How do I answer an interview for the Academy of Finance?
I have an interview for a finance program in high school. How would I answer them even if I have to lie about it to sound good? (probable interview questions according to others)
strenghth/weakness?
Why I want to be in it?
Why do I want a career in business and finance?
experience?
POSSIBLE ANSWERS TO CRITICAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
WHAT TYPE OF JOB ARE YOU SEEKING?
Response- Give information related to the industry, company, or type of job to show that you
have definite immediate objectives and well-thought-out, long-range plans. NEVER say you
“just need a job,” or that you “will do anything.”
WHY DO YOU THINK YOU MIGHT LIKE TO WORK FOR ME?
Response- Indicate that you know the organization and its reputation, that you have long-range
goals, and that there is a match between you and the organization. Show that you make logical
decisions and plan your future carefully. DO NOT use simple generalizations (good company,
treat employees well, valuable experience, etc.). NEVER say that their organization has the
highest salaries in the area.
WHY DO YOU PLAN TO LEAVE YOUR PRESENT JOB?
Response- You want an opportunity to perform, learn, and develop. You desire more
responsibility and high salary potential. NEVER tell personal or emotional problems to answer
this question.
TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF.
Response- Indicate only your experience, accomplishments, and skills relevant to the job you are
seeking. DO NOT make the mistake of giving your entire life history.
WHAT KIND OF SALARY DO YOU EXPECT TO RECEIVE?
Response- Until you have a clear understanding of the job, do not offer a figure. Ask for time to
mutually explore the position and your qualifications. Quoting a low figure can mean many years
of work to reach the proper salary level or having the organization say it wants a person with a
little more experience. Try to determine salary ranges for the position you want BEFORE the
interview. Career Development staff, individuals working in the field, or library resources can
help you in this determination. Indicate that you would consider a reasonable offer consistent
with the area’s cost of living and your responsibility and authority.
WHAT IS YOUR OPINION OF YOUR PRESENT BOSS OR CO-WORKERS?
Response- Indicate the nature and responsibility of your work. Answer objectively and avoid
personal opinions-be positive. Do not knock others.
WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST STRENGTHS?
Response- Provide work-related strengths and give examples of your success in previous work,
school, or community activities. Broad, general statements (hard worker, good education,
willingness to learn, good rapport with people, etc.) are not as helpful as specific examples.
WHAT ARE YOUR CHIEF LIABILITIES?
Response- Everyone has at least one liability; you may have several. Be aware of your
weaknesses, mention a few, but definitely follow each weakness with a positive statement about
what you have done or plan to do to overcome the liability. You may want to mention a liability
you had several years ago but have successfully corrected. AVOID unsolved weaknesses.