Common Interview Questions

Truthfully, in each interview we don’t invent new questions or ways to throw applicants off their feet. As you begin to send out your attractive CV and Cover Letters and attend more and more interviews, you will see a common pattern beginning to form on questions and responses.

The only times we will really throw you a curveball are when it’s obvious you know nothing about our organization, or if we think you are another time-waster. But if you follow the tips and preparation advice we have given you above, then you won’t fall into either of these categories.

Below we have added some of the most commonly used questions in interviews, which we expect all applicants to be able to answer thoroughly and comprehensively:

“What are some of your weaknesses?”

Many, many people stumble on this question, because they don’t want to appear to have weaknesses – but don’t want to appear deceitful at the same time. Luckily you have an advantage knowing that this question may be asked. The best response is to choose something slightly negative, however which can be turned into a positive. Among the best responses we had was along the lines of being a ‘perfectionist’ and concentrating too hard on certain projects.

“What do you dislike about your current/previous role?”

Sometimes we use this question to probe further and expose any weaknesses you might have left out earlier, or sometimes it is to see how you react and regard your employer. If you show contempt and speak poorly of them, it is highly likely we will not employ you – as you may do the same for our company when you leave! Give a general but accommodating answer, like “Not enough room for career progress”.

“Where do you see yourself in five years time”

Possibly one of the most cliché interview questions, however it will probably be asked. Make sure whatever you answer is, it involves that organization in some way – mention climbing the corporate ladder, developing your skills further and making a career within the organization. Recruiters are after long-term employees to invest in, not those who will leave after a few months.

“Do you have any questions?”

Your answer to this question must always be YES! Never leave without showing further interest in the organization. This is where your extra research will come in handy, and you can flaunt your knowledge a bit further. However don’t make the mistake some applicants have by asking silly questions just for the sake of it – such as “Do you have parking available?”, it just gives us a bad lasting impression of you.

“Tell me about yourself”

We normally use this question as an ice-breaker, to see how you think on your feet. Please don’t bore us – briefly tell us about your career, your skills and why you think you would fit into this position.

“Tell me about your ability to work under pressure”

Here you should be mentioning examples of your time management, for example in team projects or individual assignments.

Giving relevant examples works best, because we can see you have experience and will help us determine whether they fit with our organizations work ethic!

“Tell me about a time when…”

These are known as Behavioral Assessment questions, and are quite similar to the one mentioned above as they require you to provide real-life situations in your responses. In this way, the interviewer may see evidence of how you would respond to certain situations you may face in the position. So again, make it relevant, short and sweet.

“What is your greatest strength?”

This is your opportunity to talk yourself up, so make the most of it! Tell us What you do best, and How you do it best. Don’t beat around the bush, come out with it and let us know Why this would be helpful to us! The reason we called you for an interview is because WE WANT TO KNOW ABOUT YOU! So tell us!

By: Shaun H

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