#Answer the 10 most frequently asked interview questions

Posted on: February 21, 2013

Congratulations, you ve been invited to attend an interview!

Well it’s going to take more than good luck for you to actually be the successful candidate. Preparation is crucial; the recruiter might ask you some very nerve-racking questions.

1. Tell me about yourself; why have you applied for this role?

2. What do you know about our company?

3. Why do you want to work for us?

4. Why should we hire you?

5. What kind of environment do you like working in?

6. Where do you see yourself being in 3-5 years from now?

7. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Be honest, but end on a positive note.
• Explain that you are happy to undertake further training to develop your skills.
• Show how you have managed to minimise or turn weaknesses into strengths (e.g. through training and education), and use your strengths to reduce the impact of your weaknesses.
• We all have weaknesses. Still, think about how they might affect the interviewer’s impression of you before you talk.

8. How would your friends and colleagues describe you?

• Bring out the positive aspects of what your friends have said about you.
• You can mention any criticisms, but demonstrate that you are willing to act upon advice.
• Demonstrate that you can get on with all kinds of people – particularly at work.

9. Why are you wanting leave your current job?

• Don’t criticise your past employers.
• Say something like, “I have gained significant experience, knowledge and skills over the last x number of years, but I feel that I need the fresh challenge provided by this opportunity.”

10. If you were offered this role, when could you start?

Why not try practising for your interview with Jobsite’s Be My Interviewer  - you can also check out our recent video blog How to Prepare for Interview .