STARTING QUESTIONS Flashcards
The Most Common Starting Questions
” Mr Macgill, Please tell us about yourself.”
“Of course!
Professionally, I am reliable and hard-working.
In my earlier years I spent 14 years in the Army, which gave me a strong foundation in discipline, attention to detail and working under pressure - all skills and attributes I have since carried over into my civilian jobs.
After leaving the army I spent a short time working in hospitality.
I then went on to develop a highly rewarding career working in schools for around 16 years, both as a janitor and as a security officer, so I’m very familiar with the routines and the responsibilities that come with being in that environment such as being part of a team that helps to keep students and staff safe and the campus running smoothly.
Most recently, I’ve been working as a kitchen assistant in an elderly care home, which has taught me a lot about teamwork, communication and working with vulnerable populations.
However, I was excited to read about your job vacancy and the opportunity to return to a role in the school setting where I will be able to bring together all my previous experience and skills to support students and staff in a role that really matters to me.”
“Please can you walk me through your CV?”
“Of course!
Professionally, I am reliable and hard-working. In my earlier years I spent 14 years in the Army, which gave me a strong foundation in discipline, attention to detail and working under pressure — all skills and attributes I have since carried over into my civilian jobs.
After leaving the army I spent a short time working in hospitality.
I then went on to develop a highly rewarding career working in schools for around 16 years, both as a janitor and as a security officer, so I’m very familiar with the routines and the responsibilities that come with being in that environment such as being part of a team that helps to keep students and staff safe and the campus running smoothly.
Most recently, I’ve been working as a kitchen assistant in an elderly care home, which has taught me a lot about teamwork, communication and working with vulnerable populations.
However, I was excited to read about your job vacancy and the opportunity to return to a role in the school setting where I will be able to bring together all my previous experience and skills to support students and staff in a role that really matters to me.”
“Why are you interested in this position?”
“I’m interested in this job because it’s definitely where my experience and skills lie - it’s a hands-on role where I can see the results of my work every day which is very satisfying.
I enjoy physical, task-based work and I always make sure I do it well.
“Why do you want to work for this school?”
“What stands out to me about this school is it’s reputation for community and teamwork and I particularly like the school’s ethos on Ambition, Innovation and Community (The Three Pillars of ESMS).
In my experience - both in the military and in schools - I’ve seen how much can get done when people respect each other and work together as a team.
I would like to be a part of a community like that.”
“How did you hear about this role?”
I came across the job posting online when looking for roles to return to the school setting
“Why do you want to leave your current job?”
“I’ve enjoyed working at Elder Homes and I have gained valuable experience but I’m looking to return to the school setting where I’ve worked before and felt most satisfied. The assistant janitor position lines up better with my experience and skills”
