Interviewing

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Commonly Asked Interview Questions

Tell me about yourself.
Why did you choose to study _______?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
What are your greatest accomplishments?
Tell me about a class that you have liked at The University of Michigan and why.
Tell me about a class that you have disliked and why.
What would a former supervisor say about you?
How would you describe your work style?
How has your education prepared you for this position?
How would you describe your ideal job?
How do you determine and evaluate success?

Tell me about a time in which you worked effectively under pressure.
Tell me about a time in which you gave a presentation in front of a group of people.
Describe a situation in which you missed a solution to a problem.
Tell me about a time when you used persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way.
Describe a time when you prioritized elements of a complicated project.
Tell me about a time when you made a bad decision.
Describe an important written document you were required to complete.
Tell me about a time when you had to work in a team to get a project done.
Give me an example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.
Tell me about a time when you had to work with a person you did not like or who did not like you.
Tell me about a time when you tried to accomplish something and failed.
Describe a time when you initiated a project that was a success.

Can you tell me a little bit about your experiences with this organization?
What would be some of the challenges for a person in this position?
What are you looking for in someone to fill this position?
What type of training is offered for this position?
Can you tell me a little about the people who used to be in this position? What types of things are they doing now?
Can you tell me about a typical day?
How is feedback for my performance given?
I saw on your website that you are currently beginning XYZ; what are the expectations of that program in the near future? (Question/s demonstrating research).

Do some self-assessment. Be ready to describe to the potential employer what you can do for their organization.
Prepare to look professional. Iron your suit and shirt (or buy a suit and shirt). Polish your shoes. Get a haircut.
Research the organization and the position. Utilize a variety of resources (websites, journals and magazines, newspapers, the library) to learn important information about them.
Determine potential interview questions. Study the job description to anticipate the kinds of questions they may ask you. Practice your answers.
Make a list of potential questions to ask the interviewer.
Complete a mock interview in the U-M Career Center.

Start off on the right foot. Use a good firm handshake and be polite when introducing yourself.
Answer questions completely and speak clearly.
Ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.
Demonstrate your enthusiasm. SMILE.
Demonstrate your interest in the position. Show the interviewer that you have done your research and that your skills and qualifications match those of the position.
Use good eye contact and posture.