Being interviewed can be a stressful process and as someone who has gone on countless job interviews, I know this first hand. Not all of them will be successful but you will definitely learn something each and every time. Though there are some standard job interview questions every interviewer will ask, it is up to you to do the research beforehand and make sure you are well-informed in order to ace your interview. Following are some examples of the most asked job interview questions and how to answer them.
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
Answer this job interview question with relevant facts about your experience, skills and the capabilities you would bring to the job. Steer away from personal hobbies and information.
2. Why did you leave your last job?
Ideally you are looking for a new job because you want to advance your career and grow as a person and employee. If you were fired, be brief with your explanation as to why and maintain a positive attitude. Never badmouth your former company.
3. What do you know about this company?
This is when your own research comes in. Study up on the company’s practices, products and people. Learn about their culture and work environment. Knowing this information will make you stand out as someone who is well prepared and honestly interested in working for the company. Plus, another Spark News author Chris Comella just posted an article on doing your company homework. Follow some of his tips!
4. What would you consider your greatest strength/weakness?
In answering this job interview questions, try to mention a strength that is not presented in your resume and give examples as to how it would pertain to the job you are applying for. As for weaknesses, try to mention at least one and emphasize how you’ve tried to over come it through your work. It’s a good idea to mention a smaller flaw rather than a large weakness companies would view as unappealing.
5. What are your salary expectations?
This has always been one of the trickier job interview questions I’ve encountered and usually doesn’t come until later in the hiring process. However if you are asked early on, do research beforehand to find out what salary that particular job usually warrants. If anything, give a large range rather than a specific amount and emphasize that you are more interested in what the job entails rather than what the salary is. You should also keep in mind the year’s of experience you have. More experience usually warrants a higher salary.
6. Why should we hire you?
This is one of the most important job interview questions you will be asked. In this case, be as specific as possible and highlight the achievements and accomplishments that match the job description your are applying for. Focus on yourself and why you would be a good fit for the company without speaking ill of other potential candidates. You should also be able to tell the employer what makes you different than other candidates but, again, be careful not to speak negatively of other candidates.
7. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Interviewers usually ask this question to see how committed you would be to the job. Tell the interviewer about your professional goals and how they would relate to your advancement in the company.
8. Do you have any questions for me?
On of the final and most commonly asked job interview questions, this allows the interviewer to see how interested you are in the position. Try not to ask questions that could be easily answered with a little research. Some good questions include, what the next steps in the process are, what it’s like to work at said company and what the interviewer likes about working for the company. Above all else, always have questions ready to show you are eager and interested in the position you are applying for.
This is just an sample of a handful of job interview questions you will probably encounter in your lifetime. The best advice I can give is, learn from each interview and research, research, research. Nothing looks worse than an interviewee who knows nothing about the company or the position. Good luck!
SOURCE: Wisebread, About.com
IMAGE: Courtesy of CEO Consultant.com
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