While no two job interviews will follow the exact same format, there are some questions that are very popular among employers when screening potential candidates.
By preparing confident answers to some of the more common interview questions, you can give yourself the edge over other potential candidates.
Here we explore some of the more common interview questions, how best to answer them and how you can prepare your responses most effectively.
An interviewer will be impressed if you have considered your short-term and long-term goals. Talk about the kind of job you'd eventually like to do and the various steps you will take to get there.
Show that you have the ambition and determination to make the most of every job you have held to get where you want to be.
Always relate this back to the position you're interviewing for and be realistic in terms of your aspirations. Avoid telling the interviewer that you want their job.
This question is often seen as challenging by many candidates, even those with significant experience. However, if approached correctly it is easily possible to avoid 'bragging' when discussing your strengths or seeming excessively negative when talking about your perceived weaknesses.
Based on the job description, choose three examples of traits the employer is looking for and give examples of how you have used these strengths in a work situation. Ideally, include a mixture of tangible skills, such as technical or linguistic abilities, and intangible skills, such as management experience.
The best approach here is to pick a trait that you have already made positive steps to address.
It is important to consider how you have approached your perceived weaknesses in the past and what you have done to address them.
For example, if your IT ability is not at the level it could be, state this as a weakness before telling the interviewer about training courses or time spent outside work hours you have used to improve your skills.
Focus on your assets - what makes you different and where do your major strengths lie? Outline what you can offer in terms of experience, personality and enthusiasm.
The job description should give you a good indication of the particular qualities the employer is looking for, so make sure you address those qualities and provide specific examples of what you have done so far in your career that demonstrates how you are particularly suited for the role.
This is usually the opening question for most interviews and can be one of the most important, highlighting the key achievements in your employment history. Know what you want to say and how you are going to say it beforehand.
First impressions are key, so keep it brief – know your CV inside out and focus on delivering a one to two-minute advertisement for yourself
You should begin your answer with an overview of your highest qualification, then run through the jobs you've held so far in your career. You can follow the same structure as your CV, giving examples of achievements and the skills you've picked up along the way, but it’s important not to go into too much detail as your interviewer will ask you to expand on any areas where they'd like more information.
Do your research - this gives you the chance to discuss all you know about the job and the company and why you are a good match for them. The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought, so do your homework properly.
You should have a good inside knowledge of the company's values, mission statement, development plans and products. Describe how your goals and ambition match the company ethos and how you would relish the opportunity to work for them.
While you should never mention salary unless asked or prompted, it's important to understand the value of someone with your skills. Be flexible - indicate that you are willing to negotiate for the right opportunity and confirm that you value the position strongly.
Problems often arise from pricing yourself out of the position or stating a figure less than the company is willing to pay. If a guideline salary has been provided with the job description, you could mention this and say it's around the amount you're looking for.
You should use the interview as an opportunity to say something interesting about your skills and experiences that relate back to the role at hand. Remember that interviewers will be looking for you to demonstrate key skills, so prepare examples in advance that you can call on when required.
Examples of the key attributes that employers look for include:
Do your research
Above all, it is vital that you do your research. Make sure you have a look at the company website and understand as much as you can about their business and how they operate, as well as the products or services they provide. It is also important to go prepared with questions to ask them – after all, the interview is a two-way process. Don’t be afraid to write questions down ahead and take them with you.
10 tips for starting an international career
Considering a move overseas to develop your career? Here’s what you need to know… International experience can work wonders for your career development. Here, with the help of some of our experts, we look at some of the key things to think about if you’re planning a move overseas… Be clear about why
Read MoreHow to master these 7 common interview questions
While no two job interviews will follow the exact same format, there are some questions that are very popular among employers when screening potential candidates. By preparing confident answers to some of the more common interview questions, you can give yourself the edge over other potential candid
Read MoreLearn how to answer common competency questions
Interviewers are relying more and more on competency questions to help them differentiate between competing candidates. But what are they exactly – and what’s the best way to approach them? A lot of the information you provide on your CV is basically a series of facts. Your education, your qualifica
Read MoreCome join our global team of creative thinkers, problem solvers and game changers. We offer accelerated career progression, a dynamic culture and expert training.