45 ways to ace your interview

25. You may be overqualified or too experienced for the position we have to offer.

• Strong companies need strong people.
• Experienced executives are in great demand today.
• Emphasize your interest in making a long-term commitment.
• The employer will get a faster return on investment because you have more experience than required.
• A growing, energetic company is rarely unable to use its people’s talents.

26. What is your management style?

• If you’ve never thought about this, it’s high time you did.
• Open door is best... but you get the job done on time or inform your manager.

27. Are you a good manager? Give an example.

• Keep your answer achievement- and task-oriented
• Emphasise your management prowess: planning, organising and communication skills.

28. What do you look for when you hire people?

• Skills, initiative, adaptability.

29. Have you ever sacked anyone? If so, what were the reasons and how did you handle it?

• Explain your experience of this and how you overcame any problems.

30. What do you see as the most difficult task in being a manager?

• Focus on the bigger picture – getting things planned and done on time within the budget.

31. What do your subordinates think of you?

• Be honest and positive...they can probably check up if they choose to.

32. What is your biggest weakness as a manager?

• Be honest and end on a positive note, for example, ‘I have a problem reprimanding people so I always begin with something positive first.’

33. Have you helped increase sales? Profits? How?

• Describe your contribution in some detail.

34. Have you helped reduce costs? How?

• Describe your contribution in some detail.

35. How much money did you ever account for?

• Be specific.

36. How many people did you supervise on your last job?

• Be specific.

37. In your current or last position, what features did you like the most? Least?

• Be honest but positive.

38. In your current or last position, what are or were your five most significant accomplishments?

• Refer to the key accomplishments already identified on your CV.