Have you ever been in a situation where the interviewer asked you a typical question and you had no answer to it? Well, that is what happens when you are not fully prepared. You do realize the fact that it takes a lot more than just efforts to get to an interview, right people? Then, do not jeopardize your precious chance to maybe get your dream job. Handle this dreaded debacle by going to an interview prepared with smart ways to answer the top 10 questions asked.
So, Tell Me About Yourself.
Technically, it is not even a question. However, a lot of interviewers prefer to begin an interview with this particular “question.” Therefore, you always need to be ready for it. But, do not begin to recite your entire life story or even go bullet-by-bullet through your resume. Talk about your present, as in where are you right now. Then, about the past experiences you’ve had and the skills you gained. And, finish with why you are excited about this particular opportunity.
Why Did You Leave Your Previous Job?
The reason to leave your previous job can be plenty. But, when an interviewer asks this question he or she wants to try to understand your motives and how you handle your work relationships. However, you don’t need a lengthy explanation. But, make sure you do not, bad mouth your previous employer or the boss. Instead, keep the conversation positive and focused on the current job you are targeting.
What Are Your Greatest Strengths?
As said in most of the job interview training courses, don’t beat around the bush and get straight to the point. Briefly summarize your work experience, your strongest qualities and achievements. Make sure that they are related to the responsibilities of the job you have applied for. As this is what will help the interviewer identify whether you align with the needs of the role or not. So, do you homework well and know what the core competencies are for in the role. Also, give an example of applying your strength in your current role.
What Are Your Greatest Weaknesses?
The reason why an interviewer asks this question is not to know your deep dark secrets. They are just trying to explore whether you are self aware, honest and seeking to improve or not. So, just be truthful. Because getting caught in your own lies will do more damage than good. However, that doesn’t mean you need to present your greatest life weakness or something personal. Focus strictly on your education and experience and choose a true weakness that you are actively working to change and improve.
Where Do You See Yourself In Five Years?
Relaxing on the beach or doing your work? Is that what you were thinking? If yes, then please stop your thought process right there and then. Even though, when there is no right answer to this question, you should never go for such lame reasons. It is because, all what an interviewer is trying to know is that if you’re ambitious, career-oriented and committed to the future with the company or not. So, instead of sharing weird or funny dream plans of yours, give them an answer that will illustrate your drive and commitment towards their company and industry.
How Do You Prefer To Work; Alone Or As A Part Of A Team?
The only reason for an interviewer to ask this question is, because he or she want to hear it from you that you are comfortable working independently and are open equally to working and sharing responsibilities with others as well. But, the truth is that usually a person likes to slightly prefer one over the other. Therefore, the experts of the job interview training courses recommend to highlight the benefits of both approaches. It will not only make you look more dynamic, but also a complex applicant. Thus, helping to get one step closer to getting the job.
Why Do You Want To Work For Us?
One of the most common blunder you can commit, while going for an interview is to not read everything you can find about the company. Whereas, the only way to answer this question is to do exactly that. In addition, you also need to get a sense of what the company culture is and what its goals are. Once you are done with the homework, you’ll need to figure out how the company works for your career path and the future. Thus, leading you to answer the question in the best possible manner.
Why Should We Hire You?
This is one of the most widely asked questions by the interviewers. Using this question he or she is giving you the opportunity to sell yourself. They want to see what you consider to be your defining aspects that sets you apart from others. Therefore, focus on your education, work experience, skills, abilities and aptitude that differentiate you from your competition. And, back up all your statements with examples to show how you are the best person for the position, meeting the employer needs, not your own personal needs.
What Are Your Salary Expectations?
Human expectations know no bounds. We all know that, don’t we? Therefore, the first rule of salary negotiation is to avoid discussing the numbers until the company has extended an offer to you. Until then deflect the questions about your salary requirements. The person who states the salary first, is usually said to be the loser. But, if you still want to then do it after the offer is made. That is the right time when you have the power to negotiate, which again is no simple feat.
Do You Have any Questions To Ask?
No wonder, the most common answer to this question when asked by an interviewer is, no. According to the expert coaches of job interview training courses say, not only is this the wrong answer, but also a great opportunity missed to find out more information about the company. Therefore, it is rather important to ask not just any question, but those relating to the job challenges, the company and the industry to leave a long lasting impression. And, these awesome questions will come as the result of listening to the questions, the interviewer asked you.
So, the next time you go for an interview. Make sure to have answers for especially these particular questions on your tips. Do not take the risk to go unprepared. They’ll help you get one step closer to your dream job. Good luck folks!