Common Talk Weeklyshuang yu zhou kan
issue date

Tips for an English interview (III)
February 18, 2004
Collected by Yongyong Ji

11. Where do you want to be five years from now?

Saying that you'd like to be president is unrealistic, yet few employers want people who are content to sit still. You might say, "In five years, I'd like to have my boss's job. " If you can't qualify for your boss's job by then, you may not be the right candidate.

12. What are your salary expectations?

If you are asked this at the outset, it's best to say, "Why don't we discuss salary after you decide whether I'm right for the job? " But if the interviewer asks this after showing real interest in you, speak up. She or he will probably try to meet your price. If you need a clue about what to ask for, say, " Can you discuss your salary range with me?"

13. What would you do if...

This question is designed to test your responses. For example: "What would you do if your computer broke down during an audit?" Your answer there isn't nearly so important as your approach to the problem. And a calm approach is best. Start by saying, "One thing I might do is..." Then give several alternative choices.

14. What type of position are you interested in?

Job titles and responsibilities vary from firm to firm. So state your skills instead, such as "I'm good at figure work," and the positions that require these skills, such as "accountant."

15. Do you have any questions about the organization or the job?

Employers like a candidate who is interested in the organization. So this is a perfect time to convey your interest and enthusiasm. Of course, you cannot fully count on these 15 questions and coping tactics. The world is changing and so are HR staff.

Rome was not built in a day. To improve your ability in oral English, you have to practice it everyday, this may be the most essential way. Besides this, read some English articles in newspapers and magazines such as The Economist, News Week and, of course, Common Talk of the Xiamen Daily.