Possible Responses to Some Typical Interview Questions

Preparing answers to potential interview questions is vital to interview success. There are a number of standard interview questions which you might consider before meeting with employers. Listed below is a sampling of these questions and possible responses.

(1) Tell me something about yourself, background, professional experience, career etc.:

This question is aimed at finding out other qualifications, competencies and experience you may have. You may wish to mention your personal strengths, interests and abilities and how they related to this position.

(2) Have you ever done this kind of work before, tell us about your experience:

Since no two jobs are the same, what the interviewer wants to know is whether you can learn to do that job in a reasonable amount of time. Mention transferable skills and all of the experiences you have had that makes it likely that you can learn quickly to do the duties required in this specific job. Discuss your education/training in relation to the job, any relevant non-paid experiences, and how quickly you have learned that type of work in the past.

(3) Why do you want to work here:

When an interviewer asks you why you wish to work for their organization, they are looking to determine if the role fits with your career path and values in an employer. It is also a way to see whether or not you have done any research on the organization, know it enough to really want to work there, rather than just wanting to work anywhere. To demonstrate this knowledge, discuss positive features about the job, department or organization that you have learned through your research and how you can make a contribution.

(4) Why did you leave your last job:

In describing your last job, include what you learned from the role and how the one you are applying for meets your career goals. If leaving under difficult circumstances, don’t say anything negative about the company or the supervisor, only that your needs were not suitable or a match with the position.

(5) What kind of salary are you expecting?

When you are asked about your salary requirements in an interview, the interviewer is attempting to determine whether your expectations are suitable. The wisest course is to remain negotiable until you have been offered a position.

(6) Why should we hire you instead of someone else:

When you are asked this direct question, the interviewer is asking you, in a sense, to make their decision for them. If you have to hesitate or can think of only one or two reasons, then they will feel that the reasons are not sufficient. You should describe your skills and competencies that are job related and that may differentiate yourself from other candidates.

(7) When are you available for work:

Describe that you understand that the department has timelines to meet and that you will work with them to accommodate their needs and the needs of your current organization, being mindful of any required notice period you need to provide. Discuss other concerns and needs during the offer process.

(8) What are your greatest strengths/ weaknesses:

Try to highlight your most positive competencies. Make sure to use examples to illustrate your positive qualities and how they apply to work. Talk about things which you have improved and the steps you took to do so and focus on the development piece.

(9) What five words would you say describe your best:

When asked to select words to describe you, select job related competencies.

(10) What was your last employer's opinion of you:

The best answer to the general question about your last employer's opinion of you is to have an open letter of recommendation from your last employer, which you can then summarize and show to the interviewer. If you do not have such a letter list the positive, but realistic comments they would say about you. Suggest that the interviewer contact your employer, and express your assurance that they will speak positively of you. Supply the interviewer with a list of references, including phone numbers.

(11) What are your long-range goals:

The interviewer is trying to determine whether this position fits in with your long term plans. The items to stress are that you share the values of the organization, you hope to become a valuable employee, and that you hope you will be in a role which challenges you and enables you to make an effective, engaged contribution to the company.

(12) What is your proficiency in...(e.g. software, Microsoft Office)

If the interviewer asks this question, then, obviously, skill in this area is very important, and you should demonstrate your experience and capability. Be as specific as possible about your expertise--it provides evidence of your skill level. If the inter viewer asks about equipment you haven't had experience with, describe what types of similar packages you have worked with, and convey your ability that you can learn quickly.

(13) Can you work under pressure or tight deadlines:

This question indicates that your job will involve working under pressure and deadlines, so respond by giving examples of activities that involved deadlines/pressure. Mention several examples that demonstrate your capabilities.

(14) What would you do in this situation:

This is usually a hypothetical or technical question. Take the necessary time to answer the question carefully, and ask for further details or explanations where necessary. Keep in mind the general steps of problem solving. If given a technical question, analyze the question and often you will find you have the necessary background to answer. In both cases (hypothetical or technical), the interviewer is trying to gauge your ability to function under pressure, and to analyze and solve problems using sound judgment.

(15) What do you think of working in a group:

In this question, you are being asked to demonstrate your ability to get along well with others. Speak of the advantages of working in a group. For example, you might explain how the various individuals in the group complement one another in carrying out certain tasks. Be prepared to give concrete examples of personal experience in a group.

(16) Would you be willing to work as a temporary or contract employee?

Consider this a viable alternative to permanent employment. Temporary/contract work will get your foot in the door, give you a chance to prove yourself, give you new current experiences and additional references. Think hard before turning down this valuable opportunity.