Interview questions may seem straightforward, but they're often challenging to answer. Preparation is key! These 10 commonly asked questions and smart answers will help you tackle your interview with confidence.
1. Tell us about yourself?
This question is typically asked at the beginning of the interview. The interviewer wants to learn about you and what you deem important.
Don't recount your entire life story. Focus on skills needed for the job and distinguish yourself from other candidates with a unique response. This sets the tone for the rest of the interview.
2. What is your biggest weakness?
It’s a fine line between being honest and portraying yourself negatively. Be genuine about a weakness you've identified, but also mention what you're doing to overcome it.
Avoid going into too much detail. The more you elaborate on your weaknesses, the more you risk entangling yourself.
And steer clear of clichés like 'I'm a perfectionist'. Recruiters hear this daily. Opt for a personal weakness and conclude on a positive note.
3. What is your strongest point?
Link your strength to the potential job. Frame why this is your best skill. For example, if you're a fast worker applying for a production job, this is the time to highlight that strength.
Be modest, even when talking about your best trait. Start with phrases like 'I've been told that', 'I think', 'friends say that' to make your answer seem less self-absorbed. Provide an example from your previous job or school experience.
4. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
This question checks your ambitions. You don’t have to say you'll be at this company in five years, but emphasize that this job is crucial in your career plan and not just a stepping stone or a resume filler. If there's room for growth, express your desire to do so.
Example: "I don’t have a fixed plan yet. My first goal is to excel in this job and remain open to other opportunities within the company. I’m willing to learn new things to grow with the company."
5. Why should we hire you?
Focus on what the company gains by hiring you. Compare the job requirements to your experience to construct your answer. Can’t find good examples? Check with your colleagues or managers – what makes you stand out? What have you achieved that’s exceptional?
If you lack job experience, emphasize the skills you honed during internships or school.
6. Why did you choose this job and this company?
This question separates the motivated from the bulk applicants. The interviewer wants to know how deliberately you chose this company. What appeals to you about the company?
What makes this job different from similar ones? Select elements from the job description and the company's mission that resonate with you. Explain how your skills match these elements.
7. What do you know about us?
Mention an interesting case from their website or a project featured in the news. Align one of the company’s values with your motivations.
Show that you’ve done your homework:
- Visit the company’s website.
- Google the company.
- Check news results about the company.
- Look up the company on LinkedIn.
8. Why are you looking for a new job?
The key reason behind this question is to gauge how you speak about your current work environment. Be honest, but avoid going into details. Toxic atmosphere? Say that you value collegiality and hence sought a new challenge. Boring job content? Mention that you reached your limit and want to unfold your qualities elsewhere.
9. What salary do you expect?
Everyone wants to earn well, understandably. But inform yourself in advance about the typical salary for this job and your experience level. Quoting a too high price might baffle the interviewer. Going too low could raise doubts about your abilities.
Prefer to dodge this question? Ask what’s customary in the company. This avoids stating a figure too high or too low. You’ll also learn about possible extra benefits. If the employer is reluctant to share, mention your current earnings and your goals.
10. Are you willing to do an assignment?
Certainly! Inquire about what’s being tested and how you’ll be evaluated.
Whether it’s a written test or an assessment, make sure to give it your best. Take your time to plan your approach. Employers often value your process over the speed of your results. Even if you complete only half the task, your thorough approach may outshine a competitor’s rushed effort.
