Thursday, May 17th, 2012
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For some jobseekers, there is nothing more harrowing than the interview process.Administrative jobs require people who possess grace under pressure, who think on their feet, and who can multi-task in a busy office.
There are some questions you will always hear at administrative jobs interviews, such as “Why do you want this job,” or “What are your salary expectations?” There are other questions that may just test your ability to react to something completely bizarre. For instance, one woman reported that the interviewer asked her, “What would you do if I threw this crystal ashtray at your head?” She replied that she’d sue the pants off him, take control of the company, and fire him without any compensation. After a good laugh, he offered her the job on the spot and she started work the very next day!
Sure, interviewers want to see that you’re a quick and bright thinker, but more importantly, they are looking to see that you possess key characteristics – like loyalty, independence, humility, and dedication. They are not just looking for people who will excel in administrative jobs, but also people who will stick with the company and fit in with the corporate culture. Don’t be afraid to ask for more time if you need it to craft a thoughtful answer – and always go with your gut instincts when in doubt.
Ø “Why Should I Hire You?” When answering this question, you want to sound smart, confident in your abilities, and that you can succinctly outline the various positions you’ve held that give you the skills and experience for the job. Ø “Who Do You Most Admire and Why?” The key to this question is to focus on the why. Identify someone who has qualities you admire or who has done something you also aspire to do. Avoid controversial figures and articulate your reasons clearly. Businesses will often ask this to see if your values are in line with theirs. Ø “Give Me A Recent Example of a High-Pressure Situation And How You Dealt With It.” Be prepared to outline specific stories about conflicts, high-pressure multi-tasking, your organization methods, or a time where you went “over and beyond” your bosses’ expectations. Before your interview, spend some time really thinking about different experiences you’ve had in your professional life. An employer asking this question wants to get inside your head and assess how you will deal with day-to-day situations in the office. When seeking administrative jobs, it is always best to be honest and genuine. You want to wind up somewhere that values your way of thinking and fits your personality type. So don’t dismay if you don’t get the first job you interview for – there may be a much better fit waiting around the corner.Remember