The interviewer wants to determine whether you would be the correct “fit” for the position. Whenever possible, answer with an explanation or a brief story. Avoid answering with a simple “Yes” or “No”.
When you are asked a negative question such as “What did you dislike about your last position?” turn it into a positive example. Describe how you challenge problems and how you overcome them. Always focus on the positive aspects of your experiences.
Listen carefully, speak clearly and don’t be afraid to pause briefly before answering a question.
Here are 50 questions you may be asked in an interview
- Tell me about yourself…
- What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
- Why should we hire you?
- What do you look for when considering job opportunities?
- Why are you interested in this position?
- Do you prefer working on your own or with others?
- What motivates you to do your best on the job?
- What have you learned from past mistakes?
- Why did you leave your last job?
- What would co-workers say about you?
- How do you feel you would be an asset to this organization?
- What would you say are your biggest accomplishments?
- How well do you work under pressure?
- Describe your ideal job?
- How do you handle conflict?
- Give me an example of how you worked as part of a team.
- In what type of business environment do you function best?
- What did you dislike about your last position?
- Give me an example of how you handle criticism.
- Where would you like to be five years from now?
- What are the qualities of a good leader?
- Who would you describe your personality?
- How do you set priorities?
- What will your references say about you?
- Tell me how you have handled a difficult peer?
- What is important for me to know about you?
- How can you be certain you will enjoy this role?
- When were you most satisfied in a job?
- How would you describe your work style?
- Give me an example of your problem solving ability?
- What criticisms have supervisors had about your work?
- What techniques and tools do you use to stay organized?
- How did you spend time on your last job?
- What is the biggest mistake you have made in your career?
- Give me examples of ideas you have had or implemented?
- Tell me about things you enjoy.
- What can you contribute to this position?
- Tell me about an experience where you felt very effective?
- How would you handle a situation where you are required to finish multiple tasks by the end of the day, and there is no conceivable way you can finish them?
- Have you ever been on a team where someone was not pulling their weight? How did you handle it?
- What is the toughest part of a job for you?
- Tell me about a work experience where you felt ineffective?
- Why have you been successful?
- In your last (or current) position, what problems have you identified that had previously been overlooked?
- What is the key thing you have learned in your career?
- What are your salary requirements and expectations?
- What is your ideal company?
- What important trends do you see in our industry?
- Why did you choose this particular career path?
- Do you have any questions for me?