| This is a tough question, if you ask for something high you might price yourself out of the job, if you ask for something low, you might get paid less than what should be rightfully yours. Never state a flat amount, always mention a range that would go slightly above what you would find acceptable. Another alternative is to state that you would expect what any other employee in the company with similar education and background is drawing or to ask the employer what someone with your experience and background are worth. "Why do you want to work for this company?" The employer asks this question to find out how much homework you have done about the company. You can demonstrate your knowledge about the company by giving answers that indicate that you have researched the company. Your answers can include "I've talked to some of your employees and I feel this company is a good company to work with because�". " I've been reading about the company's future plans and they look promising�" "Why did you leave your last job?" The employer asks this question to find out if you had any problems on your last job. - Never say anything negative about yourself or your previous employer. If you did have problems think of a way to explain without being negative. - If you were asked to leave the company do not use the word "fired" or "sacked". Use words such as "laid off" or "downsized" - If you were asked to leave and are not on good terms with your previous employer, maybe you should explain. Try to show that you learned something from the situation. - Tell the employer that the former problem (if it is personal) will not affect your work. - Common reasons for leaving: general layoff, job was temporary, moved to a new area, company went out of business, no room for advancement, wanted a job that would better use your skills. "What are your future plans?" The interviewer might want to know how ambitious are you, do you plan ahead or set goals for yourself. He/she might also try to figure out if you are likely to stay with the company for a significant amount of time or whether you are just using the job as a stop gap arrangement till you land a better job. |