Job interviews are necessary for employers to learn more about you, the applicant. Specifically, they are interested to learn about how you perform in a work environment, what motivates you, and why you applied to the company in question.
Interviews can last anywhere from half an hour to an hour, but this can vary heavily depending on the company, the job requirements, and numerous other factors.
Tell Me About Yourself
A good response is to summarise the jobs that you have done before that have some relevance to the position you are applying for now, describing how you developed to where you are today.
If there were certain goals or milestones that you helped achieve at your previous company, you should also mention these. For instance, if you single-handedly managed a project, were directly responsible for increasing sales and revenue, or were given the responsibility to delegate tasks to other colleagues.
Why Are You Interested in This Position
You have to demonstrate why this company stood out to you. Referencing any works that they have done, their missions and values, and any aspect of the company that aligns with your aspirations.
Also, talk about how you think the company can further your career growth and how you feel you would fit in.
What Are Your Greatest Strengths
Identify some of the most appropriate strengths that you think can give you the edge. Especially those that have helped you excel in prior workplaces.
Your answer will give the interviewers a rough idea of who you are and what they can expect should they choose to hire you.
What Are Your Greatest Weaknesses
This is a tough question as it beckons interviewees to say I have none. But the best answers are the ones that show some self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth.
If there are any areas in which you struggle but would like to improve, it is best to highlight these for the interviewees. In some cases, it is easier to judge applicants on their weaknesses rather than what they would describe as their strengths.
What Type of Work Environment Are You Looking For
Some people are naturally more inclined to fast-paced work, with regular deadlines and the need to work efficiently under duress. Others may prefer work environments that require more time to finish tasks and perhaps more attention to detail and problem-solving.
You can talk about your previous work environment, what types of tasks you were most productive undertaking, and what kind of environment you want in your future career.
How Do You Cope with Pressure
Greater responsibilities come with bigger pressure, and companies that want to hire long-term workers with the potential to promote them to higher positions will want individuals who can cope even in the most difficult scenarios. There is pressure in every job, but you should talk about the pressures you are comfortable working with and how you would work under pressure.
Are You a Team Player or Work Alone
This is a very commonly asked question, and interviewees try to discern how well you work with others. Communication is a vital part of any job, but there are some in which workers are required to do a lot of their projects single-handedly. Other workplaces may have a greater emphasis on teamwork and need to know how well you communicate, how proactive you are, and whether you can work efficiently in their environment.
Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years
Employers want to know if your long-term goals align with their company. Share aspirations that are realistic yet ambitious, showing how you plan to grow in the role. Your answers should be authentic and not perceived to be sarcastic or dismissive of the question.
How Do You Organise Your Work
Companies want to learn about how well you handle the workload and whether you are efficient and can remain focused on delivering. Your organisation skills may even help boost the company's workflow, and your input may be priceless. Answer this question with good examples of how you have managed workload in prior working scenarios.
What Do You Know About Our Company
This question assesses your research skills and interest in the role. Highlight unique aspects of the company, such as recent achievements, core values, or innovative projects.
What Motivates You
Talk about challenges, learning opportunities, or meaningful contributions. For instance, how you are motivated to solve complex problems and see the tangible impact of your work.
Tell Us About a Difficult Situation That You Handled
This is key to understanding how you deal with confrontation, problems, or issues. It is a necessity in customer support or correspondence-based roles. A good answer should involve a story in which you could solve a problem efficiently and handle any arising disputes.
What Are Your Salary Expectations
Research industry standards beforehand and provide a range that reflects your expectations while being open to negotiation.
Have You Applied for Any Other Jobs
If you have applied at other places, it is best not to hide it. Be honest and show the interviewers that you are competent and other parties are interested. This can help win some acclaim in their eyes.
Do You Have Any Questions for Us
You should always prepare at least two or three questions for your interviewees. It depicts your intent and desire to learn more about the company, and it's a great way to give them a strong impression. Your questions can be based on your position or even on the potential to grow in the company and learn more skills.