SAMPLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

In each and every interview situation, there are common questions that will be asked. Don't wait until the
interview to decide your response! Be prepared and think through your answers before you arrive. It may even
help to write down your answers and practice with someone. Try to keep your answers brief, usually less than 2
minutes. Remember, listening, confidence and quality of presentation are the keys to successful
interviewing.
S
AMPLE
I
NTERVIEW
Q
UESTIONS
:
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why are you interested in this agency?
3. How does the work in this organization fit your professional mission?
4. Why do you want this job? Why do you want to work for this organization?
5. What are your experiences with the (target population)?
6. What are your qualifications?
7. What kind of supervision do you expect?
8. How has your education / work experience prepared you for this position?
9. What do you hope to accomplish at this agency?
10. What would you like to learn here?
11. Have you done this type of work in the past?
12. What issues might you have with [adoption, for example]?
13. What schedule will work for you?
14. What are your career goals? For the next 5 years? The next 10 years?
15. What are some of your strengths? Some of your weaknesses?
16. How do you define success for yourself?
17. How do you plan?
18. What is your work style?
19. How do you work with others?
20. Tell me about a time when you had to juggle your regular responsibilities and deal with a sudden priority?
21. Are you a leader ... a follower?
22. Describe the process you go through in developing a [case plan, budget, workshop, contract, or marketing
plan, for example].
23. What is your ideal position and career path?
24. Is there anything you would like to say to close the interview?
25. Do you have any questions? YES! You should always have questions!
Direct Practice Questions
1. What is your understanding of service delivery in [a particular field or region]?
2. Tell me about a time you were in a disagreement over a treatment plan.
3. What has been your experience with agency paperwork and how do you feel about it?
4. How will you deal with the dual-relationship issues of working in a small community?