7 Of The Most Common Job Interview Questions & How To Answer Them

Questions #1: Tell me about Yourself

The answer to this question should be prepared ahead of time as this question is rather vague and requires a bit of thinking.

There are three areas that should be covered in the answer of this question; Job History, Most Impressive Accomplishments & your Relevant Goals.

When answering this question, it is important to expand on what makes you different from other candidates and also emphasize on your passion – remember to keep your answer concise.

Question #2: Why do you want to Work here?

The reason why this question is asked during interviews is for the Interviewer to see how much and whether you did any research on the company before attending the formal interview.

It is important to do as much research as possible on the company before attending the interview, such as the company background, industry & specific details about the position – Understand the mission/vision & company culture.

Use the information you have learned to highlight the reasons why you want the position and why you are most suitable for the position.

Question #3: What are your biggest Strengths?

Your strengths and weaknesses go hand-in-hand and it is important to have answers for both.

Your strengths should tailor the job you are applying for – if you possess any of the required skills or competencies, list them as your greatest strengths during your interview.

It is great to be able to give them examples of times you acquired these skills to accomplish goals or tasks given.

Question #4: What is your biggest Weakness?

Try not to give a cliché answer – it is also important not to try not to disguise a strength as a weakness i.e. “I am a Perfectionist” – interviewers know that this is a front.

Instead of using a cliché answer, choose a real weakness and put a positive spin on it – let them know you are aware that it is a weakness and discuss how you are trying to overcome this in order to turn it into a strength.

For example, “I tend to rush through tasks because I want to get them done quickly, but I am learning to step back and put a bit more emphasis on quality than speed. I’ve started to become both efficient and effective.”

Question #5: Where do you see yourself in 5/10 Years?

When answering this question it is important to signify your desire to commit to the position and grow within the company.

Emphasize about how you would like expand your skills to benefit the company – mention your desire to move up and grow within the company over time – this proves to them that you are planning on staying with the company for a long period of time and shows dedication & loyalty .

Question #6: How do you handle Conflict?

Accompany your answer with good examples of how you handled conflict in the past.

Explain the situation, how you handles it from start to finish, and what the result was.

Question #7: Why should we hire You?

This question is often the last question to be asked during an interview – this is again a rather vague question, ensure that you have a well prepared answer.

Talk about your best skills and accomplishments and why you alone, are best suitable for this position.

Use specific details from the job description and emphasize why you are capable of doing them best. If you are not asked this question, you might be asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to tell me?” – This question is exactly the same and the same principles should be used to answer this question.

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