Answers to Interview Questions

Give me an example of an important goal you set and describe your progress in reaching it.

Another way of asking this question could be: Do you even set goals? What are your priorities? How do you measure success?

This situational interview question is very similar to the behavioral interview question, What was your greatest accomplishment?

Even though the same techniques apply in structuring your answer, what makes this question different is, sometimes it can take years to accomplish an important goal.

Also, it is even appropriate to share a personal goal you accomplished.

Surprised?

When you reveal one of your personal goals, people get a deeper insight into your character and values. They see you more as a complete person vs just an employee.

However, if you do decide to share a worthy personal goal, it's best to share one that could also have applications in the workplace.

Also, avoid sharing deeply personal private victories that might be misinterpreted, or unintentionally cast you in a negative light.

Good examples of personal goals:

• Attending night school to complete your college degree or MBA.
• Learning a foreign language.
• Sticking with an exercise regiment.
• Paying off your debts and living debt free.
• Getting your pilot's license.
• Fund raising for a community or humanitarian cause.

While any of the above personal goals would be great to share, be prepared to share a work related goal as well.

Good examples of work related goals:

• Increasing sales or market share.
• Reducing costs.
• Winning back a key customer.
• Reducing employee turnover.
• Overcoming a company's reputation of poor quality or service.