CONGRATULATIONS! You've got the job!

(by Lina Fafard, V.P. Marketing and Training,

THE PARTNERS, Computer Industry Search)

Here are some typical but important questions and answers on an interview of a Computer Information Science graduate. Included are some tips for securing the position.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in Information Technology?

I have alsways had an interest in computers and started programming at a very young age on our home PC. Once I began classes, I knew this was the career for me. (The Manager is looking for a commitment and some depth, something special about you; going beyond the call of duty.)

What do you know about our company and why do you want to work here?

I understand that your company is the 5th largest financial investment firm in the industry with revenues of approximately 200 million and your stock is trading at $75.00 per share. I read your company's Web page and saw a number of opportunities in the Information Services division, leading me to believe that you're growing the department to support the company's success. Having a strong mathematical skills, I would like to work for an organization like yours because I see a long, challenging technical career here, supporting an industry where I have personal strengths and interests. (The Manager is looking to see if you do your homework and are prepared. One of my clients, prior to meeting with his potential customers, always read their annual reports. Because they were impressed iwth his knowledge of their organization, they gave him their business.)

Tell me about your most challenging technical problem and what you did to resolve it?

I attempted to port a "C" program that manipulated an Informix database to an Oracle database program. I encountered one query that wouldn't produce the same results in the new environment. I researched the two manuals and after some extensive research, I discovered the application was using a non-portable method of addressing the database. I implemented the portable method in the new application, and used "C" conditional compiler code (# if defs) to be able to compile the code roperly in the two environments. (The Manager is looking for your ability to explain the process that you followed to see if you understand why you are doing what you are doing, and if there is a logical flow.)

Have you ever had any hands-on professional technical experience? What was your role?

Some friends of my parents own three chiropractic offices and I set up a LAN network for all three locations using Novell. I also installed some PC packaged software for them and was paid a flalt rate for the whole project. I handled the entire project from start to finish. I also trained the employees on how to use the LAN and the new PC software products. (Even if you have never been paid dfor did volunteer work, mention the project; it shows initiative.)

Is there a particular technical focus that you would like to concentrate on such as, networking, databases or financial application development? Why?

At this point, I'm really very open as to wherever I can best benefit your organization. Given a choice, I would like to either networking or database development because I feel both of these areas have a strong future technology. (Shows an understanding of industry trends.)

What benefit can you provide to an Information Services Department?

In addition to my technical training, I am dependable and will dedicate my energy to the department. You will always be able to count on me to get the job done an dbe available to help handle any problems that arise. (One of my candidates said that her peers call her "Columbo" because she is an excellent problem-solver. This made the manager laugh and he indeed hired her and she gets all the really tough problems to solve in the department.)

What are your short term and long term career goals? Technical vs. Management career?

Short-term I would like to be involved in a challenging technical development or support project and increase my ability to contribute to the organization. Long term, I wold like to lead a team of talented software professionals on a critical assignment providing the organization with a bottom line benefit. (The Manager is looking for your ability to plan ahead and make decisions as well as be realistic.)

Are you willing to travel and/or relocate? If yes, how much travel and where would you like to move to?

Yes, I am willing to travel as much as the position requires. Though I would prefer not to relocate, I would be interested in understanding what all the opportunities are. (Traveling sounds glamorous at first, but some jobs require up to three months at a particular location, working on a specific project. Be sure to find out how much travel is involved and to what locations. Also find out what relocation costs the company picks up.)

What is the lowest salary amount you would consider?

I'm open to a fair offer. (If pressed for a commitment on a salary figure, inform them that to the best of your understanding you know that most companies pay $35K to $40K per year with a BS Computer Science and no previous work experience; $40K to $45K per year with a M.S.C.S. and no propfessional work experience and you would like to be compensated along those lines.)

Describe the most influential teacher you had in high school and why they impacted your life?

(This was an actual question that was asked of our candidates by a Director of IS. Be prepared for questions like this, that are off the beaten path, so they don't catch you too off-guard. Try to tie the answer back to your reasons for pursuing a career in computer technology.)

The most influential teacher I had in high school was my math teacher because he helped me to think outside of the "nine dots". He often said, "Are there any other possibilities that could work here?" This was the foundation for my strong analytical skills and I'll always appreciate his approach because it has helped me excel in problem solving.