By Jeff Lipschultz

For successful job interviews, words are nice; stories are better!

When I prepare my candidates for their job interviews, we always talk about "the checklist."

This checklist is the list of examples from their experience that directly addresses the qualifications they to need to cover during the interview. These might include:

• Key projects
• Closing big deals
• Huge contributions to operational savings
• Demonstration of industry knowledge

The checklist varies, of course, based on the person and the job they are seeking.

My advice is to always prepare stories you are going to tell during the interview that address the job description.

Often, the job requirements include the intangibles -- the "soft skills."

Showcase Your "Soft Skills"

Most companies are looking for candidates with strengths in communication, problem-solving, negotiation, and decision-making, amongst many others.

These strengths are the soft skills. 

By Jeff Lipschultz

Stand Out with Your Answers to These Interview Questions

The number of questions that can be asked by Human Resources or the hiring manager is limitless. Here are some of the most popular questions and my thoughts on how to answer them.

1. Tell me about yourself

One of the most common questions in an interview is “Tell me about yourself.” Actually, it is not even a question--it is an invitation. It is an opportunity to share with the interviewer whatever you think is important in their hiring decision.

More importantly, it is your chance to differentiate yourself from other candidates. In most cases, the standard questions offer the same opportunity.

2. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Employers don’t necessarily care to hear that you expect to climb the corporate ladder and be a supervisor. If the job you’re interviewing for is not a supervisor, they probably aren’t concerned about your management skills. You can share how you’ve been a mentor to others and led projects with little to no supervision. That should indicate you have leadership potential.

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