By Jessica Adamee | Blog, Interview Tips Common Interview Questions (and How to Answer Them)
Are you ready to nail your upcoming job interview? One of the most important parts of interview preparation is being ready to respond effectively to the questions that employers typically ask. Since these interview questions are so common, hiring managers will expect you to be able to answer them smoothly and without hesitation.
Remember that it’s less about providing the “right” answers and more about demonstrating that you’re the best candidate for the job.
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
This is one of the first questions you are likely to be asked. Be prepared to talk about yourself, and why you’re an ideal candidate for the position. The interviewer wants to know why you’re an excellent fit for the job.
Try to answer questions about yourself without giving too much, or too little, personal information. Talk about why you took certain jobs and why you left them. Explain why you chose a certain school. You can even share some fun facts and showcase your personality.
2. “Why are you the best person for the job?”
The hiring manager wants to know whether you have all the required qualification to be the best candidate for the job. Be prepared to explain why you’re the applicant who should be hired. Make your response a confident, concise, focused sales pitch that explains what you have to offer and why you should get the job. This is a good time to review the qualifications in the job listing, so you can craft a response that aligns with what the interviewer is looking for.
3. “Why do you want to leave your current job?”
Let’s start with what you shouldn’t say. Don’t talk about how your boss is difficult or how you don’t get along with other employees. Do not bad mouth your company. Complaining about your current employer is a little like people who gossip: If you’re willing to speak badly of someone else, you’ll probably do the same moving forward.
Instead, focus on the positives a move will bring. Share what you want to achieve, learn, and grow. Explain how a move will be great for you and for your new company.
4. “What are your salary expectations?”
What are you looking for in terms of salary? Questions about money are always tricky to answer. You don’t want to sell yourself short or price yourself out of a job offer. Do your research before the meeting so that you’ll be prepared to name a salary range if you’re asked.
Reviewing frequently asked interview questions and sample answers can help you prepare to ace any interview. There are no right or wrong answers. What’s best is showing the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for the job.
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