Going in for a job interview can be stressful. However, know that getting called in for an interview is a great sign. The majority of applicants never even hear back from a company.
The question is, how are your interviewing skills? Do you know how to answer questions commonly asked in interviews?
If not, don’t sweat it. We can help. Keep reading for the five most common interview questions and how to answer them.
1. Why Do You Want to Work Here?
Learning how to answer questions well in an interview requires preparation. Never walk into an interview blind without first researching the company’s mission, culture, products and services, and more.
When you’re asked why you want this job, you need to have a compelling reason. For example, stating that you really appreciate what the company does for the community, that your passions align with the type of work, etc.
2. Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?
Most interviewers will ask you why you’re leaving your current job. This is to gauge your professionalism as well as uncover any issues you might present at the company.
Regardless of how or why you left your other job, remain respectful and professional. If you didn’t appreciate your boss or co-workers, now is not the time to vent your frustrations. If you got fired, be honest and stick to the facts.
3. What Are Your Goals for the Future?
Companies want employees who are driven and motivated. Learning how to answer questions in an interview means understanding your goals. However, they also want to know if you’re planning on sticking around.
Keep your answer focused on the company. For example, “I’m looking for a solid career opportunity where I can start a long-term job and slowly advance in the company. My goals are centered around stability and improvement in this field.”
4. What Are Your Greatest Strengths and Weaknesses?
Learning how to answer questions in a job interview means being honest, even if it requires setting aside your modesty. When an interviewer asks about your strengths, don’t be shy.
Talk about both your technical skills that apply to the job position and your soft skills (personality, communication, etc.). Companies want to know you can both do your job well and get along with those around you.
Finally, you need to learn how to answer questions in a job interview that make you uncomfortable. When interviewers ask you about your weaknesses, you need to know how to answer in a way that shows self-awareness and willingness to grow. However, you also need to avoid indicating in any way that you aren’t right for the position.
Bring up a weakness, such as taking on too much at one time. Then describe how you become aware of it, and most importantly, how you’re working to overcome the problem.
5. Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?
This can be a tricky question as you do not want to threaten anyone by aiming for their job, but this is an opportunity to express your desire to grow within the company.
Perhaps an answer like “I hope to help the team build this department to the point where I can move up and work with people in this position to do the same.” It points out your desire to work as a team, help the company grow, and assist in facilitating future growth from a higher position.
Looking for More Tips on How to Answer Questions in a Job Interview?
If you’re throwing your hat in the ring and are ready to find a job, it’s vital that you know how to answer questions in a job interview. Be sure to check out some of our other insightful articles before you go. Alternatively, use us to help find job opportunities near you.