Interviewing to Get the Job: “What’s your philosophy toward …?"

By Sharon Boerbon Hanson

The tag at the end of this question could be:

Being a great employee…

Advancement in your career…

The integration of IT with business needs…

Team relationships…

Although the topics differ, an interviewer who asks a philosophy question is looking for a thoughtful answer regarding how you will fit into the company culture.

To best answer any of the above, or similar, questions, think of the various roles any employee fills for a company; for example, an inter-departmental representative, a team member or brand advocate.  What are the crucial components for success in each of these roles and how do they help the company reach its goals?
Phrase your answer with the positive attributes you own that will tell the interviewer that you will meet his or her expectations.

Sharon Boerbon Hanson is associate executive director of Advance IT Minnesota, a Center of Excellence that promotes awareness of and excellence in IT careers in order to ensure business success. She has over 25 years’ experience marketing and brand-building, and has been a resume and interview coach 15 years.