I am a Recruiter for a Fortune 300 company; here to answer some questions on interviewing....

It's been awhile since I did the interview process. What are
some appropriate questions to ask the prospective employer or
interviewee?? I know it's never good to talk salary or benefits on the 1st interview.

each interviewer has their own preference to relevant questions. the way I look at it, it depends on what type of role you are interviewing for.

so without having all the facts and situation you are going into, let me give you these pointers:

Dress to impress. this is the best we get to see you, so don't be afriad to get your suit dry cleaned.

come prepared with questions already written out.....I reccomend taking an honest look at the job you will be doing and imagine yourself doing the day to day....you will be suprised what questions pop into your head.

be positive of past employers. even if they were a nightmare.

your biggest take away is to be prepared for the interview. know the role you interviewing for. be real with the person you are meeting. don't be fake and give textbook answers. sincerity can take you a long way.

good luck on your interview. come back and let me know how you did.

~ Shane

I had a recent interview for a job and was asked why did i not complete college and then how many units I had. I have over 30 years of work experience in this field, however it seemed he could not get past the fact I had not graduated from college. What is a good response should I ever be asked that question again.

RE: Phyllis in Sacramento/Rochester

I am with you on that one Phyllis, sometimes people in general and not just ADP get so focused on the degree that we can't think someone can be qualified for a role when they are.
what you need to do is get the focus off of that. start explaining your successes in business, how you were able to overcome that, etc.

alot of time people clam up, b/c they know the hiring manager is still focused on that. come out and ask them directly if that concerns them? if so, then ask why when compared to all your exprerience. you have to find out the objection and overcome it.

if you don't that person is only thinking about how you didn't graduate.

you also may want to consider taking online courses and get rid of that issue all together. I know it is easier to type then actually do.

but either way, hope this helps.

Thank you Sharon and that does help. He threw me for a loop and I was not able to gather my thoughts. But in the future I will ask him if that is a concern.

Thanks again

good luck Phyllis. by the way it is Shane not Sharon ;-)

I never liked the "don't ask about salary" rule, because if there isn't at least some indication that the job will pay my bills, I could end up wasting my time and the interviewers time as well.

For example, right now I am trying to get into finance. I know that it will be a huge paycut since I am changing careers, but I am applying for several teller positions where I can. I know most teller positions only pay between $10 and MAYBE $12 an hour.

At my current level of expenses, a 20 hour job at only $10 an hour won't cut it alone. Last night I talked to a recruiter from TCF and didn't find out the exact pay, but I told him knowing that most tellers are paid less than $11 an hour to start, I need at least 30 hours a week. He told me the position was for 20. I'm still going to interview, but at least I know now if I get it, I will need a second job elsewhere. So I know when I go into the interview, I will be in the mindframe that I will have to consider two employer schedules plus my extra curriculars and school, rather than just one employer's schedule.

Long story short, we really need to end this stigma against asking about salary, because are we really fooling anyone that we're after the job just because we like the atmosphere? That and the growth potential or any other number of factors may be a part of it. But unless you are doing something you REALLY love to do and have little or no expenses, we are all taking into consideration that money is an issue, so why pretend it's not?

hey Shane got a question for you, I have an interview with a fortune 300 company on tues that I am pretty excited about. I have worked with the same medical Device Company for 3 1/2 yrs except for 3 mos. I took a job selling software and everything was good but my old company called me back and gave me the territory that I wanted so I went back to my old company. do you think this will be a problem when I interview with this company?
Thanks,

jjohnsonCO in Colorado Springs, Colorado said: I never liked the "don't ask about salary" rule, because if there isn't at least some indication that the job will pay my bills, I could end up wasting my time and the interviewers time as well.

For example, right now I am trying to get into finance. I know that it will be a huge paycut since I am changing careers, but I am applying for several teller positions where I can. I know most teller positions only pay between $10 and MAYBE $12 an hour.

At my current level of expenses, a 20 hour job at only $10 an hour won't cut it alone. Last night I talked to a recruiter from TCF and didn't find out the exact pay, but I told him knowing that most tellers are paid less than $11 an hour to start, I need at least 30 hours a week. He told me the position was for 20. I'm still going to interview, but at least I know now if I get it, I will need a second job elsewhere. So I know when I go into the interview, I will be in the mindframe that I will have to consider two employer schedules plus my extra curriculars and school, rather than just one employer's schedule.

Long story short, we really need to end this stigma against asking about salary, because are we really fooling anyone that we're after the job just because we like the atmosphere? That and the growth potential or any other number of factors may be a part of it. But unless you are doing something you REALLY love to do and have little or no expenses, we are all taking into consideration that money is an issue, so why pretend it's not?

I agree. Sharon's company, ADP, actually is good because they tell you upfront what the salary will be.

Probably 70 percent of why someone would take a job is because of salary. It's silly why some companies will not tell you early on. It's downright annoying.

And if you, the jobseeker, bring up salary first during the interview, then you can count yourself out of a job immediately. Continue

Interviewer's are in control during the 'interview process' so you as a jobseeker pretty much have to play the game by their rules.

Well unfortunately that is true so long as you are not the absolutely perfect candidate who has all the various skills they want and jumped through all the hoops they presented.

I miss the days back in the 90s when employers competed for employees, instead of the other way around. In some fields/positions they still do, but only if you have some unusual combination of skills that makes you very unique and that they are willing to pay top dollar for that uniqueness.

Meanwhile, are inept CEOs who destroy companies still getting paid auction style? I never understood that. It's like paying $20 million for a Ford Pinto.

It comes down to how you ask the questions. I personally take that out of the equation before someone comes in to meet me face to face. let's face it, if I can't pay you what your looking for, then why waste all of our time?

and regarding your comments jjohnsonCO, I am sure each industry has it's own nuances, when it comes to interviewing. with my industry, it is so competative for talent, that us the employer has to court a lot stronger than when I remember breaking into the scene. of course I sound like I am going to also talk about how I walked to school up hill both ways in a snow storm everyday!

Well, one thing I am wondering about now (in regards to my uniqueness comment) is this: Would it be a good idea to gather up a whole bunch of unique skills and certifications, or would that make it harder for me to find a job?

For example, I am trying to get into banking so I can get my series 7 and 65 (or is it 66, I always get the two confused). Then after I finish my MBA/MS Finance, I want to get the Certified Treasury Professional designation. Then take some more accounting classes and get the CPA. And finally work towards a CFA. I might also try to pick up some more languages (maybe French, German, and Japanese or Chinese to add to my Spanish).

But then, would it be even harder for me to find a job with all that on my resume? Would an employer look at that and say "There's no way I can afford this guy!"?

Just curious.

lot of what if's in that scenario. my thought is get into a company that will help fulfill your first goal. the series licenses....

the rest should follow suit. alot of the 'bigger' companies will have tuition reimbursement for some of those skills you are looking to learn. you should have them float the bill...

outside of just getting those licenses, is it what you do with those licenses that will matter.

if your resume looks too 'rich' for an employer where they say they can't afford you...your best bet is to network more effectively, to where your resume is not being submitted through the job site. or you hunt down the recruiter via phone.

it is easier than you think.

I am just scraping the surface to your attack plan, but I like how you have your goals laid out. remember each job you should take as much from it as you can to leverage yourself into the next logical role. many folks loose sight of this while immersed in the job to begin with.

your goals are aggresive, and as you make this transition, you may find you like it or hate more than you thought. start the career, and work yourself towards those goals. nothing would be worse than spending all your time and money on getting your licenses then finding out you really don't like the work.

hope this helps...

jjohnsonCO in Colorado Springs, Colorado said: Well, one thing I am wondering about now (in regards to my uniqueness comment) is this: Would it be a good idea to gather up a whole bunch of unique skills and certifications, or would that make it harder for me to find a job?

For example, I am trying to get into banking so I can get my series 7 and 65 (or is it 66, I always get the two confused). Then after I finish my MBA/MS Finance, I want to get the Certified Treasury Professional designation. Then take some more accounting classes and get the CPA. And finally work towards a CFA. I might also try to pick up some more languages (maybe French, German, and Japanese or Chinese to add to my Spanish).

But then, would it be even harder for me to find a job with all that on my resume? Would an employer look at that and say "There's no way I can afford this guy!"?

Just curious.

All those designations and titles will do nothing for you if they are not backed by some hard experience. I have two Master's from top schools (one is an MBA in finance and accounting, with a 4.0 on the accounting end), am finishing the CPA, and speak two foreign languages. I would replace all that with two years of solid work experience on my CV. I had to quit my top public accounting job after nine months due to a family emergency. A few months later I was ready to find work again and have been looking ever since. I can just picture what employers are saying to themselves: "This guy is overeducated and unwilling to put in the time." Despite my guarantee that what happened was a freak accident and that my family's illness had to come first, people prefer to not take a chance and hire me.

I am french and will get an interview by an important company in London newt wednesday. In fact, I've got all the skills they are asking for, but...in French ! I can held a current conversation, but have still to learn a lot to be fluent and efficient in managing an dept.
Do you think they could give me a chance even if I need time to get efficient ?
Do I be directly honest or wait to guess what they fin about me troughout the interview ?
Thank for you tips !
L.

Phyllis in Sacramento, CA in Rochester, New York said: I had a recent interview for a job and was asked why did i not complete college and then how many units I had. I have over 30 years of work experience in this field, however it seemed he could not get past the fact I had not graduated from college. What is a good response should I ever be asked that question again.

When I was asked this same question, under similar circumstances my reply was
" I have the degree of knowledge in my field and can help your organization succeed by_______________. The expression on the interviewers face was priceless and I got the job!

Martin in Chandler, Arizona said: It's been awhile since I did the interview process. What are
some appropriate questions to ask the prospective employer or
interviewee?? I know it's never good to talk salary or benefits on the 1st interview.

Your first question must be about your profile like how your present job may differ with previous one and ask employer about their company services and its branches.

One tip that I like for numerous reasons is to have questions prepared ahead of time. It shows the hiring manager that you are prepared and taking this seriously. For the candidate, it let's you focus on how well you present yourself...kind of like cruise control let's you focus on staying between the lines.

For some good questions, I would look back at your previous jobs you have been in. What did you like about them? What did you hate about them? What questions would you have asked if you had to do those interviews over again?

Ask questions that will give you the ammo to close the interviewer....like what characteristics do you look for a candidate?

My favorite question.....

Are their any concerns that would prevent you from moving me forward in the process?

This puts them right on the spot to make a decision...either way you find out what they think by their answer.

Good luck with the interview.

Shane

I recently completed the second interview with a company and I am very surprised that after two weeks I haven't heard anything from them. I felt the interviews went quite well as the second interview lasted almost an hour. At the end of the 2nd interview I asked them when I could expect to hear from them. I asked if it would be a week or so, and they replied, oh no, much sooner. I sent a thank you after the interview which I believe is the professional things to do. It has now been well over two weeks and I have not heard anything. I recently sent another correspondence which I basically said it appears they must have gone with another candidate but thanking them for their time and the opportunity.

What is it with these companies that take your time for granted and don't even have the courtesy to respond. I missed out on two hours of work and to not even get a response is upsetting.

Any ideas as to why I haven't heard from them? Oh by the way they still haven't even checked my references. For a company that was so willing to move quickly this is upsetting.

Thank you

Blauer in Michigan:

It is frustrating that companies can be so inconsiderate. I understand being on my end how difficult it is with the volume we handle, and from past experience having to hunt down decision makers for feedback of my own.

I personally make it point to reply back with some sort of correspondence whenever someone is 'passed by'

so now that I justified by existence :-) on to your issues at hand....

Nail down a specific time and Action (who will call who). You almost did that in your final interview. Make sure before you leave you exactly know when a decision will be made and when you will hear from them.

Email is good, but phone calls are great. If you are yearning for feedback, hunt down who ever interviewed you. Most hiring managers will give you honest feedback.

Also, you never know what may have happened on their end.

Some hiring managers/recruiters are hesitant as to not offend anyone, which may take the news of not getting a job too well. Which also is a reason why some folks just let the silent treatment tell you...it's not the best practice by any means, but let’s be realistic, it happens a lot.

I feel your pain and feel that while companies may not have the resources to respond to the hundreds of applicants that apply for various positions -- they could at the very least reply to the handful of applicants that come in -- especially for a 2nd interview. Shame on them.

I am in the same boat - though I am currently unemployed. I've called, sent a thank you, follow-up at the appropriate time. I sometimes feel that companies/people are TOO cautious to not offend or be candid. I really don't appreciate 'vanilla' people. If I take the time to interview - I feel that the employer could at the very least follow-up and guess what - how about even providing some insight on how to improve for future interviews with a 'good luck' on your job search attitude. People should be treated with respect -- not just "what can you do for me".

Shane Burke in Baltimore, Maryland said: each interviewer has their own preference to relevant questions. the way I look at it, it depends on what type of role you are interviewing for.

so without having all the facts and situation you are going into, let me give you these pointers:

Dress to impress. this is the best we get to see you, so don't be afriad to get your suit dry cleaned.

come prepared with questions already written out.....I reccomend taking an honest look at the job you will be doing and imagine yourself doing the day to day....you will be suprised what questions pop into your head.

be positive of past employers. even if they were a nightmare.

your biggest take away is to be prepared for the interview. know the role you interviewing for. be real with the person you are meeting. don't be fake and give textbook answers. sincerity can take you a long way.

good luck on your interview. come back and let me know how you did.

~ Shane

Hi! I'm so happy you are here on this forum. I desperately need your advice. I went to an interview 1 week and 3 days ago. Everything seemed to have gone well. The hiring manager tells me, "I'm going to see when I can schedule you onto the Executive Assosciates calendar" and at the end of the interview walked me to the elevator and tells me, "we'll see you" so a week passes by and I have not heard anything. I sent a follow up e-mail yet there has been no response. I'm confused because she made it sound as if she was interested in me and was going to see when she can get me a second interview but, when I follow up she hasn't responded. The position is for an Executive Assistant. I understand the Director is extremely busy however, why can't she at least provide me with an update as to the status of the hiring process with me? I kind of feel as if she is purposely keeping me on a limbo....It's really frustrating waiting and for someone to not reply back to yOU.

Last week, I had a great second phone interview and agreed to meet in person this week. All week I had been anticipating the interview, feeling great from the phone interaction, doing my research, and took the ENTIRE day off of my current job because I was told to expect a half-day event where I'd meet the team etc.

I was told I'd hear from someone on the time of day to meet. I waited two days, then placed a call on the afternoon of the third day. No reply. I called the next morning, received no reply. Finally, the day before the scheduled interview, I called again and no one had the courtesy to let me know what happened.

I was crushed. I am still dazed and confused, my self-esteem just down the toilet. What the hell? That is no only unprofessional, but just plain mean to treat someone with so little respect!

Thanks Joe at Arcus, for being a jerk.

blaur in Waterford, Michigan said: I recently completed the second interview with a company and I am very surprised that after two weeks I haven't heard anything from them. I felt the interviews went quite well as the second interview lasted almost an hour. At the end of the 2nd interview I asked them when I could expect to hear from them. I asked if it would be a week or so, and they replied, oh no, much sooner. I sent a thank you after the interview which I believe is the professional things to do. It has now been well over two weeks and I have not heard anything. I recently sent another correspondence which I basically said it appears they must have gone with another candidate but thanking them for their time and the opportunity.

What is it with these companies that take your time for granted and don't even have the courtesy to respond. I missed out on two hours of work and to not even get a response is upsetting.

Any ideas as to why I haven't heard from them? Oh by the way they still haven't even checked my references. For a company that was so willing to move quickly this is upsetting.

Thank you

Been there, done that. Sound like we interviewed for the same job. I agree, it would be nice if employers could respond back to us and not keep us hanging. It can be very costly looking for a job. What really gets me is applying for positions and not getting any reply indicating that your info was received.

I had recently resigned my position with a company, but would like to get back in the same industry (not the same company as the culture was not suitable to me). I had a couple interviews but was asked on why I resigned my prior position. I did not want to put any negativity on my prior company. I gave the reason as a wanting to change of career. Any idea on the best way to justifying my rsignation without putting any negativity on my company?

Thanks!!

Deborah Hugg in Island Lake, Illinois said: I feel your pain and feel that while companies may not have the resources to respond to the hundreds of applicants that apply for various positions -- they could at the very least reply to the handful of applicants that come in -- especially for a 2nd interview. Shame on them.

I am in the same boat - though I am currently unemployed. I've called, sent a thank you, follow-up at the appropriate time. I sometimes feel that companies/people are TOO cautious to not offend or be candid. I really don't appreciate 'vanilla' people. If I take the time to interview - I feel that the employer could at the very least follow-up and guess what - how about even providing some insight on how to improve for future interviews with a 'good luck' on your job search attitude. People should be treated with respect -- not just "what can you do for me".

Oh you are so right! I have lost all respect for HR people for this very reason. If you invited me to interview you owe me a response even if it is negative. I know they have not interviewed so many people that they cannot respond to the handful of people who took their time to make a presentation. There is so much BS in the hiring process today that it makes your head spin (boy could I tell you some stories) but this has to be my number one frustration and it has caused me to lose all respect for so-called HR professionals.

I sure wish Shane would respond to this.

Phyllis in Sacramento, CA in Rochester, New York said: I had a recent interview for a job and was asked why did i not complete college and then how many units I had. I have over 30 years of work experience in this field, however it seemed he could not get past the fact I had not graduated from college. What is a good response should I ever be asked that question again.

I feel that the best wat ro handle this si to be honest. How exactly did you answer the question? If you left it unanswered in the interviewers mind then that's a "tick on the no side." There are good answers to the question. For example if you had said something like "At the time I was offered a very good position at XYZ, Inc. I felt that the experience from that position would help me to learn more about the field than college could have at the time. I've also steadily advanced in the field for the past <number of years>, and I think that my experience will help me to increase the profitability of the business unit because..." and so forth. I would also end the answer with a question that highlights experience as opposed to education. You could also matriculate at a local or online college in a part-time program towrds the degree that you started. You can likely get some "life experience credits," which would allow you to put the degree into your education section with an expected completion date. Then you could add to the end of the previous answer that you've picked the degree back up, and have completed <#> credits over the past <#> months for a total of <#> credits out of <#> to complete the degree. Ie. "I've been accepted to Harvard's Executive MBA program to complete my MBA. In the past 6 months I've completed 7 more credits towrds the degree leaving only 8 credits to complete the program." Note that I didn't mention that those seven credits were actually completed a week ago, the one 3 credit class you've signed up for doesn't start for another month, etc.

Hello,

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