Contract-to-Hire Conversion Rates: What Professional Job Seekers & Businesses Need to Know in 2026

Illustration showing professional career progression from contract role to permanent employment at Key Staff Pro staffing agency

If you’re a professional considering a contract role as a pathway to permanent employment, the data is firmly on your side. A recent survey by the American Staffing Association revealed that nearly 60% of temporary and contract workers successfully transition into permanent positions (American Staffing Association), proving that contract-to-hire arrangements are far more than a temporary fix—they’re a strategic career move.

At KeyStaff Professionals, we specialize in placing skilled professionals in Administrative, Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, Construction Management, and Customer Service roles throughout the Twin Cities. With over 40 years of combined industry experience, we’ve witnessed countless contract placements evolve into thriving, long-term careers. The key is understanding how the process works and positioning yourself for success.

For employers, the contract-to-hire model offers significant advantages. The median temp-to-perm conversion ratio among large contingent workforce buyers was 10% for North American companies, according to Staffing Industry Analysts (Staffing Industry Analysts). However, for professional-level positions where cultural fit and specialized skills are paramount, conversion rates tend to be even higher when the right candidate meets the right opportunity.

Six in 10 staffing employees (64%) work in the industry to bridge gaps between jobs or to help them land permanent positions (American Staffing Association). For professionals in HR, accounting, and administrative fields, contract-to-hire roles offer a unique opportunity to demonstrate your expertise while evaluating whether a company is the right fit for your long-term career goals.

Understanding Contract-to-Hire Conversion Rates for Professional Roles

Before exploring strategies for success, let’s examine what current data tells us about contract-to-hire conversions in professional settings.

Key Industry Statistics for 2025-2026

  • Nearly 60% of contract workers successfully transition into permanent positions, according to the American Staffing Association. (American Staffing Association)
  • The median conversion ratio among large companies is 10% in North America, 8% in Asia Pacific, and 5% in Europe. (Staffing Industry Analysts)
  • Over 70% of employers use contract-to-hire as part of their permanent hiring pipeline, making it a legitimate and increasingly common path to career advancement. (Constellation Search Group)
  • 35% of contract workers are offered permanent positions by their clients, and 66% of those workers accept the offers. (Alliance Employment Services)
  • Professional and executive roles often see higher conversion rates due to the specialized nature of the work and the investment companies make in onboarding skilled talent. (Akraya)

For professionals in the Twin Cities market, these statistics represent tangible opportunities. Companies are increasingly using contract arrangements to evaluate fit before making long-term commitments—and savvy professionals are leveraging this trend to land roles at top organizations.

Business professional shaking hands with hiring manager after successful contract-to-hire job offer at Twin Cities recruiting firm

Professional Fields with Strong Contract-to-Hire Potential

Not all professional roles convert at the same rate. Understanding which fields offer the best opportunities can help you focus your job search strategically.

Human Resources

HR professionals are in high demand for contract-to-hire roles. Companies often need immediate support for recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, or compliance projects, and they value the opportunity to evaluate an HR professional’s judgment and cultural fit before extending a permanent offer. (Akraya) Roles like HR Generalist, Recruiter, HR Analyst, and Talent Acquisition Specialist frequently convert to permanent positions.

Accounting and Finance

Finance departments rely heavily on contract-to-hire arrangements, particularly for roles requiring specialized expertise in financial reporting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and audit support. The structured nature of accounting work makes it easier for employers to evaluate performance during a contract period, leading to strong conversion rates for professionals who demonstrate accuracy and efficiency. (Contrax Workforce)

Administrative and Executive Support

Administrative professionals, executive assistants, and office managers are consistently sought after for contract-to-hire placements. Companies appreciate the opportunity to assess organizational skills, software proficiency, communication abilities, and cultural fit before committing to permanent employment. (IBISWorld) These roles often serve as the backbone of an organization, making the right fit essential.

Engineering and Construction Management

Technical professionals in engineering and construction management fields are increasingly placed through contract-to-hire arrangements. Companies working on specific projects or initiatives use contract placements to bring in specialized expertise, and high performers are frequently converted to permanent roles as project needs evolve into ongoing requirements. (Akraya)

Customer Service

Customer-facing roles benefit greatly from the contract-to-hire model. Employers can evaluate how candidates interact with customers, handle challenging situations, and represent the company brand before making permanent hiring decisions. Professionals who demonstrate patience, problem-solving skills, and a positive attitude are prime candidates for conversion.

7 Expert Strategies to Maximize Your Contract-to-Hire Success

At KeyStaff Professionals, we’ve helped countless professionals transition from contract roles to permanent careers. Here are the strategies that consistently lead to successful conversions:

1. Approach Every Assignment as an Extended Interview

From the moment you begin a contract role, remember that you’re being evaluated not just on your technical skills, but on your professionalism, attitude, and cultural fit. Hiring managers form lasting impressions within the first 30 days, according to LinkedIn research (Constellation Search Group). Dress professionally, arrive prepared, and consistently deliver quality work.

2. Demonstrate Initiative Beyond Your Job Description

Contract professionals who stand out often go beyond their assigned responsibilities. Volunteer to assist with additional projects, offer solutions to problems you observe, and show genuine interest in the company’s success. This initiative signals that you’re invested in the organization—not just collecting a paycheck. (Spectra360)

3. Build Meaningful Relationships Across the Organization

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that over 80% of recruiters consider cultural fit to be a top factor when deciding on permanent hires (Constellation Search Group). Take time to connect with colleagues, participate in team activities, and demonstrate that you’re a collaborative team member. When people enjoy working with you, they’ll advocate for making your position permanent.

4. Proactively Seek Feedback and Apply It

Research from Harvard Business Review shows that employees who actively request feedback are perceived as more competent and motivated by their supervisors (Constellation Search Group). Schedule regular check-ins with your manager, ask specific questions about areas for improvement, and demonstrate that you’re implementing the feedback you receive.

5. Communicate Your Interest in Permanent Employment

Many contract professionals miss conversion opportunities simply because they never expressed their interest in staying. After establishing yourself in the role, have a professional conversation with your manager about your desire to continue with the organization long-term. Ask what specific criteria they consider when converting contract employees to permanent staff. (Monster)

6. Document Your Achievements and Contributions

Keep a running record of your accomplishments, successful projects, and positive feedback during your contract period. This documentation becomes invaluable when discussing permanent employment—you’ll have concrete examples of the value you’ve added to the organization. (Monster)

7. Partner Closely with Your Recruiting Team

Your staffing agency is your advocate throughout the contract-to-hire process. At KeyStaff Professionals, we maintain close relationships with our client companies and regularly check in with our contract professionals to ensure success. Keep your recruiter informed about your performance, any concerns, and your interest in permanent placement. (AMPM Employment) We can advocate on your behalf when conversion opportunities arise.

For Employers: The Strategic Value of Contract-to-Hire for Professional Roles

If you’re a hiring manager or HR leader in the Twin Cities considering contract-to-hire arrangements for professional positions, the data supports this approach as a smart, risk-reducing strategy.

Key Benefits of Contract-to-Hire for Professional Roles

  1. Evaluate Real-World Performance: Resumes and interviews only reveal so much. Contract-to-hire allows you to assess a professional’s actual work quality, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills before making a permanent commitment. (Activated Scale)
  2. Assess Cultural Fit: Professional roles often require strong interpersonal skills and alignment with company values. A contract period provides time to evaluate how a candidate integrates with your existing team. (Akraya)
  3. Reduce Hiring Costs and Time: Staffing agencies handle initial screening, skills assessment, and onboarding paperwork, allowing your team to focus on evaluating candidates rather than administrative tasks. (Activated Scale)
  4. Improve Retention Rates: Professionals who transition from contract to permanent roles have already demonstrated commitment and are more likely to remain with your organization long-term. (Activated Scale)
  5. Access Specialized Expertise: For project-based needs or new initiatives, contract-to-hire allows you to bring in specialized skills quickly while determining whether the role should become permanent. (Indeed)
Confident professional woman at modern office desk celebrating successful contract-to-hire placement in Twin Cities

Success Stories from KeyStaff Professionals

At KeyStaff Professionals, we celebrate our professionals’ successes. Here are examples of contract placements that led to thriving careers:

  • Megan R., Administrative Assistant: “I was navigating a career transition and found KeyStaff Professionals through a job posting. Karen quickly reached out, talked in depth about my situation, and coordinated an interview with a great company. Over the course of my contract, Karen checked in weekly. I have now been converted to a full-time employee and am grateful for KeyStaff Professionals who helped me find the next step in my career.” (KeyStaff Professionals)
  • Madison S., Customer Service Professional: Her client shared: “Madison has been an exemplary employee. She is truly a joy to work with. Her smiling can-do attitude along with her amazing work ethic are just a couple of her awesome attributes.” (KeyStaff Professionals)
  • Andy K., Professional Placement: His client noted: “Andy came in for his interview prepared, engaged and ready to work. That hasn’t changed from day 1 to now. We look forward to many more days with Andy on the team.” (KeyStaff Professionals)
  • Audrey H., Accounts Payable Professional: “I started my job hunt on a Friday evening and by Monday morning Karen reached out, understood what I was looking for, and came back the same day with a great opportunity. The most impressive part was that after getting me a great job, she invited me to lunch to celebrate! I’ve worked with a lot of agencies and have never been more impressed.” (KeyStaff Professionals)

These success stories illustrate what’s possible when talented professionals partner with an agency that truly invests in their success.

What to Expect from the Contract-to-Hire Process

Understanding how contract-to-hire arrangements typically work can help you navigate the process with confidence:

  • Contract Duration: Most contract-to-hire arrangements involve a trial period of 60 to 90 days, during which both you and the employer evaluate the fit. (Constellation Search Group)
  • Performance Evaluation: Employers assess your technical skills, work quality, reliability, collaboration, and alignment with company culture throughout the contract period. (Activated Scale)
  • Conversion Discussion: When offered a permanent position, be prepared to discuss salary, benefits, and career growth opportunities. Permanent roles typically include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. (Fortune)
  • Conversion Process: Your staffing agency will work with the employer to facilitate the transition. Conversion fees are handled between the agency and employer—they don’t affect your compensation. (FoxHire)

Start Your Path to a Permanent Professional Career Today

The data is clear: contract-to-hire is one of the most effective pathways to permanent professional employment in 2026. With the right approach, the right skills, and the right recruiting partner, you can transform a contract opportunity into a lasting career.

At KeyStaff Professionals, we combine our expertise with yours to create customized solutions for Contract, Contract-Hire, and Direct Hire needs. Our team has over 40 years of combined industry experience placing professionals in Administrative, Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, Construction Management, and Customer Service roles throughout the Twin Cities.

We don’t just place candidates—we build relationships. We get to know your skillset, personality, and goals to ensure the company is as great a match for you as you are for them.

Ready to unlock your true potential? Visit our Careers page to explore current opportunities, or connect with our team to start the conversation.

Contact KeyStaff Professionals

Phone: (952) 300-6795 | Email: service@keystaffpro.com

1895 Plaza Drive, Suite 115, Eagan, MN 55122

www.keystaffpro.com

How to Stay Productive After a Layoff: Essential Tips for Office Professional Job Seekers

person looking for a job online

Experiencing a layoff can be unsettling, especially when it impacts your office career. However, this transition also presents an opportunity to reassess your goals, sharpen your skills, and explore new office job opportunities. At Keystaff Professionals, we specialize in connecting talented office professionals with temporary, temp-to-hire, and permanent roles designed to match their skills and career goals.

Reflect and Refocus Your Office Career Goals

Start by reflecting on what kind of office roles best suit your skills and professional passions. Whether you’re interested in administrative assistant positions, customer service roles, or specialized office support like executive assistants and accounting clerks, identifying your priorities will help target your job search effectively.

Build Relevant Skills for Office Jobs

Use this time productively by updating and expanding your office skills. Platforms like Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, or specialized CRM software training can enhance your employability. Certification in these tools often distinguishes candidates in office temp job pools.

The Three-Step Networking Framework for Office Professionals

  1. Make an Announcement: Update your LinkedIn or professional networks with clear information about your job search and the office roles you’re seeking.
  2. Individual Outreach: Reach out to former colleagues, supervisors, and professional contacts to gather insights and potential leads in office roles.
  3. Exploratory Conversations: Arrange informational interviews or brief chats with office managers or recruiters to understand current office job market demands.

Networking within the office professional community can uncover unadvertised opportunities and widen your career prospects.

Create a Focused Daily Routine Using the 90-Minute Rule

Maximize your productivity by dedicating focused 90-minute blocks to essential job search activities. Start your day with tasks like customizing resumes for office roles or drafting cover letters. Follow with networking outreach and skill-building sessions using online tutorials relevant to office administration, data entry, or customer support.

Maintain Your Financial and Emotional Wellbeing

Evaluate your financial situation carefully and engage in stress-reducing activities. Keeping your mental and physical health in check is crucial for sustained job search effectiveness.

How Keystaff Professionals Can Help Office Job Seekers

At Keystaff Professionals, we offer access to a broad network of office temp jobs, temp-to-hire assignments, and direct hire opportunities. Our recruiters specialize in office staffing solutions, assisting candidates with resume reviews, interview preparation, and personalized job matching. Temporary office roles provide immediate income, skill development, and a flexible work schedule, helping bridge gaps and open doors to permanent office careers.

Whether you’re looking for administrative positions, receptionist roles, data entry jobs, or office management opportunities, partnering with a dedicated office staffing agency like Keystaff Professionals gives you a clear advantage in a competitive job market.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Job searching after a layoff takes perseverance. Celebrate small accomplishments, stay connected professionally, and embrace learning opportunities. With the right mindset and the support of an office staffing agency, your next office role is closer than you think.

At Keystaff Professionals, we’re committed to helping office professionals turn layoffs into new beginnings. Contact us today to explore office temp jobs and staffing services tailored to your career goals.

New Federal Legislation Makes Temp Staffing Smarter and More Affordable

New Federal Legislation Makes Temp Staffing Smarter and More Affordable

Big news is shaking up the staffing world — and it’s coming straight from Washington. President Trump’s newly signed “Big Beautiful Bill” is designed to boost American productivity, modernize hiring, and empower the workforce. For businesses relying on temporary office and administrative professionals, and for the candidates stepping into those roles, this bill is packed with positive change.

At Keystaff Professionals, we specialize in connecting top-tier administrative talent with the businesses that need them. Here’s how this legislation benefits both sides of the desk — from entry-level receptionists to experienced executive assistants, and from small businesses to corporate offices.

💼 Incentives for Hiring Through Staffing Firms

One of the biggest wins in the bill? Companies hiring through certified staffing agencies now qualify for tax credits and wage subsidies, making it more cost-effective to hire skilled office support staff on a temporary or temp-to-hire basis.

What this means for employers:
You can maintain operational efficiency without stretching your budget — especially during peak seasons, transitions, or special projects.

What this means for candidates:
Expect more administrative job openings, better hourly rates, and increased chances for long-term placement.

📋 Simplified Compliance for Office Roles

Administrative and clerical roles often come with strict onboarding, confidentiality, and data compliance requirements. Under the new bill, the burden of compliance for short-term roles has been streamlined — especially when using trusted agencies like Keystaff Professionals.

For businesses:
You can expand your team faster with less red tape, while still meeting all required HR standards.

For professionals:
Less paperwork, faster start dates, and more seamless placement experiences.

📚 Government-Backed Upskilling for Admin Talent

The Big Beautiful Bill includes federal funding for training programs — especially in software skills, digital communication, and remote office tools like Microsoft 365, CRM platforms, and Zoom. Keystaff Professionals can now connect candidates with upskilling opportunities while placing them in real-world roles.

For clients:
You gain access to a more tech-savvy talent pool that’s ready to hit the ground running.

For candidates:
Level up your skills, grow your resume, and improve your chances of landing higher-paying roles — all while working.

🧑‍💻 Embracing the New Flexible Office Model

With support for remote, hybrid, and gig-style administrative roles, the bill modernizes how office work is viewed and staffed. Businesses can now take full advantage of virtual assistants, part-time data entry help, or seasonal administrative support without long-term commitments.

Businesses win with staffing flexibility.
Candidates win with more control over how and where they work.

The Keystaff Advantage

At Keystaff Professionals, we’re already helping our clients and candidates navigate this new landscape. Whether you need a temporary receptionist for a week or a contract executive assistant for a quarter, now is the time to take advantage of the cost savings and talent access this bill makes possible.

And if you’re a job seeker with office, customer service, or admin experience? There’s never been a better time to work with a professional staffing agency.

Let’s Build Your Team — or Your Career — Together

Reach out to Keystaff Professionals today and find out how President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is opening doors to smarter staffing and better opportunities.

5 Essential Tips for New Graduates Entering the Workforce in 2025

5 Essential Tips for New Graduates Entering the Workforce in 2025

Graduating from college is a major milestone, but stepping into the professional world brings its own set of challenges. The 2025 job market is fast-paced and competitive, especially for those just starting out. If you’re a new grad eager to launch your career, these practical tips—drawn from industry insights and expert advice—will help you stand out and succeed.

1. Perfect Your Resume and Online Presence

Your resume and LinkedIn profile are often your introduction to potential employers. Make sure they highlight your education, internships, and relevant skills. Tailor your resume to each job, and keep your online profiles professional and up to date.

2. Network with Purpose

Many opportunities come from connections, not just job boards. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and reach out to alumni or professionals for advice. Building relationships can open doors to positions you might not find otherwise.

3. Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews

Do your homework on each company and practice answering common interview questions. Be ready to discuss your experiences, your strengths, and how you can contribute to the organization. Preparation shows employers you’re serious and enthusiastic.

4. Stay Open to Contract and Hybrid Roles

The world of work is changing. Contract, contract-to-hire, and hybrid remote roles are more common than ever and can be excellent ways to gain experience, build your resume, and get your foot in the door.

5. Get Involved and Give Back

Employers appreciate candidates who are active in their communities. Volunteering not only helps others but also builds your skills and expands your network, making you a more attractive candidate.

Industries on the Rise: Top Clerical Job Markets for New Grads

While technology and healthcare dominate headlines, several industries are actively hiring for clerical and administrative roles in 2025:

  • Healthcare & Social Assistance: Hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies are expanding their administrative teams to support growing patient and client needs (BLS Fastest Growing Occupations, Goodwin Recruiting).
  • Transportation & Warehousing: The boom in e-commerce and logistics is driving demand for clerical staff to manage inventory, shipping, and customer communication (Visual Capitalist).
  • Professional & Business Services: Firms in finance, consulting, and business support are seeking administrative professionals to coordinate operations and client services (College Recruiter).
  • Financial Activities: Banks and credit unions are hiring clerical and administrative staff to support lending, compliance, and customer service (V2Soft Clerical Job).
  • Hospitality & Travel: As travel rebounds, hotels and agencies need clerical workers to manage bookings, guest services, and event coordination (College Recruiter).

How KeyStaff Professionals Can Help New Graduates Succeed

At KeyStaff Professionals, we understand the unique challenges new graduates face. Our experienced recruiters offer personalized guidance, from resume tips to interview coaching, and connect you with top employers across the Twin Cities and Fargo. Whether you’re looking for contract, contract-to-hire, direct hire, or hybrid opportunities in thriving industries like healthcare, logistics, finance, and hospitality, our team is committed to helping you launch your career with confidence.

Ready to take the next step? Contact KeyStaff Professionals today and let us help you unlock your potential in the workforce.

HOW TO SHINE IN TODAY’S COMPETITIVE JOB MARKET

In today’s competitive job market it’s tough to shine amongst other qualified individuals. Many wonder why some employees with less education acquire higher positions, while others with higher education and better credentials are not promoted? This question puzzles many employees who have been in companies for years and see a new hire quickly going up the company ladder. There are ways to excel in your job regardless of credentials or level of experience. In this article we will review key factors to help you excel in any particular job setting.

Laurie Erdman author of Burnout: Identify It- Extinguish It. Ignite Your Life! writes, in The Huffington Post, three ways to excel at work. Erdman recommends the following:

1. Eat brain foods such as nuts, cold-water fish, spinach, and pumpkins seeds. These foods are a great source of healthy fats (polyunsaturated & monounsaturated) and low in hydrogenated fats.

2. Sleep is not for slackers, and a lack of sleep has shown to reduce productivity. She recommends 8 hours of sleep to prevent what she calls “survival mode” or just getting by at work. 

3.Lastly, she emphasizes on the practice of giving. Suggesting employees to go out of their way and do something nice for another co-worker. This concept of giving back to the company provides an opportunity for the individual to feel good about their performance, as well as increase their value in the company.

Healthy, energized, and giving employees are assets to any company. They bring positive ideas that burst creativity and business growth. Although today’s job market can be competitive and challenging, there are ways to shine and excel in your job!

TIPS WHEN SEEKING WORK OPPORTUNITIES THAT OFFER JOB GROWTH

If you are seeking stable employment in a company that offers career growth, then this is a must read for you! When looking for a job it’s important to interview and evaluate potential employers. Yes, the company is making an investment in hiring you, but you are also contributing time and energy into the company. In the like manner jobseekers should inquire about opportunities that enhance professional growth.

When seeking employment it’s key to determine your career goals and aspirations. If you are looking expand in your profession, then it’s crucial to communicate such aspirations with potential employers. Inquire about available job promotions as you gain seniority with the company. Doing so provides insight into professional ambitions and seriousness in growing with the company. Below are sample questions to consider when selecting jobs that offer growth potentials.

QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS:

1. Are promotions available as I expand my skills on the job?

2. Is there growth potential in different departments of the company?

3. How often does the company evaluate employee performance?

4. If given the opportunity can employees expand in his or her job roles?

5. Can employees request transfers if a promotion is available at another location?

6. What are the requirements to be considered for a leadership position?

7. Is there a website were I can research your employee benefits and growth opportunities?

HOW TO CREATE AN ACTION PLAN FOR YOUR DREAM JOB.

You’re ready for the job market with a professional resume on hand and a list of potential employers. Having an internal drive launches employment opportunities, yet for optimal possibilities preparation and planning is paramount. Why settle for the first job offer, when you can attain the position of your dreams? Landing the ideal occupation is reachable with determination and adequate career planning. 

Here is a 7-Step Action Plan to Landing Your Dream Job:

1. Join meet-ups, professional groups, and related organizations with topics and activities surrounding your occupational field. For example, if you’re seeking an educator position connect with other teachers, tutors, coaches, leaders, and speakers in groups and community meetings. 

2. Create a blueprint outlining your occupational goals for the upcoming weeks, months, and years. Mapping out short and long-term goals allows for adequate planning with a step-by-step approach in accomplishing each milestone. Don’t limit your creativity. Build a picture board, design a career graph, develop a career scrapbook, or start a professional portfolio. The idea is to inspire creativity, define goals, and develop attainable milestones to land your dream job.

3. Attend job fairs and career workshops in your area. Step into the work field examining opportunities, career demands, and job offers. Job fairs offer vast resources in addition to employment opportunities such as business networking, research, volunteer positions, invites to upcoming events, and more.

4. Take time to learn companies of interest. Learn the organization’s mission, history, purpose, and accomplishments. This offers valuable company data that can be shared during the interview process. Researching the company shows interest and seriousness in part of the job seeker, and also allows the individual to determine if this company is truly a good fit for his/her personal career goals.

5. Be open to the possibility of other related jobs. Certain milestones, work experience, and credentials may be required before the opportunity opens to land the job of your dreams. In such instances individuals can seek employment in related fields, serving as a springboard to other career goals. For instance, if you lack credentials for a management position search for employment opportunities that embrace like skills such as leadership, guidance, coordinating, directing, and other administrative roles.

6. Read journals, news articles, periodicals, magazines and other educational materials in your occupational niche.  Staying current with the latest technology and advances in your job field is crucial for employment and for optimal work performance. This is particularly important for individuals who have been out of the workforce for some time. The employee’s ability to stay relevant and well informed in the latest career and technological advances gains confidence with employers and other professional’s leaders.   

7. Connect with individuals who share common job interests and goals. Meeting others in work-related fields welcomes opportunities, potential jobs, promotions, career tips, and professional guidance.

10 COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Your resume impressed the managers and now you’re scheduled to return for an interview. Reviewing commonly asked questions promotes confidence and assurance when interviewing. Be prepared to give proficient and well thought-out answers, highlighting skills that match the job position. Allow room for creativity, knowing you may be asked more questions than expected. After reading the questions below, I invite you to rehearse with family and friends until you are confident for your big day.

10 COMMONLY ASKED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1.  What are your career goals in the upcoming years?

The idea is to share a career goal(s), and the steps your taking in achieving them. Having long-term and short-term goals, paints a picture of your aspirations and professional ambitions. Companies like individuals who are motivated and goal oriented, who are an asset to their team.

2. Did your previous employer have any areas that needed improvement? 

The focus is the ability to identify potential problems, offer innovative strategies, and implement new solutions accordingly. This is a great opportunity to highlight your leadership skills, as well as ideas that were successful for you in the past.

3.  Can you describe a situation that was challenging, and explain how did you handle it?

Discrepancies are bound to occur, yet how we handle the issue makes all the difference. Think outside the box and get creative when pondering different resolutions. Perhaps you can share of a scenario when you went beyond your job duties to assist a client who was upset with the information he received. You gathered additional resources, made phone calls, printed reference articles for the client. The client was pleased with your service and decided to purchase another product. This scenario shows flexibility, dedication, and leadership skills in part of the employee.

4.  What are looking to gain from our company?

This is a tricky question. Don’t want to focus on pay, but rather mention other positive attributes of the company such longevity and opportunities for growth. Be open and express some qualities you see would be beneficial for working in such an organization. 

5.  What are your strengths related to this position?

The employer wants to know what you have to offer. Why they should choose you over the other candidates? Review the job description, and mention keywords that match your skills and abilities.  Highlight on attributes you possess which pertain to the position at hand. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, mention you have great people and team player skills. Sharing previous work history, internships, and credentials is also a plus.

6.  What are some areas you are looking to improve?

My recommendation is to share an attribute that can be tolerated by colleagues. These should be traits which can be overlooked. For example, you may need to become more proficient in another language (e.g. French or Spanish), would like to master a software program (e.g. Excel; that is if you are not applying for a computer position), or would like to make time for hobbies, etc.

7.  Why are you leaving your current employer?

The company is curious as to why you chose to resign from your previous employer. If it’s related to pay the manager may question commitment, and longevity from your behalf. Other alternatives to mention include lack of benefits from your previous employer, and the financial security of having a full-time employment opportunity.

8.  What interests you in applying for this position?

In other words, why did you choose this company from other employment opportunities? This is a great time to express your passions in the job role, and qualities that make you the perfect fit for the job role. Be specific by stating features that made this company stand out from the rest. For example, the length of time the company has been in business, or the professional assistance you’ve received from day one when you submitted an application.

9.  Are you willing to relocate if needed?

It’s important to show flexibility and openness to change. This may never be required by the employer, but it provides a clue on how the individual responds to change. Be honest and share your limitations. Perhaps you are flexible and willing to relocate, yet only within the same state or county. Most companies will value your desire for a fair compromise, and put into account your honest response.

10. Do you have any questions for me? Be prepared to ask questions. This shows eagerness and interest in part of the potential candidate, to learn more about the company. Also, it speaks your standards in selecting a stable occupation, and our professional confidence when considering a position. This is a good time to inquire on company benefits, scheduling, and job expectations.

These are the top ten commonly asked interview questions. There may be lots more, so be prepared! I encourage you practice answering these questions over and over agin, until you feel confident for your interview. Wishing all the best on your big day!

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR JOBSEEKERS

Your resume captured the employer’s attention and now it’s time to organize for the interview! Reviewing questions and preparing ahead of time enhances confidence on your big day! Don’t be alarmed with unexpected interview questions. Be prepared to give proficient and thought-out responses, highlighting skills required for the job opening.  Do allow room for creativity as you may be asked perplexed questions, and rehearse the questions below with others for constructive feedback. Much success on your interview!

ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR INTERVIEW? CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:

1.  What are your career goals this coming year?

Share career goals and the steps you’re taking to achieve them. Having long-term and short-term goals paints a professional picture of your dreams and aspirations. Companies like individuals who are motivated and goal oriented.

2. Did your previous employer need improvement in any area?

The idea is to identify potential problems, while offering positive solutions. This is a great opportunity to highlight leadership skills, as well as strategies implemented that have proven successful in the past.

3.  Can you describe a challenging scenario, and share how you handled it?

Discrepancies on the job happen, yet how we handle circumstances makes all the difference. Think outside the box and get creative when pondering different solutions. For instance, you can share of a scenario when you went beyond your job duties to assist a client who was upset gathering resources, making phone calls, and more. This scenario shows employee flexibility, dedication, and strong leadership skills.

4.  What are looking to gain from our company?

Rather than focusing on pay rate and employee benefits, consider other positive attributes the company offers like longevity and opportunities for career growth.

5.  What are your professional strengths?

The interviewer wants to know what you have to offer to the company. Why should they choose you over other job candidates? Highlight attributes you possess that pertain to the job position at hand. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, mention your people skills and ability to be a team player. Creating a self-assessment list prior to the interview can also prove beneficial.

6.  What professional areas are you looking to improve?

My recommendation is to share attributes that can be tolerated by other colleagues. These should be traits that can be worked on over time. For example, becoming more proficient in another language, learning a new software program, or getting to know co-workers.

7.  Why are you leaving your current employer?

The company is curious as to why you chose to resign from your current position. Be honest about circumstances causing you to leave or seek for new employment opportunities.  

8.  Why are you applying for this position?

Why did you choose this company over other employment opportunities? This is a great time to express your passion and qualities that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Share features that make the company stand out from other employers. For example, mention the length of time the company has been in business, or the professional assistance you’ve received since day one.  

9.  Are you willing to relocate for work if needed?

It’s important to show flexibility, but also be realistic in your response. Share work accommodations that fit your schedule and current lifestyle. Perhaps you are flexible and willing to relocate, yet only within the same state or county. Most companies will value your desire for a fair compromise.

10. Do you have any questions for me? 

Be prepared to ask questions. This shows interest in part of the potential job candidate. This is also a good time to inquire on company benefits, scheduling, and job expectations.