Are you prepared for your upcoming job interview? Interview preparation is being ready to respond effectively to the questions that employers typically ask. Do you want to know Frequently Asked Interview Questions and Answers?
Hiring managers will expect that you can answer these interview questions without hesitation since these questions are so common.
It isn’t necessary to memorize your answers, but you should prepare what you will say beforehand to avoid being caught off guard.
Knowing what to expect during the interview and what you want to focus on will help you deliver stronger responses.
Preparedness boosts your confidence and minimizes interview stress, so that you feel more relaxed during the interview.
Below are 10 of the most common interview questions employers ask plus 100+ more examples of responses, tips, and advice on how to ace the interview.
1. Tell Me About Yourself
Your first question is likely to be this one. Talk about why you’re the best candidate for the job, and why you’re the ideal candidate.
Interviewers want to know why you’re an excellent choice for the job. Don’t give too much or too little personal information when answering questions about yourself.
Consider sharing some of your personal interests and experiences that have nothing to do with work, such as a favorite hobby or a brief explanation of where you grew up, your education, and your motivations.
Make your interview more entertaining by sharing some fun facts and showcasing your personality.
2. What makes you the best candidate for the job?
Would you be a good fit for the job?
If you meet all the qualifications, the hiring manager wants to know. It’s important to explain why you should be hired.
Describe what you can offer the company and why you should be hired in a clear, concise, focused sales pitch. When you are preparing a response, review the job posting’s qualifications and requirements to make sure it aligns with what the interviewer is looking for.
3. What motivates you to apply for this job?
What makes you an ideal candidate for the job? Upon hiring you, what would you accomplish?
Taking the time to thoroughly research the company, its products, services, culture, and mission before the interview gives you a chance to show the interviewer what you know about the job and the company.
Describe the aspects of the company and position you find appealing and how you are a good fit for this role.
4. How Would You Describe Your Weaknesses?
It is one of the most common interview questions to ask, “What are your weaknesses?”. This question is one of the most feared. Focus on your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. Don’t focus on personal characteristics, but on professional ones: “I am always working to improve my communication skills in order to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Newsblare, which I find very useful.”
5. What makes you the right candidate for the job?
“I have five years’ experience working in the financial industry and a proven track record of saving companies money, so I think I would make a huge contribution to your organization.”
6. How Much Should You Expect to Earn?
What salary are you looking for? Money questions are never easy to answer. Make sure you don’t undersell yourself or overprice yourself. You will not be asked about your salary history at some locations, but they will ask how much you expect to get paid.
If you’re asked for your salary (or salary range), do your research before the meeting.
With the free online salary calculators, you can estimate salaries for various job titles, employers, skills, and locations.
7. What led you to leave your job (or why have you left)?
Answer this question with a prepared response. Your answer should be honest and reflect your situation, while remaining positive. You shouldn’t share too much information with the interviewer even if you left under challenging circumstances.
Interviewers want to know why you left your job and why you want to work for them. Whenever you are asked why you are leaving your current job, be direct, specific, and focused on the future, especially if you left under difficult circumstances.
8. How Would You Describe Your Greatest Strength?
It is almost always one of the questions employers ask to determine your qualifications for the job. It is important to mention the attributes that set you apart from other candidates when asked what your greatest strengths are.
As you answer this question, keep in mind to “show” rather than “tell.” For example, rather than telling that you are an excellent problem solver, share an anecdote from your professional experience.
9. How Do You Plan to Advance Your Career?
Do you jump from job to job? Do you plan to stay with the company for at least a few more months? What are your future career plans? Would your career plans match those of someone typically hired for this position?
When you find a better opportunity, this question will determine if you will stay or move on. Answer the interviewer’s question about the job and the company, and reiterate that the position aligns with your long-term career goals.
10. How would your last boss describe your positive qualities?
Answer the question, “What are three positive things your last boss would say about you?” with the help of your old performance appraisals and boss’ quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself: “My boss said that I am the best designer he has ever had. He likes my sense of humor and knows he can rely on me.”
You Can Go Beyond Typical Interview Questions
Yes, searching for a job can be intimidating, but reviewing interview questions and answers beforehand can calm your nerves and boost your confidence.