Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Last modified: 29. July 2024

 

Although every job interview is unique, there are certain questions that tend to come up frequently. To ensure you can answer these questions in a composed and confident manner, it’s wise to think through your responses in advance. Here are some typical questions and tips on how to handle them.

1. Tell me about yourself

This question might seem straightforward at first, but without preparation, it's easy to become flustered and ramble. Plan what key points you want to highlight about yourself and avoid unnecessary details that could waste time. Writing down and even memorising your answer can help you present a clear and engaging summary, setting a positive tone for the rest of the interview.

2. Why do you want to work for this company?

Your answer should be personal but at the same time reflect your research into why the company is exceptional and what it's like to work there. For instance: “As an HR specialist, I've admired how your company is dedicated to offering diverse training opportunities and innovative team-building activities. I was particularly impressed by your recent moustache-growing competition. I believe joining your team would allow me to leverage my experience and creativity in a supportive environment.”

 

3. Can you describe a successful project or task from your professional experience?

Choose a task that required multiple steps and showcased your skills and capabilities. Explain the goal of the project, your specific role, how you collaborated with your team, and the challenges you overcame. Conclude with the successful outcomes you achieved, demonstrating your value as a potential employee.

4. How did you solve a difficult problem at your previous job?

While similar to the previous question, this one focuses on your problem-solving skills and ability to handle stress. Select an instance where you resolved an issue on your own, for example one with a tight deadline or a workplace conflict. Describe the problem, the steps you took to resolve it, and the positive results.

5. What software are you familiar with?

The goal is to convince the employer that you possess the necessary technical skills for the job. Reflect on your experiences with various software programs and highlight your proficiency in those most relevant to the role. With preparation, you can avoid forgetting key software that could set you apart from other candidates.

 

6. What would you do if you disagreed with your supervisor or team on an important issue?

This question assesses your teamwork, communication skills, flexibility, and problem-solving approach. Your answer should demonstrate your willingness to listen to others, calmly and respectfully express your viewpoint, and your ability to align with the solution that best serves the company’s interests.

Conclusion

As you can see, a successful job interview involves more than just showing up; it requires thorough preparation to present yourself in the best possible light. Take the time to think through and articulate your answers. View each question as an opportunity to demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job. While you can’t guarantee you’ll be selected, arriving unprepared almost certainly ensures you won’t be.

 

By Rozália Szabó
Images from Unsplash.com