how do you expect us to help you with this question when we don't know you personally?

for this, you really have to ask yourself. what was really hard for you until you failed despite trying so hard? this could be academic or non-academic related. for instance, say you failed or did not do well in an academic subject: Further Maths? Advanced Maths? etc.. You probably can tell them that you knew it was gonna be hard and you decided to take up the challenge. It then turns out not to be your thing. Then, put a twist to this negative statement; telling them what you've learnt from it. Like for instance, you might have consulted your lecturers/organised study groups with friends etc.. you can mention those things! tell them that although further maths isn't what you like, you gained invaluable skills out of it. You probably discovered what your true passion really is through this, or you realise what you really enjoy is working together in a team etc..

i hope that helps.. perhaps, u can tell us more about yourself and we might be able to help you

personally, i don't think this is the best/hardest question an interviewer can ask (though i know many do)

i mean, question of how you see yourself fitting into the company is supposed to be judged by the interviewer and not explained by you. they know the company best and they know who they are looking for. your role is to elaborate on the necessary skills you have which is applicable in the job you applied for. but anyway, if they really ask that question, quote examples of the different responsibilities you have handled and the useful transferable skills you gained out of it. relate these to the job that you're applying for.

as for your contribution within a year... in my opinion, no point telling them what you can do for them cos i don't think you would really know what the job entails until you start working with them. no point bullshitting lol. for me, i would prefer to tell them what i want/expect from the company. make sure you portray that you're really enthusiastic and don't forget to do your research! for instance, tell them you have a thirst for knowledge and you're really there to learn and excel. include the skills you have which is useful.

hmm.. it's better not to put it in that way.. lol!

by right, it's true that the company is accommodating to your needs (since you're the one who chose the company/department)
i think it's best to just tell them what skills you have; which makes you think you're the suitable candidate for the job.

Always remember that in an interview, it's not only about the interviewer asking you questions. You're supposed to "interview" them as well to see if the company is really for you! Ask them questions like perhaps, the key changes in the industry you're applying to, key success factors for future in the industry, your typical responsibility for the job, future opportunities etc..

Avoid personal questions/any questions which go against the interviewer, company or any salary-related questions. You can direct those questions to the finance department after securing an offer.

Hope that helps!

This post has been edited by leehkai45: Nov 15 2007, 02:53 AM