To answer this question, a person should understand the purpose
of a cover letter. A cover letter serves as an introduction
document for the resume, outlining the knowledge, skills, and
abilities relevant to prospective employers. A cover letter
can not only focus on the job seeker’s past, but can also bring
to light future plans and aspirations. Since an interview
insinuates that the employer has already received and read the
resume, a cover letter isn’t necessary to bring to the interview.
How do I explain the reason for leaving
a previous employer?
I’m probably 100% accurate when I say there isn’t an interviewing
professional in the world that would recommend saying something
negative about a previous employer. With this said, it’s
important to look positively upon leaving a past employer —
regardless of whether it was your decision, theirs, or both.
Employers understand that not all marriages last, so employees
don’t generally commit to employers for a lifetime. Leaving
an employer can be explained using clauses such as “the position
didn’t have room for growth” or “I felt my capabilities were
being underutilized so I felt it was best that I seek employment
elsewhere.” After making a statement containing one of
these clauses, I would then focus on the assets you’ll be bringing
to this employer.
Questions that demand a negative answer tend to corner interviewees.
A least favorite job duty can cover mundane, every-day duties
like filing. I recommend mentioning a job skill that will
not be required (or on a limited basis) of the position you’re
interviewing for. For example, an electrical engineer
might say, “I tend to have problems copying because copiers
love to jam up on me.” (… let out a little chuckle to show the
interviewer you have a sense of humor)
Devise a statement that answers the interviewers question, yet
doesn’t reflect negatively upon your abilities to perform the
position.
A thank-you letter is just that, a way of thanking the interviewer
for taking the time to meet with you. A letter is important
for all interviews, especially if you met with another interviewer
— possibly a panel or lunch interview where several company
reps were present. Use different stationery for the second
letter.
It’s difficult to speculate on what colleagues would say truthfully,
making it challenging to answer this question. Of course,
you can answer a number of different ways as long as you answer
it honestly and without negativity. Focus on your strong
work ethic.
