On the day of your big job interview youë­¨e set and ready to go: Conservative, tailored suit? Check. Concisely written resume and separate list of references? Check. Positive attitude? Check.

But have you given any thought to what you will be asked? If you have not, you may be overlooking the most critical step in your preparation. Here are 10 of the most challenging questions you may be asked, with some suggestions on how to respond:

1.     Why are you seeking new employment?

What not to say: ë°’ hate my job. Keep the tone of your meeting positive, and talk about your career goals, your desire to advance in your industry or your specific wish to work for this company. Employers are most impressed by growth-oriented individuals with an eye on the future. Your answer should accentuate your focus on the position for which you are applying. Any discussion of your dissatisfaction with your current job is counter-productive.

2.     Where do you see yourself in 5 (or 10) years?

Employers love to ask this question. Your response should demonstrate that you have a career plan. The employerë­ interest is strictly professional. Give some real thought to this prior to your job search. Where do you see yourself in a few years? Be honest with the interviewer, and reasonably express your ambitions and your specific short term and long-term goals. (would like to learn everything possible about my job type so that within a few years I can advance to a supervisory or management position? is a reasonable response).

3.     Why should we hire you?

This is your shot to truly sell yourself. Remember? this is all about marketing your favorite product ?you. Every product (including you) has a unique selling proposition (USP). What is yours? Your USP is what distinguishes you from the competition. If you have specialized training, a hard-earned certification or experience from the ground level in your industry, now is the time to emphasize any or all of it. If you streamlined operations in your last position, or decreased labor cost, say it now.