A. I'm using personal time I've earned, since I rarely take sick leave. I manage my interview schedule, and I try not to be away from my job more than one day at a time.
Sometimes it means working extra hours, but I take my responsibilities seriously. No one has to cover for me. In addition, I check in through the day for messages and to see if any situations need attention.
I've developed a system for the work flow. As a result, no order sits on my desk, and nothing is delayed in my absence. Employees do themselves and their employers a disservice by getting themselves overloaded or in a position where they are the only ones who can do a job. If you take care of the little things, the big ones take care of themselves. A little organization, self discipline, and prioritizing go a long way.
Q. Do you feel you are ready for a more responsible position? Tell me why you think so.
A. Yes, definitely. When you cease to be challenged, you stop growing. I've gone as far as I can go in my present job. My manager is very pleased with my work, but the_ (size of the company/present economic environment) limits additional responsibility in the foreseeable future. I know I am capable of greater achievements, which is why I'm interviewing for this position. There's a challenge offered here that I'm ready to meet.
Q. Is there one particular trait or skill you possess that should lead us to consider you above other candidates?
(Think about your answer to this question in terms of your particular abilities and how they apply to the target job. Then tell and sell. Are you a fast typist or programmer? If the job is customer service or otherwise people oriented, do you have the ability to make others respond favorably? In the lines provided, formulate the first part of your answer, being sure to mention what you think is the most prominent of your own unique and proven skills. Then follow up with the scripted paragraph following.) In addition to that, I have the drive to take on this job and do it well. In fact, I think I'll excel at it.
Q. May we contact your present employer?
(If your employer does not know you are interviewing, smile don't giggle and say:)
A. No. I haven't told my employer. So please let me know before you contact anyone there. Once there's a firm offer on the table, or you've narrowed the field to only a few candidates, the information I've given you can be verified.
My boss deserves the courtesy of hearing I'm leaving from me. (He'll/She'll) be upset, but I'll assure (him/her) everything will be done to ensure the most efficient transfer of my duties. You'll probably get more than a reference you might get a testimonial! (If your employer knows you are interviewing and would give you a good reference:)
Yes, my employer knows I am interviewing, and under stands the reason. We've had a good working relationship for the past _ years. But now I've reached the highest level possible there, and I've trained people to assume my duties. My boss regrets not being able to offer me more at this time, and understands that I'm not working to my full potential. We're parting on good terms. (He/She) even told me recently, "That's the price you sometimes pay for hiring and training the best people." All of what I've told you will be confirmed when you call. But please let me know first, so I can let (him/her) down gently.
Q. Aren't you overqualified for this job?
A. Although I already know the job we're discussing, my background will enable me to eventually expand it into something more. I may be more qualified than others you're considering, but every job can be enhanced by being creative.
With my qualifications, I can do the job right away. Then, the company will benefit from my additional experience, and I'll be able to do more with the position than has been done in the past. In that way, I'll continue to be challenged and you'll be acquiring someone with additional potential.
I've learned many techniques for improving the efficiency and productivity of this type of operation. I'd welcome the opportunity to use what I know to improve things here. So, while I might be starting out at a slightly lower level of responsibility, this company is growing and going places. I see a lot of opportunity here.
Q. How far can you lower your salary expectations to be in line with our rate for the position?
A. It would be difficult to accept much less than my present salary. I don't know too many people who want to lower their standard of living.
However, if you can tell me when my salary would increase and to what level, based on my satisfactory progress, I would consider a temporary cut.
Q. What is your current salary?
(Sit down with a pencil and paper now, and add up the worth of pay in lieu of vacation, profit sharing, bonuses, pension plans, stock purchase plans, and the other "not very fringes." Don't forget the value of a company car, tuition reimbursement, and even subsidized meals in the cafeteria. If you're currently paying 2 dollars a day for a hot lunch, that's about 30 dollars less a week than you'd have to spend on the outside. And don't forget to add 20 percent for the tip.
Estimates of the dollar value of "perks" range as high as 30 percent of salary. Some companies send an annual statement telling you the dollar value of the benefits you receive. Use it in determining your answer.)
