Job Interview FAQs
While we can't give you all the answers to job interview questions, we may be able to help you on what to focus on when answering some of the most frequently asked questions. Every interview will be unique and will incude questions specifci to the job role, however, there are some questions that come up quite often. We've highlighted these questions below with some guidance on what to think about when answering them.
Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
This question usually opens the interview. Despite appearing quite a standard question, it is actually an incredibly important one. This helps the interviewer get a great idea of who you are and what you can bring to the company. Try to focus on your skills, characteristics and successes. Despite the question being quite general, try to focus it in on the job you are applying for. Perhaps begin with your achievements and qualifications before discussing your skills and what kind of personality you would bring to the workplace.
Why do you want to work for this company?
In a question like this, make sure you show that you have researched the company. This is your chance to show what you know about the company and why the role you are applying for excites you.
Describe an issue you have faced at work and how did you overcome it?
Prepare to explain using the STAR method described in a different blog. You can see that here. Talk about a time where you've managed an unexpected problem. Discuss how you managed your time, what you did that was successful, what you would have done differently and why, and the overall outcome of the issue you faced. This could include tight deadlines, challenging discussions with customers or colleagues, or any other issue/challenge you may have faced at school.
Describe your Strengths
When describing your strengths always try to give evidence for them using a scenario from your past. For example: I am an effective communicator. In my previous job, I was consistently asked to relay information from my line manager to the rest of the team.
Not sure of your strengths? Try using the ‘My World of Work’ skills page here.
Describe your weaknesses / areas of development
Being honest about an area you could be stronger in isn’t a bad thing and they aren’t trying to catch you out! This is a great opportunity to show skills in reflecting positively and self-improvement. Perhaps a weakness of yours is time-management. You could explain that this has previously led to difficulties with deadlines, however, over time, you have learnt to set your own deadlines and goals prior to the main deadline which has helped you complete tasks on time.
Try to avoid answers like, “I have no weaknesses” / “I work too hard” / “I’m a perfectionist” as they can come across as arrogant or show that you have a lack of awareness of your actual weaknesses.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time? / What are Your Goals?
This commonly comes towards the end of the interview. It is your chance to show the recruiter that you're ambitious. Try to talk enthusiastically about your realistic short and long-term targets, basing your answers on the employer and industry. Perhaps do some research about what promotions are available to you from the job you’re applying for, this shows knowledge of the company. Or research similar career paths of those that have studied similar subjects. Show that you are valuable to the organisation!
Do you think there is a question missing? Or did you find a particular question challenging in a previous interview? Put them down in the comments and we’ll see what we can do to help!