Interview Tips Archive

15 Toughest Firefighter Interview Questions

1. Why do you want to work in this industry? Bad answer: "I like firefighting. I think it's really cool." Don't just say you like it. Anyone can "like" firefighting. Focus instead on your history with the industry, and if you can, tell a story. Good answer: "I have always appreciated and admired those who put their lives on the line to protect our comminutues. My interest really piqued in firefighting however after I witnessed a post-crash ... more

What Is your Unique Value Proposition?

Lida Citroën

Don't be surprised if at some point you're in a job interview and the job recruiter asks, "What makes you special?" or "Tell me about your personal brand" or even, "What is your Unique Value Proposition". In each of these questions, the recruiter is asking you to differentiate yourself from a sea of candidates who might all look and sound like you. Why would recruiters want you to spell out your uniqueness?  Because most job candidates spend ... more

Informational Interviews Can Be Key in Job Hunt

USAA

Transitioning out of the Army after five years of active duty, I was completely unprepared for how to land a civilian job commensurate with my military experience. Oh sure, I could put together a resume that outlined my Army duties and blast it to dozens of unknown companies for positions I knew nothing about. But of the 100 or more resumes I sent, I landed only one interview. Meanwhile, simply by talking with people I knew, I got several inf... more

Prep for the Top 10 Interview Questions

Carole Martin

Too many job seekers stumble through interviews as if the questions are coming out of left field. But many interview questions are to be expected. Study this list and plan your answers ahead of time so you'll be ready to deliver them with confidence. What Are Your Weaknesses?  This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on pr... more

Tips for Rehearsing for a Job Interview

There are a lot of steps that usually happen before you get to the interview portion of your job search: writing a resume, networking, compiling your references. Most folks are able to put a lot of effort into getting the interview, but many fall apart during the actual interview. Why? Poor planning and a lack of practice.  Instead of winging it, or relying solely on your professional skill set, you should stage a rehearsal for your next job ... more