Before the Interview

''Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.''

Interviewing for a job? Whether you’re a recent college graduate or have years of experience, you still need something to put yourself ahead of your competition.

Research shows 78% of all job candidates “wing” their interview doing little if any preparation. And, lack of preparation, particularly not knowing anything about the company, is interviewer’s #1 complaint.

The articles and links on this page will guide you as you prepare for your interview. In addition:

• Use the forums to post questions about an upcoming interview.
• Read the '"Interview Your Best" blog to learn about important interview issues.
• Develop an iBest presentation to communicate why you are the best candidate for the position. 

1. Tell me about yourself
2. Why did you leave your last job?
3. What qualities do you look for in a boss?
4. Are you willing to work overtime? Nights? Weekends?
5. Would you be willing to relocate if required?
6. Why do you think you would do well at this job.
7. What would your previous supervisor say your strongest point is?
8. What motivates you?
9. What are your salary expectations?
10. What are your goals for the next five years / ten years? How do you plan to achieve those goals?
11. What kind of person would you refuse to work with?
12. Tell me about your ability to work under pressure.
13. Tell me about a time that you participated in a team, what was your role?
14. Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?
15. What challenges are you looking for in a position?
16. Why are you the best person for the job?
17. What kind of contribution will you make to our company?
18. What interests you most about this job?
19. What have you learned from mistakes on the job?
20. What kind of work do you enjoy the most?
21. How do you deal with conflict?
22. What are your special skills or abilities?
23. Why should we hire you?
24. Tell me about a time when you helped resolve a dispute between others.
25. What is your greatest strength/weakness?

"God, I'm about to face a challenging interview for a new job. First, thank you for this opportunity. Thank you that you care about providing for my needs, and fitting me in the right employment situation is something you yourself are working to complete. I know I have you on my side in this matter. You are looking out for my best interest and I know you have a perfect job fit for me. If this is that perfect fit, then make it perfectly clear to me and to those who are making the hiring decision.

Begin now to prepare the time and place where we will meet. Set the tone in the room. I know that first impressions matter a great deal, so help me to be the natural "me" that you have created, so that they can see through my nervousness and anxiety to the person you have created me to be. Give me a peaceful and sharp mind. Bring to my memory all the knowledge and wisdom that is already there. Let your joy and contentment flow out through my words.

And whatever the result, let this process be a blessing to those who review my case, and also to me and my family along the way. Lord, right now I receive your "shalom" peace. I trust you to work in and through this interview process. I trust you to provide for all my needs. And if this is your perfect fit, then let nothing stand in the way. If it is not right, then close the door and lead me quickly to the right next step. In your name I bless those who will be conducting this interview. Give them wisdom, peace and rest as well. I receive now, ahead of time, your promise - " I will never leave you or forsake you!" I believe this and oh, do I need it. I don't go into this interview alone. You are with me. And with that confidence, I am at peace. Help me now to feel that peace."

From beliefnet.com