“Tell us about yourself.”
Most interviews start off with a variation of this question. When answering, stick to a brief summary of your professional background. The interviewer wants to get to know you, but this isn’t the time to share your life’s story. Avoid talking about your age, religion, marital status or other protected information, and focus on your experience.
“What are your strengths?”
Talk about two to three of your strengths that would make you successful in the position you applied for. Provide the interviewer with real examples from your experience that showcase the strengths you chose.
“Why do you want to work for us?”
Do some research beforehand and find a few things about the organization that interest you. Check out the company’s social media to see what exciting things they’ve been sharing recently.
“Why should we hire you?”
This is your chance to sell yourself! Explain how your skills can solve a problem the interviewer mentioned. Focus on your experience with the key responsibilities of the role.
“Why are you leaving your job?”
Don’t badmouth your current/previous employer. Focus your answer on growth or change of pace.
“What skills do you have?”
Mention skills you possess that were listed in the job description. Show the interviewer that your abilities line up with the needs of the organization.
“What’s your biggest weakness?”
Talk about a skill that you want to improve and end with what you’re doing to get better at it.
“What would you accomplish in the first 3 months?”
Highlight a few areas where you feel that you could make meaningful contributions right away. Recruiters want to know if you’re going to jump in and hit the ground running, or if you’ll have a slow start.
“What kind of salary are you looking for?”
Some people find this question uncomfortable – but realistically, you’re looking for a job because you want to get paid. The hiring manager wants to know if your expectations are within the limits of the company’s budget. If there was a range included with the job post, let the recruiter know that you’re comfortable with the higher end of the range. (This gives you room to negotiate.)
“Do you have any questions for us?”
YES! This is your chance to ask anything you want. Bring a few generic questions with you to your interview in case you can’t think of anything on the spot. Be careful not to ask about something that was already discussed – the recruiter might think you weren’t paying attention.
