7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Interview

7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Interview
By: Melanie Winograd

It is not enough to dress up and arrive on time for the interview. Here are the top 7 big questions to ask yourself when trying to land your next position.

1. Are you a problem-solver?
90% of interviewees cannot answer ''problem'' questions. You should be able to tell the interviewer why they should hire you and what the company will miss out on if they do not hire you.

2. Are you getting your resume out there - in a big way?
80% do not generate enough job-seeking activity through networking to land interviews for the right jobs.

3. Can you describe your skill set and how you are the best candidate for the job?
80% cannot identify and/or describe desirable skills. A typical question is ''What are your three greatest strengths?'' Be ready with answers that include an example or brief story to illuminate your point.

4. Have you done your homework on the organization?
80% do not research companies for information and the problems they are in business to solve. You should develop your own tactful suggestions for solutions without appearing as a ''know-it-all.''

5. Would you want to hire someone like yourself?
50% have attitude problems. Most attitude problems come from fear, but show up as defiance. Hiring managers want candidates who they can train and rely on, not ones with inability to take instructions or feedback.

6. Can you communicate your answers clearly?
40% give a negative impression through poor performance during an interview.
Speak up, speak clearly, make eye contact and use facial expressions.

7. Can you withhold the urge to complain?
40% complain about past employers or bring up personal information.
Perhaps it was not your intention to complain or reveal information, but you honestly answered the beguiling ''entrapment'' question of ''Tell me a little bit about yourself.'' Caution! Stay focused on the job interview with answers about your experience, education, skills, and success. Be positive and remember, never say anything bad about a former employer or give unnecessary details about how your last job ended.