3 Rules to Maximize Your Job Interview

The best candidate doesn’t get the job.

Just because you have the experience, qualifications and skills required for the advertised role is the reason why you get offered the position.

Your ability to stand out in the job interview is key to securing more job offers.

To be offered more job positions you need to follow these 3 rules

Job Interview Rule 1 – Having a Unique Selling Point

People wrongly believe that because they have 10 years experience and several industry qualifications, along with a great work ethic that they should be guaranteed the position.

But everyone offered to interview has met the job criteria, which means to stand out you need a unique selling point

Re-read the job spec and record which key skill, duty or quality is the most desirable by the employer (think about skills that you have that others don’t)
Find evidence from past employment/projects where this key skill, duty or quality was used by yourself to successfully achieve a major achievement
During the job interview discuss the key skill, duty or quality – discuss both past successes and how you will you use this skill, duty or quality once employed

Job Interview Rule 2 – Perfection Through Practice

To be an expert in anything takes repetition and practice.

We rarely attend interviews and as with any new experience or skill, we sometimes fluke it but often we make many mistakes. The key rule to interview success is practice, practice and practice

Read the job spec and turn each desired criteria into an interview question
Record an answer per question and when you can add your unique selling point to the answer
Rehearse both the questions and answers over and over again until you discuss your unique selling point without having to refer to your notes

Job Interview Rule 3 – Reflect, Record and Redesign

To become an interview expert, which means that you can successfully pass interviews that offer higher salaries you need to learn from each job interview.

After each interview reflect and record each interview question and answer
Rate each question and answer between 1-10
With answer that rate below 7 redesign the interview answer

May 24, 2015November 18, 2021

10 Job Interview Questions and Answers for an Amazon Warehouse Staff

Interview Questions and Answers for an Amazon Warehouse Staff

Amazon jobs are in high demand.

Out of thousands of applicants, only 6 candidates will be interviewed.

In the Amazon job interview, you will be asked around 8 job interview questions during a 45-minute interview. To increase your chances of securing a job offer you will learn the answers to 8 Amazon warehouse job interview questions.

How competitive is an Amazon Warehouse job Interview?

Interview Specifics

The key to passing job interviews in preparation and practice, this sounds obvious but is often overlooked, with the average interviewee spending around only 60 minutes preparing for their structured job interview.

During the interview you will have to complete a drug test, take two pieces of photographic identity and sit a short interview.

Job Interview Questions and Answers for an Amazon Warehouse Staff

Can you tell me about you and your warehouse experience?

To answer this interview question highlight 3 key selling points; the amount of experience you have working in the warehouse sector, any relevant qualifications (FLT license, NVQ in warehousing) and your ability to work within a team.

Start with “I have x years warehouse/picking/laborer experience…” or “I have just recently finished education studying X….”

Next, detail any relevant knowledge or strengths ‘…while working at X I was responsible for collecting orders accurate to the delivery note, checking for damage to products and palletizing the goods ready for dispatch…’

End with a selling point ‘…I also have a full fork lift truck license which means I can work both in the yard unloading vans or in the main warehouse…’

What do you know about Amazon and our values?

Research is key here. This question is asked to see if you will feel proud to work for Amazon.

Search for Amazons ‘about me’ page on their website for all their history but more importantly, look at Amazon’s vision and values.

‘I love Amazon, I’m a prime member. What I like is how Amazon value the customer experience. I am also customer focused, this is what motivates me. when picking orders I would do my upmost to get each order accurate, as I wouldn’t want to disappoint any of our customers.’

How does a member of the warehouse team fit in with the team approach to customer satisfaction?

For Amazon, customers come first.

To answer this interview question think about all the different cogs of the organisation and how by getting a parcel out on time affects the whole customer experience gaining loyal customers.

‘A customer who gets the product they requested for at the time they need it will become a repeat customer. This is why the Amazon team need to work together. If for example the marketing team promoted next day deliveries, but the warehouse staff were behind on orders the customer would be dissatisfied. What everyone needs to do if work together for the benefit of the customer.’

How do you ensure the correct goods are sent on time to the correct customer’s address?

With customer service being one of Amazons key values, every process and procedure relates to this key aim.

The interviewer, here, is checking that the interviewee knows the importance of double-checking delivery addresses.

Give a 3 step process;

Step 1 review the order,

Step 2 double-check the order

Step 3 use the Amazon scanners to confirm the address.

Add a bit more meat to the bones, here but this will give you a good framework.

‘When I receive an order for picking I first check the order; quantity of goods, delivery due date and the customer address. Once I have picked the order I will double-check the I have the correct goods before I package the order. Before, sending to dispatch I do a final address check to ensure I have the correct label. The final check comes from using the Amazon scanners that triple checks the accuracy.’

What is the maximum weight per package, you can pick up by hand?

Health and safety is key in the warehouse industry.

At the time of writing the H&S at work act, states that unassisted lifting of parcels can not be heavier than 25kg.

Within this answer explain how you are aware of all H&S work act regulations and how by following these you have never received an injury.

‘As I have previous warehouse experience I ensure I follow all health and safety procedures. When moving any goods above 25kg I will use a pallet truck, trolley or, for heavier loads, a fork lift truck. As well as keeping myself safe, using lifting equipment also ensures the there a lower risk of damage – as a i dropped parcel can damaged the goods.’

What process do you use to remember where a large number of goods are located in the warehouse?

Amazon has a huge warehouse, therefore, it is key to have a good memory to know where each good(s) is located.

Give an example of working in a similarly sized warehouse, explaining the process you used to remember the location of goods.

‘In my last role at X company, they had a large warehouse with multiple goods that needed packing on a daily basis. For this role it was important to know where all the key items were stored. Initially, when I first started, I wrote down which isle the most popular items were stored, allowing me to learn quickly where these goods were. For other items, I spent time reading the storage system, which was an alphabetical system, to memorize where goods were kept.’

What would you do if you had a spillage in the warehouse while having a deadline to dispatch a large number of goods?

This can be seen as a tricky question but really the answer is simple.

If you leave a spillage other employees could have accidents that lead to delays and/or injuries.

After explaining this, talk about how you would ask a colleague to support you with the dispatch deadlines while you cleaned up the spillage (informing your manager of the incident)

‘If I had a spillage while working on an order, I would first cordon off the area as slips, tips and falls are the number of injury in warehouses, which can cause additional delays. I would inform my supervisor and ask if they wanted myself or someone else to see to the order whilst I dealt with the spillage.’

Why are delivery notes so important?

Without a delivery note, the driver would not know what they are taking and to where. Explain how a delivery note is the instructions to ensure that a customer remains happy by receiving the goods they ordered on time and to the correct address.

‘After packing orders that are wrapped on different pallets to be distributed to warehouse across of the UK I double-check the order; stock quantities, addresses and which pallets are required for each delivery truck. Once I am happy with accuracy and pass over the delivery notes to the drivers to tick of each pallets as it is loaded on the truck. This process reduces the risk of good being sent to the wrong address, creating customer delays.’

What would do if you suspected a colleague of stealing goods?

If you have an example use it here. If not explain that you would report any suspicions to your supervisor.

‘If I suspected a thief or had seen any suspicious activity I would report this straight away to a superior. This allows the supervisor to investigate before making a decision on what they need to do next.’

Do you have any questions for me?

Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training, and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

‘What mandatory training do I get once I start a position with Amazon?’

‘Is there any support around internal progression for new staff members?’

‘What are the busiest times of the year?’

‘How are Amazons values imbedded into the processes used by warehouse staff?’

‘Does Amazon project an increase in customer growth and how will that affect this warehouse?’

Conclusion

You can prepare for your job interview, by predicting the job interview questions, which then allows you to easily prepare your job interview answers.

Each job interview answer must highlight your unique selling point, which needs to be spoken in a confident manner.

May 21, 2015November 30, 2020

10 Job Interview Questions and Answers for a Restaurant Manager

Restaurant managers ensure that restaurants operate efficiently and profitably while maintaining their reputation and ethos – this should be the basis of your interview.

Job Interview Question 1:

“Tell me about yourself?”

This question asked at the interview start, gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your restaurant management experiences and skills relevant to the job position you are applying for. Keep this statement positive and relevant and when you can discuss your unique selling point.

Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your main management strength and your restaurant achievements – this could be turning a failed restaurant into a highly profitable business or you could have helped the restaurant become a chain.
Discuss your unique selling point as this creates intrigue
You want to interest the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you
End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

Potential Interview Answer

“I’ve been working as a restaurant manager for 8 years. I have a great understanding of how to market a restaurant to the public, with me being responsible for turning a failed restaurant into a highly profitable business with a 12 month period. My innovative marketing techniques have increased profits by 25% year on year for the past 3 years. I am now ready for a new challenge and with your company having a great reputation, I believe this is the opportunity I have been waiting to apply for”

Job Interview Question 2:

“Why did you leave your restaurant?”

Be positive with this answer and smile – employers like to hear that you left for a good opportunity or reason, a chance to do something special or for a good career move.

Start the answer with a look back at your management experience
Explain what you enjoyed about your previous role as a restaurant manger
Give a Positive reason for leaving

Potential Interview Answer

“I enjoyed working at Company Name and really enjoyed the interaction of working for a company that was committed to the customer experience. It was a hard choice to leave but I felt that this great opportunity is the next obvious step for me”

Job Interview Question 3:

“What is your approach to strategic planning and day-to-day management?”

Here the employer is looking for your management style and often they are checking if you are organised and can manage the pressure of the job. Simply explain how you approach task, how you plan your time and how you achieve results.

Potential Interview Answer

“In all my roles I have been involved in the strategic planning of the restaurant. I first look at the restaurants objectives and brain storm how I can achieve these desired results with the available resources. Once I have formulated a plan I break this plan down into segments, creating milestones, time-frames and delegating responsibilities.”

Job Interview Question 4:

“What is your approach to analysing and planning restaurant sales levels and profitability?”

If you are highly successful in this area you need to discuss your secrets and a new employer will be blown away with your answer and will be more likely to hire you. Every restaurant owner needs a manager who can increase profit. To boost your answer quote figures and percentages.

Potential Interview Answer

“In my last restaurant I was able to double the profits within a 6 month period. The secret of my success was the co-operative approach with the head chef in the planning of menus and events. Also I would reflect on each project and ensure that we met our targets checking on what worked well and how we can improve the profits of each week, event and session”

Job Interview Question 5:

“How do you manage employees who work part time?”

Many restaurants hire part time staff. Employer asking this question will most likely have negative experience where staff don’t turn up for shifts or don’t meet the high standards of the business. You need to explain your approach to staff recruitment, retention and staff development.

Potential Interview Answer

“The secret to managing staff is in the initial recruitment stage. I use strength based interviewing to ensure I hire staff with good work ethics. As new staff start I pair them up with an experienced mentor to ensure they learn from members of staff I trust. I offer support and training to all my staff and have a “door open” policy”

Job Interview Question 6:

“How would you be an asset to us?”

Think again about the job specification and the skills needed for this role. Have a paragraph prepared highlighting how you will be able to do the job and what you can bring to the team. It goes without saying that this paragraph should be positive.

Potential Interview Answer

“I’m the type of person who likes to get a task completed; I am driven, hard working and have excellent time management. I have worked in this industry for 8 years and have made excellent contacts and built good working relationships to will be of advantage to any employer who employees me”

Job Interview Question 7:

“What are your strengths?”

This is one of the most common questions you will be asked. Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail. It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.

Potential Interview Answer

“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important during my last role where I was responsible for the restaurant accounts as well as the day to day management of the whole restaurant”

Job Interview Question 8:

“What are your weaknesses?”

Again, another commonly asked question. A frequent mistake to make when answering this question is to say something negative like “I can sometimes let things get on top of me”. Be positive and sell yourself with every interview question, turn a negative into a positive. For example,

Potential Interview Answer

“In the past when I first got into management, I felt I needed to improve my accounts skills. To develop myself I self funded an accounting course. This paid of as I soon learnt how I could use this knowledge to save the company money on overhead cost. This is my approach to weaknesses, I first recognize them before taking action to develop myself”

This will show that you can identify your weaknesses but at the same time, you are willing to improve. Most importantly: do not mention a weakness that is any way related to the job you are being interviewed for! This might sound obvious but it is a common mistake!

Job Interview Question 9:

“Do you know anything about this organisation?”

Often one of the first questions you will be asked during the interview, employers want employees who will stay with the company, this question and answer will show the employer that you know the company’s history and feel they will be a good employer to work for.

It also shows the employer that you think ahead and carry out research. Answer this question with:

The length the organisation has been operating for.
How the company started
The restaurant style/customer base
All this information is normally found on the internet; on the company home page or about us page.

Potential Interview Answer

“I know a great deal about your organisation, before I applied for the job position I researched the company. I really like how the company started as a partnership company 10 years ago and has grown to a company of 70 staff working throughout 18 countries.”

Job Interview Question 10:

“Do you have any questions for me?”

Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

May 21, 2015November 30, 2020

12 Job Interview Questions and Answers for Greggs

This article will help you to prepare and to pass your next job interview in 3 separate ways.

1. You will learn over 10 common asked interview questions for your job position.

2. You will be given an explanation of the type of answer the interviewer is looking for ( a guide to what the employer wants you to discuss )

3. You will be given an example job interview answer for each individual interview question, allowing you to tweak this answer, making it relevant to your own experiences.

Job Interview Questions and Answers for Greggs

When applying for a job with Greggs you first have to complete an online application form – this takes around 30 minutes and is relatively easy to complete. Following this you will be asked to complete a Right Fit Quiz.

“Applying for Retail and Bakery roles will include a set of questions designed to assess how you respond in certain work situations. If you’re successful at this stage, you can then complete our Right Fit Quiz to help you decide if the role you are applying for is right for you. ”

Source

Successful applicants will then attend an interview and/or assessment day.

These 12 questions will help you prepare for your job interview

Job Interview Question 1:

“Tell me about yourself?”

One of the most common asked questions in interviews, normally asked at the beginning of an interview, this question gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your experiences and skills relevant to the Greggs job position you are applying for.

- Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your main strength and/or achievement

Keep each point brief as you can explain each point again in more detail throughout the interview

You want to interest the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you

End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

Potential Interview Answer

“I’ve been working in retail for 8 years. I enjoy the interactive and customer service part of my role. In all my roles I have used my personality to build relationships with customers which results in higher customer retention increasing profits. I have researched Greggs and I believe this is the opportunity I have been waiting to apply for”

Job Interview Question 2:

“Why did you leave your last job?”

Be positive with this answer and smile – employers like to hear that you left for a good opportunity or reason, a chance to do something special or for a good career move.

- Start the answer with a look back

Explain what you enjoyed about your previous role

Give a Positive reason for leaving

Potential Interview Answer

“I enjoyed working at Company Name and really enjoyed the interaction of working with a wide range of individuals-I feel I gained a lot of transferable skills from this experience, which I can use in this role. It was a hard choice to leave but I felt that this great opportunity is the next obvious step for me”

Job Interview Question 3:

“Why do you want this position with Greggs?”

Your research will pay off with this question; explain you have always wanted to work for Greggs and the reason why. Discuss how your goal has always been to work in this industry as you always wanted to (job criteria) and finally finish by explaining how your previous experience or qualifications will add value to the company.

Potential Interview Answer

“Since working in retail my goal has been to work for Greggs, as I believe my vision is in line with your company mission and values. I have always enjoyed baking and customer interaction and for me Greggs offers both of these. My long term goal is to work towards becoming a manager of a Greggs store”

Job Interview Question 4:

“Do you work well within a team?”

Some people are thrown when they are asked this question when they are applying for a position to work alone. Every company works as a team, so you are a good team player, give an example of when you have worked well within a team. Greggs are very keen on the team approach and you need to highlight how you are a team player in the Greggs interview.

Potential Interview Answer

“A team always works better than an individual as you have a wider skill base and more collective experiences to rely on. You also have the advantage of motivating to achieve goals and targets. Remember TEAM – Together Everyone Achieves More. In my last job, I worked as part of a small team dedicated to improve sales, by sharing all our experiences and ideas we were able to come up with an achievable action plan”

Job Interview Question 5:

“Did you get on well with your last manager?”

A dreaded question for many! When answering this question never give a negative answer. “I did not get on with my manager” or “The management did not run the business well” will show you in a negative light and reduce your chance of a job offer. Answer the question positively, emphasising that you have been looking for a career progression. Start by telling the interviewer what you gained from your last job

Potential Interview Answer

“I enjoyed my last job, I quickly learned how to multi-task and prioritize work and over the last 3 years I have seen myself grow. I am now ready to take the next step up the ladder with my career and feel I would suit working for company such as this”

If you were made redundant, let the interviewer know, this is not a negative!

Job Interview Question 6:

“How would you be an asset to Greggs?”

Potential Interview Answer

“I’m the type of person who likes to get a task completed; I am driven, hard working and have excellent time management. I have worked in this industry for 5 years and I possess string customer service and team work skills, for me I feel my key skill is encouraging repeat customers.”

Job Interview Question 7:

“What are your strengths?”

Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue (Greggs Management), one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail. It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.

Potential Interview Answer

“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important during my last role where I managed a large retail team. An example of this is when I A, B and C….”

Job Interview Question 8:

“What are your weaknesses?”

Potential Interview Answer

“In the past I felt I needed to improve my product knowledge, to improve this I requested to attend a training course which taught my all I needed to know. From this I found that I increased sales and customer satisfaction.”

Job Interview Question 9:

“Do you know anything about this Greggs?”

It also shows the employer that you think ahead and carry out research. Answer this question with:

- The length the organisation has been operating for.

How the company started

What services/products the company offers

Where they are going (have they won any new contracts)

All this information is normally found on the internet; on the company home page or about us page.

Potential Interview Answer

“I know a great deal about your organisation, before I applied for the job position I researched the company. Greggs originally started by delivering yeast and eggs to local families before John Gregg opened a small bakery on Gosforth High Street in 1951. Following the death of his father, Ian Gregg took over the family business in 1964. Under Ian’s leadership, Greggs developed a reputation for good quality and great value by the 1970s there were shops in Scotland, Yorkshire and the North West.

By 1984, Greggs had more than 260 shops in four main areas of the country and continued to expand, opening shops in the Midlands, Wales and North London. Today, Greggs has nearly 1,700 shops. The reason for Greggs success is quality and the friendly faces you see behind the counter at Greggs, this was one of the reasons why I applied for the position”

Job Interview Question 10:

“Do you think you have enough experience?”

If you’re asked this, then the interviewer does not believe you have enough experience. If you have you need to make this clear, explain about your previous experiences and give detail to the parts that are relevant to this new job role.

If you do not have the experience they need, you need to show the employer you have the skills, qualities and knowledge that will make you equal to people with experience but not necessary the skills. It is also good to add how quick you can pick up the routine of a new job role.

Potential Interview Answer

“All together I have 8 years experience in this industry, in my current role as a sales assistant I am responsible for working in a busy shop, creating a warm and friendly experienced and ensuring that customers receive quality products. I possess excellent customer service skills and work well within a team, this is why I have been so successful in all my previous roles”

Job Interview Question 11:

What is your biggest achievement?

We have all achieved many things throughout our lives, from losing weight to passing a driving test. If you make your answer relevant to the job you are applying for. Talk about how you had a goal you initially thought you couldn’t achieve and then through working hard you achieved your goal.

Potential Interview Answer

“I was once asked to give a presentation, at first I thought I wouldn’t be able to deliver it without embarrassing myself. I wrote the presentation and practiced it in front of small groups, until I had the confidence to deliver it to a large group. I was really pleased with the result on the day and I was good feedback from my line manager.”

Job Interview Question 12:

“Do you have any questions for me?”

Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

Conclusion

Once you have completed your interview Greggs will let you know the outcome often within 48 hrs.

Many people are afraid of job interviews. The truth is if you prepare for your job interview, by predicting the job interview questions, you can easily prepare your job interview answers. If your job interview answers highlight your unique selling point, are stated in the positive and are said in a confident manner, then you can influence the job interview to increase job offer.

May 12, 2015November 30, 2020

How to attract the Recruiter even if you do not have experience

Recruiters are like the gatekeepers of numerous unannounced positions in the industry. So, one needs to constantly keep in touch with a few prominent recruiters to stay informed.

This can best be done by making yourself active and visible to recruiters in the online market. A LinkedIn profile is highly important to do so. It is one of the most preferred sites of recruiters to discover good candidates.

Why is LinkedIn so important?

To answer this question, we must draw reference from a recent survey conducted by a popular software recruiting firm, they revealed in the study that almost 87 percent planned on using LinkedIn to staff candidates on 2011. And the number has only increased over the past 3 years.

There is a huge chunk of positions that remain under the covers in the job market and only these recruiters are aware of that. But if a person is not on the website with a lucrative profile he/she will go unnoticed and will not be discovered.

There are two main reasons why most people tend to avoid LinkedIn than any other job site.

They do not want their present employer t know that they are in the market for a new job.
They want to keep their privacy intact ad don’t want to disclose too much personal information on job site.

But both of these are very common misconceptions among people. As one need not reveal what they don’t want to on LinkedIn and also most active persons on LinkedIn are not in the market for a new job.

Also it is not only enough to put your name out there through a LinkedIn profile, your profile needs to be right to attract good recruiter attention. The main mistake made by most candidates on LinkedIn is that they do not have a complete profile.

You need to have a complete profile to gather more recruiter attention. And your profile also needs to be search optimized and compelling enough so that the employers contact you.

As per reports a complete profile is viewed 40 times more than an incomplete one. The right hand side of one’s profile states the information about how complete ones profile is and what more does the person need to do.

Also being transparent and keeping your work and profile info up to date is key in LinkedIn to attract recruiter attention. You should also keep a profile in the popular job portals like monster.com or Indeed. But trying to find a niche job search website pertaining directly to your field is also important.

What do employers’ look for in a good resume?

Here are a few tips to get your resume noticed in the pile of hundreds or thousands of other resumes on the employer’s table:

A very precise and short objective
An information about how long you have been working at your current position in the present company
A note about what you are presently working on and how that knowledge can help your company
Previous job experiences and time period of how long you’ve worked for those companies and positions
Educational qualifications

Also there are a certain number of things that makes recruiters fret:

Do not be inconsistent: this is one point that always puts employers off. Although we all go through ups and downs in our career. But major inconsistencies that strongly indicate a lack of focus about professionals should be avoided.
Do not be afraid to interact with recruiters on LinkedIn. Build up your professional network and be proud of it. Recruiters really like a person with a robust professional network and quality resumes and cover letters with their profiles.

Some other innovative ways you can grab recruiter’s attention are:

Host live events to connect with people in real life: This does make a huge difference in lives of professionals. You can host a networking event or an open house to attract recruiters as well as fresh talents for your own company.

Optimize your profile for increasing job portal visibility on search engines: When people put up a profile in a social networking site, they believe that recruiters read every last word in their profile. But they don’t, they only read a few key words to judge if you are a potential candidate or not. And if do not optimize your profile, recruiter’s relative to your field of expertise may never find you. Including numerous buzz words in your job search profile is key to make you more visible and discoverable to employers.

Author Bio

Harshit Singh Tomar is a blogger and a professional career author with proven expertise in writing for topics related to jobs, job trends, different job opportunities, various workplace and industry information, tips and strategies for job seekers.

May 12, 2015November 16, 2020

12 Job Interview Questions and Answers for a Dental Nurse

12 Job Interview Questions for a Dental Nurse

To increase your job chances of securing a job offer you will learn the answers to 12 dental nurse job interview questions.

This article will help you to prepare and to pass your next job interview:

You will be given an explanation of the type of answer the interviewer is looking for ( a guide to what the employer wants you to discuss )

You will be given an example job interview answer for each individual interview question, allowing you to tweak this answer, making it relevant to your own experiences.

interview prediction grid

Job Interview Questions and Answers for a Dental Nurse

Job Interview Question 1:

“Tell me about yourself?”

One of the most common asked questions in interviews normally asked at the beginning of an interview, this question gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your experiences and skills relevant to the job position you are applying for.

Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your main strength and/or achievement relating to your dental nurse experience
Keep each point brief as you can explain each point again in more detail throughout the interview
You want to intrigue the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you
End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

Potential Interview Answer

“I’ve been working as a dental nurse for 8 years. I am highly experienced in reassuring clients to help them walk in to the dental room in a confident and calm manor allowing the dentist to progress quickly with the dental operation. I am now ready for a new challenge and with your company having a great reputation, I believe this is the opportunity I have been waiting to apply for”

Job Interview Question 2:

“Why did you leave your last dental nurse poistion”

Be positive with this answer and smile – employers like to hear that you left for a good opportunity or reason, a chance to do something special or for a good career move.

- Start the answer with a look back

Explain what you enjoyed about your previous role

Give a Positive reason for leaving

Potential Interview Answer

“I enjoyed working at Company Name and really enjoyed the interaction of working with a wide range of patients -I feel I gained a lot of transferable skills from this experience, which I can use in this role such as knowing how to sterilize instruments, how to pass on accurate patient details to the dentist and how to support the dentist during operations without getting in the dentist way . It was a hard choice to leave but I felt that this great opportunity is the next obvious step for me”

Job Interview Question 3:

“Why did you apply for a dental nurse job at this company?”

Your research will pay off with this question; explain you have always wanted to work for their company and the reason why. Discuss how your goal has always been to work in this industry as you always wanted to (job criteria) and finally finish by explaining how your previous experience or qualifications will add value to the company.

Potential Interview Answer

“Since becoming qualified my goal has been to work with your organisation, as I believe my vision is in line with your company mission. Your reputation as a dentist is procedures you and I want to part of a dentist that works to high standards. My own experience in preparing materials and using high tech equipment will allow us to work collaboratively together”

Job Interview Question 4:

“Give an example of working within the dental practice team?”

Potential Interview Answer

“A team always works better than an individual as you have a wider skill base and more collective experiences to rely on. You also have the advantage of motivating to achieve goals and targets. In my last job, I worked as part of a small dental team, we will were highly successful in completing a wide range of dental procedures, professionally and quickly”

Job Interview Question 5:

“Did you get on well with your last dentist manager?”

A dreaded question for many! When answering this question never give a negative answer. “I did not get on with my manager” or “The management did not run the business well” will show you in a negative light and reduce your chance of a job offer. Answer the question positively, emphasizing that you have been looking for a career progression. Start by telling the interviewer what you gained from your last job

Potential Interview Answer

If you were made redundant, let the interviewer know, this is not a negative!

Job Interview Question 6:

“How would you be an asset to us?”

Potential Interview Answer

“I’m the type of person who likes to get a task completed; I am driven, hard-working and have excellent time management. I have worked in the dental industry for 5 years and have made excellent customer contacts and built good working relationships with dental suppliers which will be of advantage to any employer who employees me”

Job Interview Question 7:

“What are your strengths?”

Potential Interview Answer

“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important during my last role where we used expensive equipment and materials for a range of dental procedures”

Job Interview Question 8:

“What are your weaknesses in relation to working as a dental nurse?”

Potential Interview Answer

“In the past, I felt I needed to improve my knowledge of new x-ray machines to ensure I could work it correctly. To improve I have studied the manual, attended a training course and now I fully understand how to operate it”

Job Interview Question 9:

“What are the key roles and duties for a dental nurse?”

This question is asked to ensure you understand and have experience in the day to day running of the dentist. Break this question into at least 3 different key roles (this may depend on your past duties)

Potential Interview Answer

“There are 3 key main roles for a dental nurse, first preparing and tidying the dental surgery, secondly a key part of the running of the dentist – sterilizing instruments and keeping dental operation areas sterile and finally helping the dentist record information about each patient and carrying out stock control.”

Job Interview Question 10:

“Do you think you have enough dental nurse experience?”

If you do not have the experience they need, you need to show the employer that you have the skills, qualities and knowledge that will make you equal to people with experience but not necessary the skills. It is also good to add how quick you can pick up the routine of a new job role.

Potential Interview Answer

“Altogether I have 8 years of experience as a dental nurse, in my current role I spend a large amount of time on the welfare of patients. Ensuring the are relaxed and prepared for the dentist, talking to patients during the dental treatment and supporting them with techniques to improve cleanliness”

Job Interview Question 11:

What is your biggest achievement as a dental nurse?

Potential Interview Answer

“I was once asked to give a presentation with the lead dentist as part of a dental conference, at first I thought I wouldn’t be able to deliver it without embarrassing myself. I wrote the presentation with the dentist and practiced it in front of small groups until I had the confidence to deliver it to a large group. I was really pleased with the result on the day and I was good feedback from the lead dentist”

Job Interview Question 12:

“Do you have any questions for me?”

Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

Conclusion

May 11, 2015November 30, 2020

Does a Handshake Effect a Job Interview?

Interviewees are always looking to get an advantage over other applicants.

We already know that the way you answer the job interview questions; the structure you use, the tone of your voice and the passion you state your words with have a powerful influence in a job interview.

You will also understand the power of a first impression.

A first impression isn’t just based on what you wear (which is what most people wrongly believe) The first impression is assessed at an unconscious level, and your facial expressions, body language and handshake effect the outcome of the employer’s prejudices.

Visual and Touch

Your brain is in its own world. The mind cant see or feel. Instead, it relies on electrical impulses that are fired off via your senses – what your body see’s, hears and feel’s sending a different electrical impulse to your brain, your subconscious then through learned experience tells you how to respond.

If you see an overweight man, as an example, you will have an instant opinion about this person. Maybe your experience has taught you that overweight people are lazy? Or maybe you have the belief that overweight people are kind and hardworking. We all have and make instant opinions about new people we meet, and we make them instantly.

These opinions can be changed, but often the opinion the interviewer has created about you is a filter that they will use when they interview you – which means you need this first impression to be a positive one.

Your handshake, which is physical, which means its a highly powerful influence, has to help you to create a positive first impression.

Powerful Handshake in a Job Interview

Below you will learn a basic technique to give you a powerful handshake. It will sound so basic, that you won’t at first believe the power of it. So, I recommend you test the different shakes out on a friend. Do this with your eyes closed and focus on the feeling you get when shaking their hand in the following ways

As we said before, handshakes like all body language give away how you are feeling – nervous or confident? And employers prefer to offer jobs to confident interviewees. Employers are not taught what a certain handshake represents but unconsciously your handshake and body language will give clues to the employer’s subconscious mind.

If your Palm is facing up this can be taken as a sign of submission
A palm facing down can be taken as aggressive

A palm facing sideways is taken as a sign of equality

May 8, 2015November 30, 2020

Can You Sell Yourself During an Interview?

The interview is the step where the prospective employers get a chance to learn more about you, the job applicants. In theory, it’s a chance to present yourself, and hopefully increase your chance of getting hired.

However, many interviewees enter the room thinking of the interview as a test, where they can possibly “pass” or “fail”.

The fact is that you need to perhaps think of it in a different way.

The interview actually can be seen as a sale opportunity. The buyer is the employer, who is considering paying for your work. The seller is you, who is hoping to be able to sell your service.

The product? That’s you. You, as a potential employee, is the product in question here. It’s not just about your skills and experience, those can easily be seen on your CV.

It’s also about you as a person and how you may fit in the company culture. Knowing that going into the interview, your main objective is to sell yourself, to persuade the interviewer that you are the best option for their company.

Interview Packaging

In marketing and sales, everyone knows that packaging is a tremendously important factor that influences purchasing decisions.

That is why companies throw thousands of dollars in packaging design. That is why real estate agents stage the house before opening day. And that is why you need to make yourself presentable on this very important day.

As we often heard, dress for the job that you want. For most office job, business formal is the way to go with interviews.

More than the way you dress, the “packaging”, or your appearance also largely depends on how you carry yourself. You want to come off as a friendly, approachable person, but not without confidence.

Learn basic body language and gestures, such as how to properly shake hands or how to make eye contact during the conversation. Remember, interviewing is all about the first impression and attention to details will definitely pay off.

Know Your Best Selling Points

Ask any salesman about a product he is selling and you will get a detailed report on all the features and benefits. Similarly, in order to sell yourself, you need to know your strengths or the selling points that you can use to entice your potential employers.

Before the interview, take a moment to evaluate and select the biggest strengths that you want to present. It can be your great problem-solving skill, your creativity, or your ability to connect with others.

The most common mistake that people make is to confuse the selling points with their credentials and experience. Remember, your interviewer has already seen your resume. Therefore, there is no point of reading out your past experiences and degrees to them. The interviewer decides the questions, but it is you who decides the answer. Therefore, use any opportunity you get to highlight your strength.

Know What Your Buyer is Looking For

Let’s say the sales staff is presenting to you a top-notch gaming laptop, but if you are just looking for something that can check emails and process simple spreadsheets, would you buy it? Of course not. No matter how good the product is, there will be no sales until the buyer decides that the product fits their needs.

Going into the interview, it’s important for you to know what the employer is looking for. What are the most important characteristics that would make a candidate successful in this position? And how do your skills, experience, and personality fit with these characteristics? Knowing the answers to these two questions, you can tailor your answers to demonstrate these characteristics.

Author Bio

Vanessa is a professional blogger and copywriter, who is passionate about education, lifestyles and travel topics. Currently, she is working with Facts.net, an online collection of random facts on different topics.

May 7, 2015November 30, 2020

Yoga Teacher Interview Questions

Job Interview Questions for a Yoga Teacher

- - - - Job Interview Question 1: What is your experience as a Yoga Teacher?

- - - - Job Interview Question 2: How do you design a yoga lesson to meet the needs of your client?

- - - - Job Interview Question 3: How do you recognise the needs of beginners, experienced students and mixed ability groups

- - - - Job Interview Question 4: How do you teach students?

- - - - Job Interview Question 5: How do you adapt postures for individual conditions such as pregnancy or arthritis?

- - - - Job Interview Question 6: How do you assess the progress of your students

- - - - Job Interview Question 7: Why is it important to review your lessons?

- - - - Job Interview Question 8: What hours are you happy to work?

- - - - Job Interview Question 9: Why is Yoga important?

- - - - Job Interview Question 10: Do you have any questions for me?

May 6, 2015November 30, 2020

Job Interview Questions for a Beauty Therapist

- - Job Interview Question 1: What is your experience in beauty therapy?
  - Job Interview Question 2: How do you welcome a customer when they arrive for treatment?
  - Job Interview Question 3: Which treatments can you offer?

- Job Interview Question 4: What does electro-therapy improve?

- Job Interview Question 5: What is important to know when completing a facial?

- Job Interview Question 6: Give an example of when you have advised a customer about applying make-up

- - Job Interview Question 7: Have you experience with non-surgical skin improvement treatments?

- - Job Interview Question 8: Have you any experience of reception work, such as answering the telephone and receiving clients?

- - Job Interview Question 9: What is your process for keeping notes of clients’ medical histories and treatment programmes

- - Job Interview Question 10: Do you have any questions to ask?