Top Ten Interview Questions You Need to Know

In today’s competitive job market, preparation is key to standing out in interviews. This is your first (and sometimes only) opportunity to make a great impression. While this can be stressful, being prepared will help you interview better – and help settle those nagging interview nerves!

Part of being prepared is having a general idea of what questions might be asked, and having an answer prepped and ready to go. Some of the most challenging questions are also some of the most common, and the more you interview, the more you’ll come across these same questions over and over. Interviewers like them because the way you answer can say a lot about you as a candidate.

We’ve compiled a list of the top ten interview questions you’re likely to encounter in an interview, and the best way to frame your answers for each:

“Tell me about yourself.”

Don’t talk about your personal life. Highlight your strengths by talking about your specific past work experiences.

“Why should we hire you?”

Remember to be specific and highlight a strength that aligns with what the company is looking for.

“What is your greatest strength?”

Give an example of you exhibiting that strength based on your knowledge of what they are looking for.

“What is your greatest weakness?”

Be honest and discuss how you are taking steps to conquer the weakness. Do not mention a weakness that relates to the skills essential to the job.

“Why do you want to work here?”

Be specific and mention aspects of the company that you admire and show how your strengths make you a perfect fit.

“Why did you leave your last job?”

If you left voluntarily, keep it positive. If you were let go, be honest, explain, and own the situation. Share what you learned from the experience and how you grew.

“What is your greatest accomplishment?”

Be specific and discuss a past work accomplishment; make sure you pick an accomplishment that shows how valuable you will be in the new position.

“Describe a difficult work situation and how you overcame it.”

Talk about a past work situation you handled well and how you addressed the issue. Be specific. This will help show your value. Remember the STAR interview method.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?”

Your answer should show that you are a person with direction and goals. These goals should include you evolving and thriving at the company you are interviewing with, but don’t overdo it.

“Do you have any questions for me?”

Your answer should be a resounding “YES” every single time! This is your chance to show that you’ve done your research. Focus your questions on topics that the company highly values.

Practice makes perfect, and the best practice is doing. If you need some help running through these top ten interview questions in real-time, book a practice interview session with a Career Coach today!