6 Common Interview Questions and Best Answers For Them
‘In most cases, there are some common interview questions that reoccur across several job roles and are worth preparing for.
What made you leave your previous position?’ ‘What are your areas of weakness?’ ‘What makes you think you’re the best candidate?‘
Some interview questions are more straightforward than others. While you can’t always predict what you’ll be asked, any question has the potential to throw you off unless you’ve prepared ahead of time.
Here’s a cheat sheet for interview questions and how to respond to them to give you an idea of what to expect during an interview:
- Tell me about yourself?
“How do your education, work history, and professional aspirations relate to the open job?” the hiring manager is really asking.
This is one of the most common interview questions, respond with relevant work and educational information to demonstrate to the hiring manager why you are a good fit for the job and the company.
This is where you give your “elevator pitch,” as it’s known. In other words, it’s a quick rundown of who you are. This is an excellent place to list two to three achievements you want the interviewer to be aware of. Finish your response by describing how those experiences prepared you for this role. Make sure to mention your education and work experience, as well as one other relevant item.
Example: “I recently completed my studies in advertising at university. I completed three internships while in school and was on the Dean’s List every semester. While pursuing my degree, I worked as a waitress in addition to my internships.”
- How do you deal with tense situations?
You want to emphasize your ability to function under pressure in a productive and positive manner. Mention some of your stress-relieving techniques, and then tell a story about a time when you successfully dealt with a particularly stressful situation.
Example: “I like to close my eyes and take a few deep breaths when I’m stressed. Then I make a list of everything I need to get done and rank them in order of importance. From there, I tackle the problem one task at a time.”
- Why did you leave your previous position?
When referring to your current or previous employer, avoid using any negative language. Instead, say you’re looking for better opportunities or want to advance your career. Deliver it in such a way that it emphasizes why the position you’re applying for is a better fit for you.
If you were fired from your previous job, a simple response is perfectly acceptable.
- In five years, where do you see yourself?
Ambition, like the ability to collaborate, is almost always a positive trait. Use this opportunity to emphasize your ability to look ahead and dream.
Try mentioning that you’d like to take on more responsibilities in a company that values your skills and input.
Example: “In five years, I hope to have established myself as an art director at an advertising agency that recognizes my abilities while also encouraging me to continue my education. Hopefully, I’ll be given the chance to lead some creative projects.”
- What kind of remuneration do you expect?
Money can be a touchy subject, but there are strategies for dealing with it gracefully. You could try reversing the question and asking the interviewer what they expect to pay someone in that position.
However, always do your homework and find out how much people in this position make. Once you’ve decided on a range, always go with the higher number based on your skills and experience, but make it clear that you’re open to other options. Make it clear to the interviewer that you want the job and are willing to work out a deal.
“For example, I’d like to earn between $45,000 and $55,000 per year.” I understand that this is an entry-level position, given my skills and experience, but that’s my preference.”
- What are some of your strengths and weaknesses?
The best approach is to include both relevant and irrelevant weaknesses. Make a list of three strengths and two weaknesses.
Because the interviewer’s decision to hire is influenced by these questions, try to come up with unique answers that are relevant to the industry. There are two methods for effectively addressing weaknesses:
Give a weakness that has nothing to do with how well you will perform the job.
Say something funny, like “eating French fries.” This will de-stress the situation, leave a lasting impression, and most importantly, catch the interviewer off guard.
“Some of my strengths are that I’m an effective communicator, detail-oriented, and hard-working,” for example. Chocolate is without a doubt one of my weaknesses. But I also find myself being overly sympathetic and taking on the burdens of others’ problems, which can be exhausting.”
Additional Tips
- Research the organization: Learn about the company’s industry, competitors, culture, and values. This will help you tailor your responses and anticipate some of the questions you may face.
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