Interview Questions and Answers
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Unfortunately, when it comes to interview questions there are no set answers. The best possible preparation you can do with regards to this is practise. On our site there are many useful interview guidance tips that may also help you prepare.
Please find below some common questions you many be asked in an interview situation along with a rough guideline to help you tackle them effectively:
Tell me about yourself: Again, as stated above, there is no set way of tackling this question. The best thing to do here is to give a brief introduction about yourself and then move on to provide the basic details about your previous positions and any significant achievements - don't go into too much detail - just a brief overview.
What are your strengths? This is one of the most common questions you will be asked and no doubt, have already been asked in previous interviews. You have to remember here - try to give an answer relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail.
What are your weaknesses? Again, another common question and 99% of the time you will have been asked this before. A common mistake to make when answering this question is saying something negative like "I am shy". Use this question to your advantage by actually turning a negative into a positive. For example, "I need to improve my typing skills and to combat this I have recently enrolled on a typing course". This will show you can identify your weaknesses but at the same time, you are willing to improve. Finally, and most importantly: do not mention a weakness that is any way related to the job you are being interviewed for! This might sound obvious but it is a common mistake!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? All too often, this question is answered the same "I enjoy music, socialising and reading". If possible avoid using this type of answer. Instead, try to aim your interests someway to the job you are applying for. If you have done some voluntary work this may be good to mention.
Why did you leave you last job? When answering this question make sure you do not give a negative answer. For example, "I did not get on with my boss" or "I did not agree with the way the business was managed" - this will make you sound negative and will greatly reduce any chance you have of being offered the position. If possible, try to answer the question so it shows you are looking for career progression. Also, if you were made redundant - say so. There is no reason to hide this fact!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? A good answer here would be something along the lines of wanting to study and participate in training that will assist you in your job and aid in your chances of progressing within the company.
Why do you want to work here? This is an opportunity for you to show the interviewer how enthusiastic you are about the job / industry. Try to think of an answer that shows your interest in the job.
Have you got any questions for me? No doubt you will be asked this towards the end of the interview. Make sure you do ask a question as this shows your seriousness and interest in the position. Maybe you could ask about how you will be trained for the position. Do not ask about salary or holidays though!!!
Related Pages:
- An introduction to interviews
- Questions to ask in an interview
- Interview do's and don'ts
- Telephone interview advice
- Behavioural interview advice
- How to write a thank-you letter
- Salary negotiation advice
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