You have produced the perfect CV and have that all-important interview, but your CV will count for nothing if you have not prepared for it. This article discusses common interview questions, the reasons behind asking them, and shows you how you should go about answering them. There are different types of interview questions, but to give yourself that extra edge above other candidates you should familiarize yourself with all potential areas.
Example Interview Questions
Why have you applied for this job?
You should mention the positive aspects of joining the company, and tell the interviewer/s about your relevant experiences and qualifications. Employers are looking for the right candidate for the role, but one who will fit into the team as well.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
This question is probing how dedicated you will be in the role and company. But even if you are unsure, never say you don't know or are unsure.
What are your strengths?
Use this opportunity to sell yourself - stress skills and experience that are relevant to the job. Tell them your ability to work under pressure, inquisitiveness to learn new things, quick learning ability and good interpersonal skills. You can back this up with relevant examples.
What is your weakness?
This is a very popular and common interview question - answer this with confidence and always turn the weakness into a strength. Pick a weakness that is harmless to your job. For example: emotional nature; never want to be a loser; highly ambitious etc..
What do you look for in a job?
You can answer along the lines of wanting opportunities to grow professionally and enable you to serve the organization.
Can you cite an example when you have had to use initiative?
This is an opportunity to prove that you have quick learning abilities, make the best impression in all conditions and work effectively with staff members to achieve goals.
How do you get along with your colleagues?
This question looks at your working relationship with your co-workers - are you able to build strong working relationships that mean you can achieve your goals.
How would your colleagues describe you?
Use this opportunity to use positive and praising words and comments, centered around a 'good team leader, excellent communication skills, truthful, decisive and sensible'.
What are your salary requirements?
This is a tricky question. You should know the market value of the job you are being interviewed for. You can say something along the lines of expecting a salary based on you responsibility, experience, qualifications and market value. Personally, I would leave salary negotiations for when a job offer has been made.
Why do you want to work for this company?
Talk about the positive aspects of the company - you should always research the company before interview. First place to go is the company's website. You can talk about company turnover, products, policies and services.
What do you know about this company?
If you haven't done any research it will tell - would you want to employ someone who hasn't bothered to do basic research? Line of business, shares, turnover, etc..
Have you been interviewing for other jobs?
You can say 'yes', but state that you have given first choice to this company.
What do you think of your current boss? Never say anything negative - find something good to say.
What is your code of conduct?
You must be aware of the sense of rightness, fairness and goodness that are defined within the company. Instead of defining guidelines for conduct, you should define yourself as an all rounder candidate who loves to work and enjoys the challenges.
Do you have any questions for me?
This shows interest in the job - you should always have at least one question to ask (always prepare a list before hand because invariably during the course of the interview the interviewer will answer some/most of your questions). You can ask anything about the job or company you are being interviewed for.
Why do you want to leave your current job?
Again, this can be another tricky question. Don't say anything that could be interpreted as negative, angry or rude. Talk more of the future.
By carefully thinking about and applying the above guidance, you will be well on your way to being offered that new job.
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