How To Answer 7 Most Common Interview Questions
This article is going to give you tips on how to answer the most common interview questions.
1. Tell us about Yourself/How would you describe Yourself
What They Really Mean: Tell Me Why You’re the Right Fit for This Job
The Panel wants to know why you’re the best candidate for the job. Try to answer questions without giving too much, or too little, personal information. You can start by sharing some of your past work experience, that is related to the job at hand (just do this briefly), move/ on to talk about your present work experience, also related to the job, then move on to your future prospected experience, again related to the job. For Example: in an interview for an H.R Officer, the following may go on “I have always loved working in Human Resources, I was payroll officer for 5 years and recently i have worked as an Assistant Human Resources Officer where i have excelled and gained new skills. And now I’m looking to expand my experience across different aspects of Human Resources and i am confident this organization is the right place to do so“.
This is not the only way to answer this question. Interviewers do not need to hear a robot, tweak it the way you see fit and actually have fun while at it
2. What salary are you seeking?
What They mean: Are you Reasonable and Can we Afford You?
This is a question that requires research first. When you’re asked, “What salary are you seeking?” it is to your advantage if the employer tells you the range first, but commonly they don’t give a range and will insist you cough up a figure Prepare by knowing the going rate in your area, and your bottom line or walk-away point. The default answer would possibly be: “I am sure when the time comes, we can agree on a reasonable amount”, if they insist on you say the exact amount, then give the going rate (that has been well researched).”
3.What are your weaknesses?
What They mean: We would want to know if you are smart enough to handle tricky situations
It is one of the most popular questions interviewers ask. It is also the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weaknesses and maximizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: For Example “I am a Principled and Firm person, when it comes to standards i am rigid and to some people i may come out as hard and difficult.”
4. Why should we hire you?
What They mean: Convince us as to why we should take you
Having read the job description and researched more on the organization ,you should have an ‘idea’ of what the organization requires, then answer the question by applying your experience, skills and knowledge to the job and ideals of the organization : For Example If one is having an interview with an organization that focuses on Saving Money, one could go on like: “With five years’ experience working in the financial industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your organization. I’m confident I would be a great addition to your team.”
5. What can you do for us that other candidates can’t?
What They mean: What makes you Unique and Special
Emphasize what makes you different when you’re asked, “What can you do for us that other candidates can’t?”. This will take an assessment of your experiences, skills and traits. Summarize concisely and always match this to what the organization said they were looking for: “I have a unique combination of strong technical skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-friendly.” Make it as unique and original as you can make it.
6. What are your goals for the future?
What They Want to Know: Are you going to grow with us, or we are a means to an end for you
This question is designed to find out if you’re going to stick around or move on as soon as you find a better opportunity. Keep your answer focused on the job and the organization and reiterate to the interviewer that the position aligns with your long-term goals. For Example, ” I love stability, it gives me a peace of mind. My major objective is to find a job that I can hold long term, grow into, becoming a valued employee as I gradually advance to positions of increasing authority and responsibility. I’m excited and hugely interested in the Human Resources Officer here at Champions Food, because of your vision and history. My future goal is to eventually become a Human Resources Manager after I’ve proven my competencies in customer service and team leadership.”
7. What do you know about the company?
What They Want to Know: Have you done your research before you came here
The best way to answer, “what do you know about our company?” is to name specific facts you found while researching the company that demonstrate you understand their business and got to know their organization before applying. You can name facts you discovered on the company website, social media channels, news articles and more. For Example: “I read on your website that you’re one of the top Food companies in Africa, and that you export to more than 50 Countries, including countries in the E.U and also the United States. I also read a recent news article that mentioned you’re looking to expand into Asia. And can you tell me more about that?”
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