How many times have you walked into an interview and been asked that one question that catches you off guard? Probably more than you would like to remember. An interview is typically your first impression on a potential employer, needless to say it can make or break or chances. Let that be the last time you feel unprepared in an interview. Here are the top 10 interview questions that you must know how to answer during an interview:
1. So, tell me about yourself.
Generally this is the first question that will be asked once you’ve sat down. Be cool, calm and collected, and give them the first impression that will keep them wanting more. Keep it short and to the point, but with enough information that they get a sense of how your personality could fit into the company.
2. What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
Don’t be afraid to show off your experience and accomplishments. Don’t confuse this with bragging, you are just being honest and selling yourself. Weaknesses on the other hand can be trickier to answer. You don’t necessarily want to reveal your weaknesses, but you can’t say you don’t have any weaknesses because that would be a red flag right there. Make sure you know what the job entails so you can spin your weaknesses into something positive. Sometimes, strengths can even be masked as weaknesses. You pick what fits for you.
3. What has been your most rewarding accomplishment?
Pick an achievement that is professionally relevant. Give the interviewer a taste of what you would accomplish if hired.
4. What is the most difficult situation you’ve faced and how did you handle the situation?
Use this question to show the interviewer how logical you are when facing a problem. You don’t hide away in your apartment hoping that the situation will solve itself. You are a go-getter and know how to tackle a tough issue. Explain to your interviewer a situation in which you had to layout options and explain why you chose the one you did. Always end this question on a positive note.
5. Why do you want to leave your current job?
Don’t say it is because you hate your boss or you got bored.. State that you are looking for a new challenge, a new opportunity to grow, more responsibility, or a new experience. You want to be the best that you can be.
6. Why did you apply for this specific job?
This is a chance for your interviewer to see if you’d actually fit well into the specified position. Make sure you have a good understanding of the role and the organization before going into your interview.
7. Ideally, where will you be in five years?
This is a question that really relates to commitment. Are you someone who hops from job to job, or are you ready to set long-term goals and are more reliable that others? Assure them you can lead and stay motivated for yourself and for the company.
8. Why do you want to work with us?
Do not go into the interview without knowing what the company values and how they feel about company culture. Show the interviewer how you can identify with the organization’s values and vision. Then, prove to them that you would be a good fit.
9. Why should we hire you?
Link your skills, experience, education and your personality to the job itself. Know the job description inside and out. Understand the company culture. Place yourself in the position and explain what would set you apart from the other candidates? So, why wouldn’t they want to hire you?
10. Ask back.
When your interviewer asks you if you have any questions at the end of an interview, be able to ask back. Show your interviewer that you’ve done your homework.
Don’t walk into another interview unprepared. The beautiful thing about an interview is that most interviewers ask these 10 questions in some way or another. Know your standard answers to these questions so you can kill your next interview.