Deck 9: Interviewing Successfully

Question 1

Marco met with the team leader to talk about his recent performance at work and to outline his goals for the coming year. How would this discussion be classified?

A) appraisal interview
B) selection interview
C) exit interview
D) counseling interview
E) survey interview

Answer 1

appraisal interview

Question 2

What is an exit interview?

A) a conversation about experiences working for an employer that you are leaving
B) a discussion of treatment options between you and your doctor
C) a discussion between you and your manager about performance and goals
D) an information-gathering conversation about your opinion of a product
E) an interaction aimed at helping you make a decision or overcome a problem

Answer 2

a conversation about experiences working for an employer that you are leaving

Question 3

What is the difference between a selection interview and an appraisal interview?

A) In a selection interview, a manager meets with a potential employee to discuss an employment or promotion opportunity, whereas in an appraisal interview, a manager and employee meet to talk about the employee's past performance and future goals.
B) In a selection interview, a manager and employee meet to talk about the employee's past performance and future goals, whereas an appraisal interview is a conversation aimed at helping an employee make a decision or overcome a problem.
C) A selection interview is a discussion between you and your manager about performance and goals, whereas an appraisal interview is an information-gathering conversation about your opinion of a product.
D) In a selection interview, a manager meets with a potential employee to discuss an employment or promotion opportunity, whereas an appraisal interview is a conversation about experiences working for an employer that you are leaving.
E) A selection interview is an information-gathering conversation about your opinion of a product, whereas in an appraisal interview a manager meets with a potential employee to discuss an employment or promotion opportunity.

Answer 3

In a selection interview, a manager meets with a potential employee to discuss an employment or promotion opportunity, whereas in an appraisal interview, a manager and employee meet to talk about the employee's past performance and future goals.

Question 4

Daylen and Michael met with their real estate agent to prepare a purchase offer on a house they hope to buy. What type of interview is this?

A) problem-solving
B) survey
C) persuasive
D) selection
E) counseling

Question 5

Which of the following questions would likely be asked in an exit interview?

A) Do you think you had the resources and equipment necessary to do your job well here?
B) What aspects of your education and training do you think will help you in this position?
C) How well has work progressed on the project assignments we discussed last quarter?
D) What changes are you hoping to accomplish through our sessions together?
E) How many adult members of your household are employed full-time outside the home?

Question 6

What type of interview is used to help employers hire the best candidates for open positions?

A) selection
B) persuasive
C) survey
D) appraisal
E) counseling

Question 7

"Why do you believe this job would be a good fit for you?" is a question asked in which type of interview?

A) selection interview
B) counseling interview
C) appraisal interview
D) survey interview
E) exit interview

Question 8

What is the first step you should take in order to land a job interview?

A) Identify positions for which to apply.
B) Make sure your résumé is updated.
C) Resign from your current position.
D) Ask potential employers about benefits.
E) Call employers to set up interview times.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about a job search is true?

A) It helps to know the characteristics of your ideal job.
B) Try not to think too much about your ideal position.
C) Money makes up for unsatisfying job characteristics.
D) Hours and location are the most important job factors.
E) Look for an easy position in which you can shine.

Question 10

What is a common timeframe for the job search process from finding out about a position to receiving an offer of employment?

A) three to six months
B) six months or longer
C) less than three months
D) thirty days
E) three to six weeks

Question 11

Why do experts advise doing a comprehensive job search before applying for positions?

A) A thorough search can save time in the long run and increase the likelihood of being hired.
B) A systematic job search can prevent the feeling that you missed out on an opportunity.
C) A thorough job search shows potential employers that you will be a dedicated employee.
D) By taking your time with the search, you can enjoy a few final weeks without stress.
E) A longer search period allows time for more desirable jobs to be posted.

Question 12

Why do experts recommend starting a job search by letting your friends and family know the type of position you are seeking?

A) The people you know might have contacts in the field of your choice.
B) It is important for people close to you to know what is going on in your life.
C) Your close associates can tell whether a job would be good for you or not.
D) Your friends and family can help cover expenses while you look for a job.
E) Talking to relatives and friends helps you visualize the job you are seeking.

Question 13

Which of the following is an important step to take before applying for a job?

A) Check your online persona.
B) Compose a boilerplate thank-you note.
C) Set up an interview time.
D) Negotiate employment terms.
E) Resign your current position.

Question 14

Which of the following is considered a good way to make a positive first impression in an interview?

A) Dress in clean, well-pressed business clothes.
B) Dress casually to put others at ease.
C) Wear statement glasses or jewelry to be memorable.
D) State your salary requirements up front.
E) Arrive at least an hour early.

Question 15

After researching several companies, Erik has sent an inquiry letter and résumé to a few companies advertising for positions that he believes are the best fit for his abilities and career goals. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in his job search?

A) review his photos and posts online to make sure they are appropriate
B) begin to think about who his references might be
C) choose an interview outfit that will make him seem creative and unique
D) create a document listing his salary, benefits, hours, and other employment terms
E) stop researching companies and wait for these companies to get in touch

Question 16

McKinnon has identified a company she would like to work for and has filled out a job application. Which of the following steps should she take next?

A) perform an online search of her name
B) ask her references to contact the potential employer
C) call the company to set up an interview
D) negotiate her hours and pay rate
E) end the research phase of her job search

Question 17

"Tell me about your career goals and how this job can help you attain them" is what type of interview question?

A) open-ended
B) closed-ended
C) hypothetical
D) personal attribute
E) interpersonal

Question 18

An open-ended question

A) invites a range of responses.
B) calls for a yes or no answer.
C) seeks specific information.
D) tests knowledge or skills.
E) asks you to speculate.

Question 19

"Are you planning to take the CPA exam this fall?" is an example of

A) a closed-ended question.
B) an open-ended question.
C) a hypothetical question.
D) a probing question.
E) an illegal question.

Question 20

Which of the following is an example of a closed-ended interview question?

A) Do you have a commercial driver's license?
B) Tell me about your accounting experience.
C) How would you calm an irate customer?
D) Describe your strengths and weaknesses as a supervisor.
E) What trends do you see shaping our industry?

Question 21

What purpose does a hypothetical question serve in a job interview?

A) Your answer provides the interviewer with insight into how you would handle a situation.
B) It lengthens the interview when the interviewer is having a hard time assessing a candidate.
C) It requires you to provide specific information about your background or education.
D) Your response reveals the extent of your position-specific job knowledge and skills.
E) It relieves the tension and establishes a more casual tone for your conversation.

Question 22

Which of the following is an example of a hypothetical interview question?

A) What would you do if you disagreed with how your manager instructed you to handle a dispute with an important customer?
B) Tell me about a time you had to think outside the box to resolve a problem at work or school.
C) What were some of the other career options you considered pursuing with your education and experience?
D) Can you tell me about the different management information systems you have used in your previous positions?
E) What would you say is your leadership style when the pressure is really on to complete a project with a tight deadline?

Question 23

Which of the following exemplifies a probing interview question?

A) Can you tell me more about how your role in the department changed when you became a team leader?
B) Can you give me an idea of the type of work environment that most appeals to you?
C) How would you inform a marketing client that their brochures will not be ready in time for the job fair?
D) What qualities do you think set you apart from other candidates with a similar education?
E) What workflow automation systems have you used in your previous and current positions?

Question 24

Which of the following interview questions is an introductory question intended to help the interviewer get to know you?

A) Tell me about yourself.
B) What trends do you see in this industry?
C) How did you get your team to work effectively?
D) How well do you work in teams?
E) Why do you want to work for our company?

Question 25

What is the best way to respond to questions in a selection interview?

A) Make sure your answers are concise and strategic.
B) Remember to say "we" instead of "I" when discussing past work.
C) Brag as much as possible about past accomplishments.
D) Try to give answers that take at least two minutes each.
E) Emphasize qualities other than those covered in your résumé.

Question 26

What is the length of time recommended for responses to questions in a selection interview?

A) 30 seconds to two minutes
B) two to four minutes
C) at least one minute
D) at least two minutes
E) 30 to 60 seconds

Question 27

What are interviewers generally trying to learn by asking job candidates about their "weaknesses"?

A) how candidates see themselves and how they might improve
B) how much training candidates will need if they are hired
C) how candidates respond when they are under pressure
D) how honest candidates are in answering unflattering questions
E) how much interview preparation the candidates have done

Question 28

Which of the following is recommended to create a positive connection between you and potential employers in a selection interview?

A) telling success stories about yourself
B) asking questions about their families
C) showing pictures of your pets
D) dressing in casual clothing
E) following them on social media

Question 29

In an interview, what is the STAR method of response?

A) a way to tell a success story in response to a question
B) a technique for ending each answer on a high note
C) a way to time responses so they will not be too long
D) a method of turning the question back on the interviewer
E) a strategy for turning a negative situation into a positive

Question 30

In the STAR method of response, STAR stands for

A) situation, tasks, actions, results.
B) solutions that achieve results.
C) sincere, truthful, authentic response.
D) specific, timely, and relatable.
E) speed, teamwork, action, review.

Question 31

Which of the following correctly denotes an aspect of the STAR method of response to an interview question?

A) Discuss actions you took that led to a positive outcome.
B) Speak truthfully about your contribution to the outcome.
C) Conclude with a review of the most important points.
D) Craft your response strategically to emphasize your strengths.
E) Your response should highlight a personal success story.

Question 32

How should you respond when an interviewer asks you about a previous employment situation that was negative?

A) Respond honestly in a way that is constructive, complimentary, and avoids direct criticism of your former employer.
B) Be honest and tell the whole story even if it sheds a negative light on your former supervisors or colleagues.
C) Be as vague as possible because your potential employer might contact your former employer to check the story.
D) Tell the truth and criticize your former employers if you can do so in a way that reflects well on your own performance.
E) Do not admit that you have ever had a negative employment situation as they will likely count it against you.

Question 33

You are leaving your current job because your supervisor is critical, controlling, and demanding in a way that makes the office unpleasant and provides few opportunities to make decisions or gain new responsibilities. Which of the following is the best response when a potential employer asks why you are leaving your current job?

A) I appreciate the opportunities I've had as part of my current job, but I feel ready to expand my knowledge and increase my responsibilities.
B) I have done well in my current job, but I am hoping to work for a company that appreciates its employees more instead of taking them for granted.
C) I enjoy the tasks I have now, but my boss micromanages the department and criticizes my work, so I am ready to leave.
D) I do not get along with my boss, so when I saw that a job opportunity had come up in my area of expertise here, I knew I should go for it.
E) I have never liked my current position because I thought I would have more opportunities to make decisions and manage my own projects.

Question 34

Which of the following responses is recommended when an interviewer asks if you have any questions?

A) What are some of the things you enjoy about working here?
B) Where is this company's headquarters located?
C) No, I think we've covered everything.
D) How long do I have to work before I can take a vacation?
E) Can I work from home on Tuesdays and Fridays?

Question 35

Which of the following is an effective question for a job candidate to ask at a first interview?

A) What are the next steps in the hiring process?
B) Can I work from home on Tuesdays and Fridays?
C) Does this company reimburse for parking expenses?
D) Which of my family members will qualify for a discount?
E) How much personal and vacation time will I get?

Question 36

Federal employment laws prohibit which of the following questions during a job interview?

A) What is your ethnic background?
B) Are you authorized to work in the United States?
C) Are you 18 years of age or older?
D) Have you ever worked or earned a degree under another name?
E) Are you willing to relocate if necessary?

Question 37

Which of the following questions is allowed by federal employment laws?

A) Are you authorized to work in the United States?
B) What is your ethnic background?
C) What year were you born?
D) Is that your married or maiden name?
E) What is your native language?

Question 38

What do experts recommend you do when an interviewer poses an illegal question?

A) Provide the necessary legal information without causing embarrassment.
B) Politely tell the interviewer that the question is prohibited by law.
C) Say simply that you do not have to answer that question.
D) Use it as a chance to show your knowledge of employment law.
E) Stop pursuing a job with a company that does not follow the law.

Question 39

The question "Do you have any disabilities?"

A) is not allowed according to employment laws.
B) provides a way to talk about mental and physical issues.
C) can be used to reject a prospective employee.
D) is required by most group insurance policies.
E) is mandatory under the American Disabilities Act.

Question 40

Which of the following statements about disability questions is true?

A) Employers may ask about physical abilities when there is a legitimate reason to do so.
B) By law, employers are prohibited from ever asking about a candidates' physical abilities.
C) Employers are required by insurance companies to ask prospective employees about disabilities.
D) Employment law requires job applicants to disclose disabilities to prospective employers.
E) Employers are required to ask disability questions before the interview takes place.

Question 41

Which of the following is a legally justified reason a company might ask about disability status?

A) The job requires lifting, carrying, and loading 50-pound bags of salt.
B) The company participates in a highly competitive weekend softball league.
C) The company builds and repairs houses during community service events.
D) The company likes to project a youthful, active image to its customers.
E) The position must be performed in the office, and the hours are not flexible.

Question 42

Which of the following is a reason many companies prefer web conferences for initial job interviews with prospective employees?

A) It is less expensive than paying candidates' travel expenses.
B) Companies do not want candidates to know their office locations.
C) Candidates are generally less nervous when interviewed remotely.
D) It gives interviewers a chance to see inside a candidate's home.
E) It lets the company assess a candidate's technology skills.

Question 43

A large company in another state has called Eliah to set up a web interview. What should Eliah do next?

A) test that his video and audio equipment works well
B) give notice to the manager of his current position
C) explore housing options near the company's offices
D) research travel options for visiting the company
E) send the company contact a thank-you note

Question 44

Kari has a web conference interview this afternoon. Which of the following steps should she take in order to be prepared?

A) Ask her roommates not to interrupt her during the interview time.
B) Smile and make sure she looks directly at the interviewer's image.
C) Make sure her pets are nearby where she can keep an eye on them.
D) Get to the coffee shop early to choose where to sit for the interview.
E) Dress in her most comfortable outfit to put herself at ease.

Question 45

Which of the following is the first step in preparing for a web conference interview?

A) Conduct thorough research about the company.
B) Wear professional attire to make a good impression.
C) Practice answering various types of questions.
D) Ask your roommates not to interrupt you.
E) Prepare three questions to ask the interviewer.

Question 46

When participating in a web conference interview, it is important to do which of the following?

A) Smile and use gestures to express yourself.
B) Make your surroundings look like an office.
C) Look directly at the image of the interviewer.
D) Give the interviewer a video tour of your home.
E) Refer frequently to notes either on paper or onscreen.

Question 47

Which of the following activities can help you stand out from other qualified, well-prepared candidates being interviewed for a position?

A) Send a brief thank-you note after the interview.
B) Wear a distinctive outfit to the interview.
C) Give long, detailed responses to questions.
D) Avoid contacting the interviewer until he or she makes a decision.
E) Have a prepared document listing desired salary and benefits.

Question 48

Which of the following statements is appropriate to include in a thank-you note following an interview?

A) I appreciate the time you spent with me yesterday morning.
B) Here is another copy of my résumé and cover letter.
C) This position was not my first choice, but I think I will like it.
D) I will call you in few days to discuss salary and benefits.
E) The job sounds daunting, but I would try my best.

Question 49

Which of the following exemplifies the recommended follow-up after a job interview?

A) Marta sent a thank-you note to the interviewer and emailed once a week to stay in touch regarding the hiring decision.
B) Danielle sent a thank-you note to the interviewer along with another copy of her résumé and cover letter.
C) August sent a friendly thank-you note to the interviewer but made no further contact to avoid seeming pesky.
D) Joel called the interviewer a few times a week to stay in touch with the hiring decision.
E) Wes sent a thank-you note and followed up with either a phone call or email message every day.

Question 50

When is the appropriate time to discuss salary and benefits with a potential employer?

A) when an employer brings it up or after a job offer
B) in your cover letter or at the initial interview
C) at your initial in-person or web interview
D) before you agree to meet for an interview
E) in your thank-you note or exit interview

Question 51

An appraisal interview is one in which an employer meets with a potential employee to determine whether that person should be hired to fill an open position.

Question 52

A problem-solving interview is used to familiarize buyers with a product or service they have purchased.

Question 53

In addition to hiring, selection interviews are used to choose the most appropriate person for an assignment, a promotion, or an award.

Question 54

When you are asked to take part in an exit interview, it is because you have resigned from the company.

Question 55

Analyzing the needs of potential employers before applying for a position is important because it allows you to match your abilities and attributes to those that they are seeking.

Question 56

Organization size is an important characteristic to consider when conducting a job search.

Question 57

A selection interview is one time when it is good to brag about your accomplishments.

Question 58

Experts recommend keeping responses in a selection interview to a length of two to four minutes.

Question 59

Federal law generally prohibits employers from considering a person's sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or marital status in hiring decisions.

Question 60

Interviewers may legally ask employment candidates to verify their marital status, ethnicity, religious affiliation, and sexual orientation.

Question 61

It is not appropriate for a candidate in an interview to ask a potential employer what he or she likes most about working for the company.

Question 62

A job candidate should never ask about salary or benefits unless the interviewer has brought up those subjects or a job offer has been made.

Question 63

When participating in a web conference interview, it is not necessary to dress or behave formally.

Question 64

During a web conference interview, it is important to look directly at the web cam rather than the image of the interviewer or yourself.

Question 65

Companies rarely use web conference interviews because they are costly and time-consuming.

Question 66

Experts warn against practicing for a web conference interview because you will appear rehearsed and unnatural during the interview.

Question 67

A follow-up thank-you note to an interviewer is the appropriate place to begin salary negotiations.

Question 68

To conform to business etiquette, you should send a handwritten thank-you note after an in-person interview and an electronic thank-you note after a web conference.

Question 69

Following up about once a week after an interview shows a hiring manager that you want the position and that you are persistent.

Question 70

After your interview, it is important to send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for the interviewer's time and noting how you benefited from the interview experience.

Question 71

Name and describe three types of interviews commonly used in business.

Question 72

Describe an appraisal interview, and provide two sample questions you might be asked in an appraisal interview.

Question 73

Name at least five characteristics you might consider when conducting a job search to determine if a job would be a good fit for you.

Question 74

Discuss the steps needed to perform a successful job search.

Question 75

Name and describe two different types of interview questions, including examples of each type.

Question 76

Discuss how the STAR method of response can be used in an interview setting.

Question 77

Discuss similarities and differences between in-person and web conference interviews.

Question 78

Describe three strategies for succeeding in a web conference interview.

Question 79

Describe how to follow up with a potential employer after an interview.

Question 80

Write a sample follow-up thank-you note to a job interview.