10 Interview Questions Every FM

Should Ask (And Answer)

All of us have experienced that nervous energy in the

hours leading up to a job interview. Wondering what they will ask, what is the appropriate answer for each question.

We have compiled a list of the most common questions and answers, as well as what you should be prepared to

ask at the end of the interview. �

#1 Tell me about yourself.

Example: “Recently, I worked for ABC Company as their Facilities Manager. I lead numerous projects including a workspace redesign and software implementation. Through my efforts, our division saw 37% increase in productivity and saved $1.2 million dollars in overhead costs.” What not to say: “My name is…I grew up in…I graduated five years ago from the…

In preparing for this question, think about what the interviewer in looking for.

#2 What are your career goals?

Example: Your goal is to become the assistant facility manager in the next two years and in the next 5 years, you will be the regional manager. What not to say: Do not express goals that have little or no relation to the job you are interviewing for.

Connect the dots between your professional goals and the company’s

#3 What is your biggest weakness? Example: “It has been difficult for me to delegate to others. But I have found out that in order to develop the organization, as well as my team, everyone in the company must be experienced with many tasks.” What not to say: “I rarely believe in anyone who can work as well as me. As a result, I avoid delegating important tasks to others.”

This question is designed to determine your critical thinking and self-awareness.

#4 Why Should We Hire You? Example: “I am a quick learner and perform well under pressure. I adapt to change and will motivate my teammates as we work to achieve the company’s common goals.”

What not to say: Avoid providing a laundry list of all your positive attributes; limit your list to those relevant to the position you are interviewing for.

#5 What motivates you? Example: “I have always been motivated by both the challenge of finishing my projects on time and by managing my team towards achieving our goals.” OR “I want to be successful in my job, for my own personal satisfaction as well as for my employer and our customers.”

#6 Why did you leave your last job?

Example: “There is no opportunity for promotion in my current position and I am ready to take on new opportunities and challenges.” What not to do: Avoid any answers that speak ill of your old boss, company and/or colleagues. This not the time to discuss your troubles in your previous position.

Answer honestly, avoid answers that shed you and your work in negative light

#7 If you were hiring, what would you look for?

Example: List the attributes you told the interviewer you hold. By doing this, you make yourself the candidate you would hire without explicitly saying this. What not to do: Never say that you are the best candidate for the job, as you have no idea what qualifications the other candidates hold.

#8 What do you know about us?

Dig deep for information and relate the organization back to your passions and experience. Example: If you find that the company is very involved in raising money for animal rights, talk about how you are a foster for the Humane Society.

#9 What are your strengths? The interviewer is looking to determine if your strengths align with the company’s needs.

Example: “I have the ability to see a situation from various perspectives and I can get my work done even in the face of difficult obstacles. I also feel that my communication skills are top notch. What not to say: Be sure to make your answer one that stands out in the interviewer’s mind and leads back to why you are most qualified.

#10 Why do you want this job? The interviewer is probing to see how well you understand this position and what all it entails, and how well you might match the job requirements. Your answer should be focused on what you can offer to strengthen the company. Example: “One of the reasons I’m so excited about this role is because it allows me to leverage my facility management skills on a broader basis and face more complex challenges.”

The number one mistake a candidate can make is to not have any questions for the interviewer. Be sure you are prepared

with questions that will spark conversation.

Do you have any

questions for me?

A Few Favorites Are: “Do you have any concerns about me fulfilling the responsibilities of this position?” “As the direct manager for this position, what are the top priorities you would like to see accomplished?” “Why did you decide to come to ABC Company?”

Please do not ask: How many vacation days the

position offers

Tell the interviewing manager that all your questions are

answered

If you made it to the interview, you have passed the first test—you built a quality resume that

showcased your talents on paper.

The recruiter is now giving you a chance to prove you have what it takes to support the organization

on its mission.

With careful planning, and making every word count - you will find yourself with a new job!

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by: Kaitlan Whitteberry Social Media Manager iOffice, Inc.