Interviewers often ask tough questions of military spouses who apply for jobs. With a little preparation, you can prepare for any questions an interviewer might ask you.
When considering an interview, there are two important things that job seekers should know. An interview is a meeting between equals. A job is available for a company, and they need someone to fill it. Remember, the second important thing is that job seekers must be ready and willing to do their best in interviews.
Common questions
No matter what job you are applying for, you must be able to answer basic questions.
Interviewer: Tell me about yourself.
OK, answer: I’m from Jacksonville, Florida, and have a degree in computer science. For several years I have been away from the workforce; I have been volunteering.
Better answer: It’s a good idea to begin by describing where you come from and what you have done in the past few years. Spouses of military personnel should not make frequent moves. Describe your career goals and the steps you took to achieve them. This is your chance to tell the employer what you are looking for. This is your 20-second commercial.
Interviewer: “Why should you be hired for this job?”
OK, answer: “You should employ me because of my education.
You can also answer this question: “There are many skills required to perform this job.” Many of these skills were acquired through hands-on experience. I’ve also studied and learned about the field to keep up with the latest technology. Let me show you one example. I developed, implemented, and researched the following programs …” while working at XYZ Corporation.
Interviewer: “What are you familiar with the company and the job?”
OK, answer: “I just know what the secretary told me about your position and mission.” It sounds intriguing, and it seems like something I could do.
You can also say, “I have been researching your company and the industry.” It is something that I am interested in, and the programming job fits my skills perfectly. This is a new job. I also know that the software program you’re working on for human resources is quite complex. Your company has been in existence for ten years and has been profitable consistently over that time. Your work culture is flexible and low-key. I also understand the importance of teamwork.
Interviewer: “Why are you qualified for this job?”
OK, the answer is, “I’m qualified for this job because I have the skills and experience you need.”
Better answer: I believe I am most qualified for this job because I have 15 years of experience. To keep up with technological developments, I attended night school while working. I’m reliable and goal-oriented and work well in teams. My team developed a simple record-keeping system for the company’s insurance last year. This program increased office productivity by 39%. The project was completed well ahead of schedule.
Interviewer: “Why do you want to work at this moment?”
OK, answer: I’ve been a homemaker for many years. But I decided that I wanted to return to the workforce. I’ve been volunteering to keep my skills current. “I saw your job advertisement and thought this would be the perfect opportunity for me.”
Answer: This is a career choice for me. I have been volunteering over the last few years to keep my skills current. This career is something I have always wanted to do, and it was the perfect time to return to paid work. After completing my education, I worked as a volunteer programmer for five years at a non-profit. You will need to be able to work in a team and have programming skills. If I understood you correctly, you would need someone who can communicate in technical and layman terms. I think I’m that person.
More difficult questions
These are the most difficult questions that service personnel and spouses face when trying to re-enter the workforce. These questions can be practiced loudly.
Interviewer: “Why did your last job end?”
Answer: This is a hard question to answer. The employer is concerned that you may leave too soon if you aren’t trained and hired by him/her. You must convince the interviewer that although you might leave within a few years to support your spouse in the military, you will still take pride in your work and give your best effort. If necessary, you could mention that many jobs are now portable via computer link-ups. It might be possible to keep the job when you leave.
Interviewer: “Do your children have children?”
Answer: This question is not allowed to be asked, but many employers will find indirect ways to ask it. Employers are interested in knowing if you can be reliable and travel to care for children. You must show your employer you are serious about your job and take pride in being reliable. You can explain to the employer that you have backup plans in case of illness and are available for work whenever needed.
Interviewer: “What is your salary requirement?”
Answer: Be aware of your salary requirements before you start. You may need to research online or in the library to find out what salary you can expect from your employer. Answer the question by saying that the salary can be negotiable depending on the job, the hours worked and whether travel is involved. Ask for as much information as possible from the employer and then give a range. The interviewer will often indicate whether you are within the range.
After you have received a firm offer, take the time to think about it. Let the employer know that you are interested in reviewing the offer and will give your answer within 48 hours. You will have the opportunity to go over the entire offer, including the benefits and the job, and discuss it with your family.
The bottom line
Employers want to know if the candidate has the experience and skills to perform the job. They also want to know if the applicant is trustworthy, honest, able to follow directions, can work well with others, and will fit in the company’s culture. Your body language and responses can help a potential employer determine your qualifications.
Employers often base their assumptions on your appearance. Do not slouch, fidget, or play with your hair and clothes. Give a firm handshake, but don’t scratch the interviewer’s hands! Smile and be polite.
Listen well and give thoughtful answers to questions. Responding to the question and giving a meaningful and responsive answer only if you listen carefully is possible.
Do your research before you go to the interview. Think about how you will answer any questions that might be asked. Practice. This strategy will allow you to enter interviews confidently and leave them with a positive impression.