The mere mention of an interview provokes many aspiring managers into biting their fingernails for hours and hours. No doubt, winning a manager’s position is quite the challenge. Nonetheless, how ridiculous it is to cloak all your conquests and achievements under the daunting cape of your own apprehension? Yes, an employer tends to skip your high test scores and coveted degrees if you let anxiety get the better of you during the much awaited interview. It is therefore mandatory that you go well prepared for this interview. The potential employer could drill you with thirty or more questions. However, never lose hope and try your level best to stand out as resilient. Arrange a set of impressive answers beforehand. Although you can never be too sure what sort of questions might come your way, it doesn’t hurt to foretell. Management interview questions are more elaborate than that of other positions, primarily because the competition is stiff, and detection of minor flaws is made possible by excessive and comprehensive questioning. Scroll down and run through some of the standard management interview questions.
Sample Management Interview Questions
Which university have you graduated from?
If your university carries a good reputation, then you have leverage. Be proud of where you have acquired education from. Even if your employer is unaware of its existence, describe it in a positive light.
What have you specialized in?
It is important that you spell out your specializations. This makes it easier for the potential employer to decipher where your expertise lies and can henceforth give you an assignment that matches the said line of specialization.
Why are you considering leaving your present job?
State all the rational reasons for which you intend to resign from your present job or why you left your previous company. Spare the employer from your personal issues and woes that possibly lead to your resignation. “There is not much room for growth at my present workplace. I am in search of an organization with long term growth opportunities”- is one of the right approaches. Avoid excuses like “It was too boring.”
What attracts you to our company?
A well researched candidate is always more appealing. As you briefly mention why the company is a great platform for your career, reveal how much you know about the concerned company and what attracts you to it. However, do not try too hard to flatter the employer.
How long have you worked as a manager?
Be honest. Lay a positive emphasis on your overall experience as a manager.
How many employees reported directly to you?
Give a well rounded figure of all the subordinates that reported to you throughout your term as manager. Describe the accurate responsibilities and activities over which you manifested fantastic oversight for these employees.
How do you deal with escalating pressure?
Be confident and portray yourself as a resilient employee who is habituated to working in demanding environments with numerous deadlines. Let the employer know that you enjoy the thrill of challenges.
Why are ‘you’ the one we should hire amongst several other candidates?
Prove to your employer that you have an edge over the rest. Disclose your most distinct qualities and sell yourself there onwards.
What are your biggest strengths and your biggest weaknesses?
Everybody appreciates honesty. Stress on your greatest strengths. For example: “My greatest strength is maximizing the efficiency of my staff.” Don’t be afraid to come clean with your weaknesses. If you have succeeded in landing a good impression, the employer will find a way to stem those weaknesses and compensate them with your strengths.
How are you as a leader?
Shed light on how good a ‘Leader’ you are!
How do you decide which tasks take priority when organizing a complete project?
Applicant should appear focused when deciding what needs to be completed first and show common sense in their decision making.
How do you perform when others need your guidance in a business crisis?
You should display your supervising and direction-gibing abilities while under stress.
What are your salary expectations?
Mention your current salary or the salary you received in your most recent job. Provide the employer with a few good reasons pertaining to why you deserve the salary you quote.
What are your future goals?
Sincerely list down your long term career goals that should conventionally be to learn, take on increasing responsibilities, and be an ardent contributor.
Sincerely list down your long term career goals that should conventionally be to learn, take on increasing responsibilities, and be an ardent contributor.
