1. Why do you want to work in this industry?
Bad answer:
“I love politics. I am huge fan of Obama and find his message for change very inspiring.”
Don’t just say you like it. Anyone can do that. Focus instead on your history with government and especially in that agency, and if you can, tell a success story.
Good answer:
“I am fascinated by the way government works with lawmakers to accomplish change. In light of recent political events and the Obama Administration’s movements, we are already seeing how much the government can accomplish when the right people and resources are utilized. This is especially true for energy conservation efforts with the Department of Energy. When I worked at my previous employer, I initiated efforts to create a more “green” office – decreasing paper and electricity use by 25% after three months – saving the company $10,000 that year. Working in the administrative office of the DoE, with its resources, I know I could take this type of project to the next level. I would find career and personal fulfillment in that.”
2. Tell us about yourself.
Bad answer:
“I graduated four years ago from the University of Michigan, with a Bachelor’s in Biology – but I decided that wasn’t the right path for me. So I switched gears and got my first job, working in sales for a startup. Then I went on to work in legislative affairs for a law firm that worked with the Feds. After that, I took a few months off to travel. Finally, I came back and worked in government and legal work. And now, here I am, looking for a more challenging legislative role.”
Instead of giving a chronological work history, focus on your strengths and how they pertain to the role. If possible, illustrate with examples.
Good answer:
“I’m really energetic, and a great communicator. Working in sales for two years helped me build confidence, and taught me the importance of customer loyalty. I’ve also got a track record of success. In my last role, I launched a company newsletter, which helped us build on our existing relationships and create new ones. Because of this, we ended up seeing a revenue increase of 10% over two years. I’m also really interested in how companies can use web tools to better market themselves, and would be committed to building on your existing platform. This is especially important as the government moves into more Web 2.0 initiatives.”
3. What do you think of your previous boss?
Bad answer:
“He was completely incompetent, and a nightmare to work with, which is why I’ve moved on”
Remember: if you get the job, the person interviewing you will some day be your previous boss. The last thing they want is to hire someone who they know is going to badmouth them some day. Instead of trashing your former employer, stay positive, and focus on what you learned from him (no matter how awful he really was).
Good answer:
“My last boss taught me the importance of time management – he didn’t pull any punches, and was extremely deadline-driven. His no-nonsense attitude pushed me to work harder, and to meet deadlines I never even thought were possible.”
4. Why are you leaving your current role?
Bad answer:
“I can’t stand my boss, or the work I’m doing.”
Again, stay away from badmouthing your job or employer. Focus on the positive.
Good answer:
“I’ve learned a lot from my current role, but now I’m looking for a new challenge, to broaden my horizons and to gain a new skill-set – all of which, I see the potential for in this job.”
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Bad answer:
“Relaxing on a beach in Maui,” or “Doing your job.”
There’s really no right answer to this question, but the interviewer wants to know that you’re ambitious, career-oriented, and committed to a future with the company. So instead of sharing your dream for early retirement, or trying to be funny, give them an answer that illustrates your drive and commitment.
Good answer:
“In five years I’d like to have an even better understanding of how this agency works. Also, I really love working with people. Ultimately, I’d like to be in some type of managerial role at this agency, where I can use my people skills and department knowledge to benefit the people working for me, and the agency as a whole.”
6. What’s your greatest weakness?
Bad answer:
“I work too hard,” or for the comedian, “Blondes.”
This question is a great opportunity to put a positive spin on something negative, but you don’t want your answer to be cliché – joking or not. Instead, try to use a real example of a weakness you have learned to overcome.
Good answer:
“I’ve never been very comfortable with public speaking – which as you know, can be a hindrance in the workplace. Realizing this was a problem, I asked my previous employer if I could enroll in a speech workshop. He said “yes.” I took the class, and was able to overcome my lifelong fear. Since then, I’ve given lots of presentations to audiences of over a 100 high level executives – I still don’t love it, but no one else can tell!”
