Wednesday 3 August 2016

Top 10 Interview questions and guide to answer them


Are you preparing for a job interview? Wouldn’t it be wonderful knowing the type of questions the interviewers will ask? Well, no need to worry as this article will assist in giving you some interview study guide on what type of questions to expect when you go for a job interview.

So let’s get started;

Can you tell me about yourself?

This is the most common interview question asked by interviewers. As easy as it sounds, a lot of job seekers often fail the question. In order to answer this question, ensure that you keep your statement brief and short as possible. 


Ensure you go straight to the point and be specific. Make sure you talk about things you have done, what you have learned from your previous working experience, give about 2 or more achievements/accomplishments that is related to the job role which will in turn position you for the job role you are seeking.

Avoid talking about your whole life history and don’t talk about experiences that are not relevant to the job role.

Tell us why you want to work for this company/ organization?

This is another common question interviewers ask to know if the candidate knows and understand the company’s mission, vision, goals and objectives. 

The interviewer wants to know if you applied for the job role just because of the pay-cheque or if you want to be part of the company and grow along with the company.  

So, ensure that you do proper research about the company, find out about their needs and then state how your wants align with the company’s needs.

Tell us why you want to leave your current job?

When replying to this question, remember to say positive things about your previous employers. Avoid saying anything negative or bad mouthing your past company, supervisors, boss or even your colleagues. Rather, let the response given to the interviewer show that you are willing to learn new skills and opportunities. 

If you were fired from your previous place of work, be truthful and state it clearly but if you left voluntarily ensure to explain why you left.

What’s your greatest Strength?

Endeavor that when replying to this question your response remains positive. Highlight strengths that are crucial to the job role and skills acquired that will be useful for example; your ability to solve problems, your ability to prioritize, your ability to work under pressure, your positive attitude and leadership skills. 

Avoid mentioning strengths that are irrelevant to the job role that you applied for.


What’s your greatest weakness?

This question is actually very tricky as it tends to confuse a lot of people. Mention a weakness that is not relevant to the job role you are applying for and state it clearly how you improved yourself to overcome such weakness.  Don’t dodge this question and do not mention a weakness that is relevant to the job role as this will reduce your chances of getting the job.

Why should we hire you?

This question is straight forward and gives you the opportunity to market yourself and skills to the interviewers. Mention your various skills and how useful it can be to the job role and the organization while narrating how you deliver great results and meet up to given target.

 What’s your greatest achievement?

This question gives you the opportunity to highlight your skills that will be useful to the job role you are applying for and ensure that you narrate on the accomplishment(s) that show the value and qualities the company/organization is looking for. The S.T.A.R method will be very useful in answering this question.

Are you willing to work weekends?

The reply is totally dependent on you. Be truthful and honest while giving your answer.

Are you willing to relocate if necessary?

This question also is totally dependent on you. Be honest and specific as you will have to consider your family, the vicinity you are relocating to and how suitable it will be for you. Avoid rushing to say “YES” or “I accept” as this might affect your career later in future. Think about it properly before coming to a final conclusion/agreement.

What’s your salary range or how much should we pay you?

This is the most interesting question for both the interviewer and applicant as it finalizes the monetary aspect of the interview. So ensure that your carry out proper research on the salary range for the job role that you have applied for and select the highest amount given based on your educational background, experience and skills. You can also state that the amount is open for negotiation since you are interested in the job role.


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