Technical Questions to Ask in an Interview
Recruitment and selection processes include a number of techniques recruiters and employment specialists use to discern whether an application is a suitable candidate for the job. To effectively review online applications, resumes and cover letters, recruiters must be familiar with every aspect of the job vacancy and its criteria and qualifications. Recruiters are typically well-versed in the technical expertise and job competencies necessary for successful performance.
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Interview Process
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Recruitment and selection processes consist of preliminary interviews and face-to-face interviews. Recruiters conduct preliminary interviews via phone to verify the applicant's work history, experience and continued interest in the position. Applicants who successfully pass the preliminary interview are then invited to the company for a face-to-face interview, which includes technical, job-specific questions about the candidate's competency levels and proficiency. Face-to-face interviews can range from one-on-one interviews with a recruiter or hiring manager to an interview with a panel of company representatives who have knowledge of the technical expertise necessary for the job.
Clinical Positions
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Candidates interviewing for clinical occupations in the health care field can expect questions that focus on patient care, medical procedures and hospital regulations. Examples of job-specific questions for health care and hospital employees may include:
How often must nurses' notes be entered into a patient's chart?
What level nurse is qualified to administer medication to patients?
Describe three vital points concerning HIPAA regulations.
Explain the process for patient extubation when you receive the patient from first responders.
What type of medication do you administer to a patient who is nonresponsive due to sedation?
How long have you been board-certified as a physician, and how does it benefit your career?
What antibiotic alternatives are there for patients who are allergic to penicillin and sulfanomide?
How common is MRSA and how is it transmitted?
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Information Technology Positions
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Computer consultants, network administrators and software application specialists generally have a broad knowledge of topics related to information technology. Examples of job-specific questions for this industry include:
What is the most widely used operating system? Compare this to three other operating systems.
Describe in detail the difference between Mac-based and Windows-based applications and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
How do you disassemble a laptop video card when it's embedded in the motherboard?
Describe the best positions and locations for servers. What does server maintenance consist of, and how often should server maintenance be conducted?
What is the difference between systems administration and network administration?
What steps are necessary to determine the best form of network security?
Describe the benefits and drawbacks of VPN access.
Accounting and Finance Positions
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Professionals interviewing for upper-level positions within the finance arena usually must be certified public accountants with knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP), as well as the following job-specific questions:
Describe the difference between debt-ratio and equity-ratio financing.
What distinguishes venture capital firms from angel investors? Name two benefits and two disadvantages for each group.
Explain the difference between a monetization plan and a financial model.
Describe the process for calculating internal valuation.
Name three statements within the Code of Conduct for certified public accountants.
What are the differences between fixed costs and variable costs?
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