Making it to the end of the day

One of the questions I often ask is "tell me about the professional accomplishment of which you are most proud."

I like this question for a number of reasons. It's a chance to see how the candidate takes information they've already presented and perhaps add something new.

(This is usually one of the last questions.)

This particular candidate was interviewing for a high level position in the organization. The interview was going very well and she seemed to be connecting with everyone in the group.

Then the question: tell us about the professional accomplishment of which you are the most proud.

Her response: I've made it through it another day to 5 o'clock.

WHAT?
That's what you're hanging your hat on - you made it to the end of a work day?

We ended up hiring someone else.

Free Bagging

During a group interview, I asked the candidate to explain why she was no longer working at a store listed on her application.

She said she was fired for free bagging - that the store didn't approve of it.

The interview continued.

However, I wondered to myself - what in the world is free bagging?
So, I went back to the question. And, asked her to explain. 

Turns out free bagging is putting stuff in your friends' shopping bag they haven't purchased. They purchase 1 or 2 items, but end up taking home 3 or 4 or more items - without paying. In other words, stealing.

She seemed to have no shame about the practice.

I guess it's no surprise, we did not hire her.

You're Always On

Remember, when you interview for a job, you are "on" from the time you drive into the parking lot, enter the building and find the office.

Be yourself.

But, remember, you're being interviewed even if you aren't sitting at a table.

One thing I've done with potential hires - invite them to have lunch with the managers with whom they will be working. It's an opportunity for co-workers to evaluate the person and see them in a more relaxed situation.

So, the young man was going to lunch with 5 managers. As soon as they got in the van, he began lamenting his personal life. Apparently, he had a LOT of problems.

When they returned from lunch, they all concurred - don't hire. He's too needy. 

So, although his formal interview went quite well, he didn't get the job.

The Good and The Bad

There are a number of interview questions, which are considered standards. You should be prepared to answer them.

One question I always ask: Tell me your strengths and weaknesses.

First - be prepared. This should not be an unexpected question. Do your homework. Practice some answers.

Second - everyone has a weakness. So, please don't say, "I really can't think of a weakness." I would consider that a weakness. Plus you are not self-aware. Another weakness.

My all-time favorite answer to this question was a woman who said this:
My strength and my weakness are the same - I'm too smart. It's a strength because I'm smart. But, it's also my weakness because people are jealous.

My analysis - you are not that smart. This is a terrible answer. You're so smart, everyone is jealous of you? What?
I'm sure it's no surprise, she was not offered the position.