Common Interview Questions

When preparing for an Interview it is vital to think about what questions an interviewer is going to ask and how best you can respond. By looking closely at your CV or Cover Letter, the job description and company website you should get an idea of what questions will be asked.

It is usual for an interviewer to ask questions relating to your CV on:

• Past Work Experience
• Skills and Achievements
• Knowledge about Industry Matters
• Knowledge about the Company
• Education
• Hobbies and Interests

Don’t forget; an interviewer will ask about your weaknesses as well as your strengths so practise how you are going to answer these more difficult questions in a positive manner. Be prepared to give detailed answers and have a variety of situations you can draw upon e.g. when you demonstrated teamwork/coped with pressure/showed leadership skills.

Common Interview Questions Include:

• Why would you like to work for our organisation?
• What interests you about our company, product or service?
• Why did you choose this particular industry/role?
• What did you like most about University?
• Do you feel your exam results reflect your abilities?
• Why should we hire you over the other candidates?
• What do you not like about the job description?
• How did you make a difference to your last company?
• Why do you want to leave your present job?
• What motivates you?
• What has been your biggest failure?
• What would be your first action if we were to employ you?
• Are you a leader?
• Tell me something interesting about yourself?
• What do you want to be doing in your career five/ten years from now?
• What have you learned from your previous jobs? Which did you enjoy most?
• Tell me about a situation when you demonstrated teamwork?
• How well do you work under pressure?
• Give me an example of when you have achieved/experienced…….?
• Describe a situation where you overcame conflict with others?
• What are you major strengths / weaknesses?
• What are your career aspirations?
• How did you get on with your last manager/colleagues?
• Why do you think we should employ you?
• Have you applied for any other jobs currently?
• How do you spend your spare time? What are your hobbies?