Job interview FAQ
2023-09-12T14:27:00Z
job and career tips
It doesn't matter who you are or what position you're going for, attending a job interview can be nerve racking. The key to success is all in the preparation - being ready for some of the most frequently asked interview questions can be a game changer. In this blog, we break down the challenges of these questions and how to respond to them, so you can be better prepared and navigate the interview with confidence.
"Tell me about yourself"
Why it’s challenging:
It’s a frustrating and uncomfortable question to many who find it difficult to give an accurate description of themselves that presents them in a good light and makes them an attractive choice as a candidate.
How to answer:
This question is more about judging if you will fit in with the team, rather than your qualifications or skills. The key here is honesty; after all, if you are not in fact a good fit for the team, neither you nor the team you will be a part of will be happy for very long. You cannot fit a square peg in a round hole, and you shouldn’t lie about yourself just to get a job you may not be happy in.
"Why do you want to work here?"
Another common question. Hiring managers want to understand your deeper motivations apart from financial gain. They want to know if you appreciate the company’s mission and culture and have looked into them.
Why it’s challenging:
While it’s perfectly natural to value pay, hiring managers need to know if you have additional motivations which will make you successful in the long run. If you only value pay, it isn’t a good enough indication that you will be motivated to achieve excellence.
How to answer:
Try to figure out what has made you want to complete tasks or go a good job in the past. Did you find satisfaction from doing good work? Did you enjoy the recognition that came along with it? Did you do it out of a sense of duty, or did you want to see your team and you succeed? At the end of the day, you’re going to lean one way or another, so all you need to do is figure out which way.
"What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
Why it’s challenging:
It’s hard to take stock of yourself. It requires humility and the ability to introspect, qualities which are shown when you answer the question. If you can be honest about your weaknesses, it shows character and helps the hiring manager cater to your specific personality. You may be afraid of the consequences of showing your weaknesses, but a good manager will use them to shape your duties to suit you.
How to answer:
Talking to confidants about yourself can lend perspective. It’s important to have a thick skin, and take any feedback objectively. You may learn something about yourself you never realised, but it’s better to be in the know instead of in the dark.
When discussing your weaknesses, avoid character flaws. Your employer is interested in your ability to perform your job well, and so is only really interested in weaknesses in your skills or experience. That’s good news because you can work on both of those. Skills can be improved, and experience can be gained, so all you have to do is explain how you’re going to bring about these changes.
