Wednesday, May 18, 2011

FIFTEEN TOUGHEST JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS


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FIFTEEN TOUGHEST JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

For many people, job interviews are the most stressful part of the job-search process. And it's true that an interview is often a make-or-break moment: If you flub the interview in a big way, you probably won't make the cut--no matter how good your resume is, or how excellent your qualifications are.

You can combat nerves and increase your chances of success by practicing your answers to difficult interview questions. Here are some of the toughest, with suggested answers:

1. Why do you want to work in this industry?

Bad answer:
"I love to shop. Even as a kid, I spent hours flipping through catalogs."

Tip:
Don't just say you like it. Anyone can do that. Focus instead on your history with that particular industry, and if you can, tell a success story.

Good answer:
"I've always loved shopping, but my interest in retail marketing really started when I worked at a neighborhood boutique. I knew that our clothes were amazing, but that we weren't marketing them properly. So I worked with management to come up with a marketing strategy that increased our sales by 25 percent in a year. It was great to be able to contribute positively to an industry I feel so passionate about, and to help promote a product I really believed in."

2. Tell me about yourself.

Bad answer:
"I graduated four years ago from the University of Michigan, with a bachelor's in biology--but I decided that wasn't the right path for me. So I switched gears and got my first job, working in sales for a startup. Then I went on to work in marketing for a law firm. After that, I took a few months off to travel. Finally, I came back and worked in marketing again. And now, here I am, looking for a more challenging marketing role."

Tip:
Instead of giving a chronological work history, focus on your strengths and how they pertain to the role. If possible, illustrate with examples.

Good answer:
"I'm really energetic, and I'm a great communicator. Working in sales for two years helped me build confidence and taught me the importance of customer loyalty. I've also got a track record of success. In my last role, I launched a company newsletter, which helped us build on our existing relationships and create new ones. Because of this, we ended up seeing a revenue increase of 10 percent over two years. I'm also very interested in how companies can use web tools to better market themselves, and would be committed to building on your existing platform."


3. What do you think of your previous boss?


Bad answer:
"He was completely incompetent, and a nightmare to work with, which is why I've moved on."

Tip:
Remember that if you get the job, many of the people interviewing you will someday be your previous bosses. The last thing they want is to hire someone they know will badmouth them. Instead of trashing your former employer, stay positive, and focus on what you learned from him (no matter how awful he really was).


Good answer:
"My last boss taught me the importance of time management, didn't pull any punches, and was extremely deadline-driven. His no-nonsense attitude pushed me to work harder, and to meet deadlines I never even thought were possible."


4. Why are you leaving your current role?


Bad answer:
"I can't stand my boss, or the work I'm doing."

Tip:
Again, stay away from badmouthing your job or employer. Focus on the positive.

Good answer:
"I've learned a lot from my current role, but now I'm looking for a new challenge, to broaden my horizons, and to gain a new skill set--all of which I see the potential for in this job."


5. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Bad answer:
"Relaxing on a beach in Maui," or "Doing your job."

Tip:
There's really no right answer to this question, but the interviewer wants to know that you're ambitious, career-oriented, and committed to a future with the company. So instead of sharing your dream for early retirement, or trying to be funny, give an answer that illustrates your drive and commitment.


Good answer:
"In five years I'd like to have an even better understanding of this industry. Also, I really love working with people. Ultimately, I'd like to be in some type of managerial role at this company, where I can use my people skills and industry knowledge to benefit the people working for me, and the company as a whole."


6. What's your greatest weakness?

Bad answer:
"I work too hard," or for the comedian, "Blonds."

Tip:
This question is a great opportunity to put a positive spin on something negative, but you don't want your answer to be a cliche--joking or not. Instead, try to use a real example of a weakness you have learned to overcome.


Good answer:
"I've never been very comfortable with public speaking--which, as you know, can be a hindrance in the workplace. Realizing this was a problem, I asked my previous employer if I could enroll in a speech workshop. I took the class, and was able to overcome my lifelong fear. Since then, I've given several presentations to audiences of over 100 high-level executives--


7. What salary are you looking for?



Bad answer:
"In my last job I earned $35,000--so now I'm looking for $40,000."

Tip:
"If you can avoid it, don't give an exact number. The first person to name a price in a salary negotiation loses. Instead, reiterate your commitment to the job itself. If you have to, give a broad range based on research you've conducted on that particular role, in your particular city."

Good answer:
"I'm more interested in the role itself than the pay. That said, I'd expect to be paid the appropriate range for this role, based on my five years of experience. I also think a fair salary would bear in mind the high cost of living here in New York City."

8. Why should I hire you?


Bad answer:
"I'm the best candidate for the role."

Tip:
A good answer will reiterate your qualifications, and will highlight what makes you unique.

Good answer:
"I've been an executive assistant for the past ten years--my boss has said time and time again that without me, the organization would fall apart. I've also taken the time to educate myself on some of the software I regularly use (but didn't really understand the ins and outs of). I'm an Excel whiz now, which means I can work faster, and take over some of what my boss would traditionally have had to do herself. What's good enough for most people is never really good enough for me."


9. What is your greatest failure, and what did you learn from it?

Bad answer:
"I never finished law school--and everything that's happened since has taught me that giving up, just because the going gets tough, is a huge mistake."

Tip:
You don't want to highlight a true major regret--especially one that exposes an overall dissatisfaction with your life. Instead, focus on a smaller (but still significant) mishap, and how it has made you a better professional.

Good answer:
"When I was in college, I took an art class to supplement my curriculum. I didn't take it very seriously, and assumed that, compared to my engineering classes, it would be a walk in the park. My failing grades at midterm showed me otherwise. I'd even jeopardized my scholarship status. I knew I had to get my act together. I spent the rest of the semester making up for it, ended up getting a decent grade in the class. I learned that no matter what I'm doing, I should strive to do it to the best of my ability. Otherwise, it's not worth doing at all."


10. How do you explain your gap in employment?



Bad answer:
"I was so tired of working, and I needed a break," or "I just can't find a job."

Tip:
Employment gaps are always tough to explain. You don't want to come across as lazy or unhireable. Find a way to make your extended unemployment seem like a choice you made, based on the right reasons.

Good answer:
"My work is important to me, so I won't be satisfied with any old job. Instead of rushing to accept the first thing that comes my way, I'm taking my time and being selective to make sure my next role is the right one."


11. When were you most satisfied in your job?


Bad answer:
“I was most satisfied when I did well, and got praised for my work.”

Tip: Don’t give vague answers. Instead, think about something you did well and enjoyed that will be relevant at this new job. This is an opportunity for you to share your interests, prove that you’re a great fit for the job and showcase your enthusiasm.

Good answer:
I’m a people person. I was always happiest — and most satisfied — when I was interacting with customers, making sure I was able to meet their needs and giving them the best possible customer experience. It was my favorite part of the job, and it showed – I was rated as “Good or Excellent” 95% of the time. Part of the reason I’m interested in this job is that I know I’d have even more interaction with customers, on an even more critical level."


12. What did you like least about your last job?


Bad answer:
“A lack of stability. I felt like the place could collapse around me at any time.”

Try and stay away from anything that draws on the politics, culture or financial health of your previous employer. No matter how true it might be, comments like these will be construed as too negative. Also, you don’t want to focus on a function that might be your responsibility in the next role. So think of something you disliked in your last job, but that you know for sure won’t be part of this new role.

Good answer:
“There was nothing about my last job that I hated, but I guess there were some things I liked less than others. My previous role involved traveling at least twice a month. While I do love to travel, twice a month was a little exhausting — I didn’t like spending quite so much time out of the office. I’m happy to see that this role involves a lot less travel.”


13. Describe a time when you did not get along with a co-worker.


Bad answer:
“I’m easy to get along with, so I’ve never had any kind of discord with another coworker.”

Tip: Interviewers don’t like these types of ‘easy out’ answers. And besides, they know you are probably not telling the truth. Think of a relatively benign (but significant) instance, and spin it to be a positive learning experience.

Good answer:
“I used to lock heads with a fellow nurse in the INCU ward. We disagreed over a lot of things — from the care of patients to who got what shifts to how to speak with a child’s family. Our personalities just didn’t mesh. After three months of arguing, I pulled her aside and asked her to lunch. At lunch, we talked about our differences and why we weren’t getting along. It turns out, it was all about communication. We communicated differently and once we knew that, we began to work well together. I really believe that talking a problem through with someone can help solve any issue.”


14. What motivates you?


Bad answer:
“Doing a good job and being rewarded for it.”

Tip: It’s not that this answer is wrong — it’s just that it wastes an opportunity. This question is practically begging you to highlight your positive attributes. So don’t give a vague, generic response — it tells them very little about you. Instead, try and use this question as an opportunity to give the interviewer some insight into your character, and use examples where possible.

Good answer:
“I’ve always been motivated by the challenge of meeting a tough deadline — in my last role, I was responsible for a 100% success rate in terms of delivering our products on time and within budget. I know that this job is very fast-paced, and deadline-driven — I’m more than up for the challenge. In fact, I thrive on it.”



15. How would your friends describe you?



Bad answer:
“I’m a really good listener.”

Tip: While being a good listener is a great personality trait, your employer probably doesn’t care all that much. It’s unlikely that they’re hiring you to be a shoulder to cry on. You’ll want to keep your answer relevant to the job you’re interviewing for — and as specific as possible. If you can, insert an example.



Good answer:
“My friends would probably say that I’m extremely persistent — I’ve never been afraid to keep going back until I get what I want. When I worked as a program developer, recruiting keynote speakers for a major tech conference, I got one rejection after another – this was just the nature of the job.But I really wanted the big players — so I wouldn’t take no for an answer. I kept going back to them every time there was a new company on board, or some new value proposition. Eventually, many of them actually said “yes” — the program turned out to be so great that we doubled our attendees from the year before. A lot of people might have given up after the first rejection, but it’s just not in my nature. If I know something is possible, I have to keep trying until I get it."

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

BAT WAA IS RECRUITING SECURITY SUPERVISORS-ZARIA (OND HOLDERS)

Reference Number
    DO/NGN/NIG/SS/16-08-10
Job Title:
    Security Supervisor
Location:
    Zaria
Reports to:
    Chief Security Officer
Requisition Number:
    1
Response Deadline:
    22/8/2010

Principal Accountabilities:
   

    * Operational/Technical/Professional Results
    * Monitor the flow of information on radio and telephone networks and coordinate appropriately action.
    * Maintain a Log/record of vital information/ activities that may occur during the course of duty.
    * Compile and submit duty report at close of shift
    * Leadership Results
    * Ensure compliance with the company access control procedures.
    * Monitor daily attendance register for guard force
    * Management Results
    * Maintain and update records of all equipments
    * Maintain and update records of all movement of all keys in his custody.
    * Relationship Results
    * Liaise with team leaders to maintain discipline and compliance with company’s security procedures by
       team and guard force.
    * Innovation Results
    * Environmental Scanning via study of Nigeria daily newspapers and any other means or methods that may be identified later to identify changes in crime profile and crime rate for compilation of weekly security report.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
   

    * Be a mature individual, with a broad experience in security operations.
    * Possess good communication skills in English, which he is able to exercise at all levels (Spoken and Written).
    * Minimum academic qualification of OND or equivalent.
    * Be capable of gathering information from internal and external sources.
    * Ability to understand threats or potential threats to Company personnel and assets and possible checks to mitigate those threats.
    * Being capable of issuing clear written and verbal orders.
    * Have the ability to coordinate the activities of contracted guard force with a clear understanding of the hierarchy and operations.
    * Have a basic knowledge of the use of the computer in information storage and transfer.
    * Be capable of written simple initial reports in respect of events or incidents.
    * Be capable of commanding a contracted and/or ‘in-house’ guard force
Click on the link below to apply

http://www.batwaa.drm-za.com/Default.asp?Job=scb/Details_Page.asp?ProductID=1564


Equity statement


BAT Nigeria is an equal opportunities employer. All short listed applicants will be considered and assessed using the same criteria and recruitment process

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Oil and Gas: CHESROC NIGERIA LIMITED

Chesroc Nigeria Limited makes the following procurement for the O&G Companies:


•Offshore Platform Major Equipments and Spares

•Heavy Mechineries E.g Vehicles, Waukesha Engines etc

•Offshore/Onshore Reverse Osmosis water Purification equipment

•Multi purpose support vessels

•Supply/installation of Instrumentations and calibration Devices

•Drilling Equipment/Materials, Asset management Gadgets.



We also run the following engineering services fdor O&G companies:

•Operation and maintenance of production platforms and flow stations.


•Operations and maintenance of Gas Compression Unit

•Onshore and Offshore Maintenance and calibration of field instrumentation equipment.

•Management and Supply of Professional Manpower

•Overhaul and repair of electrical and mechanical equipment

•Corrosion Control.

•Hot Bolting and Torque Services.

•Mechanical and Electrical Designs and Construction.
 
 
Click on the link below to apply


http://www.chesroc.com/careers.html



http://www.chesroc.com/recruitment_step1.php


Note after you click submit, the page just goes blank. Dont be perturbed by this, just know ur application has been submitted

Stanbic IBTC recruits Tellers, Customer Consultant, Consultant Customer Services, Administration support Officer

Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria Job: Vacancy for Fresh Graduate Recruitment for Tellers, Customer Service Officers and Other Positions

The Standard Bank Group merged its Nigerian operations, Stanbic Bank Nigeria with that of IBTC Chartered Bank PLC. The merger, by way of the first ever tender offer in Nigeria and a $525 million FDI, the largest in Nigerian financial history, gave birth to a new entity now known as Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC which became part of the Standard Bank Group. The merger was officiated in August of this year and legalised on the 24th of September 2007.

Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC through its wholly owned stock broking and asset management subsidiary, IBTC Asset Management Limited has several excellent mutual funds including the IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund, which is Nigeria’s largest mutual fund with a net asset value in excess of N25 billion (as at December 2007). It is the only bank that has a direct subsidiary that is a pension fund administrator; through the market leading IBTC Pension Managers Limited (IPML).

Stanbic IBTC is currently recruiting for fresh graduates for the position of Tellers/ Customer Service Officers in their organisation.

THE TELLER:

What does it mean to be a Teller within SB? They are most often the first point of contact for our clients – the face of the Bank, so one can understand the importance of this role in maintaining and growing the reputation and brand of the Bank. With this in mind lets chat through a ‘day in the life’ of a Teller.

Customer Service and Care

The most consistent aspect of this job is people. A day in the life of a Teller begins and ends with interacting with and serving the Bank’s customers. Within this context, having a love for, interest in and tolerance of people of all ages, races, convictions and attitudes is key. This obviously requires that you stand for most of the day so physical wellness is a must.

The catch phrases ‘customer care’ and customer service’ are so often heard but so seldom really experienced. Some people naturally want to, and are really talented at making others feel acknowledged, listened to, valued and heard. There are many ways of doing this but the result of friendly, competent and efficient service is always the same, a happy and loyal customer.

Please note: In addition to the above, Sr Teller will also provide assistance to less experienced teller staff. Another major function is to assume the role of a Teller Supervisor in his/her absence.

Position Requirements

1.Must possess BSC/HND.

2.Must have completed N.Y.S.C.

3.Must be ready to learn fast and start job immediately

Product knowledge

You cannot offer great customer service without a powerful product, or as with SB, a range of products. The Teller plays a variety of activities such a receiving deposits and managing withdrawals. They also play a critical referral role as they are involved in identifying customer needs and need to know the Bank and its products well enough to refer them to the right person. This is referred to as ‘lead generation’, a role which our best Tellers excel at.

Having the ability and desire to keep up to date with the market and product changes is a must. In addition, providing constructive feedback and recommendations on how to improve SB’s services and products is valued.

Would you prefer a role which provides you with clear guidelines? Do you enjoy an organised approach to life? If so then the next 2 role requirements may come naturally to you.

Cash Management

The Banks main function is to safeguard and grow the assets of its customers. Managing, monitoring and accounting for the different forms of money that flow through your till is key to the role of the Teller. A love of ‘precision’ and a desire to be accurate are key to succeeding in this role.

Compliance

The Bank works within a clear and strictly applied legal framework. The Teller needs to know and consistently apply these rules, processes and regulations across products and customers. Often this implies taking the time to explain the ‘red tape’ to the customer in a way that makes sense to the customer impacted.

We began this description by speaking about the people aspects of this role. Well, compliance can also be applied to people and relationships. Building trust through maintaining high levels of honesty and confidentiality is paramount to the values of the Bank and success of this role.

METHOD OF APPLICATION: Click on the link below to apply

http://corporateandinvestment.standardbank.co.za/pages/careers_hv/nigeria/jobs.html

MTN is Recruiting for 15 New Positions

MTN Nigeria is part of the MTN Group, Africa’s leading cellular telecommunications company.



MTN Nigeria is recruiting massively for the under-listed positions



Job Title

Expiry Date



Talent Development Manager

Department: Human Resources

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/10/2010



Prepaid Engineer

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/11/2010



VAS Planning Engineer Multimedia Solutions

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/12/2010



Vas Planning Engineer Supplementary Solutions

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/12/2010



RF Technical Specialist

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/13/2010



RF Optimization Engineer (Asaba)

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/13/2010



Service Creation Engineer

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/16/2010



Design Engineer

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/16/2010



Switch Engineer (Ibadan, Benin)

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/17/2010



Switch Engineer (Asaba)

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/17/2010



TX Edge Services Manager

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/17/2010



Team Lead Transmission Planning (Port-Harcourt)

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/18/2010



Manager, Transmission Access Planning

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/18/2010



Manager, Transmission Access Planning

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/18/2010



TX Edge Support Engineer

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/19/2010



IP Planning Engineer

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/20/2010



Fixed Network Manager

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/20/2010



Transmission Core Planning Manager

Department: Network Group

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/23/2010



Dealer Accounts Executive

Department: Sales and Distribution

Status: Permanent

Application Deadline: 8/23/2010


http://careers.mtnonline.com/

Sona Breweries Plc recruiting for Sales Representatives at Sango-Ota, Ogun State

Sona Breweries Plc, a well established Food and Beverages Company and a member of a leading conglomerate with office in Sango-Ota, Ogun State is seeking to recruit vibrant, dynamic and self-motivated candidates to fill the following vacancies:



JOB TITLE: SALES REPRESENTATIVE



Responsiblilities

- A sales representative will be responsible for executing the company’s sales strategy in his/her territory to achieve the volume and market share target.

- He or she should be able to work independently to promote, sell and represent four group brands in a professional manner.

- He/she will report to District Sales Manager



Qualification:

BSc or HND(Second Class Lower) in Marketing, Business Administration or any of the Social Sciences.



Experience:

- At least 2 years relevant experience in a similar positions.

- He/She should possess a valid driving licence



AGE:

Not more than 26 years



METHOD OF APPLICATION

Interested candidates should send their applications enclosing compreheensive CV and copies of certificates to:



THE PERSONNEL MANAGER

SONA BREWERIES PLC

P.M.B 1041, SANGO-OTA

OGUN STATE



Not later than 24th August 2010

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted