Thursday, 7 May 2009

Example Interview Questions for Library Technician Positions

Example Interview Questions for Library Technician Positions

Warm up questions:
  • Tell us how your background and experience have prepared you for this position.
  • Highlight your education and experience and describe how you are qualified for this position.
  • What made you apply for this position?
  • Briefly summarize your work history and education

Work History:

  • Can you describe one or two of your most important accomplishments?
  • Why are you leaving your present job? or Why did you leave your last job?
  • What is important to you in a company? or What do you look for in an organization?
  • What library automation systems(s) have you used? Describe your experience using the system. (Also known as an Integrated Library System (ILS) or Integrated Library Management System (ILMS)
  • Describe your experience using Office computer software.
  • What experience do you have working in a multicultural environment?

Job Performance:

  • Everyone has strengths and weaknesses as workers. What traits or qualities do you feel could be strengthened or improved? Or In what areas would you like to improve?
  • There can be a great deal of pressure working at a public service desk. Describe a situation with a problem customer and how you handled it. You may give an example that is not related to a library position.
  • What experience have you had working in groups or as a team?
  • Describe your experience in creating or revising documents such as policies, procedures, or any other form of written copy.
  • Please describe any supervisory experience you have.

Summary Statements:

  • Is there anything you would like to add about yourself?
  • Do you have any questions about the position?
  • Would you like to make a summary statement? (You should always be prepared for this question)

Interview Advice:

  • Dress appropriately and arrive 15 minutes before your interview appointment time.
  • There may be more than one person interviewing you. Try to maintain eye contact with the interviewers.
  • Do some research about the library before you have your interview. You can show that you have a real interest in working for that organization if you are able to work into your answers what you know about their library. This may also help you ask relevant questions at the end of the interview.
  • Some ways to research the library:
    o Look at the library’s website to see what services they provide and explore the library automation system they use.
    o If the library is open to the public, visit the library a day or two before your interview to observe or ask a question at the Reference Desk. Observe how you are treated as an anonymous patron. This also helps you decide if you want to be part of the organization.
  • Resume Tips (may require PCC login for access):
    YOUR MONEY; CHOOSE ME; How to craft a resume in the modern age. Even in these hard times, our tips will help you stand out from the crowd.
    Tiffany Hsu. Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, Calif.: Mar 29, 2009. p. B.1

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