Posts tagged Interview

We’ve said it before & we’ll say it again

… the key to success is preparation!

Interviews can be nerve racking events.  But with our list of Top 10 Interview Questions and tips for your answers, you can be well prepared and sail through with ease!

Q: Tell me a bit about yourself.

Tip The most often asked question in interviews. You need to have a short statement prepared in your mind.  This is usually asked in terms of your career, so keep it work-related items unless instructed otherwise.  Starting with your earliest role, talk about what you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the position you are interviewing for.

Q: What do you like about your current role?

Tip: This is a great opportunity to highlight what you really enjoy about your role and ensure the list of skills you mention match those that the interviewers are looking for in this role!   They may follow with the question why do you want to leave (see below).

Q: What do you dislike about your present job?

Tip: Be cautious with this answer and don’t be tempted to get into personal details or trivial issues.  We suggest you choose a characteristic of your present company, such as its size or slow decision-making processes etc. Give your responses with the air of someone who takes problems and frustrations in your stride as part of the job.

Q: Why do you want to leave your current role?

Tip: Again, be careful here. State how you are looking for a new challenge, more responsibility, experience and a change of environment. Do not be negative in your reasons for leaving. It is rarely appropriate to cite salary as your primary motivator.

Q Why did you leave your last job?

Tip Never slate a previous role or employer or raise issues with regard to the management or colleagues you worked with.   It is the quickest way to fail any interview.  Instead smile and talk about leaving for a positive reason such as career progression,  better opportunities or other positive reasons.  

Q: What do you know about this organization?

Tip:  We’ve warned you … know your stuff! This question is one reason to do some research on the organization before the interview. Find out where they have been and where they are going. What are the current issues and who are the major players?

Q: Why have you applied for this particular job?

Tip: The employer is looking for confirmation that the job suits you and fits in with your long-term goals. Make sure you have a good understanding of the role and the company and describe the attributes of the company that interest you most.

Q: What experience do you have in this field?

Tip: Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have previous experience, get as close as you can by giving examples to support your answer.  Show that you are passionate about this choice of career.

Q: What are your strengths?

Tip: This is another favourite so be prepared!  Focus on discussing your main strengths. List three or four proficiencies e.g. your ability to learn quickly, positive attitude, determination to succeed, your ability to relate to people or work as a team player.  You may be asked to give examples of the above so have some ready.

Q: What is your greatest weakness?

Tip: Again, you need to be careful here. Everyone has weaknesses so saying ‘none’ won’t work.  Instead chose a weakness such as a lack of experience on your part in an area that is not vital for the job. Alternatively, describe a personal or professional weakness that could also be considered to be a strength and the steps you have taken to combat it. An example would be: “I know I can be a perfectionist and drive my team hard, but I’m finding it easier to get the balance right”.