A Guide To Interview Questions

What questions will the interviewer ask you? The answer, you never really know! Expect the unexpected. We admit, there are certain common questions that are frequently asked but questions will also be determined on the type, position, responsibilities, complexity, salary and many other aspects of the role. Also, let’s not forget the personality and uniqueness of the interviewer themselves, this very much being a key factor in the interview process.

 

So how can you prepare? Practice, Practice, Practice! First of all go through and answer the range of questions we have listed below by yourself, then ask a family member or friend to ask you these same questions in an interview scenario so you can judge your performance. How was your confidence and technique? Did you struggle or were you self-assured? Make an honest appraisal. If you put in the effort, apply yourself and have faith in your own skills and experience then this will allow the employer to see you at your very best.

 

If there is one really important piece of advice we can give you, it is to ‘be yourself’. Be truthful, be natural, maintain self-control and self-confidence and believe in yourself. This above all will help you through the interview and reduce some pressure and anxiety.

 

Interview Questions To Get You Started:

 

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why have you applied for this job
• What do you know about our company and why do you want to work for us?
• What can you, above all of the other applicants, bring to this job?
• What did you do with your time when you were out of work?

 

• Tell me about your employment history – what did you do, what did you most enjoy and what were you good at and why did you leave each job?
• What would say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
• Why should we hire you?
• What did you like least about your last job?
• What were the responsibilities of your last position?  

 

• Why are you leaving your present job?
• What do you know about this industry?  
• How would your best friend describe you?
• What would colleagues say is your best quality?
• What techniques and tools do you use to keep yourself organized?

 

• Tell me about someone who inspires you and why?
• How do you feel about reporting to someone in authority who is younger than you?
• Would you rather be liked or respected?
• Tell me about the biggest mistake you ever made at work and how did you handle it?
• What would you say is your best accomplishment in your career that you are proud of?

 

• What is your definition of success?
• What kind of personality / person do you work with best and why?
• Explain how you will add value to our company if I hired you.
• How do you handle negative feedback or criticism?
• What are you looking for in terms of career development?

 

• Do you think a leader should be feared or liked?
• What's the last book you read?
• If you could be a superhero who would it be?
• What do you do in your spare time?
• Do you have any questions for me?

 

Conclusion:

The above selection of interview questions are the ones we feel are more commonly asked. However, the list of interview questions is practically endless, so if you want to do more research then get online to access a wealth of information, knowledge and expertise that can really assist and guide you. Enjoy the challenge, make it fun! It’s all about building up your confidence, getting your brain in gear and having some insight as to what could be asked. Focus and think about the end result, getting the job you really want. Now, isn’t that worth all the effort?

 

Also, here are some useful links:
Interview skills, self-help pack (produced by Nextstep South West @ Connexions West of England)
http://www.ways2work.org.uk/ways2work/resources/interview_skills_160712.pdf (see page 8)
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/work-career/interviewing-techniques.htm
http://career-advice.monster.co.uk/job-interview/job-interview-questions/what-are-the-most-common-job-interview-questions/article.aspx

 

Want to know how to prepare for a job interview? Click here now!

 

Transform your thinking, prepare for your interview the ‘HR Transformations Way!’
We wish you every success.