Q. What have you learnt from jobs you have held?

A. Tie your answer to your business and professional profile. The interviewer needs to understand that you seek and can accept constructive advice, and that your business decisions are based on ultimate good of the company, not your personal whim or preference. "More than anything, I have learnt that what is good for the company is god for ma. So I listen very carefully to directions and always keep my boss informed of my actions".

Q.How do you feel about your progress to date?

A. This question is not geared solely to rating your progress, it also rates your self-esteem. Be positive, yet do not give the impression you have already done your best work. make the interviewer believe you see each day as an opportunity to learn and contribute and that you see the environment at this company as conducive to your best efforts.

You may answer this way " Given the parameters of my job, my progress has been excellent. I know the work and I am just reaching that point in my career when I can make significant contributions".

Q. Have you done the best work you are capable of doing?

A. Say 'yes' and the interviewer will think you're a has-been. As with all these questions, personalize your work history. For this particular question, include the essence of this reply: 'I am proud of my professional achievements to date, especially {give an example}. However, I believe the best is yet to come. I am always motivated to give of my best and in this job there are always opportunities to contribute when you stay alert'.

Q.How long would you stay with the company?

A. The interviewer might be thinking of offering you a job, so you must encourage him/her to see you on the job. With a tricky question like this, end your answer with a question of your own that really puts the ball back in the interviewer's court. Your reply might be, ' I would really like to settle down with this company. I take direction well and love to learn. As long as I am growing professionally, there is no reason for me to make  a move. How long do you think I would continue to be challenged here?.

Q.How long would it take you to make a contribution to our company?

A. Again, be sure to qualify the question - in what area does the interviewer need rapid contributions? You are best advised to answer this with a question, such as 'That is an excellent question. To help me answer, what do you anticipate my responsibilities will be for the first six or seven months?' or ' What are your greatest areas of need right now?' 

You give yourself time to think while the interviewer concentrates on images of you working for the company. When your time comes to answer, start with, 'It would take me a few weeks to settle down and learn the ropes. I'd be earning my keep very quickly, but making a real contribution.....{ give a hesitant pause}. Do you have a special project in mind you would want me to get involved with?' That response could lead directly to a job offer, but, if not, you already have the interviewer thinking of you as an employee.