This is another direct question that requires a direct response. If you have created a good impression up to this point, your response to this question is especially important. It requires you to overcome any weaknesses your background might present when you are compared to other job seekers. Here are some typical stumbling blocks:
- You are just out of school and have limited experience in this career.
- This is your first job, or you have not worked for a period of time.
- Your prior work experience is not a match for the tasks required in this job.
- Your previous level of responsibility was lower or higher than this job requires.
- You have had several jobs, but no clear career direction.
- You do not have the education or other credentials many other applicants might have.
Lead with your strengths. If it is obvious that other job seekers might have more education, more years of experience, or whatever qualifications you lack, acknowledge that, and then present your strengths. Use the standard Three-Step Process from chapter 1 to answer a problem question.
Sample Answer #1
"As you know, I have just completed an intensive program in
the area of information technology. In addition, I have more
than three years of work experience in a variety of business
settings. That work experience included managing a small
business during the absence of the owner. I learned to handle
money there and do a variety of basic accounting tasks. I also
inventoried and organized products worth over six hundred
thousand dollars. These experiences helped me understand the
importance of good information technology systems in a business
setting. Although I am a recent information technology
graduate, my previous business experience allows me to understand
how to use what I have learned in practical and effective
ways. My educational experience was very thorough, and I
have more than 300 hours of interactive computer time as
part of my course work. Because I am new to this career, I
plan to work harder and will spend extra time as needed to
meet any deadlines."
This response emphasizes transferable skills (knowledge of accounting procedures) and adaptive skills (meeting deadlines and working hard). This emphasis is necessary to counter a lack of previous work experience in the information technology area. In this situation, what was learned in school is also very important and should be emphasized as the equivalent of "real" work.
Sample Answer #2
"In my previous position, I used many of the same skills that
are needed to do this job well. Even though it was in a different
industry, managing a business requires the types of organizational
and supervisory skills that I possess. Over the past
seven years, I guided my region to become one of the most
profitable in our company. Sales expanded an average of 30
percent per year during the years I worked there, and profits
rose at a similar rate. Because this was a mature company,
such performance was highly unusual. I received two promotions
during those seven years and rose to the management
level quickly. I was later told that no one had previously
achieved this kind of advancement. I am now seeking a challenge
in a smaller, growth-oriented company such as yours. I
feel my experience and contacts have prepared me for this step
in my career."
This response acknowledges that the previous career field differed from the one now being considered but emphasizes prior achievements and success. Accomplishing this level of success requires the use of all sorts of skills. The response also includes the motivation to move on to the challenge of a smaller organization.