Typical Interview Questions

What do you know about our company?

Hiring managers are impressed with candidates who know something specific about their company’s products and accomplishments, and what makes them unique among their competitors.

What you are really being asked is—Did you prepare for this interview by doing some research on us?.

You may be asking yourself, How much information is adequate?.

This depends on the job level you are interviewing for. An executive candidate will be expected to know a lot more than a middle manager or a director.

It’s a good idea to research industry trade journals, or other media, to help you find valuable insights into this company. This is pretty easy today with all of the resources available on the Internet.

Don't just rely on the company's website for all of your information.

If you are working with an Executive Recruiter, they should also be able to provide you with valuable insights into the company culture, and the backgrounds of those interviewing you.

Sometimes your Recruiter will even know the typical interview questions this company will ask.

See who you know through www.linkedin.com, who may have worked for this company or knows someone who still works there.

Talk with this person to find out as much as you can about their problems, strengths, culture, etc.

True story

A company had closed a warehouse as part of a cost saving consolidation. They were eager to sell or lease the building, but had no takers for well over a year.

Finally, a solid prospect came along.

The sellers tried to drive a hard bargain. Because the prospective buyers had done their homework they were aware the property had been vacant for over a year.

As a result, they were not intimidated during the sales process and were able to negotiate an extremely favorable deal.

If you know ahead of time where a company is weak, you will know which of your strengths and accomplishments will be attractive to them.

Also, knowing even 1 or 2 of a company's typical interview questions will help you prepare your answers.

This inside knowledge is powerful and can give you a lot of poise and self confidence in your job interview.

Sidebar: A screwed up company can be a great opportunity in disguise.

Companies want to hire people who will help them solve their problems and take them to a higher level of performance.

By bringing solutions and leadership to an under-performing company, you set the stage for a quantum leap in your career.

As a matter fact, it could actually be riskier to hire on with a stable company that’s spinning like a top.

Here's why.

How open minded will a perfect company be to your ideas and insights?

More often than not, they will expect you to fit into their culture and not rock the boat. Change may be resisted and you may feel undervalued.

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