How to answer

Interviews are a part of the hiring process where potential employers ask questions to gauge their suitability for the job. Candidates may encounter a variety of questions that can bring up anxiety, fear or uncertainty. However, with the right preparation and mindset, these common interview questions can easily be answered. Here are some ways to answer some of the most common interview questions:

1) Tell me about yourself:

This question is often phrased as a warm-up question to create a conversation. However, it can be tricky as it is only natural for candidates to talk about their personal life or unrelated details.

A good way to answer this question is to tailor it to the job you are interviewing for. Talk about relevant education, work experience, and achievements that align with the job role. Share your career goals and how they align with the company’s mission and vision.

2) Why do you want this job?

This question is used to determine the candidate’s motivation and interest in the job.

Respond to this question by sharing your personal reasons why you are interested in this particular job. You may also mention the company’s culture, industry or reputation as reasons for wanting to work there. Additionally, explain how you can contribute skills and experience towards the growth and success of the organization.

3) What are your strengths and weaknesses?

This question helps the interviewer to understand the candidate’s self-awareness, confidence and critical thinking.

When discussing your strengths, mention specific and relevant examples from your past work experience and academic accomplishments that set you apart from other candidates applying for the same role.

For weaknesses, try to be honest, but do not mention a weakness that is critical to the job role. Explain how you’ve worked to overcome this weakness through professional and personal development.

4) Why did you leave your previous job?

This question is often asked to gauge the candidate’s previous work history and motivations for leaving.

Always frame your reasons for leaving in a positive light. Mention any accomplishments and contributions you made to your previous role and how you were seeking a new challenge or growth opportunity.

5) Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question aims to determine the candidate’s long-term goals and career plans.

In answering this question, relate it back to the job you are interviewing for and the company’s mission and vision. You should also share personal career goals, aspirations and how the job role will help you achieve those goals.

6) How do you handle difficult situations or conflicts?

This question helps the interviewer understand the candidate’s problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.

When answering this question, provide specific examples of difficult situations you have faced in the past and describe what actions you took to handle the crisis, whether it was mediating a situation or finding a solution to the problem.

7) Why should we hire you?

This question allows the candidate to highlight their unique skills, experience and value proposition.

To answer this question, give specific examples of your skills and accomplishments, which demonstrate how you have contributed to your previous roles. Mention how you can contribute to the organization by using your skills and experience to achieve their goals.

In conclusion, preparing for common interview questions can help you feel more confident and prepared. Be sure to research the company, the job role and align your responses with the relevant skills and experience required for the position. Lastly, always strive to present yourself in a positive light, communicate effectively, and be honest in your responses.