10 Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Once you have been called for a job interview, the first emotion you might feel is excitement.  Then the anxiety could set it. This is normal once you start wondering what kinds of interview questions the hiring manager has in store for you.  

 

It is always nerve-racking to sit in a room and face at least one interviewer.  Sometimes, you may face a panel of interviewers.  

Regardless, preparation is essential if you want to get the job. Many applicants are often confined to answers that have been passed on to them by friends and family. Others memorize sample answers online and substitute certain words with their own.  

 

You must remember that employers are becoming more meticulous than ever before. They want to hire only those who can be assets to their company.

 

It is essential that you look and feel your best on that important day. Before you step through the company’s doors, you should clear your mind and keep calm.  

 

Try to block out any distractions.  Make sure you have suitable attire waiting in your closet. Also, confirm the time, date, and room of the interview. It is always best to be a few minutes early.

 

Are you ready to ace that job assessment? Here are ten of the most frequently asked job interview questions and how you should answer them:

 

Tell me about yourself. 

 

This is one of the trickiest questions and many don’t know how to answer it.  Your answer should show them why you are there and how you would be of value to their company if hired.

 

The first thing interviewers want to know is the person they are assessing. They usually tell you to describe yourself. Then, they follow with questions about your background. Always start with your current activities or your current occupation.

 

Give the interviewer relevant and vital focal points from your background. Explain how they make you qualified for the position. Employers are looking for employees who are confident in their experiences and abilities.

 

What makes you stand out? 

 

Interviewers ask this to see why you might be a better fit for the position than the other candidates. When you answer, concentrate on why hiring you would be good for the employer.

 

This is a bit challenging since you don’t know the qualifications of the other applicants. Address the question with confidence. Describe how your experiences have made you well-armed for the responsibilities of the job. 

 

It’s okay to brag a little here because you want to highlight what you bring to the table.

 

How would you characterize yourself? 

 

When a job interviewer asks you to speak about yourself it might make you nervous.  Don’t worry, they actually want to see if your skills are in line with what’s needed to thrive in the position.

 

If you can, include some measurable results from your past job.  This can show how you used your skills to bring success to your old company.

 

What do you find interesting about this position? 

 

Interviewers always ask this question to be certain that you comprehend the position. This is your opportunity to emphasize your significant skills. It is always best to compare your experience and skills against the position’s requirements. 

 

Select a few aspects of the job you excel at or enjoy. These should be the meat of the answer you provide.

 

Why do you want to work in the company? 

 

This is often asked by job interviewers to see if you spend time to research the organization and determine why you deem yourself suitable. It is best to learn everything about the company.  This includes its culture, products, mission, services, and history.

When you answer, mention the various aspects of the company that interests you.  They should match with your career goals. Also, elaborate on why you look for such things in an organization.

 

What is your motivation? 

 

Asking this question helps the interviewer see how self-aware and motivated you are.  When you answer, remember to be specific.

 

State concrete examples and relate them to the roles of the position.  Your answer should leave no doubt in their mind that you are excited about the role.

 

State your greatest strengths. 

 

Answering this question gives you the chance to elaborate your soft and technical skills.  Upon answering, share your personal attributes and associate them with the position.

 

Spend time showcasing your strengths so they stand out.  The more positive traits you show the interviewer, the better.  Try and think of something that your competitors wouldn’t think of.

 

What is your passion? 

 

Interviewers ask this to find out what you care about most and what your driving force is at work. This helps them comprehend if the position fits into your long-term goals and if you are best suited for the job.

 

In answering this question, choose something which you are truly zealous about. Explain why it lights that fire in you and provide examples of how you have sought after this passion.

 

Don’t forget to relate it to the available position.

 

State your weaknesses. 

 

Answering this question can make anyone feel awkward. This is especially true when you’re in a setting that mandates that its employees concentrate on their strengths.

 

Stating your weaknesses can actually show the interviewer that you always want to improve.  It shows that you are self-aware and know your imperfections. 

 

They know you are not perfect so don’t let this question catch you off guard. 

 

Start your response with your weaknesses. Then describe the processes you used to improve. Use a specific example to paint a picture for them on how you improved.

 

This finishes the answer in a positive way.

 

Why are you leaving your current position? 

 

There are myriad reasons for leaving a certain occupation. Make sure you have a thoughtful response.  Help the interviewer understand that you are serious about making a career change.

 

Concentrate on the future and the things you hope to achieve in your new position.  Do not focus your answer on the negative side of your previous job.

 

It’s best to be positive when speaking about your previous employer.  Let the interviewer know you were thankful for the opportunity and learned a lot.

 

Conclusion 

 

It is imperative that you prepare well for those job interview questions. Do your homework and discern your responses. Most of all, make sure you are confident in delivering your answers. It is true that some questions can make you nervous, but if you are ready and focused, you can ace the interview.

 

The given guide above should help significantly in your upcoming job assessment. Always remember to stay calm and alert as you sit down to answer those job interview questions.

 

Looking for a new job or need to get in touch with a recruiter? Infinity Staffing can help you find your next great job and polish up your resume!  Click here for more information.