Bill Gates is a name known by billions of people around the world. And for good reason, given his integral part in co-founding Microsoft and making technology accessible.
And given his role in the tech boom of the last 40 years, the 69-year-old knows a thing or two about business and doing it successfully.
For many getting into the trade, he was the man to work for alongside industry rival, Steve Jobs.
Jobs, who co-founded Apple and created the iPhone, was equally as revolutionary in the tech boom that has existed since the 1970s.
And before his death in 2011, he was known for making sure those who wanted to work for him could pass a very specific task, known as the beer test.
Well, just like Jobs, Gates is clued up on what is needed to excel at the interview stage and get the job.
But unlike his Apple rival, he went one step further and even answered the three most common questions you’re likely to be asked in any job.
In answering them in an interview with NBA basketball legend Steph Curry, the Microsoft man reveals important points and perspectives that you might well be able to adapt yourself for that next big career move.
Bill Gates knows a thing or two about making sure he hires the right people (Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Netflix)
‘Why should we hire you?’
Answering this, Gates said: “You should look at the codes that I’ve written. I write software programs way beyond any classes that I’ve taken. I think I’ve gotten better over time, so take a look at how ambitious I’ve been there.
“I do think I can work well with people. I might criticise their code a little harshly, but overall, I like to be on a team. I like ambitious goals. I like thinking through how we can anticipate the future.
“Software is cool, and I want to be involved.”
Gates shows off his achievements while also showing how his skills have improved over time. He’s not simply living off of past glories.
He also pointed out his ability to work well with others as well as reflect on where he could have improved.
Finishing it all, he nerded out a little and showed his passion for the industry. Employers want people who care about the job they’re after and the industry they’re working in.
Job interviews can be terrifying (Getty Stock Images)
‘What are your strengths and weaknesses and how would you apply them to the team?’
“Well I’m not somebody who knows a lot about marketing. I wouldn’t enjoy being a salesman,” Gates honestly says.
“For a position where you’re actually creating the products and thinking through what those features should be, I’m fascinated by that.
“I followed the history of the industry, read about the mistakes that have been made. So product definition, product creation, very strong.
“If you have a team that understands the customers, the sales, the marketing, I’m not going to bring that, but I would enjoy working with them.”
Gates doesn’t do what most of us have tried, where we turn weaknesses into strengths. No one wants to hear you say ‘I work too hard’ or ‘I care too much’.
Honestly is the most important thing here for Gates. As well as critical analysis, where he shows he has the ability to step back and learn while taking in the industry around him.
‘What is your salary expectation for the role?’
On the big one – money – Gates says: “I hope the option package is good. I’m able to take risk and I think the company has a great future, so I prefer to get stock options even more than cash compensation.
“I hear some other companies are paying a lot, but treat me fairly and emphasise the options.”
Gates is clearly showing he’s no pushover by exploring a number of options, even if they aren’t on the table. But by saying he is willing to take shares of a company instead of a mega salary, he’s betting on himself to improve that company in his time there.