102 Administrative assistant interview questions and answers pdf ebook
102 Administrative assistant interview questions and answers pdf ebook free download. In this post, let me share all of you about #top 102...
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102 Administrative assistant interview questions and answers pdf ebook free download.
In this post, let me share all of you about #top 102 common Administrative assistant interview questions and answers. If you need more details such as: Administrative assistant behavioral interview, Administrative assistant interview process, Administrative assistant interview tips...pls leave your comments below.
1. Administrative assistant interview question: Tell me a little about yourself.
Where to start? What do they want to know? Should I start in high school, college, first grade? It’s one of the most frequently asked questions in an interview: Tell me about yourself. The way you answer this question will set the tone for the rest of the interview. This can be a challenging question to answer if you are not prepared for it, but it’s really asked as an icebreaker.
Briefly talk about your current employer. Discuss 2-3 of your most significant accomplishments. Talk about a few of your key strengths as they relate to the job for which you are applying and how they can benefit from your strengths. Then discuss how you see yourself fitting into a position at their company.
DO:
• Keep your answer succinct and to the point.
• Be work specific and tell the hiring manager about where you are now professionally, what you have learned from your past work experiences and then talk about what makes you excited about this specific opportunity.
• Do your company research and find out exactly what strengths and qualities this specific company is looking for and in your answer try and show the hiring manager you possess them (You can discover these strengths or qualities in the job description or on their website.)
DON’T:
• Don’t dive into your life story.
• The hiring manager doesn’t want to hear about you “growing up on 28th avenue down the road from the Trader Joe’s and how it was a coincidence because you had a brother named Joe! (etc…)”.
• Don’t go on about experience you may have that isn’t related to the job you’re interviewing for.
2. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your greatest strengths?
They are asking you this in a broad sense. So ask yourself: What are you best at doing?
Are you a good leader?
Are you a skilled time manager?
Are you a great communicator?
Are you a detailed planner?
Are you good at convincing others?
Whatever you are best at doing, give the interviewer the top 2 or 3 things you excel at.
DO THIS when answering: What are your greatest strengths?
+ Research the job description to find out what they are looking for and leverage your strengths to match.
+ If leadership is something they are looking for talk about your experience as a leader and projects you have successfully led.
+ Your strengths should be aligned with the requirements of the position you are applying for.
+ Talk about your strengths as a solution to their problems.
DON’T DO THIS:
+ Don’t rattle of a list of strengths that are out of context with the job.
+ Don’t list personal strengths, like that you’re a good parent.
+ Don’t list strengths that you are unable to articulate through work experience.
+ Don’t say you’re not sure.
+ Don’t tell them you don’t have any.
+ Don’t be modest when you answer because this is an opportunity to sell yourself.
3. Administrative assistant interview question: Why did you leave your last job?
Unless you’re still working, you will get asked this question. Even if you are working, they will ask you why you want to leave. But more often than not, if you are not working, chances are that you were laid off, terminated, or quit. You just have to let them know the reasoning behind why you are not working at your most recent job.
If you left of your own free will, then explain why you left and what your plans were in doing so. If you were fired for performance reasons, a simple explanation is all that is needed, but make sure this will not affect the requirements for this new job. If you were laid off, let them know several members of your team were laid off due to the economy and slowing product sales. But warm that up a bit and put it into your own words so it makes sense.
DO THIS when answering: Why did you leave your last job?
+ If you left of your own free will, tell them why you left and reflect positively on your former employer. Tell them it was a hard decision to make but you felt it was the right choice for you.
+ If you were fired, be as brief as possible in your explanation and accept responsibility for what happened.
+ If you were laid off due to downsizing or the economy then tell them this as long as it’s true.
DON’T DO THIS:
+ Don’t bad mouth your past company, boss or co-workers
+ Don’t say that the pay was bad and you wanted more money.
+ Don’t say that the hours were terrible.
+ Don’t say that you could not get along with your manager.
+ Don’t lie if you were terminated.
+ Don’t defend yourself or place blame on the employer.
4. Administrative assistant interview question: What do you know about the company?
Any candidate can read and regurgitate the company’s “About” page. So, when interviewers ask this, they aren't necessarily trying to gauge whether you understand the mission—they want to know whether you care about it. Start with one line that shows you understand the company's goals, using a couple key words and phrases from the website, but then go on to make it personal. Say, “I’m personally drawn to this mission because…” or “I really believe in this approach because…” and share a personal example or two.
5. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your long term career goals?
This top 10 question is asked to see how goal oriented you are with your life and if you have a short or long term goal or plan for your career. Don’t say that you don’t know.
This is a good chance to tell the interviewer how you progressed through your career, how you started and where you are at, today, and that you are right on track. Be specific and to the point. Again, this is a short answer question.
You can really turn this answer around any which way that works best for you. The basic idea that you want to get across to the interviewer is that you have a plan for where you are going. Most people don’t, they just wander around from job to job, but not you.
For what every position or qualifications you possess, identify the next logical step for that position and use that as your answer. Try to avoid job titles and focus on gaining experience and responsibilities.
“For the past 3 years, I have been working as a systems analyst and I see myself growing by moving into more challenging roles, with greater responsibility perhaps in management, or project management.”
DO:
• Demonstrate when you answer the question your level of commitment to the position they are interviewing you for.
• After you have demonstrated your commitment to the role you are interviewing for, outline a realistic growth strategy that is directly tied to the role you’re in and the needs and values of the company.
• Stress your interest in a long-term career at the company
DON’T:
• Don’t exhibit ambition to the point of seeming like this particular job is just a “brief stepping stone” for you. You need to show commitment.
• Don’t say you want to be CEO of the company in 5 years.
• Don’t say “Actually I want to be in YOUR seat within the next 5 years.” to the hiring manager.
6. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your biggest weaknesses?
Every candidate knows how to answer this question: Just pick a theoretical weakness and magically transform that flaw into a strength in disguise!
For example: "My biggest weakness is getting so absorbed in my work that I lose all track of time. Every day I look up and realize everyone has gone home! I know I should be more aware of the clock, but when I love what I'm doing I just can't think of anything else."
So your "biggest weakness" is that you'll put in more hours than everyone else? Great...
A better approach is to choose an actual weakness, but one you're working to improve. Share what you're doing to overcome that weakness. No one is perfect, but showing you're willing to honestly self-assess and then seek ways to improve comes pretty darned close.
7. Administrative assistant interview question: What do you consider to be your biggest professional achievement?
Here's an interview question that definitely requires an answer relevant to the job. If you say your biggest achievement was improving throughput by 18 percent in six months but you're interviewing for a leadership role in human resources ... that answer is interesting but ultimately irrelevant.
Instead, talk about an underperforming employee you "rescued," or how you overcame infighting between departments, or how so many of your direct reports have been promoted....
The goal is to share achievements that let the interviewer imagine you in the position -- and see you succeeding.
8. Administrative assistant interview question: What was your salary in your last job?
This is a tough one. You want to be open and honest, but frankly, some companies ask the question as the opening move in salary negotiations.
Try an approach recommended by Liz Ryan. When asked, say, "I'm focusing on jobs in the $50K range. Is this position in that range?" (Frankly, you should already know -- but this is a good way to deflect.)
Maybe the interviewer will answer; maybe she won't. If she presses you for an answer, you'll have to decide whether you want to share or demur. Ultimately your answer won't matter too much, because you'll either accept the salary offered or you won't, depending on what you think is fair.
9. Administrative assistant interview question: Do you have any questions for us?
Beware of candidates who say “no” or that everything has been thoroughly discussed, Enelow says. Now is the time for them to re-emphasize why they’re the most logical choice for the opening by asking key questions they’ve prepared and haven’t had a chance to voice. Those who want to learn more about the company’s professional development opportunities or ask what you personally like best about working there are looking for insights to help them decide whether to accept an offer if it’s extended.
10. Administrative assistant interview question: Out of all the other candidates, why should we hire you?
Since a candidate cannot compare himself with people he doesn't know, all he can do is describe his incredible passion and desire and commitment and ... well, basically beg for the job. (Way too many interviewers ask the question and then sit back, arms folded, as if to say, "Go ahead. I'm listening. Try to convince me.")
And you learn nothing of substance.
Here's a better question: "What do you feel I need to know that we haven't discussed?" Or even "If you could get a do-over on one of my questions, how would you answer it now?"
Rarely do candidates come to the end of an interview feeling they've done their best. Maybe the conversation went in an unexpected direction. Maybe the interviewer focused on one aspect of their skills and totally ignored other key attributes. Or maybe candidates started the interview nervous and hesitant, and now wish they could go back and better describe their qualifications and experience.
Plus, think of it this way: Your goal as an interviewer is to learn as much as you possibly can about every candidate, so don't you want to give them the chance to ensure you do?
Just make sure to turn this part of the interview into a conversation, not a soliloquy. Don't just passively listen and then say, "Thanks. We'll be in touch." Ask follow-up questions. Ask for examples.
And of course if you're asked this question ... use it as a chance to highlight things you haven't been able to touch on.
11. Administrative assistant interview question: What can we expect from you in your first three months?
Ideally the answer to this should come from the employer: They should have plans and expectations for you.
But if you're asked, use this general framework:
+ You'll work hard to determine how your job creates value -- you won't just stay busy, you'll stay busy doing the right things.
+ You'll learn how to serve all your constituents -- your boss, your employees, your peers, your customers, and your suppliers and vendors.
+ You'll focus on doing what you do best -- you'll be hired because you bring certain skills, and you'll apply those skills to make things happen.
+ You'll make a difference -- with customers, with other employees, to bring enthusiasm and focus and a sense of commitment and teamwork.
Then just layer in specifics that are applicable to you and the job.
12. Administrative assistant interview question: Why do you want this job?
Again, companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job, so you should have a great answer about why you want the position. (And if you don't? You probably should apply elsewhere.) First, identify a couple of key factors that make the role a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer support because I love the constant human interaction and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a problem"), then share why you love the company (e.g., “I’ve always been passionate about education, and I think you guys are doing great things, so I want to be a part of i
13. Administrative assistant interview question: What can you contribute to this company?
Often in job interviews, you will get a question about how you will contribute to or add value to a company. This question gives you a chance to explain what makes you stand out among all the other candidates and how you will be an asset to that particular company. If you're asked about what you can contribute to the organization, you'll have the perfect opportunity to show the interviewer why you're a good candidate for the job.
The company wants to discover how you can help and what you'll be able to accomplish, if you were to be hired.
How to Prepare a Response
The best way to answer questions about your contributions to the company is to give examples of what you have accomplished in the past and to relate them to what you can achieve in the future. This is known as the STAR interview response method. It provides a simply way to remember how to respond to interview questions: Situation (describe), Task (what you decided to do), Action (how you completed the task), and Result (the outcome of the situation).
First of all, be sure to have researched the company prior to the interview, so you are familiar with the company's mission. Try to identify the company’s specific needs, and then respond by giving examples as to why your education, skills, accomplishments, and experience will make you an asset for the employer in fulfilling these needs.
Take a few moments to compare your goals with the objectives of the company and the position. Match your qualifications to the job, so you're prepared to share what you have to offer. Also, be ready to mention what you have accomplished in your other jobs. Your goal is to impress the interviewer with your accomplishments to date and what you expect to accomplish if you were to be hired.
14. Administrative assistant interview question: Why was there a gap in your employment?
If you were unemployed for a period of time, be direct and to the point about what you’ve been up to (and hopefully, that’s a litany of impressive volunteer and other mind-enriching activities, like blogging or taking classes). Then, steer the conversation toward how you will do the job and contribute to the organization: “I decided to take a break at the time, but today I’m ready to contribute to this organization in the following ways.”
15. Administrative assistant interview question: How would your boss and co-workers describe you?
First of all, be honest (remember, if you get this job, the hiring manager will be calling your former bosses and co-workers!). Then, try to pull out strengths and traits you haven't discussed in other aspects of the interview, such as your strong work ethic or your willingness to pitch in on other projects when needed.
16. Administrative assistant interview question: Describe your dream job?
Three words describe how you should answer this question: relevance, relevance, relevance.
But that doesn't mean you have to make up an answer. You can learn something from every job. You can develop skills in every job. Work backward: Identify things about the job you're interviewing for that will help you if you do land your dream job someday, and then describe how those things apply to what you hope to someday do.
And don't be afraid to admit that you might someday move on, whether to join another company or -- better -- to start your own business. Employers no longer expect "forever" employees.
17. Administrative assistant interview question: What kind of work environment do you like best?
Maybe you love working alone ... but if the job you're interviewing for is in a call center, that answer will do you no good.
So take a step back and think about the job you're applying for and the company's culture (because every company has one, whether intentional or unintentional). If a flexible schedule is important to you, but the company doesn't offer one, focus on something else. If you like constant direction and support and the company expects employees to self-manage, focus on something else.
Find ways to highlight how the company's environment will work well for you -- and if you can't find ways, don't take the job, because you'll be miserable.
18. Administrative assistant interview question: What really drives results in this job?
Employees are investments, and you expect every employee to generate a positive return on his or her salary. (Otherwise why do you have them on the payroll?)
In every job some activities make a bigger difference than others. You need your HR team to fill job openings, but what you really want is for them to find the right candidates, because that results in higher retention rates, lower training costs, and better overall productivity.
You need your service techs to perform effective repairs, but what you really want is for those techs to identify ways to solve problems and provide other benefits -- in short, to build customer relationships and even generate additional sales.
Great candidates want to know what truly makes a difference and drives results, because they know helping the company succeed means they will succeed as well.
52 management interview questions and answers pdf ebook:
32 competency based interview questions and answers pdf ebook:
1. Conduct research on the employer, hiring manager, and job opportunity
Success in a job interview starts with a solid foundation of knowledge on the jobseeker’s part. You should understand the employer, the requirements of the job, and the background of the person (or people) interviewing you. The more research you conduct, the more you’ll understand the employer, and the better you’ll be able to answer interview questions. Scour the organization’s website and other published materials, search engines, research tools, and ask questions about the company in your network of contacts. Learn more about job search job interview researching here.
2. Review common interview questions and prepare your responses
Another key to interview success is preparing responses to expected interview questions. First, ask the hiring manager as to the type of interview to expect. Will it be one-on-one or in a group? Will it be with one person, or will you meet several members of the organization? Your goal is to try to determine what you’ll be asked and to compose detailed yet concise responses that focus on specific examples and accomplishments. A good tool for remembering your responses is to put them into a story form that you can tell in the interview. No need to memorize responses (in fact, it’s best not to), but do develop talking points. There are excellent tools available to help you with interview questions and responses. Also, consider using the STAR Interviewing Technique.
3. Dress for Success
Plan out a wardrobe that fits the organization and its culture, striving for the most professional appearance you can accomplish. Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than under” and to wear clothing that fits and is clean and pressed. Keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview” and if possible, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
4. Arrive on Time, Relaxed and Prepared for the Interview
There is no excuse ever for arriving late to an interview. Short of a disaster, strive to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow yourself time to get settled. Arriving a bit early is also a chance to observe the dynamics of the workplace.
The day before the interview, pack up extra copies of your resume or CV and reference list. If you have a portfolio or samples of your work, bring those along too. Finally, remember to pack several pens and a pad of paper to jot notes. Finally, as you get to the offices, shut off your cell phone. (And if you were chewing gum, get rid of it.)
5. Take evidence of your achievements
Any sales person who’s interviewed will wax lyrical about their career achievements. But not everyone will take evidence of this to the interview. Although you’ll want to be careful not to take any information along that is confidential to your existing or previous employers (as this implies carelessness), you could take along sales league tables, references or payslips if they’re appropriate.
6. Focus more on what you can do for the company, rather than what they can do for you
At the beginning of the job interview process, someone has to assume the role of the seller, and someone has to be the buyer.
You’re the seller at this early stage of the process.
As the interview progresses you will eventually be asked: Do you have any questions for us?
It’s a bad idea to say, no, I can’t think of anything. It’s also a bad idea to have a grocery list of interview questions a mile long.
7. Make Good First Impressions
A cardinal rule of interviewing is to be polite and offer warm greetings to everyone you meet” from the parking attendant to the receptionist to the hiring manager. Employers often are curious how job applicants treat staff members” and your job offer could easily be derailed if you’re rude or arrogant to any of the staff. When it’s time for the interview, keep in mind that first impressions” the impression interviewers get in the first few seconds of meeting you” can make or break an interview. Make a strong first impression by dressing well, arriving early, and when greeting your interviewer, stand, smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm“ but not bone-crushing“ handshake. Remember that having a positive attitude and expressing enthusiasm for the job and employer are vital in the initial stages of the interview; studies show that hiring managers make critical decisions about job applicants in the first 20 minutes of the interview.
8. Prep your greatest stories in advance.
It’s hard to think of amazing stories on the fly. So think ahead and prepare your most impactful stories of on-the-job success. What kind of stories, you might ask?
“Write down eight to 10 stories that sum up your experience. People are so much more natural when they’re in storytelling mode Think about CAR: challenge, action, result. What was the challenge that the business was facing? What was the action you specifically took? What was the result of it?”
That’s Katie’s advice.
Try telling these stories to friends and family in a practice session so you’re even more natural. You’ll feel confident and ready to showcase your most awesome successes when you walk in the door.
9. Bring examples of your work
Use the power of the printed word to your advantage. As an executive recruiter, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been called by a hiring manager after an interview, and told how impressed they were with one of my candidates who brought examples of their work.
Most job seekers fail to do this in preparing for a job interview. This one job interview tip alone will set you apart from other candidates.
Idea: Some job seekers bring a copy of their most recent written evaluation to the interview. Obviously, you should only do this if your evaluation is outstanding.
The power of the printed word applies here as well. If you share your strengths with your interviewers, it’s duly noted. If one of your bosses said those same things about you…it’s gospel.
Another great example of your work is any chart or graph that illustrates specifically how you saved the company time or money…or how you made the company money.
Always couch your examples with the following line of logic:
• This was the problem or situation
• Here are the things I specifically did to resolve it
• As a result of these actions, this was the measurable result
10. Remember the Importance of Body Language
While the content of your interview responses is paramount, poor body language can be a distraction at best” or a reason not to hire you at worst. Effective forms of body language include smiling, eye contact, solid posture, active listening, and nodding. Detrimental forms of body language include slouching, looking off in the distance, playing with a pen, fidgeting in a chair, brushing back your hair, touching your face, chewing gum, or mumbling. Read more about perfecting your body language in our article, The Unspoken Secrets of Job Interviewing: How Your Nonverbal Presentation and Behaviors Impact the Impression You Make.
11. Ask insightful questions
.
Studies continually show that employers make a judgment about an applicant’s interest in the job by whether or not the interviewee asks questions. Thus, even if the hiring manager was thorough in his or her discussions about the job opening and what is expected, you must ask a few questions. This shows that you have done your research and that you are curious. The smart jobseeker prepares questions to ask days before the interview, adding any additional queries that might arise from the interview. For an idea of questions you could ask at the interview, see our article, Questions You Can Ask at the Job Interview, as well as our article, Make a Lasting Impression at Job Interviews Using Questions.
12. Sell yourself and then close the deal
The most qualified applicant is not always the one who is hired; the winning candidate is often the jobseeker who does the best job responding to interview questions and showcasing his or her fit with the job, department, and organization. Some liken the job interview to a sales call. You are the salesperson” and the product you are selling to the employer is your ability to fill the organization’s needs, solve its problems, propel its success.
Finally, as the interview winds down, ask about the next steps in the process and the timetable in which the employer expects to use to make a decision about the position.
13. Thank Interviewer(s) in Person, by Email, or Postal Mail.
Common courtesy and politeness go far in interviewing; thus, the importance of thanking each person who interviews you should come as no surprise. Start the process while at the interview, thanking each person who interviewed you before you leave. Writing thank-you emails and notes shortly after the interview will not get you the job offer, but doing so will certainly give you an edge over any of the other finalists who didn’t bother to send thank-you notes.
14. Follow Up Afterwards
Don’t let your interview be the last they hear from you. If you follow up afterwards, you’ll help them remember who you are, and make sure your resume doesn’t fall into the abyss of the forgotten. Send a thank you note after your interview, and a short email later on to check in if you haven’t heard back. Take into account how you’ve been communicating with them so far, though, as different modes of communication may be more beneficial. If you have a follow up interview, be sure to nail that too.
15. If You Don’t Get Hired, Find Out Why
Not every interview will be a winner, sadly, even if you do everything right. If you don’t get hired, the best thing you can do is find out why and apply that knowledge to your next round of interviews. Look back on your interview and think about what you could have done better, whether it’s avoiding the “overqualification” trap or just simply using better grammar. There are any number of reasons someone might not hire you, and all you can do is use this round as practice for your next interview.
In this post, let me share all of you about #top 102 common Administrative assistant interview questions and answers. If you need more details such as: Administrative assistant behavioral interview, Administrative assistant interview process, Administrative assistant interview tips...pls leave your comments below.
I. Administrative assistant interview questions:
1. Administrative assistant interview question: Tell me a little about yourself.
Where to start? What do they want to know? Should I start in high school, college, first grade? It’s one of the most frequently asked questions in an interview: Tell me about yourself. The way you answer this question will set the tone for the rest of the interview. This can be a challenging question to answer if you are not prepared for it, but it’s really asked as an icebreaker.
Briefly talk about your current employer. Discuss 2-3 of your most significant accomplishments. Talk about a few of your key strengths as they relate to the job for which you are applying and how they can benefit from your strengths. Then discuss how you see yourself fitting into a position at their company.
DO:
• Keep your answer succinct and to the point.
• Be work specific and tell the hiring manager about where you are now professionally, what you have learned from your past work experiences and then talk about what makes you excited about this specific opportunity.
• Do your company research and find out exactly what strengths and qualities this specific company is looking for and in your answer try and show the hiring manager you possess them (You can discover these strengths or qualities in the job description or on their website.)
DON’T:
• Don’t dive into your life story.
• The hiring manager doesn’t want to hear about you “growing up on 28th avenue down the road from the Trader Joe’s and how it was a coincidence because you had a brother named Joe! (etc…)”.
• Don’t go on about experience you may have that isn’t related to the job you’re interviewing for.
2. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your greatest strengths?
They are asking you this in a broad sense. So ask yourself: What are you best at doing?
Are you a good leader?
Are you a skilled time manager?
Are you a great communicator?
Are you a detailed planner?
Are you good at convincing others?
Whatever you are best at doing, give the interviewer the top 2 or 3 things you excel at.
DO THIS when answering: What are your greatest strengths?
+ Research the job description to find out what they are looking for and leverage your strengths to match.
+ If leadership is something they are looking for talk about your experience as a leader and projects you have successfully led.
+ Your strengths should be aligned with the requirements of the position you are applying for.
+ Talk about your strengths as a solution to their problems.
DON’T DO THIS:
+ Don’t rattle of a list of strengths that are out of context with the job.
+ Don’t list personal strengths, like that you’re a good parent.
+ Don’t list strengths that you are unable to articulate through work experience.
+ Don’t say you’re not sure.
+ Don’t tell them you don’t have any.
+ Don’t be modest when you answer because this is an opportunity to sell yourself.
3. Administrative assistant interview question: Why did you leave your last job?
Unless you’re still working, you will get asked this question. Even if you are working, they will ask you why you want to leave. But more often than not, if you are not working, chances are that you were laid off, terminated, or quit. You just have to let them know the reasoning behind why you are not working at your most recent job.
If you left of your own free will, then explain why you left and what your plans were in doing so. If you were fired for performance reasons, a simple explanation is all that is needed, but make sure this will not affect the requirements for this new job. If you were laid off, let them know several members of your team were laid off due to the economy and slowing product sales. But warm that up a bit and put it into your own words so it makes sense.
DO THIS when answering: Why did you leave your last job?
+ If you left of your own free will, tell them why you left and reflect positively on your former employer. Tell them it was a hard decision to make but you felt it was the right choice for you.
+ If you were fired, be as brief as possible in your explanation and accept responsibility for what happened.
+ If you were laid off due to downsizing or the economy then tell them this as long as it’s true.
DON’T DO THIS:
+ Don’t bad mouth your past company, boss or co-workers
+ Don’t say that the pay was bad and you wanted more money.
+ Don’t say that the hours were terrible.
+ Don’t say that you could not get along with your manager.
+ Don’t lie if you were terminated.
+ Don’t defend yourself or place blame on the employer.
4. Administrative assistant interview question: What do you know about the company?
Any candidate can read and regurgitate the company’s “About” page. So, when interviewers ask this, they aren't necessarily trying to gauge whether you understand the mission—they want to know whether you care about it. Start with one line that shows you understand the company's goals, using a couple key words and phrases from the website, but then go on to make it personal. Say, “I’m personally drawn to this mission because…” or “I really believe in this approach because…” and share a personal example or two.
5. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your long term career goals?
This top 10 question is asked to see how goal oriented you are with your life and if you have a short or long term goal or plan for your career. Don’t say that you don’t know.
This is a good chance to tell the interviewer how you progressed through your career, how you started and where you are at, today, and that you are right on track. Be specific and to the point. Again, this is a short answer question.
You can really turn this answer around any which way that works best for you. The basic idea that you want to get across to the interviewer is that you have a plan for where you are going. Most people don’t, they just wander around from job to job, but not you.
For what every position or qualifications you possess, identify the next logical step for that position and use that as your answer. Try to avoid job titles and focus on gaining experience and responsibilities.
“For the past 3 years, I have been working as a systems analyst and I see myself growing by moving into more challenging roles, with greater responsibility perhaps in management, or project management.”
DO:
• Demonstrate when you answer the question your level of commitment to the position they are interviewing you for.
• After you have demonstrated your commitment to the role you are interviewing for, outline a realistic growth strategy that is directly tied to the role you’re in and the needs and values of the company.
• Stress your interest in a long-term career at the company
DON’T:
• Don’t exhibit ambition to the point of seeming like this particular job is just a “brief stepping stone” for you. You need to show commitment.
• Don’t say you want to be CEO of the company in 5 years.
• Don’t say “Actually I want to be in YOUR seat within the next 5 years.” to the hiring manager.
6. Administrative assistant interview question: What are your biggest weaknesses?
Every candidate knows how to answer this question: Just pick a theoretical weakness and magically transform that flaw into a strength in disguise!
For example: "My biggest weakness is getting so absorbed in my work that I lose all track of time. Every day I look up and realize everyone has gone home! I know I should be more aware of the clock, but when I love what I'm doing I just can't think of anything else."
So your "biggest weakness" is that you'll put in more hours than everyone else? Great...
A better approach is to choose an actual weakness, but one you're working to improve. Share what you're doing to overcome that weakness. No one is perfect, but showing you're willing to honestly self-assess and then seek ways to improve comes pretty darned close.
7. Administrative assistant interview question: What do you consider to be your biggest professional achievement?
Here's an interview question that definitely requires an answer relevant to the job. If you say your biggest achievement was improving throughput by 18 percent in six months but you're interviewing for a leadership role in human resources ... that answer is interesting but ultimately irrelevant.
Instead, talk about an underperforming employee you "rescued," or how you overcame infighting between departments, or how so many of your direct reports have been promoted....
The goal is to share achievements that let the interviewer imagine you in the position -- and see you succeeding.
8. Administrative assistant interview question: What was your salary in your last job?
This is a tough one. You want to be open and honest, but frankly, some companies ask the question as the opening move in salary negotiations.
Try an approach recommended by Liz Ryan. When asked, say, "I'm focusing on jobs in the $50K range. Is this position in that range?" (Frankly, you should already know -- but this is a good way to deflect.)
Maybe the interviewer will answer; maybe she won't. If she presses you for an answer, you'll have to decide whether you want to share or demur. Ultimately your answer won't matter too much, because you'll either accept the salary offered or you won't, depending on what you think is fair.
9. Administrative assistant interview question: Do you have any questions for us?
Beware of candidates who say “no” or that everything has been thoroughly discussed, Enelow says. Now is the time for them to re-emphasize why they’re the most logical choice for the opening by asking key questions they’ve prepared and haven’t had a chance to voice. Those who want to learn more about the company’s professional development opportunities or ask what you personally like best about working there are looking for insights to help them decide whether to accept an offer if it’s extended.
10. Administrative assistant interview question: Out of all the other candidates, why should we hire you?
Since a candidate cannot compare himself with people he doesn't know, all he can do is describe his incredible passion and desire and commitment and ... well, basically beg for the job. (Way too many interviewers ask the question and then sit back, arms folded, as if to say, "Go ahead. I'm listening. Try to convince me.")
And you learn nothing of substance.
Here's a better question: "What do you feel I need to know that we haven't discussed?" Or even "If you could get a do-over on one of my questions, how would you answer it now?"
Rarely do candidates come to the end of an interview feeling they've done their best. Maybe the conversation went in an unexpected direction. Maybe the interviewer focused on one aspect of their skills and totally ignored other key attributes. Or maybe candidates started the interview nervous and hesitant, and now wish they could go back and better describe their qualifications and experience.
Plus, think of it this way: Your goal as an interviewer is to learn as much as you possibly can about every candidate, so don't you want to give them the chance to ensure you do?
Just make sure to turn this part of the interview into a conversation, not a soliloquy. Don't just passively listen and then say, "Thanks. We'll be in touch." Ask follow-up questions. Ask for examples.
And of course if you're asked this question ... use it as a chance to highlight things you haven't been able to touch on.
11. Administrative assistant interview question: What can we expect from you in your first three months?
Ideally the answer to this should come from the employer: They should have plans and expectations for you.
But if you're asked, use this general framework:
+ You'll work hard to determine how your job creates value -- you won't just stay busy, you'll stay busy doing the right things.
+ You'll learn how to serve all your constituents -- your boss, your employees, your peers, your customers, and your suppliers and vendors.
+ You'll focus on doing what you do best -- you'll be hired because you bring certain skills, and you'll apply those skills to make things happen.
+ You'll make a difference -- with customers, with other employees, to bring enthusiasm and focus and a sense of commitment and teamwork.
Then just layer in specifics that are applicable to you and the job.
12. Administrative assistant interview question: Why do you want this job?
Again, companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job, so you should have a great answer about why you want the position. (And if you don't? You probably should apply elsewhere.) First, identify a couple of key factors that make the role a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer support because I love the constant human interaction and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a problem"), then share why you love the company (e.g., “I’ve always been passionate about education, and I think you guys are doing great things, so I want to be a part of i
13. Administrative assistant interview question: What can you contribute to this company?
Often in job interviews, you will get a question about how you will contribute to or add value to a company. This question gives you a chance to explain what makes you stand out among all the other candidates and how you will be an asset to that particular company. If you're asked about what you can contribute to the organization, you'll have the perfect opportunity to show the interviewer why you're a good candidate for the job.
The company wants to discover how you can help and what you'll be able to accomplish, if you were to be hired.
How to Prepare a Response
The best way to answer questions about your contributions to the company is to give examples of what you have accomplished in the past and to relate them to what you can achieve in the future. This is known as the STAR interview response method. It provides a simply way to remember how to respond to interview questions: Situation (describe), Task (what you decided to do), Action (how you completed the task), and Result (the outcome of the situation).
First of all, be sure to have researched the company prior to the interview, so you are familiar with the company's mission. Try to identify the company’s specific needs, and then respond by giving examples as to why your education, skills, accomplishments, and experience will make you an asset for the employer in fulfilling these needs.
Take a few moments to compare your goals with the objectives of the company and the position. Match your qualifications to the job, so you're prepared to share what you have to offer. Also, be ready to mention what you have accomplished in your other jobs. Your goal is to impress the interviewer with your accomplishments to date and what you expect to accomplish if you were to be hired.
14. Administrative assistant interview question: Why was there a gap in your employment?
If you were unemployed for a period of time, be direct and to the point about what you’ve been up to (and hopefully, that’s a litany of impressive volunteer and other mind-enriching activities, like blogging or taking classes). Then, steer the conversation toward how you will do the job and contribute to the organization: “I decided to take a break at the time, but today I’m ready to contribute to this organization in the following ways.”
15. Administrative assistant interview question: How would your boss and co-workers describe you?
First of all, be honest (remember, if you get this job, the hiring manager will be calling your former bosses and co-workers!). Then, try to pull out strengths and traits you haven't discussed in other aspects of the interview, such as your strong work ethic or your willingness to pitch in on other projects when needed.
16. Administrative assistant interview question: Describe your dream job?
Three words describe how you should answer this question: relevance, relevance, relevance.
But that doesn't mean you have to make up an answer. You can learn something from every job. You can develop skills in every job. Work backward: Identify things about the job you're interviewing for that will help you if you do land your dream job someday, and then describe how those things apply to what you hope to someday do.
And don't be afraid to admit that you might someday move on, whether to join another company or -- better -- to start your own business. Employers no longer expect "forever" employees.
17. Administrative assistant interview question: What kind of work environment do you like best?
Maybe you love working alone ... but if the job you're interviewing for is in a call center, that answer will do you no good.
So take a step back and think about the job you're applying for and the company's culture (because every company has one, whether intentional or unintentional). If a flexible schedule is important to you, but the company doesn't offer one, focus on something else. If you like constant direction and support and the company expects employees to self-manage, focus on something else.
Find ways to highlight how the company's environment will work well for you -- and if you can't find ways, don't take the job, because you'll be miserable.
18. Administrative assistant interview question: What really drives results in this job?
Employees are investments, and you expect every employee to generate a positive return on his or her salary. (Otherwise why do you have them on the payroll?)
In every job some activities make a bigger difference than others. You need your HR team to fill job openings, but what you really want is for them to find the right candidates, because that results in higher retention rates, lower training costs, and better overall productivity.
You need your service techs to perform effective repairs, but what you really want is for those techs to identify ways to solve problems and provide other benefits -- in short, to build customer relationships and even generate additional sales.
Great candidates want to know what truly makes a difference and drives results, because they know helping the company succeed means they will succeed as well.
52 management interview questions and answers pdf ebook:
32 competency based interview questions and answers pdf ebook:
II. Administrative assistant job interview tips:
1. Conduct research on the employer, hiring manager, and job opportunity
Success in a job interview starts with a solid foundation of knowledge on the jobseeker’s part. You should understand the employer, the requirements of the job, and the background of the person (or people) interviewing you. The more research you conduct, the more you’ll understand the employer, and the better you’ll be able to answer interview questions. Scour the organization’s website and other published materials, search engines, research tools, and ask questions about the company in your network of contacts. Learn more about job search job interview researching here.
2. Review common interview questions and prepare your responses
Another key to interview success is preparing responses to expected interview questions. First, ask the hiring manager as to the type of interview to expect. Will it be one-on-one or in a group? Will it be with one person, or will you meet several members of the organization? Your goal is to try to determine what you’ll be asked and to compose detailed yet concise responses that focus on specific examples and accomplishments. A good tool for remembering your responses is to put them into a story form that you can tell in the interview. No need to memorize responses (in fact, it’s best not to), but do develop talking points. There are excellent tools available to help you with interview questions and responses. Also, consider using the STAR Interviewing Technique.
3. Dress for Success
Plan out a wardrobe that fits the organization and its culture, striving for the most professional appearance you can accomplish. Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than under” and to wear clothing that fits and is clean and pressed. Keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview” and if possible, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
4. Arrive on Time, Relaxed and Prepared for the Interview
There is no excuse ever for arriving late to an interview. Short of a disaster, strive to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow yourself time to get settled. Arriving a bit early is also a chance to observe the dynamics of the workplace.
The day before the interview, pack up extra copies of your resume or CV and reference list. If you have a portfolio or samples of your work, bring those along too. Finally, remember to pack several pens and a pad of paper to jot notes. Finally, as you get to the offices, shut off your cell phone. (And if you were chewing gum, get rid of it.)
5. Take evidence of your achievements
Any sales person who’s interviewed will wax lyrical about their career achievements. But not everyone will take evidence of this to the interview. Although you’ll want to be careful not to take any information along that is confidential to your existing or previous employers (as this implies carelessness), you could take along sales league tables, references or payslips if they’re appropriate.
6. Focus more on what you can do for the company, rather than what they can do for you
At the beginning of the job interview process, someone has to assume the role of the seller, and someone has to be the buyer.
You’re the seller at this early stage of the process.
As the interview progresses you will eventually be asked: Do you have any questions for us?
It’s a bad idea to say, no, I can’t think of anything. It’s also a bad idea to have a grocery list of interview questions a mile long.
7. Make Good First Impressions
A cardinal rule of interviewing is to be polite and offer warm greetings to everyone you meet” from the parking attendant to the receptionist to the hiring manager. Employers often are curious how job applicants treat staff members” and your job offer could easily be derailed if you’re rude or arrogant to any of the staff. When it’s time for the interview, keep in mind that first impressions” the impression interviewers get in the first few seconds of meeting you” can make or break an interview. Make a strong first impression by dressing well, arriving early, and when greeting your interviewer, stand, smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm“ but not bone-crushing“ handshake. Remember that having a positive attitude and expressing enthusiasm for the job and employer are vital in the initial stages of the interview; studies show that hiring managers make critical decisions about job applicants in the first 20 minutes of the interview.
8. Prep your greatest stories in advance.
It’s hard to think of amazing stories on the fly. So think ahead and prepare your most impactful stories of on-the-job success. What kind of stories, you might ask?
“Write down eight to 10 stories that sum up your experience. People are so much more natural when they’re in storytelling mode Think about CAR: challenge, action, result. What was the challenge that the business was facing? What was the action you specifically took? What was the result of it?”
That’s Katie’s advice.
Try telling these stories to friends and family in a practice session so you’re even more natural. You’ll feel confident and ready to showcase your most awesome successes when you walk in the door.
9. Bring examples of your work
Use the power of the printed word to your advantage. As an executive recruiter, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been called by a hiring manager after an interview, and told how impressed they were with one of my candidates who brought examples of their work.
Most job seekers fail to do this in preparing for a job interview. This one job interview tip alone will set you apart from other candidates.
Idea: Some job seekers bring a copy of their most recent written evaluation to the interview. Obviously, you should only do this if your evaluation is outstanding.
The power of the printed word applies here as well. If you share your strengths with your interviewers, it’s duly noted. If one of your bosses said those same things about you…it’s gospel.
Another great example of your work is any chart or graph that illustrates specifically how you saved the company time or money…or how you made the company money.
Always couch your examples with the following line of logic:
• This was the problem or situation
• Here are the things I specifically did to resolve it
• As a result of these actions, this was the measurable result
10. Remember the Importance of Body Language
While the content of your interview responses is paramount, poor body language can be a distraction at best” or a reason not to hire you at worst. Effective forms of body language include smiling, eye contact, solid posture, active listening, and nodding. Detrimental forms of body language include slouching, looking off in the distance, playing with a pen, fidgeting in a chair, brushing back your hair, touching your face, chewing gum, or mumbling. Read more about perfecting your body language in our article, The Unspoken Secrets of Job Interviewing: How Your Nonverbal Presentation and Behaviors Impact the Impression You Make.
11. Ask insightful questions
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Studies continually show that employers make a judgment about an applicant’s interest in the job by whether or not the interviewee asks questions. Thus, even if the hiring manager was thorough in his or her discussions about the job opening and what is expected, you must ask a few questions. This shows that you have done your research and that you are curious. The smart jobseeker prepares questions to ask days before the interview, adding any additional queries that might arise from the interview. For an idea of questions you could ask at the interview, see our article, Questions You Can Ask at the Job Interview, as well as our article, Make a Lasting Impression at Job Interviews Using Questions.
12. Sell yourself and then close the deal
The most qualified applicant is not always the one who is hired; the winning candidate is often the jobseeker who does the best job responding to interview questions and showcasing his or her fit with the job, department, and organization. Some liken the job interview to a sales call. You are the salesperson” and the product you are selling to the employer is your ability to fill the organization’s needs, solve its problems, propel its success.
Finally, as the interview winds down, ask about the next steps in the process and the timetable in which the employer expects to use to make a decision about the position.
13. Thank Interviewer(s) in Person, by Email, or Postal Mail.
Common courtesy and politeness go far in interviewing; thus, the importance of thanking each person who interviews you should come as no surprise. Start the process while at the interview, thanking each person who interviewed you before you leave. Writing thank-you emails and notes shortly after the interview will not get you the job offer, but doing so will certainly give you an edge over any of the other finalists who didn’t bother to send thank-you notes.
14. Follow Up Afterwards
Don’t let your interview be the last they hear from you. If you follow up afterwards, you’ll help them remember who you are, and make sure your resume doesn’t fall into the abyss of the forgotten. Send a thank you note after your interview, and a short email later on to check in if you haven’t heard back. Take into account how you’ve been communicating with them so far, though, as different modes of communication may be more beneficial. If you have a follow up interview, be sure to nail that too.
15. If You Don’t Get Hired, Find Out Why
Not every interview will be a winner, sadly, even if you do everything right. If you don’t get hired, the best thing you can do is find out why and apply that knowledge to your next round of interviews. Look back on your interview and think about what you could have done better, whether it’s avoiding the “overqualification” trap or just simply using better grammar. There are any number of reasons someone might not hire you, and all you can do is use this round as practice for your next interview.
