on a team. Furthermore, if you do not practice good listening skills, you may miss the point of a question and give a less-than-impressive answer. Stay in the moment, and give your interviewer the respect that they deserve. Make eye contact and nod your head as you listen and make sure you understand the questions or comments coming from your interviewer.

Asking clarifying questions also shows that you were paying attention and helps avoid the embarrassment of a misunderstanding. Try to think of the interview as a conversation. Keep in mind that employers may be trying to sell you on the company as much as you are trying to sell them. Listening for important information will allow you to refer to the information in later answers, ask good followup questions, and decide whether it is the right position for you. Don’t forget, you don’t just want out of your current job and into a new job, you want the right job for you!

4. Show interest, not desperation

It is one thing to be interested in a job, and quite another to be desperate for a job. Desperation does not impress anyone. Your job is to show sincere interest in the job at hand while proving your excellent qualifications for said job. Approach every interview like it is for your dream job. It’s tough when you really NEED the job, but remind yourself that the best way to get it is through a great  interview , not by appealing to your potential employer’s sense of guilt.

Your interviewer wants to hire the best candidate, not the most desperate candidate. As the interviewee, it’s your job to present yourself as a highly qualified and professional with the work experience that makes you perfect for the position. That is what employers are looking for. No matter how much you need the job, it is crucial that you refrain from pleading or begging, as it only creates an uncomfortable and unprofessional situation. Be cool, calm, and collected. Show self-confidence through your body language and eye contact. It will pay off.

5. Show gratitude

Leave a great impression as you go. 

Once your interview is over, it is important that you end it on a high note. You want your interviewer to think, “I’m putting that person at the top of my “Hire Them!” list. Smile, say thank you, and reiterate your interest in the job if you can fit it in organically. There may be a next interview on the horizon and you want to be at the top of the call-back list. Your interview skills are important, but so is your attitude. 

But you are not quite done yet. Show your gratitude that your interviewer took the time and care to get to know you and present you with this interview opportunity. Later that day or evening, follow up with a thank-you email to further communicate your interest in the position. You do not need to write anything as extensive as a  cover letter , but mentioning a high point of the interview is a good idea. That keeps you fresh in the hiring manager’s mind and reminds them of your value.

Best of luck in your job search in 2022!

"I don't come to work for the money."

That is what too many employees would like to convey to their managers in an attempt to show how passionate they are about their work. That is exactly what their bosses want them to say. At the end of the day, wage costs are one of the most expensive lines on the company's profit and loss statement.

Then, when it comes to negotiating your salary, you are almost embarrassed to ask for a raise.

It is the same when you go for a new job. You jump through all the hoops of proving what a great asset you will be to the company and are so exhausted by the end of the process that you accept any number that they offer you.

Stop being so meek and accepting. If you do an awesome job, you deserve to be paid what you are worth. 

In this guide on how to negotiate your salary, we will explore the following:

• What is the right way to negotiate a salary?
• How to negotiate your salary during an interview
• Can potential employers ask for my current salary?
• How to negotiate your salary for your current role
• Can negotiating salary backfire?

Is it time for a raise but you don’t know how to ask? Did you just get a job offer and are nervous about asking for a higher starting salary? Many people are reluctant to discuss money, but if you don’t negotiate your salary, whether at your current position or in a new job, you are likely to leave money on the table. Asking for something from an employer is never a comfortable task, but following our salary negotiation tips may help to make your quest a little less painful.

What is the Right Way to Negotiate a Salary?

Whether you are sitting across the table from a potential boss, or chatting with someone that has known you for years, the only way to negotiate your salary is to start with an objective assessment of what you are worth.

Negotiating a salary should take a journey from what the company expects of you, what you peers might deliver in your shoes to what you actually bring to the party. You are an individual with a unique set of talents, so you deserve to be compensated accordingly. Of course, there are various corporate pay structures and rules, but they are there to be broken. If the employer is not willing to pay you what you are worth, you should consider joining a company that will.

The following six tips for negotiating a salary would work both for a current and new role, although there are clearly differences between the two situations. We will explore both scenarios through the course of this article.

How to Negotiate Your Salary During an Interview

First and foremost, we suggest that you do your  research on the company . What are you worth? What are others in your industry with your level of education and your qualifications paid? You need to know your level of worth before you can reasonably negotiate a salary. If you're not quite sure what you think your value is, ask another industry member, colleague, or former boss. 

LinkedIn and other networking and career advice sites may also be valuable in your research. It is important to know the average salary in your field, but other factors also play into what an employer is willing to pay you. Make sure your resume and cover letter make the best case for you before you even begin negotiating. With an excellent resume , you may get the offer you desire without negotiation.

One way to find out what your company is paying others is to look at job sites for your prospective employer’s current open positions. A salary range may be mentioned.

Unless you receive an extraordinary first offer, there’s room for negotiating. (Hint: Try not to tip your hand. Don’t discuss salary at your job interview and try to make sure the hiring manager gives you a number first.) Enter the salary negotiation with a firm bottom line in your head. Aim for somewhere between the mid- and high end of the salary range.

If you are working with a recruiter, you may already know the salary range as recruiters are unlikely to waste time with candidates whose salary expectations are far outside what the company is prepared to pay.

If you are negotiating for a new position, you probably have a salary offer in hand. As with any negotiation, leave yourself some wiggle room by naming a figure higher than your lowest acceptable rate, but stay within a reasonable range. You are likely to receive a counteroffer and if you start too low, you will be disappointed. On the other hand, be careful of pricing yourself out of a job by asking for much more than the top of the typical salary range. 

Most often, you should conduct the negotiation in person or by voice or video. It is acceptable to communicate via email if that is how you received your job offer .

Can employers ask for my current salary?

Did you know that it is illegal in 18 states for employers to ask you about your current salary? In addition, 21 cities or other localities have also banned asking for salary histories. That's because pay equity is an important topic in the country right now, and your rights as a worker are being fought for. Your current salary may be a result of wage bias, so it is not relevant to your worth.

If you take the time to educate yourself on what it is you really deserve, your employer will know you mean business. Never assume that your employer thinks you were underpaid in a former position. Hopefully, you weren't! Keep in mind that negotiations should never feel adversarial. You and your prospective employer essentially have the same goal. They want to hire you, and you want to be hired. The key is to respectfully convey the idea that your skills and attributes are worth something, and this can be done in a light-hearted and professional manner.

When do I discuss the salary at interview?

Once you have your salary requirements in mind, wait to hear the offer from your employer. Digest the information, take the time to think, and then let them know based on your industry research and work history, what you think you should be getting. Patience is key. 

You should not bring up salary until an actual offer is sent your way; this is when the salary negotiations start. If the employer offers something fair, of course, you won't need to be doing any negotiating, but if their offer is below standard, you can use your new-found salary knowledge as leverage to support your quest for a higher salary. Basing your salary request on actual data from the job market will help your cause. Resist the desire to bring up personal financial goals, and simply explain why your work merits a certain salary.

Do not mention financial hardship whether due to COVID-19 or for any other reason. Your job is to convince human resources of your value to the company, not tug on their heartstrings.

Remember that your compensation package includes perks as well as salary. You may accept less money if you want more vacation time, for example, or if your medical benefits are outstanding. Also, consider the compensation you may receive above your base salary. Do you get a signing bonus, stock options, or a commission package? How often can you expect a performance review and are the reviews tied to salary increases?

This is why it is essential to think before jumping to a decision. Is the offer too low? Take the whole benefits package into account. Then you can decline the job offer .

How to Negotiate Your Salary for your Current Role

If you are asking for a salary increase in your current job, your situation is somewhat similar. 

Your job is to find out what others in your industry are making. Gather your recent performance appraisals and whatever other pertinent information you have regarding your achievements at work. The bottom line is that it is up to you to build a case for your worth. Once you have compiled these things, you can present them to your employer when you are doing salary negations and confidently ask for what you deserve. 

Do keep in mind, however, that some employers are limited by budget constraints and can only give raises at certain times of the year. Patience and understanding are key in situations such as those. When you ask for a meeting about your salary be prepared! Do not talk about coworkers’ salaries or state that you deserve it. You need to remind your employer the value you add to the company.

Remember, how you see yourself is truly how others see you as well. If you exude self-confidence and assertiveness, then it is likely your potential employer will see you in a more positive light. A light that commands due respect and a higher salary to match.

Key Takeaways

Negotiating salary is quite simple. If you know what you are worth, and if salary is important to you in the context of everything else that the job provides, show the employer what difference you make.

If they are unwilling to listen, you owe it to yourself to look elsewhere. If they won't be reasonable around the question of compensation there are likely to be a whole host of other situations where they will not be the best employer.

You’re in an enviable but difficult situation.

Whether you have received multiple job offers (good for you!) or realized that a position you have been offered is not the right fit, you now have the difficult responsibility of declining job offers you will not be taking. It is important to decline properly and thoughtfully, so as not to burn any bridges and eliminate useful contacts for the future. 

One absolute: Do not “ghost” the hiring manager offering you a job! You never can be 100% sure of where your career path may take you and you may find that you have needlessly closed a door. Saying nothing is rude and implies that you do not have respect for the hiring manager 's invested time and work.

It is important to be polite, direct, and honest when handling a matter as sensitive as this. It is also essential that you handle this in a time-sensitive manner, so as not to waste any more of the hiring manager's time. Remember–filling this position is/was part of their job requirements, so it is important to show consideration for their time and efforts. Also, be aware that an open position may mean others are shouldering the extra burden until someone is hired. There is no need for you to delay the hiring process any longer than necessary.

Let's explore some polite and graceful ways to turn down a job you have applied for. Sometimes you know right away the position is wrong for you. When that happens, don’t be afraid to  tell the hiring manager right then and there. That decision will save valuable time for the hiring manager, who may be grateful and remember you later if another position opens up.

If you have an extensive history of communication with the hiring manager, you might choose to make a friendly phone call that feels more personable, however, a polite response in a letter/email can be best. This gives you time to think through what you want to say and how to say it. This also gives the hiring manager the ability to reflect on the email, and refer to it if your paths should ever cross again.

Email examples how to decline a job offer

Reaching back out

Because nothing is certain in life, it is important to maintain contacts and positive relationships with other companies. If you should find yourself in a position where the other job did not work out, you may want to reach back out to the company whose offer you declined. Once again, a thoughtful approach is required here. You do not want the company to think you're unreliable or indecisive, so a strategic plan is crucial.

You might write an email that says something like this.:

Perhaps you took another job and it served you well for a time, but it’s time to start your  job search again. You are ready for a challenge at a higher level and believe the company you once turned down may offer the opportunity you seek.

Here is an example of an email you might send:

Maybe you saw a specific job listing at the company. 

Here is an example for that case:

Here are a few tips:

• See if you can find the job listing on the company’s web site. Then, in your letter, tell the hiring manager that you saw the job advertised there. This says that you were looking specifically to work for that company.
• Don’t forget that you also do not want to burn bridges with your current company. Be as thoughtful when you  resign from your job as you are when you turn a different one down.
• Avoid negativity. For instance, never say, “I wanted the job, but the salary is too low.” In that case, you should have tried to negotiate for a higher salary.

 

So you completed a winning application form and got shortlisted for a juicy new job. The good news is you’ve already proved you’re a viable candidate. But next comes the part a lot of people dread, the job interview.

If you do your research and prepare yourself physically and mentally, you will step into the interview better equipped and more confident to answer the job interview questions you’re asked. But this is not enough by itself. There are a handful of things that interviewers love to hear without prompting – in fact, they don’t even realize they’re looking for some of these phrases until they hear them.

Be proactive. Be enthusiastic. But be focused. Use key phrases from the job description to demonstrate that you are on the same page as your interviewers. For added emphasis, illustrate how you will use these skills to benefit this specific company. Drawing a connection between your potential value and the needs of your potential employers demonstrates your engagement and passion. Saying “Here’s how I can help your company…” is the acceptable way of declaring: “I am the right person for this job.”

Be grateful, also. Business guru Suzy Welch suggests the three traits recruiters are looking for are sincerity, courage, and humility. Brave up and tell your interviewers: “ Thank you for this opportunity. I want this job.” And then send a thank-you note afterwards – it will put you ahead of three-quarters of the competition.

A little while back, we identified 14 things you should never say in a job interview . Now that you know what not to say, here are 12 proactive ways to approach the final hurdle of your job application. A handful of killer phrases you definitely should say during a job interview.

Study them. Make them your own. Then walk into the interview room, and show your potential employers you are the person they need for the job.