Knowing, understanding, and preparing well for the most common interview questions and answers will spare you lots of time and effort when preparing for different interviews for the different jobs you are applying for.
And even if you are applying for the same job position in different companies for instance, it is still important that you prepare for each interview individually, as each company has different values, vision, mission, and goals that you need to look into.
If you are still new to the whole job application process and interviews, or if you have been unsuccessful in proceeding to the final interview and getting your dream job, you are in the right place.
We have gathered you a list of the most common interview questions and answers as follows:
Question 1: Tell me about yourself
You’ve seen this one coming, and you might even kind of hate it. Funny it is how you seem to not know yourself at all when faced with this question, but that is not the case, all you have to do is prepare well for this question.
But first, why is it asked so often?
• It is the ultimate ice-breaker question.
• It transitions the interviewee and interviewer small talk into the actual interview.
• It helps the interviewer specify what to ask next depending on your answer.
• It is the initial opportunity to show the interviewer your clear communication skills, confidence and professionalism.
How to Answer Question 1:
The easiest formula to follow is the following:
• Talk about your current position, achievements, and responsibilities.
• Talk about your previous relative positions and professional highlights.
• Connect them and your general interests and qualifications to the job you’re applying for.
Question 2: What is your biggest strength?
Even though the interviewer has your resume and probably even a cover letter, this is still a common interview question. But, why so?
• The interviewer wants examples to back up your resume; they want proof for your skills and qualifications.
That is pretty much all you need to include in your answer, with another point in mind.
How to Answer Question 2:
The easiest formula to follow is:
• Choose a strength point that aligns with the skills required by your job opening and position you are applying for.
For instance, a much needed strength point (and skill) for an editing position is attention to detail.
• Tell an example or two that showcase said strength point. So, give an example that shows you have strong attention to detail from your previous experience.
• Keep in mind that if your strength point (strongest skill) is not relative to the job you are applying for, it is pointless to the interviewer.
Question 3: What is your biggest weakness?
Asking for your weak points seems counterproductive, but is it? Let’s discover why this question is a common interview question:
• It puts things in a better, more realistic perspective for the interviewer.
• It shows to what extent you are aware of your weaknesses, and how you want to improve them.
How to Answer Question 3:
Before we get into your formula, avoid the “I’m a perfectionist,†“I work too hard,†type of answers. Do not disguise your weak points as strength points, instead:
• Pick an actual weakness.
• Explain how you are overcoming it, and how you are working on it. Give examples.
• It is important to show progress in your answer.
Question 4: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
This question is NOT asked for you to give:
• Sarcastic answers.
• Self-deprecating jokes.
• Overly-ambitious answers.
It is, however, asked so the interviewer discovers:
• How serious and professional you are in your goals and growth.
• If these goals align with those of the company.
• If the role will satisfy your goals.
• If you are fit for the job enough to stay in the company for a long time.
How to Answer Question 4:
• Talk about an actual goal you aim to achieve, and why you want to achieve it.
• Explain how the role enables you to achieve it.
• Connect your interests and past achievements with the goal and the role’s responsibilities.
Conclusion
No matter how interview questions differ, make sure to always prepare for the most common interview questions, so you have your killer answers ready to get you your dream job.
