Interviewing is an art that gets better with practice. There are two types of interview: standard interview and competency based interviews. The standard interview is more random and is based on more general questions about why you are looking for work and what you are looking for in your next role.
A competency based interview is based on specific examples of your experience and examples of your work. To increase your chances of receiving a job offer, you need to learn how to confidently and successfully respond to the questions you will be asked.
Listed below are some common questions with some comments as to the reason they are asked and the response expected. Remember, these responses are only suggestions, do not use them if you feel uncomfortable and try to individualise them, as many candidates will receive the same suggestions.
Practice your own responses before interviews
Q: Tell me about yourself? The interviewer is really saying I want to hear you talk.
A: This is a loosener but it is a common question so your response can stay the same. Write a script and rehearse it so it sounds impromptu. Spend a maximum of 4 minutes to describing yourself, qualifications, career history and your range of skills, emphasising those skills relevant to the job on offer.
Q: What have your achievements been to-date? The interviewer is saying Are you an achiever?
A: Again this is a common question so be prepared. Select an achievement that is work related and fairly recent. Identify the skills you used in the achievement and quantify the benefit.
Q: Are you happy with your career to date? The interviewer is really asking about your self confidence, your career aspirations and whether you are a happy positive person.
A: The answer must be yes but if you have hit a career plateau or you feel you are moving too slowly, then you must qualify the answer.
Q: What is the most difficult situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it? The interviewer is really trying to find out what your definition of difficult is and whether you can show a logical approach to problem solving using your initiative.
A: This can be a trap! To avoid it select a difficult work situation which was not caused by you and which can quickly be explained with a few sentences. Explain how you defined the problem, what the options were, why you selected the one you did and what the outcome was. Always end on a positive note.
Q: What do you like about your present job? The interviewer is really trying to find out whether you will enjoy the things you will experience in the job on offer.
A: This is a straightforward question. All you have to do is make sure that your likes correspond to the skills etc. required for the job on offer. Be positive describe your job as diverse but do not over do it as your leaving.
Q: What do you dislike about your current job? The interviewer is trying to find out whether the job on offer has responsibilities that you will dislike or which will make you unsuitable.
A: Be careful with this one! Do not be too specific as you may draw attention to weaknesses which will leave you open to further problems. One approach is to choose a characteristic of your present company such as its size, its slow decision making etc. Give your answer with the air of someone who takes problems and frustrations in your stride as part of the job.
Q: What are your strengths? The interviewer wants a straightforward answer as to what you are good at and how it is going to add value.
A: This is one question that you know your going to get so, there is no excuse for being unprepared. Concentrate on discussing your main strengths. List three or four explanations of how they could benefit the employer. Strengths to consider are your technical proficiency, your ability to learn quickly, determination to succeed, positive attitude and your ability to relate to people and achieve a common goal.
Q: What is your greatest weakness? The interviewer is asking about your self-perception and self-awareness.
A: This is a standard question for which you can be well prepared. Do not say you have none! You have two options, firstly use a professional weakness suck as lack of experience (not ability) as your part in an area that is not vital for the job. The second option is to describe a personal or professional weakness that could also be considered strength and the steps you have taken to combat it. Do not select a personal weakness such as I am not a morning person.
Q: Why do you want to leave your current employer? The interviewer is trying to understand and evaluate your motives for moving.
A: This should be straightforward. State how you are looking for more challenge, responsibility, experience and change of environment. NEVER be negative in your reasons for leaving and rarely will it be appropriate to cite salary as a primary motivator.
Other questions to consider
- Have you worked under pressure ? Meaning can you?
- How much do you know about the job?
- What kind of people do you like working with?
- What kind of people do you find it difficult to work with?
- Do you prefer to work alone or in a group?
- What are you looking for in a company?
- How do you measure your own performance?
- Are you a self-starter?
- How do you feel about working long hours?
- What can you bring to an organisation?
- Why do you think you would like this role?
- Why should I give this job to you rather than someone else?
- What do you do in your spare time?
Questions to ask at the end of an interview
The interview is a two way process and it’s the ideal time for you to ask the interviewer relevant questions that you have prepared. Don’t harp on about any problems or be negative. Talk slowly, clearly and show interest but most of all be sincere and honest.
- Who will I be reporting to?
- What are my training opportunities?
- Is there scope for progression?
- How has the vacancy come about? Is it a new position?
Leave the remuneration package/benefits package to your consultant unless the information is offered.
If you need any further help or interview feedback, please do not hesitate to contact your consultant on 01543 268 192.
Good Luck!!