11 typical Job Interview Questions
Job interviews may be a nerve wrecking experience but the trick to this is preparation. These are some common questions that may appear no matter the industry and type of role being interviewed. Being able to properly respond to them can make all the difference between you and all the other applicants. To prepare you well, here are 11 of the most typical job interview questions along with tips on how you can answer them with aplomb.
1. What do you know of yourself?
This is usually the first question and this predetermines the flow of the remainder of the interview. Make your answer formal and to the point. Put the emphasis on your professional experience, your main strengths, and how you come to this possibility. It is better not to mention personal information except the job-related info.
TIP: Format in a Present-Past-Future formula how you are going about this at the moment and what you have already done in the past and what you might like to do next.
2. What do you positively excel at?
Select strengths that run hand in hand with the job description. Be particular and demonstrate. What to say instead of: I consider myself a good communicator, say, I am capable of explaining complicated concepts in a clear way, and this skill allowed me to coordinate a prosperous client pitch, which translated into a 500K deal.
Hint: Support your arguments with the help of the STAR system (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
3. What is your weakness?
This is a question that is going to check how truthful you are and how you are self-awared. Select a weakness at that, but it must be something you are striving to work on. Such stereotypes as, I am a perfectionist should be avoided.
Example: I had a problem with giving out responsibilities but now I have learned to delegate responsibility and concentrate on the results instead of control.
4. What is your reason of wanting to work here?
Indicate that you have done your homework. Talk about the mission, culture or some kind of accomplishment at the company. Give an explanation on how your values and skills fit the organization.
Tip: It is recommended to avoid generic answers. Be particular when stating that you are excited about the firm and position.
5. What reasons should we have to hire you?
This is where you get your opportunity to really argue your point. Emphasize on your special skills and experience and that you are able to resolve the issues facing the firm. Have an emphasis on what you have to offer differently to what is already on the table.
Example: “I have experience in digital marketing and have demonstrated success in raising ROI, and so I can instruct your team and engage new audiences to act on growth.”
6. Can you recall an occasion when you encountered difficulty in the workplace?
Interviewers will be interested in knowing how you respond to the challenging situations. Select one of your real life issues and describe how you have handled the problem, what steps you have undertaken and what was the result of these actions.
Tip: focus on problem solving ability and the ability to manage during a crisis.
7. In five years where will you be?
This question determines your ambition and the need of the role and your career goals. Be direct but down to earth. Prove that you are willing to develop the company.
Illustration: I want to be in a leadership position where I will make a contribution in terms of strategic decision making and help with the development of the juniors within a team.
8. What is your reason of leaving the job you are in?
Tell the truth but tactfully. Do not slander your former boss. Concentrate on what you are seeking in your next position.
Examples: I seek new opportunities and challenges in which to develop like I cannot find in my current job.
9. What can you do when you feel stressed out or feel pressured?
Employers would like to understand whether you will be able to remain efficient in challenging situations. Give a particular situation of a high pressured moment and how you coped with this kind of situation.
Tip: Emphasize on time management, prioritizing, and communications skills.
10. Any questions to us?
Never say no. Probing questions indicate your involvement and interest. Concentrate on job, group or organisational objectives.
Examples:
- “What does success look like in this role?”
- What do you say about the team culture?
11. What are your compensations?
Beforehand research. Give the range in accordance with the industry averages, and what you know to be industry standard. Be accommodating as well as aware of what you are worth.
Hack: You may as well say, I am open to negotiating a decent remuneration package depending on the job duties.
Final Thoughts
The success of an interview is based on preparation. Turn your answers into your own style, and practice it so that you do not appear scripted. Be yourself, confident and be centred on how you can contribute to the company. So long as you are prepared with the right attitude, then you will be ready to answer any interview question that may be put across to you.