Be prepared to answer standard questions such as:

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• Why did you choose this particular vocation? What do you really want to do in life?

• What do you want to be doing in your career five years from now? Ten years from now?

• What was the size of your last salary review? When was it?

• What style of management gets the best from you? Who was your best boss? Why?

• What interests you about our products or services?

• Can you get recommendations from previous employers?

• What have you learnt from some of the jobs you have held? What did you enjoy the most?

• What have you done that shows initiative in your career?

• What are your strongest skills?

• How do your skills relate to our company's needs?

• How can you contribute to the company?

• What are you looking for in your next job?

• What do you know about us?

• What do you think determines a person's progress in a good company?

• How do you spend your spare time? What are your hobbies?

• What does teamwork mean to you?

• What's the best book you've read recently?

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"Open probe" questions are different because they strike right at the heart of issues and require more than a yes/no answer.

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• Why did you leave your last job? Why do you want to change jobs?

• Have a positive answer - confident, coherent and logical explanations are critical to the interview process.

• What is your greatest strength/weakness?

• Have some answers ready - even weaknesses can be presented positively, especially if you are doing something about them.

• What income are you looking for?

• Always give a range but try to be general.

• Why should I hire you?

• Here's a chance to review your strengths and show how you can make a big contribution. Sell your benefits, not your features. 

• Why do you want to work for our organisation?

• Here is a chance to show how well you did your research before the interview.

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You probably just skimmed over these lists so we want you to go back and read them again - carefully this time. Now take out some paper and start writing your answers - truthful answers that demonstrate your achievements. You will be put on the spot if you are not prepared.