Making a good impression at a job interview

You finally found the job of your dreams. You sent your resume in a week ago and they've just called you to schedule an interview.

You'll be competing with people whose resumes look at least as good as yours. It's important, at the first interview, to make a good impression so you'll want to prepare. Here is a list of questions that are frequently asked during initial interviews:

• Tell us about yourself.
  Prepare a short, relevant characterization of yourself. Stress those strengths that would be beneficial to the position for which you are applying. Some positions require aggressiveness and strong ambitions. Others require leadership abilities, control and diplomacy.
• Why did you choose our company?
  You can respond by referencing the good reputation the company enjoys within its industry. Outline several ways in which you feel you can be useful in helping the company accomplish its objectives.
• Give us a good reason to hire you instead of another candidate.
  This is a good time for your best PR. Highlight your strong qualities, experience, extended studies, etc. Stress something that you can bring to the company that no one else can.
• What attracts you the most about this position and what is the least attractive thing about it?
  To such a question always present at least three positive aspects, but only one negative.
• What do you expect from this job?
  A good answer would be that this position offers you a great opportunity to use your experience and build the career you always wanted.
• What does an ideal work environment mean to you?
  Describe a professional environment, where there is no discrimination and the employees are treated with respect and equality.
• Why are you leaving your present job?
  If you got fired, say something about the restructure policy of the company you have been working for. Otherwise, a brief statement that it's simply time for you to move forward or that your present position no longer allows for personal and professional growth is sufficient.
• How long do you want to work for us?
  Do not make the mistake of telling them that you are looking for a temporary position until you find something better. Say that you are interested in working in this company for as long as the association is productive and beneficial for both sides.
• How would you evaluate the company you previously worked for?
  Under no circumstances should you use this opportunity to denigrate your current or previous employer or immediate supervisor. Instead, point to all the valuable experience you gained through your employment and portray your boss in a favorable light.
• Why haven't you found work by now?
  Answer that you have been offered several opportunities, but none of them corresponded to your expectations. Imply that a job is not hard to find, but finding the ideal job is a real challenge.
• Can you handle deadlines and stress?
  Present a situation where you dealt both with deadlines and stress and point out how well you managed the situation.

Put some thought into your answers to these and similar questions, dress smart, be confident and you're ready for the interview! Good luck!