5 Common Job Interview Questions and Tips to Answer Them
A job interview is the best chance to make a good impression on your employer. Your performance in those few minutes can decide whether or not you get through. In most cases, interviewers ask a few common questions that help determine whether the candidate fits the company or not. There’s no correct or wrong way to answer these. But here’s some advice on what most interviewers want to hear from you.
Tell me about yourself
This is a standard question because every interviewer wants to hear about you in your own words. It is also a polite way to break the ice and make the candidate comfortable. As you answer this question, the interviewer checks your confidence level, tone, verbal communication skills, and demeanor. They also check to see if you’re boastful or shy. So, when speaking, be assertive, positive, and confident (but not overconfident or boastful). Also, try to organize your thoughts and communicate clearly. No other person knows you better than yourself, so speak with great ease and command.
Why do you want this job?
Interviewers look for individuals who are honest and loyal. They ask this question to learn about the expectations the candidate has from the employer and whether or not they will work passionately if given the opportunity. Some people change jobs too often and don’t contribute to the organizations they work at. When employees leave a company, the employer must spend more money and time training new recruits. To avoid this and build lasting relationships with employees, interviewers look for job seekers who can allot a significant amount of time working with enough passion. So, when answering this question, show how eager you are to put in your best.
What are your strengths?
This is among the most challenging questions you’ll face at an interview and requires some preparation. You may want to show off your best qualities without sounding like a sales pitch or coming across as arrogant. And be honest. If it’s not something you’re particularly good at (or even interested in), don’t mention it as your strength. The interviewer may cross-question you about what you say and ask you to elaborate with examples. Also, put forward specific strengths relevant to the position you’re applying for. It will increase your chances of success.
What is your greatest weakness?
More than being challenging, this question puts candidates in a very awkward position as it may reveal their dark side. But don’t worry. It’s just an interview, and making a weakness known won’t necessarily put you out of the race. While answering this question, be specific. Don’t say, “I am a perfectionist” or “I get frustrated easily.” It may appear as if you’re trying to be vague and not giving enough information about yourself. Instead, say something like, “I have trouble delegating tasks.” In most cases, the interviewer may appreciate your honesty, and maybe, they would even help fix it.
Why should I hire you?
This is among the final questions in a formal interview. As tempting as it may be to gloss over the details and tell your interviewer that you’re the best suit for the job, don’t do it. Instead of talking about yourself, sell yourself by focusing on your qualifications and experience. Think about what makes you unique, and then talk about how those things make you a good fit for the company. Show them why they need to work with someone like you rather than the other candidates in line.
When appearing for a job interview, you must present yourself positively. Try to think of ways to answer the above questions by giving examples from your life or talking about what makes you different from other candidates. Remember that there may be two or more interviewers, so prepare accordingly. Also, don’t forget to research the company, print copies of your resume, dress appropriately, and reach your destination before time.