Chapter 14
1. Which of the following statements about job interviews is most accurate?
a. The more an individual learns about the interview process, the better prepared he or she
will be.
b. Job interviews allow employers and candidates opportunities to evaluate one another.
c. Most people find job interviews stressful.
d. All answer choices are accurate statements about job interviews.
Answer: d
Rationale:
A job interview is a two-street. Both the employer and the applicant will be judging one
another. As a result, most people consider job interviews extremely stressful. However,
learning about the job process can make you better prepared and less stressed.
2. A job interview provides an opportunity for you to do all of the following except
a. expand on the information in your résumé.
b. convince the employer of your potential.
c. meet with all the company's employees.
d. learn more about the job and the company.
Answer: c
Rationale:
A job interview is an opportunity for you to convince the employer of your potential, learn
more about the job and the company, and expand on the information your résumé.
3. Which of the following statements about screening interviews is most accurate?
a. Screening interviews are conducted after hiring/placement interviews.
b. Screening interviews are always conducted face-to-face.
c. Most screening interviews are conducted during job fairs.
d. Companies use screening interviews to save time and money.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Companies use screening interviews to save time and money by weeding out lesser-qualified
candidates before scheduling a hiring/placement interview. Although some screening
interviews are conducted during job fairs or on college campuses, most take place on the
telephone. However, some screening interviews are also conducted online or through
multiple-choice questionnaires.
4. Which type of hiring/placement interview is the most common?
a. Sequential interview
b. Online interview
c. Panel interview
d. One-on-one interview
Answer: d
Rationale:
The most common type of hiring/placement interview is the one-on-one interview. In one-onone interviews, you can expect to sit down with a company representative and talk about the
job and your qualifications.
5. Panel interviews are typically conducted by people who will be your supervisors and
colleagues. An important advantage of the panel interview is
a. allowing the company to measure the candidate's leadership and communication skills.
b. saving company money on repeated interviews and related costs.
c. determining the best candidate through multiple interviews.
d. testing the reactions of a candidate during nerve-racking situations.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Panel interviews are advantageous because they save the company time and money, and they
demonstrate team operations within a company.
6. Cody will be participating in a panel interview. What advice should he follow?
a. Try to gather basic biographical information about each panel member.
b. Maintain eye contact with the questioner as well as with the others
c. Show how he is motivated, qualified, and a good fit for position.
d. All answer choices are good tips for Cody as he participates in a panel interview.
Answer: d
Rationale:
When participating in a panel interview, try to gather basic biographical information about
each panel member, and maintain eye contact with the questioner as well as with the others.
Additionally, show how you are motivated, qualified, and a good fit the position.
7. Global Connections Inc. is interviewing several candidates for a leadership position
requiring strong communication skills. What form of interview will most likely be used for
this interview?
a. A one-on-one interview conducted by the human resources director
b. A stress interview conducted by the head of the programming division
c. A computer screening interview to test applicants' programming skills
d. A group interview of several candidates at one time
Answer: d
Rationale:
Global Connections Inc. will most likely use a group interview, which is a common form of
interview used to measure leadership skills and communication styles.
8. Which of the following statements most accurately describes a sequential interview?
a. You must be totally committed to the job and the company to participate in a sequential
interview, which often takes weeks or even months to complete.
b. You can assume that later interviewers know what was said in a previous interview because
sequential interviews are designed to save time.
c. As sequential interviews progress, interviews become more in-depth, which means that you
need to know even more about the company.
d. As an applicant, you should never repeat yourself because each interviewer will brief the
other interviewers, making it unnecessary for you to answer the same questions.
Answer: c
Rationale:
The sequential interview is completed over a period of hours or days as a series of individuals
conduct increasingly in-depth, one-on-one interviews with the candidate, which require the
candidate to be even better prepared and to know even more about the company.
9. When interviewing for high-pressure positions, companies may use stress interview
techniques, which include being
a. greeted immediately by the interviewer.
b. asked rapid-fire questions by members of a team.
c. given a test with no time limit.
d. offered challenging food, beverages, or tobacco products.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Common types of stress techniques include rapid-fire questioning from multiple interviewers,
test-taking with unreasonable time restrictions, not being greeted or sitting in silence, and
being treated rudely by interviewers.
10. Which of the following statements about online interviews is most accurate?
a. Very few of today's companies conduct online interviews.
b. Online interviews save job applicants and companies time and money.
c. Individuals who participate in online interviews need not be concerned about their
appearance, eye contact, and nonverbal behaviors.
d. Companies conduct online interviews only when they must interview candidates who
reside in other countries.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Many companies today use technology to interview job candidates from a distance. These
kinds of interviews save both companies and job candidates time and money. Candidates who
participate in online interviews must consider their eye contact, appearance, and nonverbal
behaviors because the same rules that apply to face-to-face interviews also apply to online
interviews.
11. What is the most professional telephone tip to follow during your job search?
a. Create a unique voice mail message to demonstrate your individuality.
b. Don't let children answer the phone during your job search.
c. Answer your cell phone any time it rings so that you don't miss the opportunity to speak
with a potential employer.
d. Hire a professional to record your voice mail message to ensure that proper articulation,
enunciation, and vocal intonations are used.
Answer: b
Rationale:
To make the best impression with a prospective employer, don't let children answer the phone
during your job search because children are not known for taking good messages. You should
also create a concise and professional voice mail message that is in your voice and free of
background sounds, and answer your phone only if you are in a good location to carry on a
conversation.
12. Which of the following is the best advice to make a positive first impression in a phone
conversation with an employer?
a. Don't refer to your résumé or references during the first phone call because these references
are appropriate only in the placement interview.
b. Take notes about the conversation immediately after hanging up to avoid forgetting details.
c. In the first phone call, be polite and enthusiastic; but don't be pushy by discussing your
qualifications.
d. If caught off guard by the call, ask whether you can call back in a few minutes.
Answer: d
Rationale:
To make a positive first impression, you should ask if you can call the employer back if you
are caught off guard by the phone call. This allows you to organize your materials and
yourself.
13. How you can you locate information about a company?
a. Talking with current employees
b. Searching the Web
c. Reviewing company advertisements and promotions
d. All answer choices would help you locate information about a company.
Answer: d
Rationale:
One of the most important steps in effective interviewing is gathering detailed information
about a prospective employer. You can find this important information by searching the Web,
analyzing the company's advertising, and locating inside information through social media
sites and employees.
14. Rebecca has an interview with a large company in a nearby city. What information should
she learn about the company before her interview?
a. The company's mission and goals
b. The company's customers and competitors
c. The management structure and names of leaders
d. Rebecca should find out all this information about the prospective employer.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Rebecca should research all this information. In addition, she should learn about the
company's size, number of employees, culture, reputation in the community, financial
condition, future plans, strengths, and weaknesses.
15. Effective interview-preparation techniques include practicing answers to possible
questions, preparing to explain problem areas on your résumé, deciding on professional attire,
and
a. informing your current employer of your plans.
b. preparing success stories.
c. writing a resignation letter.
d. purchasing a gift for the interviewer.
Answer: b
Rationale:
When preparing for the interview, you should practice answering possible questions, prepare
explanations of problem areas, select professional attire, clean up your online presence, and
prepare success stories.
16. Braden is preparing several success stories prior to his job interview for a sales
representative position. Which of the following scenarios would result in the best success
story for this position?
a. A story about a lemonade stand that Braden ran when he was a child
b. A story about working as part of a team in college to prepare a classroom presentation
about a company's history
c. A story about volunteering for a local food bank over the holidays
d. A story about developing a new sales technique that increased his customer sales by 30
percent over a six-month period
Answer: d
Rationale:
The best success stories are specific examples of your educational and work experiences
demonstrating your qualifications for the position. These stories should incorporate numbers
whenever possible.
17. Because many companies now use social networking sites to screen job candidates, what
is the best advice you should follow to project a positive image?
a. Join as many groups or fan pages as possible to demonstrate your popularity.
b. Make your personal social networking pages available to all individuals.
c. Remove any photos, content, and links that could make you look unprofessional.
d. Update your status about your current job search frequently so that your friends and family
know how things are going.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Because many companies use social networking sites to screen applicants, follow these tips:
remove questionable content, stay positive, be selective about your list of friends, avoid
joining groups or fan pages that may be viewed negatively, avoid online discussion of your
job search, and set up a professional social networking page or personal website.
18. Which of the following is the best advice when traveling to and arriving at your
interview?
a. Limit grooming time because the more time you have, the more nervous you will get.
b. If something unexpected happens causing you to be late, immediately call the interviewer
to explain what is happening.
c. If you smoke on the way to the interview, brush your teeth or chew some gum when you
arrive and liberally apply perfume or cologne.
d. Arrive at the interview 15 to 20 minutes early, and greet the receptionist promptly on
arrival.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Contact the interviewer right away if you are delayed unexpectedly. Also, give yourself
plenty of grooming time, don't smoke or eat anything messy or smelly on the way to the
interview, and don't load up on perfume or cologne. Finally, arrive at the interview five or ten
minutes early, but not earlier.
19. When you enter the office for an interview,
a. greet the interviewer confidently, and wait for him or her to initiate a handshake.
b. avoid direct eye contact so that you do not make others feel uncomfortable.
c. introduce yourself to the receptionist, and wait to be invited to sit.
d. immediately open your briefcase to sort through your contents to locate copies of your
résumé.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Introduce yourself to the receptionist, and wait to be invited to sit. Remember that you will be
judged by everyone, and try to remain calm and confident. In addition, greet everyone,
establish eye contact, and initiate a handshake with your interviewer.
20. Which of the following will not help you reduce your fears about interviews?
a. Let the interviewer have complete charge of the entire interview.
b. Practice interviewing as much as you can, especially with real companies.
c. Rehearse answers to the most frequently asked interview questions.
d. Take deep breaths while waiting for the interview to begin.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Don't let the interview have complete charge. You will feel more courage during the interview
when you take charge by asking questions about the job and about the company. The
interview is an opportunity for the interviewer to learn more about you and for you to learn
about the job and the company as well.
21. You can send positive nonverbal messages during your interview by dressing
professionally, controlling your body movements, making eye contact, and
a. arriving on time.
b. using gender-neutral language.
c. presenting success stories to respond to behavioral questions.
d. preparing thoroughly.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Positive nonverbal messages can be sent by arriving on time, being courteous, dressing
professionally, greeting the interviewer confidently, controlling your body movements,
making eye contact, listening attentively, and smiling. Other answer choices are not
nonverbal messages.
22. Which of the following is the best nonverbal behavior to display during an interview?
a. Sit erect, leaning forward slightly to show interest and confidence.
b. Change positions often and gesture as frequently as possible to convey high energy.
c. Lean forward, resting your arms on the desk or table before you, to indicate control.
d. Relax back into your chair, slouching slightly, to demonstrate self-assurance.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Appropriate posture is erect posture, leaning slightly forward to appear confident and
interested. You should not slouch, gesture excessively, or lean on a desk.
23. Which of the following is the best advice when answering interview questions?
a. Focus your answers on your strengths, but reveal a weakness or two to show that you are
not perfect.
b. Use the interviewer's name and title each time you answer a question to show respect.
c. To be concise, answer questions with a simple yes or no whenever possible.
d. Aim answers at the key characteristics needed, such as expertise, motivation, and a
pleasant personality.
Answer: d
Rationale:
Always aim your answers at the key characteristics interviewers seek: expertise, competence,
motivation, interpersonal skills, decision-making skills, enthusiasm for the job, and a pleasing
personality. Remember to stay focused on your strengths.
24. Although you can't expect to be perfect in an employment interview, you can do your best
by
a. showing some passion by bringing up a controversial topic and taking a clear stand.
b. speaking forcefully but using some slang such as like and ya know to sound relaxed and
friendly.
c. elaborating on your answers and criticizing the person or object causing the problems at a
previous job.
d. occasionally refocusing and clarifying vague questions by asking Do you mean...?
Answer: d
Rationale:
Perform your best by avoiding negative behaviors such as controversial topics, slang and
poor articulation, and criticism of others. Employ positive behaviors such as refocusing and
clarifying vague questions by asking "Do you mean...?"
25. If an interviewer says Tell me about yourself, what is the best way to respond?
a. Present your brief biography as a chronology, beginning with when and where you were
born.
b. Briefly discuss educational, professional, or business-related strengths.
c. To start the interview positively, provide a few humorous personal anecdotes.
d. Tell several success stories, making sure to fill at least ten minutes of interview time.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Keep the answer short (one to two minutes); and promote yourself by sticking to educational,
professional, or business-related strengths.
26. If an interviewer says Why do you want to work for us?, you should
a. briefly summarize problems at your current job that require you to change employers.
b. show what you know about the interviewer's company and how your goals match the
company and its culture.
c. explain that as a recent graduate you want to work for any company needing a person with
your skills and background.
d. tell the truth about your reasons for seeking this job; for example, you are unemployed,
you need more pay or better benefits, or you just graduated.
Answer: b
Rationale:
This interview question is used to gauge your interest. The interviewer wants to understand
your motivation to work in this particular position with this organization. To effectively
answer this question, you should show what you know about the company and how your
goals match the company and its culture.
27. How should you respond if an interviewer asks, Why should we hire you when other
applicants have better credentials?
a. Admit that you are less qualified, but stress you can be paid less than more experienced
applicants.
b. Describe how you are correcting one of your most significant weaknesses to display your
strong work ethic and determination.
c. Confidently explain your strengths such as your openness to new ideas and knowledge of
the latest methods and equipment.
d. Since it is clear that you will not get this job offer, do not answer this question.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Employers often hire applicants who present themselves well rather than hiring others with
better credentials. Therefore, in responding to this question, show confidence in your
strengths such as your openness to new ideas and knowledge of the latest methods and
equipment.
28. When the interviewer asks you questions about the future, you should provide answers
that
a. show ambition and interest in succeeding with the company.
b. are vague because no one can predict the future.
c. indicate that you want the interviewer's job.
d. focus on your needs.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Employers ask these questions to see whether you are goal oriented and to determine whether
your goals are realistic. Your response must show ambition and interest in succeeding with
this company.
29. Which of these is the most effective response to the question, What do you think is your
greatest weakness?
a. Some people complain that I'm a workaholic with nearly too much passion for this field.
b. To tell the truth, I become frustrated with lazy coworkers who don't pull their own weight.
c. My typing speed isn't as fast as I would like, but this position doesn't require me to use the
computer.
d. I've worked hard to eliminate every weakness, and I am confident you will find me the
perfect employee for this position.
Answer: a
Rationale:
When asked about a weakness, you can convert the weakness to a strength, explain how
you've corrected a weakness, or reaffirm your qualifications. One response effectively
presents a strength as a weakness: "Some people complain that I'm a workaholic with nearly
too much passion for this field."
30. When an interviewer asks you a challenging question about a weakness, what is the best
way to respond?
a. To prove you have only strengths, reply that you have no weaknesses at all.
b. To be completely honest with the interviewer, talk about the employment weakness that
concerns you most.
c. Mention a previous weakness and the way you have corrected it.
d. Demonstrate your honesty by bringing up every weakness you can identify.
Answer: c
Rationale:
If you are asked a challenging question like this, quickly convert the discussion of your
weaknesses to a discussion of your strengths by explaining how you have overcome a
previous weakness. You can also present a strength as a weakness, reaffirm your
qualifications, or cite a learning objective.
31. Which of the following is an example of a situational question?
a. If you were aware that a coworker submitted false data, what would you do?
b. What is your ideal work environment?
c. What do you predict for the future of our industry?
d. Tell me about a time when you dealt with confidential information.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Situational questions describe a hypothetical situation and ask how you would handle it: If
you were aware that a coworker submitted false data, what would you do?
32. Which of the following is an example of a behavioral interview question?
a. Who in your life has most inspired you and why?
b. An irate customer is demanding her money back. How would you handle the situation?
c. Tell me about a time when you solved a difficult problem.
d. What is your greatest strength?
Answer: c
Rationale:
Behavioral questions require the interviewee to tell stories: Tell me about a time when you
solved a difficult problem.
33. When the interviewer says Describe a time when you worked successfully as a member of
a team, your best response will be to
a. reply that you have been a member of so many successful teams that no particular instance
stands out.
b. say that you not only enjoy teamwork, especially problem-solving groups, but also work
well independently.
c. tell a success story about a specific group project, your contributions, and the results.
d. list the names of all work teams on which you participated and stress that all were
successful.
Answer: c
Rationale:
You should respond by telling a success story that offers a specific example of your
teamwork skills. By preparing success stories in advance, you will handle this type of
interview question effectively.
34. If the interviewer begins a question with Tell me about a time when..., you should
a. recognize that this is a trick question and tactfully refuse to answer.
b. politely explain that you have never experienced such a situation.
c. make up any answer and wish that you had been better prepared.
d. describe a situation or task, tell what action you took, and emphasize a positive result.
Answer: d
Rationale:
This is a behavioral question but it is not a trick. Be prepared with the STAR technique:
describe a situation or task, tell what action you took, and emphasize a positive result.
35. What is the most effective way to handle an illegal or inappropriate question during an
interview?
a. If you find the question harmless and you want the job, go ahead and answer it.
b. Confront the interviewer about the illegal nature of the question.
c. Storm out of the room in anger; after all, you wouldn't work for a company with such low
ethics.
d. Refuse to answer the question because it is your legal right to do so.
Answer: a
Rationale:
If you find the question harmless and if you want the job, go ahead and answer it. You can
also try to deflect the question tactfully by asking how it relates to the responsibilities of the
job.
36. Which of following is a legal interview question?
a. Are you married?
b. Are you a U.S. citizen?
c. Do you have any disabilities?
d. Are you authorized to work in the United States?
Answer: d
Rationale:
The only legal interview question is "Are you authorized to work in the United States?" All
other answer choices all illegal questions. Knowing what questions an interviewer can and
cannot ask will help you formulate appropriate responses.
37. If an interviewer asks if you have any questions at the end of an interview, which of the
following is an inappropriate response?
a. May I have a tour of the facilities?
b. When do you expect to make a decision?
c. No, I have no questions right now; you have shared all the information I need.
d. What are the major challenges for a person in this position?
Answer: c
Rationale:
When an interviewer asks if you have any questions, the worst response is No because it
suggests you are not interested in the position.
38. How should you close an interview?
a. Briefly review your strengths, thank the interviewer, and ask what action will follow.
b. Be confident and say, This job sounds great! When do I start work?
c. Ask about salary and benefits.
d. Invite the interviewer to lunch.
Answer: a
Rationale:
End your interview by thanking the interviewer, reviewing your strengths for the position,
and asking what action will follow.
39. What should you do immediately after leaving an interview?
a. Take notes about the interview.
b. Celebrate.
c. Call the interviewer to thank him or her.
d. Send the interviewer(s) flowers.
Answer: a
Rationale:
After leaving an interview, the first thing you should do is to take notes of what was said
during the interview. Record key discussion points, names of people with whom you met, and
other details of the interview.
40. Which of the following statements about interview thank-you messages is most accurate?
a. Thank-you messages are not important to employers.
b. To avoid appearing as overzealous, an applicant should wait at least two to three days
before sending a thank-you note.
c. Separate thank-you messages should be sent to each interviewer.
d. To personalize a thank-you message, an interviewee should begin each sentence in the
thank-you message with the personal pronoun I.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Thank-you messages do matter to employers; therefore, applicants should send such
messages immediately following an interview and to each interviewer. Additionally, thankyou messages should avoid worn-out statements such Thank you for taking the time to
interview me and overuse of the personal pronoun I.
41. After writing a follow-up letter to thank your interviewer, your next step should be
a. alerting your references that they may be contacted by the employer.
b. sending a small gift to the receptionist to show your sincere appreciation.
c. calling the organization's human resources department to learn more about your
competitors for the open position.
d. waiting at least one month for a call of acceptance or rejection.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Once you've thanked the interviewer, you should alert your references that the employer may
contact them. Sending gifts, calling the human resources department, and waiting one month
to hear from the organization are not appropriate.
42. What information should you provide your references so that they can write a
recommendation?
a. Name of the company
b. Position title and expected job requirements
c. A copy of your résumé
d. You should provide all this information to your references.
Answer: d
Rationale:
To provide the best possible recommendation, your references need information. Therefore,
provide them with a copy of your résumé, college transcripts, and the job advertisement. In
addition, provide the name of the company, position title, job expectations, and any deadlines.
43. How should you contact an employer if you have interviewed for a job and haven't heard
from the interviewer in a few days?
a. Phone
b. E-mail
c. Certified mail
d. Twitter message
Answer: b
Rationale:
If you have interviewed for a position and haven't heard from an employer, send the employer
an e-mail message to see how the decision process is going. Always remember to be
professional and courteous.
44. Recommended guidelines for completing application forms include which of the
following?
a. Disregard questions that do not apply to you by leaving them blank.
b. Read the entire form before beginning to complete it.
c. Ignore misspellings because you are not expected to carry a dictionary.
d. Leave any questions about salary blank because they might limit what you will be paid.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Guidelines for filling out application forms include reading the entire form before beginning
to complete it, answering all questions, and using accurate spelling, grammar, and
punctuation.
45. What is the most appropriate response on a job application form to a question that asks
your reason for leaving your last position?
a. Fired
b. Quit
c. None of your business
d. Accepted a position with more responsibility
Answer: d
Rationale:
When explaining the reasons for leaving your last position, use positive or neutral statements
such as Relocation, Seasonal, Accepted a position with more responsibility, Career change, or
Temporary position. Avoid explanations such as Fired, Quit, Didn't get along with supervisor,
or Pregnant.
46. The purposes of sending an application or résumé follow-up message to an employer
include jogging the memory of the hiring manager, showing your serious interest in the
position, and
a. emphasizing your qualifications or adding new information.
b. sending a personal note to the receptionist, who often helps make the final decision.
c. sharing your photograph to match your qualifications to your face.
d. setting a deadline for the employer to offer you the position.
Answer: a
Rationale:
Your application or résumé follow-up message will allow you to provide additional
information you may have not had the opportunity to share in the interview. You may also
wish to emphasize those qualifications best matched to the position and company's needs.
47. When you apply for a position but are rejected, employment experts recommend that you
a. send a rejection letter saying you believe the employer has made a hiring decision error in
not choosing you.
b. phone the employer's personnel office to determine the reason why you were not selected.
c. send a rejection follow-up message indicating you are disappointed but will contact the
company again in a month in case a job opens up.
d. do not apply at that company again for at least 12 months.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Even though you didn't receive this position, you should send a rejection follow-up e-mail or
letter that expresses your disappointment politely and informs the employer of your
continuing interest in working for the company if a position becomes available. Tell the
recruiter you will contact the company in a month and then follow through.
48. In a job acceptance letter, your tasks are
a. accepting the position, asking for clarification as needed, and expressing appreciation.
b. thanking the interviewer for the interview and job offer and accepting the position.
c. confirming your acceptance, reviewing salary and benefits, and affirming the start date.
d. noting the job offer date, specifying the job acceptance date, and agreeing to the job start
date.
Answer: c
Rationale:
Although you likely will accept your job offer via phone call, you may formalize the
acceptance and confirm the details in a letter that acknowledges your acceptance, reviews
salary and benefits, and affirms your start date.
49. If you must turn down a job offer, employment experts suggest you should send the
employer a letter
a. declining the offer, providing a thorough explanation of the reasons for declining, and
expanding on your qualifications for a new position.
b. thanking the employer for the offer and briefly declining the position.
c. specifying personal reasons for your decision.
d. declining the position and offering assistance finding your replacement.
Answer: b
Rationale:
Your letter declining the job should thank the employer for the job offer and explain briefly
that you are turning it down. Taking the time to extend this courtesy could help you in the
future if this employer has a position you really want.
50. When writing a resignation letter to your employer, you should
a. allow more than the standard two-week notice if you have a high or responsible position
within the company.
b. offer thanks and end with a forward-looking statement.
c. remind the employer of your contributions.
d. All answer choices are correct.
Answer: d
Rationale:
A resignation letter does all of these. Additionally, your letter may include an offer of
assistance to prepare for your departure and a confirmation of the exact date of resignation.
51. A job interview is a two-street. The employer will be judging you, and you will be
evaluating the employer.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
The job interview is a two-way street. It is not just about you being judged by the employer.
As an applicant, you will also be using the job interview to the evaluate the employer.
52. As a job candidate, the purposes of an interview are to convince the employer of your
potential, learn more about the job and the company, and expand on the information on your
résumé.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
You should view an interview as an opportunity to convince the employer of your potential,
learn more about the job and the company, and expand on the information in your résumé.
53. Hiring/placement interviews are typically conducted before screening interviews.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Job applicants generally face two kinds of interviews: screening interviews and
hiring/placement interviews. You must succeed in a screening interview first to proceed to a
hiring/placement interview.
54. Many screening interviews occur on the telephone.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Although some screening interviews are conducted during job fairs, on college campuses,
online, or during a videoconference, many take place on the telephone.
55. The most common format for hiring/placement interviews is the sequential interview.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
One-on-one interviews are the most common type of hiring/placement interviews.
56. If a company is conducting a panel interview, a job candidate should establish eye contact
with only the person who asked the question.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
In answering questions during a panel interview, the candidate must keep eye contact with the
questioner as well as with the other team members.
57. A sequential interview is usually shorter than a one-on-one interview.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Sequential interviews tend to be more in-depth than first interviews. In a sequential interview,
candidates meet individually with two or more interviewers one-on-one over the course of
several hours or days. Therefore, they must be more prepared and know even more about the
company.
58. Because online interviews are typically conducted using webcams and videoconferencing
software, applicants do not need to worry about their appearance, nonverbal behaviors, or eye
contact.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Many companies are now using webcams and videoconferencing software to conduct longdistance interviews, which saves these companies time and money. When you participate in
an online interview, the same rules apply even though you are not face-to-face with your
interviewers. Therefore, watch your appearance, eye contact, and nonverbal behaviors, all of
which must send positive messages to your interviewers.
59. Most employers contact job applicants by e-mail to set up interviews.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Most employers contact job applicants by phone to schedule interviews. Employers can get a
better sense of how applicants communicate by hearing their voices over the phone.
Therefore, once you are actively looking for a job, anytime the phone rings, it could be a
potential employer.
60. During your job search, you should treat any call from an employer just like an interview.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
You want to make your first conversation with any employer impressive. This requires you to
treat any call from an employer just like an interview.
61. One of the most important steps in effective interviewing is researching the target
company.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Gathering detailed information about a prospective employer is one of the most important
steps in effective interviewing. Therefore, once you have scheduled an interview, you need to
start researching the target company because you should never enter an interview cold.
Recruiters are impressed by candidates who have done their homework.
62. Before your interview you should study the job opening, identify key needs, and then
develop matching success stories that emphasize your most strategic skills, areas of
knowledge, strongest personality traits, and key accomplishments.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Do your homework for the position by preparing success stories highlighting your
knowledge, accomplishments, personality traits, and skills that will allow you to excel in the
target position.
63. Don't worry about what information is available about you online because this
information is irrelevant to the job search.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Many companies are now using Internet search engines to screen applicants; therefore, it's
important to clean up any "digital dirt" before your job search.
64. On the day of your interview, you should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled
appointment.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
You should arrive at the interview five or ten minutes early, but not earlier. Also, if something
beyond your control causes you to be late, call the interviewer right away to explain what is
happening. Most interviewers will be understanding, and your call will show that you are
responsible.
65. When greeting the interviewer, you should smile, maintain direct eye contact, and wait for
the interviewer to initiate a handshake.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
You should greet the interviewer confidently and not be afraid to initiate a handshake to show
your professionalism and confidence.
66. One of the best ways to overcome fear is to know what happens in a typical interview.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Other than public speaking, employment interviews are the most dreaded events in people's
lives. However, if you know what to expect in an interview, you will be more confident and
less fearful.
67. When answering interview questions, interject many verbal pauses to give yourself time
to formulate appropriate answers.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Filling your answers with verbal pauses such as um, uh, like, and basically communicates
that you are unprepared and unprofessional.
68. To avoid coming across as tentative in an interview, always answer a question even if you
don't understand it.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
During the interview don't be afraid to clarify vague questions. You can clarify a vague
question by asking your own question such as Are you asking...?
69. When answering interview questions, always aim your responses at the key
characteristics interviewers seek.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Always aim your answers at the key characteristics interviewers seek: expertise, competence,
motivation, interpersonal skills, decision-making skills, enthusiasm for the company and the
job, and a pleasing personality.
70. To demonstrate your humility, openly share at least one personal weakness with the
interviewer.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
You must stay focused on your strengths in an interview. Bring up a weakness only if asked
directly, and in such a case explain how you are working to overcome it.
71. When responding to the question Tell me about yourself, focus on personal information
such as your hometown, family, and hobbies.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
You should use success stories and focus on educational, professional, and business-related
strengths when responding to the question Tell me about yourself. You should also keep this
response short (one to two minutes).
72. To respond effectively to behavioral questions, use the storytelling technique to relate a
success story about a recent educational or work situation or task.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
The storytelling technique works well for responses to behavioral questions because you can
share a specific example of a similar task or situation from your recent work or educational
experiences.
73. A job applicant should never answer an illegal or inappropriate interview question.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
If you find the illegal or inappropriate interview question harmless and if you want the job,
go ahead and answer the question.
74. At the end of an interview, you will usually be asked if you have any questions. The most
effective response is No to avoid sounding too eager.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Usually, near the end of the interview, you will be asked whether you have any questions. The
worst thing you can do is say No, which suggests that you are not interested in the position.
Instead, ask questions that will help you gain information and impress the interviewer with
your thoughtfulness and interest in the position.
75. The first thing you should do after an interview is to contact your references.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Although you will eventually contact your references, the first thing you should do after
leaving an interview is to make notes of what was said in case you are called back for a
second interview. Write down key points that were discussed, the names of people with
whom you spoke, and other details of the interview while the information is still fresh in your
memory.
76. Sending a thank-you note after an interview is a social nicety that distinguishes you from
other candidates, but thank-you messages carry little weight in the hiring process.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
A thank-you message isn't just a social nicety. Nine of ten senior executives admit they are
swayed by a written thank you in their evaluation of a job candidate, and experts believe that
a thoughtful thank-you note carries as much weight as a cover letter.
77. An appropriate statement to include in a thank-you message is Thank you for taking the
time to interview me.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
In a thank-you message, avoid worn-out statements such as Thank you for taking the time to
interview me. Instead, show that you really want the job and that you are qualified for it.
78. If you've been interviewed by more than one person, send one thank-you note to the
person who appeared to be in charge.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
If you have been interviewed by more than one person, send a separate thank-you message to
each interviewer.
79. Always ask permission before submitting someone's name as a reference.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Before you list anyone as a reference, be sure to ask permission.
80. When asking a previous supervisor to write a letter of recommendation, you would be
smart to provide the supervisor with a detailed description of your target job, the
recommendation deadline, and copies of your résumé and college transcript.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Telling your previous supervisor about the position, its requirements, and the
recommendation deadline and including copies of your résumé, college transcript, or other
detailed information about the opening or your skills will allow the supervisor to prepare the
best possible reference for you.
81. If you don't hear from the interviewer within five days, the best follow up is a phone call
to the interviewer to inquire about the decision and to indicate your extreme desire for the
job.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
An e-mail to find out how the decision process is going may be your best bet because such a
message is much less intrusive than a telephone call. Also, you don't want to sound desperate
when asking about the position.
82. If you have submitted a résumé and cover letter, you will not be required to fill out a job
application form.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Some organizations require job candidates to fill out an application form instead of, or in
addition to, submitting a résumé.
83. When completing a job application form, always leave any items blank that do not apply.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Don't leave any items blank on a job application form. If questions or sections do not apply,
write Not applicable or N/A.
84. Fill out a job application form using a pencil to allow for easy erasure of mistakes, clear
handwriting, and dark lettering.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Use black or blue ink to complete an application form. To avoid mistakes, read the entire
form before you start.
85. If asked for the position desired on a job application form, answer with Anything or Open
to increase your odds of securing a position.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
If asked for the position desired, give a specific job title or type of position. Don't respond
with Anything or Open because such answers will make you look unfocused. Additionally,
such responses make it difficult for employers to know your qualifications or interests.
86. If your résumé or application generates no response within a reasonable time, you should
consider sending a short follow-up e-mail or letter to emphasize your qualifications or to add
new information.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
When your résumé or application doesn't gain the desired interview, it is appropriate to send a
follow-up letter or e-mail. Such messages may (a) jog the memory of the hiring manager, (b)
demonstrate your serious interest, and (c) allow you to emphasize your qualifications or to
add new information.
87. When you are rejected for a job that you considered perfect, you should give up on this
company and move rapidly to identify similar positions in other organizations.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
If you didn't get the job and you think it was perfect for you, don't give up. Send a letter
indicating your continuing interest, admitting your disappointment, and adding that you will
contact the company again in a month in case a job opens up. Then follow through for a
couple of months, but don't overdo it.
88. Even though you will likely receive and accept your job offer via telephone, you should
send the employer a letter or e-mail to document your acceptance of the job.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
After accepting the job offer on the phone, follow up with an acceptance e-mail or letter to
confirm the details and to formalize the acceptance.
89. Once you have resigned in a meeting with your supervisor, you do not need to document
your resignation in a letter or e-mail.
a. True
b. False
Answer: False
Rationale:
Although you will likely discuss your resignation in person with your supervisor, it is a good
idea to document your resignation by writing a formal letter.
90. A resignation letter typically includes a two-week notice. However, if you hold a
management position, you should provide your employer a longer notice.
a. True
b. False
Answer: True
Rationale:
Although a two-week notice is standard, you may find that a longer notice is necessary. The
higher your position and the greater your responsibility, the longer the notice you give your
employer should be.
91. Many companies now use ____________________ interviews to save time and money by
eliminating less-qualified candidates before scheduling face-to-face interviews.
Answer: screening
Rationale:
Many companies use screening interviews as a way to save time and money. During the
screening interview, the company eliminates candidates with weaker qualifications and
schedules face-to-face interviews only with the most-qualified applicants.
92. ____________________ interviews occur when a company interviews several candidates
for the same position at the same time.
Answer: Group
Rationale:
Group interviews occur when a company interviews several candidates for the same position
at the same time. When participating in a group interview, stay focused on the interviewer,
treat the other candidates with respect, remain calm, take your time when responding to
questions, express yourself clearly, and try to make yourself stand out from the other
candidates.
93. A(n) ____________________ interview is meant to test a candidate's reactions during
nerve-racking situations.
Answer: stress
Rationale:
Interviewers use various techniques to test a candidate's reactions in a stress interview.
Techniques include forcing the candidate to wait a long time, administering a test with an
impossible time limit, and asking rapid-fire questions.
94. To feel confident and to sell your qualifications, you should prepare and practice
____________________ stories that provide specific examples of your educational and
work-related experience to showcase your qualifications and achievements.
Answer: success
Rationale:
To feel confident and to be able to sell your qualifications, prepare and practice success
stories. These stories are specific examples of your educational and work-related experience
that demonstrate your qualifications and achievements.
95. Examples of positive ____________________ messages for the interview process include
arriving on time, dressing professionally, controlling your body movements, exhibiting good
posture, using effective eye contact, smiling appropriately, and listening attentively.
Answer: nonverbal
Rationale:
Create powerful impressions on people during an interview with positive nonverbal messages
such as arriving on time, dressing professionally, controlling your body movements,
exhibiting good posture, using effective eye contact, smiling appropriately, and listening
attentively.
96. Your interviewer says to you Describe a time when... or Tell me about a time when...
These phrases are openings for a(n) ____________________ question.
Answer: behavioral
Rationale:
Behavioral questions begin with such phrases as Describe a time when or Tell me about a
time when.
97. Following an interview you should send a(n) ____________________ note, e-mail, or
letter to the individual(s) who interviewed you.
Answer: thank-you
Rationale:
After a job interview, you should always send a thank-you note, e-mail, or letter. This
courtesy sets you apart from the other applicants. Your message also reminds the interviewer
of your visit and shows good manners and enthusiasm for the job.
98. To provide the best possible recommendation of you to a potential employer, your
____________________ need information about the company and position.
Answer: references
Rationale:
Your references can best provide a good recommendation if you provide them with the
appropriate ammunition, such as the name of the company, position title, job requirements,
and recommendation deadline. You should also let your references know what they should
stress to the prospective employer.
99. Some job candidates who are declining a job offer choose to write a(n)
____________________ message to thank the employer for the job offer and to formally
refuse the position.
Answer: rejection
Rationale:
You may send a rejection message to an employer when you decline a position that has been
offered.
100. You should write a formal ____________________ letter to confirm the exact date you
will terminate your employment when it is a position you have held for an extended period.
Answer: resignation
Rationale:
A resignation letter documents your decision to terminate employment in your present
position. This letter can confirm the date of resignation, remind the employer of your
contributions, offer assistance to prepare for your resignation, and thank the employer.
Test Bank for Essentials of Business Communication
Mary Ellen Guffey, Dana Loewy
9781285858913, 9781337386494, 9781111821227, 9781285858890, 9780176473358, 9780176531409
