Interview Questions ::

At some point, you are going to have to get a job.  A real job.  Which means, more than likely, you will be creating a resume, completing applications, waiting hopefully by some form of electronics for a call back, and then going in for a round (or two, or three) of interviews. 

And you want to look intelligent.  You want to look like you care about getting the job.  Because, really, you do need a job.  So, the first thing to do is research the company and the position.  Make sure you know the goals of the company; the Mission Statement; their target markets; their place in the market.  Make sure you know what they are doing and why they are in business, so that you know whether or not you even want to work there. 

Make sure that your skills and experience and career goals align in some way with the role you are applying for.  I knew someone who used to apply for great jobs just to see if she could get them.  Just because she wanted to see how well she stood out in a crowd of competitors.  And that's not a bad idea.  But what do you do when the company offers you the job and you have to tell them that you really just applied for the heck of it?  Also make sure that you show your prospective employers how your skills, etc. align to the role for which you are applying.  You are the only one who can really sell you - so now is not the time to downgrade your accomplishments.

Once you finally make it into the interview room (and good job getting there!), you have to seal the deal.  Again, you have to make it clear why you are the best candidate for this role.  There really isn't any other choice as far as you're concerned or it's back to step one for you.  And this is where your prior research of the company comes in handy.  Make sure you are prepared to ask intelligent questions about the role ... here are a few great questions via Andy LaCivita:

Based on the company’s overall direction, what do you think the company’s greatest accomplishment will be three years from now?

If you offer me a job and I accept it, what is the most surprising thing—good or bad—I’ll discover about the company within my first week?

One year from now, what specific accomplishments would you consider a total success for the person in this role?  (Because it's always a good idea to know what the company expects from you...)

What is your management style?

Don't worry if you don't get this job - everyone knows that practice makes perfect.  Reflect on what could have gone differently and how you will do better in the next interview.  Network and talk to friends, family, or other professional contacts.  Research other opportunities and, if need be, re-tweak the resume.  Above all else, remain confident in your abilities.  If you don't have faith in yourself, why should anyone else?