How to answer 23 of the most common interview questions

[Editor's note:  If you recently lost your job, take a look at

Wise Bread's collection of tips and resources for the recently
laid off.]

Let’s face it; no one likes the interview process. Well,

certainly not the people being interviewed anyway. You have
to be on your best behavior, you only get one chance to get it
right, and it’s like taking your driving test all over again. Over
the years I’ve been to countless interviews. To get my first job
out of college I attended some 15-20 interviews a week.
Whether it was in Britain or over here in the States, the
questions never really seemed to change from job to job. Not
only that, but the answers to them are usually the same, with
your own personal interpretation of course. Here I present 23
questions you’re likely to be asked, and how I have learned to
answer them. Why 23? Because I had more than 20 and less than 25. Remember, being
interviewed is a skill, and if you do the preparation you should ace it every time.

1. So, tell me a little about yourself.

I’d be very surprised if you haven’t been asked this one at every interview. It’s probably the
most asked question because it sets the stage for the interview and it gets you talking. Be
careful not to give the interviewer your life story here. You don’t need to explain everything
from birth to present day. Relevant facts about education, your career and your current life
situation are fine.

2. Why are you looking (or why did you leave you last job)?
This should be a straightforward question to answer, but it can trip you up. Presumably you
are looking for a new job (or any job) because you want to advance your career and get a
position that allows you to grow as a person and an employee. It’s not a good idea to mention
money here, it can make you sound mercenary. And if you are in the unfortunate situation of
having been downsized, stay positive and be as brief as possible about it. If you were fired,
you’ll need a good explanation. But once again, stay positive.

3. Tell me what you know about this company.

Do your homework before you go to any interview. Whether it’s being the VP of marketing
or the mailroom clerk, you should know about the company or business you’re going to work
for. Has this company been in the news lately? Who are the people in the company you
should know about? Do the background work, it will make you stand out as someone who
comes prepared, and is genuinely interested in the company and the job.

4. Why do you want to work at X Company?

This should be directly related to the last question. Any research you’ve done on the company
should have led you to the conclusion that you’d want to work there. After all, you’re at the
interview, right? Put some thought into this answer before you have your interview, mention
your career goals and highlight forward-thinking goals and career plans.
5. What relevant experience do you have?
Hopefully if you’re applying for this position you have bags of related experience, and if
that’s the case you should mention it all. But if you’re switching careers or trying something
a little different, your experience may initially not look like it’s matching up. That’s when
you need a little honest creativity to match the experiences required with the ones you have.
People skills are people skills after all, you just need to show how customer service skills can
apply to internal management positions, and so on.

6. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you?
Ok, this is not the time for full disclosure. If some people from your past are going to say
you’re a boring A-hole, you don’t need to bring that up. Stay positive, always, and maybe
have a few specific quotes in mind. “They’d say I was a hard worker” or even better “John
Doe has always said I was the most reliable, creative problem-solver he’d ever met.”

7. Have you done anything to further your experience?

This could include anything from night classes to hobbies and sports. If it’s related, it’s worth
mentioning. Obviously anything to do with further education is great, but maybe you’re
spending time on a home improvement project to work on skills such as self-sufficiency, time
management and motivation.

8. Where else have you applied?

This is a good way to hint that you’re in demand, without sounding like you’re whoring
yourself all over town. So, be honest and mention a few other companies but don’t go into
detail. The fact that you’re seriously looking and keeping your options open is what the
interviewer is driving at.

9. How are you when you’re working under pressure?

Once again, there are a few ways to answer this but they should all be positive. You may
work well under pressure, you may thrive under pressure, and you may actually PREFER
working under pressure. If you say you crumble like aged blue cheese, this is not going to
help you get your foot in the door.

10. What motivates you to do a good job?

The answer to this one is not money, even if it is. You should be motivated by life’s noble
pursuits. You want recognition for a job well done. You want to become better at your job.
You want to help others or be a leader in your field.

11. What’s your greatest strength?

This is your chance to shine. You’re being asked to explain why you are a great employee, so
don’t hold back and stay do stay positive. You could be someone who thrives under pressure,
a great motivator, an amazing problem solver or someone with extraordinary attention to
detail. If your greatest strength, however, is to drink anyone under the table or get a top score
on Mario Kart, keep it to yourself. The interviewer is looking for work-related strengths.

12. What’s your biggest weakness?

If you’re completely honest, you may be kicking yourself in the butt. If you say you don’t
have one, you’re obviously lying. This is a horrible question and one that politicians have
become masters at answering. They say things like “I’m perhaps too committed to my work
and don’t spend enough time with my family.” Oh, there’s a fireable offense. I’ve even heard
“I think I’m too good at my job, it can often make people jealous.” Please, let’s keep our feet
on the ground. If you’re asked this question, give a small, work-related flaw that you’re
working hard to improve. Example: “I’ve been told I occasionally focus on details and miss
the bigger picture, so I’ve been spending time laying out the complete project every day to
see my overall progress.”

13. Let’s talk about salary. What are you looking for?
Run for cover! This is one tricky game to play in an interview. Even if you know the salary
range for the job, if you answer first you’re already showing all your cards. You want as
much as possible, the employer wants you for as little as you’re willing to take. Before you
apply, take a look at salary.com for a good idea of what someone with your specific
experience should be paid. You may want to say, “well, that’s something I’ve thought long
and hard about and I think someone with my experience should get between X & Y.” Or, you
could be sly and say, “right now, I’m more interested in talking more about what the position
can offer my career.” That could at least buy you a little time to scope out the situation. But if
you do have a specific figure in mind and you are confident that you can get it, I’d say go for
it. I have on many occasions, and every time I got very close to that figure (both below and
sometimes above).

14. Are you good at working in a team?

Unless you have the I.Q. of a houseplant, you’ll always answer YES to this one. It’s the only
answer. How can anyone function inside an organization if they are a loner? You may want
to mention what part you like to play in a team though; it’s a great chance to explain that
you’re a natural leader.

15. Tell me a suggestion you have made that was implemented.

It’s important here to focus on the word “implemented.” There’s nothing wrong with having
a thousand great ideas, but if the only place they live is on your notepad what’s the point?
Better still, you need a good ending. If your previous company took your advice and ended
up going bankrupt, that’s not such a great example either. Be prepared with a story about an
idea of yours that was taken from idea to implementation, and considered successful.

16. Has anything ever irritated you about people you've worked with?
Of course, you have a list as long as your arm. But you can’t say that, it shows you as being
negative and difficult to work with. The best way to answer this one is to think for a while
and then say something like “I’ve always got on just fine with my co-workers actually.”

17. Is there anyone you just could not work with?

No. Well, unless you’re talking about murderers, racists, rapists, thieves or other dastardly
characters, you can work with anyone. Otherwise you could be flagged as someone who’s
picky and difficult if you say, “I can’t work with anyone who’s a Bronco’s fan. Sorry.”

18. Tell me about any issues you’ve had with a previous boss.
Arrgh! If you fall for this one you shouldn’t be hired anyway. The interviewer is testing you
to see if you’ll speak badly about your previous supervisor. Simply answer this question with
exteme tact, diplomacy and if necessary, a big fat loss of memory. In short, you've never had
any issues.

19. Would you rather work for money or job satisfaction?

It’s not a very fair question is it? We’d all love to get paid a Trump-like salary doing a job we
love but that’s rare indeed. It’s fine to say money is important, but remember that NOTHING
is more important to you than the job. Otherwise, you’re just someone looking for a bigger
paycheck.

20. Would you rather be liked or feared?

I have been asked this a lot, in various incarnations. The first time I just drew a blank and
said, “I don’t know.” That went over badly, but it was right at the start of my career when I
had little to no experience. Since then I’ve realized that my genuine answer is “Neither, I’d
rather be respected.” You don’t want to be feared because fear is no way to motivate a team.
You may got the job done but at what cost? Similarly, if you’re everyone’s best friend you’ll
find it difficult to make tough decisions or hit deadlines. But when you’re respected, you
don’t have to be a complete bastard or a lame duck to get the job done.

21. Are you willing to put the interests of X Company ahead of your own?
Again, another nasty question. If you say yes, you’re a corporate whore who doesn’t care
about family. If you say no, you’re disloyal to the company. I’m afraid that you’ll probably
have to say yes to this one though, because you’re trying to be the perfect employee at this
point, and perfect employees don’t cut out early for Jimmy’s baseball game.

22. So, explain why I should hire you.

As I’m sure you know, “because I’m great” or “I really need a job” are not good answers
here. This is a time to give the employer a laundry list of your greatest talents that just so
happen to match the job description. It’s also good to avoid taking potshots at other potential
candidates here. Focus on yourself and your talents, not other people’s flaws.

23. Finally, do you have any questions to ask me?

I’ll finish the way I started, with one of the most common questions asked in interviews. This
directly relates to the research you’ve done on the company and also gives you a chance to
show how eager and prepared you are. You’ll probably want to ask about benefits if they
haven’t been covered already. A good generic one is “how soon could I start, if I were
offered the job of course.” You may also ask what you’d be working on. Specifically, in the
role you’re applying for and how that affects the rest of the company. Always have questions
ready, greeting this one with a blank stare is a rotten way to finish your interview. Good luck
and happy job hunting.

How to Answer for your Major Weaknesses? ? ? ? ?

One of the trickier questions an interviewer might put to you is "what are your major
weaknesses?"

What are you meant to say? If you list all your weaknesses, aren't you just giving the
interviewer reasons to think that you aren't up to the job?

If you read most other interview advice guides, they will say that you should list some
weaknesses that are just as much strengths. Things like "I am a perfectionist" or "I work too
hard".
But these responses are JUST PLAIN WRONG. Let me explain why.

In fact, I'll let you in on a secret. It is my job as an interviewer to form my own opinion on
what your strengths and weaknesses are and I will do so without you needing to tell me! But,
if I DO ask you "what are your major weaknesses?" then I will be looking for three key
things:

   1. Self awareness

   2. Awareness of your impact on others
   3. Self development

So work out what your weaknesses are, and package them with the following three steps to
make your interviewer know that you are the right person for the job!
1. Self awareness

As an interviewer, I want to see that you are aware how your 'weakness' really is a weakness.
Illustrate with examples where you can.
2. Awareness of your impact on others

Your weakness may also impacting others in a negative way, so it is good to show that you
are aware of how your behaviour rubs off on other people.

(By the way, strong candidates, especially in an environment where teamwork is important,
will ALWAYS be demonstrating that they are aware of their impact on others.)

Okay, so now you're showing that you're really on top of this weakness, and that you're not
trying to show it off as some kind of strength.

Now it's time to go in for the kill! I will be putty in your hands if you go on to step 3!!
Step 3. Self development

Finishing your response off in this way will truly show that you understand that you have a
weakness and THAT YOU ARE DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!

Remember, everyone has weaknesses. They are not something to be hidden, but something to
be FIXED. So show your interviewer that you have set about FIXING your weaknesses.
Again, examples are useful.
Wrap-up

So, now do you see how you should REALLY be answering the 'weakness' question?

Follow the three steps above, and your interviewer will know that they are talking to a high
quality candidate who will continue to grow and flourish in their company
Why do you want to work for us?
One of the main questions posed on interviews is -- why do you want to work for us? What are
recruiters really looking for when they ask this? Who are they most concerned about – them or you?
They’re clear about their requirements and are seeking the candidate who is the best match. It
would be nice to think that they want to take the time to get to know you personally. In truth,
they’re on a mission, looking for the best fit for their needs.

Armed with this information, how can you best prepare your response?
1. Research the company’s needs.
Spend time online. Find out what is going on in that company. Are they planning to expand their
operations or have they recently downsized? Have they purchased cutting edge equipment that will
make them competitive in new markets? Have they received special awards or recognition in the
media? If you have any questions, write them down and bring them along on your interview. By
making this effort, you will demonstrate your genuine interest. This is just what the recruiter will be
looking for and you will make a favorable impression.

2. Find out all that you can about the position that you’re applying for.
Read the posting carefully. Look online to see if you can find any further information. If you know
someone who works for that company, see what they can find out for you.

3. Figure out how you can be a good fit for this company’s needs.
Take time to clarify each of these questions:
a. What is it about the company that interests you?
b. What is it about the position that interests you?
c. What is it in your experience, training and education that make you a perfect fit for that job?
d. What do you bring to the job that is unique/helps you stand apart from other candidates?

To insure that you’re well prepared, write your answers down and review them daily. Your
responses to questions c & d will be similar on most of your interviews. Get comfortable talking
about your assets. Preparing and practicing in advance will be helpful. If there are special points that
you want to mention but are concerned that you will forget, bring a ‘crib sheet’ along to jog your
memory.

Planning always pay off. In preparation for your interviews, take the time to research the company’s
needs, find out all that you can about the opening, and think ahead about what makes you a
competitive candidate. You’ll feel more confident, present better, and increase the probability of a
positive outcome.
Answering "Why do you want to work at this company?"
You have to ask yourself that prior to the interview. Investigate the company, remember what
you like about the company (it's products/services, positive things it has done for the
community/society, where the company is headed in the future, if it's an established company
(for job security), how you think you can help the company succeed, etc.) it really depends on
what type of job you are applying for (professional compared to part-time high school/college
job.

Just make sure to investigate the company, if you're in the US you can see if it's a member of
the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) if it's a company you've never heard. And let
them know you're interested in them because of the positive things they have done and give
examples, or of a problem they may be having and how you are the solution to that problem.

Here is more advice:

 I think the most important thing is to be honest and genuine. For example, Why you
want to work at the Disney Store? Why are you applying there instead of somewhere
else? Is it because you think the environment will be fun and energetic? Do you think
it will suit your personality and that you might fit in there? The interviewer wants to
find out if you're the sort of person who will succeed at the company. That's what you
want, too. You don't want a job you'll fail at. So, like I said, I think it's important to be
open and honest. Be yourself. Show your genuine enthusiasm for the position.

 You need to research the company you are wanting to work for and read their job
description. When you are asked the question, then you can tell them how your
background qualifications are transferable, and to work for XXXX will be a challenge
and rewarding.

 Here's an example: "Based on the research I've done, the company is an industry
leader. When I visited your web site, I found some impressive information about the
future projects you have planned. I was also impressed with the founders'
backgrounds and the current financial statements. This is the company I've been
looking for, I want to be where things are developing, changing, and growing. And I
want to make a meaningful contribution to that development and growth."

 The best way to answer this question is to RESEARCH the company first. Yep,
whether you are applying at McDonald's or applying at a Fortune 500 Company. Do a
search online. Look at their website. Find out who they are, what they do and why
you'd want to work there. The WORST thing you can do is showing up at an
interview knowing nothing about the company! Once you know about the company
you can answer this question more easily (for example: "I've read about how this
company's growth is on the rise and also how involved it is in the local community.")
Do NOT make the answer all about you. The employer does not care if you want to
advance your career, make more money or get better benefits. In this portion of the
interview and with asking this question, they want to know what YOU are going to do
for THEM.
  Because, after EXTENSIVE (<-emphasize that) research, I have found that this
company is best suited to my personal needs and therefore will allow me to make a
greater contribution to your company than any other.

 Usually asked to find out how much do you know about the organization's product
and mainly culture. Do your research online prior to the interview. Most private and
publicly held companies have investor relations or "about" pages. So do your research
and connect to the company's mission statement and the company's core values.

 "I think this company would fully enhance my career growth as well as my
professional growth."

Answer
Honestly.

If you need a job, then say you need a job and intend to work hard at the job and to become
more valueable to the company.

If it's a career improvement, say so.

Answer
From what I understand, sounding desperate for a job only LESSENS your chance of getting
the job.

You want to sell yourself in an interview. The employer is looking for someone to fill THEIR
needs...they aren't necessarily interested in YOUR needs just yet.

Addressing the fact that you NEED the job, does nothing for them. I wouldn't recommend
listening to that advice.

Answer

In that question, I think the employer wants to hear some compliments about their company
so you better cite some good qualities of the company, say it and justify it. Also say some
reasons that you want most about the company or about the job personally.
How do I answer interview question Do you have any question?

Answer
Always answer yes and be prepared to have some. Otherwise, you'll appear to be
disinterested. It is important to ask questions that show a response to what you have learned
from the employer. Avoid trying to sound scripted. Here are some examples:

Advancement

Can you tell me how success in this position is measured?

How do you encourage your employees to keep current with professional developments in
the field?
Can you describe your training program for me?
What is a typical career path for someone who has been in this position?
What is the time frame for advancement?
What is the retention rate for people in this position?
Does the company tend to promote from within?

Responsibilities

Tell me about a typical day on this job.

What is the most challenging aspect of this job?
Who would I work with most closely?
How often can I expect to relocate?

Being On A New Job

What is the most challenging aspect to this job for someone who is new to the company?
What will the new (job title) have to accomplish in the next six months?
What are your expectations for newly hired employees?
What qualities do newly hired employees possess?
How would you describe a typical first assignment?

More About The Company

Why is the position open?

What are your major projects for the coming year?
What is the structure of the department where the position is located?
What is the work environment like?
What are the company's strengths and weaknesses?
Good general questions

1. Please describe the duties of the job for me. (You should already know this - but if not, ask
for a formal job description)
2. What qualities are you looking for in the candidate that fills this position?
3. What skills are especially important for someone in this position?
4. Is this a new position, or am I replacing someone?
5. How long has the position been open?
6. What training would I receive if hired?
7. What characteristics do the achievers in this company seem to share?
8. Where does this position fit into the organizational structure?
9. What is the largest single issue facing your staff (department) now?
10. How does the company plan to market its new (line of ______, product, service, etc.)?
11. I noted in your annual report that ……….. Has this strategy been successful?
12. How much travel, if any, is involved in this position?
13. Do you fill positions from the outside or promote from within first?
14. What is the usual promotion timeframe?
15. What are your growth projections for next year?
16. Is your company environmentally conscious? In what ways?
17. What is the relationship of this organization to the local community?
18. How often are performance reviews given?
19. In what ways is a career with your company better than one with your competitors?
20. What kind of assignments might I expect during the first six months on the job?

Questions for the Employer/Interviewer

1. What do you (the interviewer) like best about your job/company?

2. Why do you continue to work for this company/organization/corporation?

Good closing questions

1. What is the next step in the selection process?

2. When should I expect to hear from you, or should I contact you?
3. When would you want me to start in this position?

Questions to ask after you are offered a position

1. Once the probation period is completed, how much authority will I have over decisions?
2. Will I have the opportunity to work on special projects?
3. Are salary adjustments geared to the cost of living or job performance?
4. What do you wish you had known about the company before you started?
5. Is the last person who held this position still on staff?
6. Does your company provide any financial assistance for further education?
7. Do you have a standard benefits package or can I choose from a variety of options?
8. Has there been much turnover in this job area?
9. Do you offer flextime?