Many resignations stem from an employee's inability to get along with their immediate superior. Personality clashes are almost inevitable, so what they're looking for are signs of professional conduct whereby you will do what you are told, irrespective of what you think of your boss. Some people cannot handle anyone telling them what to do. Such people do have a role to play in any corporate environment, but the interviewer needs to be aware of this.
- Tell me about your favourite supervisor in the past and why you liked working for this person.
Then, your least favourite supervisor, and why?
This is designed to elicit information about how the applicant responds to supervision and how they prefer to be supervised.
- What did you think of your current or previous manager/supervisor?
You should say that he/she was the sort of person you could learn from and you communicated well with each other, which meant that the task in hand was completed on time.
- Describe a difficult workplace situation that you faced, and that you think you handled well. Then tell me about a workplace situation that you don't think you handled very well and what you could do differently.
The interviewer is looking for clues about how you deal with conflict and difficult situations. In the situation that was handled poorly, they are trying to determine if you have learned from the mistake.
- Describe a difficult situation that has occurred between you and your boss in the workplace.
How would you handle it next time?
The interviewer is looking for problem solving and judgement skills. Be careful what you choose to give as an example. They could be looking for the type of issue that is likely to crop up with you as an employee.
- How many sick days have you taken from work in the past year?
Asking direct questions about the applicant's health is illegal in many countries. However, asking about sick days is not. If you have missed considerable time, they may ask if there is any current health condition that would interfere with your ability to have a good attendance record in the future. An existing medical condition doesn't mean you are unsuitable, but that may want to know how reliable and dependable you will be. This can be a difficult question to answer if you are frequently off sick or you have just recovered from a prolonged period of illness. If you have generally enjoyed good health and this period of illness is not typical then you should say so.
- Are you able to work shifts? Graveyard shifts? Weekends? Are you available for business travel?
In many countries, it's illegal to ask questions about marital status and whether the person has family obligations. But the employer is entitled to know whether they are free to work the shifts that they have available and if you are free to travel, if this is a requirement of the job.
- This is our policy regarding smoking/dress code/alcohol and drug use while on the job. Are you willing and able to abide by this policy?
It could be illegal to ask about an applicant's use of tobacco, alcohol or illicit drugs. But it is legal for the employer to explain their workplace policy and ask if you will abide by it.
- How did you get on with your previous manager/supervisor, co-workers and subordinates?
Ideally you should say that you got on well with everyone.
- If I spoke with your previous boss, what would they say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
Emphasize your skills, and don't be overly negative about your weaknesses. It's always safer to portray a lack of a skill as an area for improvement rather than a shortcoming. The interviewer is also looking to see how you react to the mere mention of your previous boss. So be careful not to shift in your seat or to pull a pained expression.
- Can you work under pressures, deadlines, etc.?
Yes, it's a way of life in business. Be sure to cite examples of your success in dealing with pressures and deadlines.
- How do you accept direction and, at the same time, maintain a critical stance regarding your ideas and values?
You should say that someone with your skills and experience understands how to walk that fine line.