Final test & Certificate

Choose the best answer for each question.

To pass: at least 8 of 10 correct.

1. Question 1. What are the three hidden questions behind every interview?

   ACan you do it, do you actually want it, can we work with youBWhere did you study, how long have you worked, what do you earnCWhat qualifications, what languages, where do you live

2. Question 2. Why shouldn't you criticise a former employer or boss?

   ABecause the interviewer is picturing what you'll say about them at your next interviewBBecause they might know your old bossCBecause it breaches confidentiality rules

3. Question 3. What does the hiring manager round focus on?

   AWhether you can do the day-to-day work and are easy to work withBLong-term vision and retentionCSalary and start date

4. Question 4. Which part of STAR should take the most time?

   AAction — your own specific actions (about 60%)BSituation — so the listener fully understandsCResult — the final outcome

5. Question 5. Why say 'I' rather than 'we' when telling a story?

   ABecause they're hiring you, not your old teamBBecause 'we' sounds impoliteCBecause companies don't care about teamwork

6. Question 6. What six themes should you have stories ready for?

   AAchievement, hard problem, failure, conflict, pressure, fast learningBEducation, experience, skills, interests, goals, salaryCOld company, old boss, colleagues, customers, projects, results

7. Question 7. What should you do when asked about a situation you've never faced?

   AOffer the closest situation, or say you haven't faced it and describe your approachBInvent a plausible storyCStay silent until they move on

8. Question 8. What's the best way to answer the weakness question?

   AName a real weakness that isn't fatal for the role, plus what you're doing about itB'I'm too much of a perfectionist and work too hard'CSay you have no significant weaknesses

9. Question 9. Asked about salary expectations too early, what should you do first?

   AAsk back once whether there's a budgeted band for the roleBGive a specific number immediately to save timeCSay you'll accept whatever they offer

10. Question 10. Which is a good question to ask at the end?

    A'In the first six months, what would you see differently if this person were doing well?'B'How many employees does the company have?'C'No, I have no questions.'