Interview Questions

Here is another post on interviewing that appeared as a post on the RT Blog a couple of years ago. The interviewing tips are still timely. Here it is:

Seven Toughest Interview Questions

This morning I ran across a article on the web titled "Answering the Seven Toughest Interview Questions." It was written by Kate Lorenz, the editor of CareerBuilder.com

I thought the article might be of interest to both RT professionals and students -- so I am passing on the highlights of it on the RT Blog. Below are the seven questions with tips borrowed from Ms. Lorenz on how to answer them.

(1) What are your weaknesses? Take a potential weekness and turn it into a plus...such as: "I'm very detail orientated and for some positions that might not be a good fit. But for this RT position, I think it is a trait that will serve me well."

(2) How would you solve this problem? It is recommended that you be brief in your answer, not providing great detail.

(3) Why did you leave your last job? Put a positive spin on your answer. "The facility just wasn't a good fit for my innovative personality. What I learned is that organizations have distinct personalities just like people do. Now I want to concentrate my job search on facilities that value independent thinking and will allow me to prosper in that environment."

(4) Why do you want to work here? You'll need to have homeworked the potential employer to anwser this. For instance, "I want to be a part of an organization that takes a caring approach with patients. Not all facilities really do care. I know from the reputation of your facility that you truly do care about the patients here." Another reply for a student seeking an internship might be: "Some of the very best senior therapists work here. As someone doing an internship, I'd like to learn from the best."

(5) Tell me about yourself. As Lorenz wrote: "This is your chance for you to shine -- but not to tell your life history. Begin by listing your traits and accomplishments you feel are relevant for the position. Don't delve into personal information unless it relates to the position you are vying for."

(6) Tell me about the worst boss you ever had. Lorenz suggests: "Take the high road and don't give into the temptation to vent any past frustrations." Say something like, "While none of my past bosses were awful, there are some who taught me more than others did."

(7) What are your goals? Lorenz suggests "This is best answered by reiterating your objective statement on your resume."

I hope these interview questions will prove to be helpful -- especially to RT students who are seeking internships or first positions. Best of success!