#Open-ended questions

Among the different types of questions that can be used in a job interview, the open-ended questions are often the most useful for the interviewer. This kind of questions allows getting a little more information about you, therefore, the interviewer expect a wide response, not a simple "yes" or "no". The Open-Ended Questions also allows interviewers time to plan subsequent questions and encourage applicants to talk a bit more fluency, leaving aside the timidity and fear.

Below, you will be able to find, some of the most common and important Open-Ended questions:

What do you know about us?

This question allows the interviewer to see, how well prepared are the candidates and how they know about the company. To answer this question, it is advisable to have read a little about the company and know things such as who the founder was and the company's awards. You can also talk a little about the company's achievements and products. An example of good answer might be:

• I know this is a well known company with excellent professionals. I also know by my experience that you offer quality products and services. That's why I want to work here.

How would you describe yourself? and how would others describe you?

These are two classic questions that interviewers often use. The first question allows the interviewer to see what the candidates think of themselves, it is important to remember that if you can't get excited about yourself, then there's a problem. The second question shows how others describe you; it will give a clear idea about if you are able to LISTEN to others. An example of good answer might be:

• I am a very responsible person with the desire to succeed. People who know me also say the same about me.

What motivates you personally and professionally on a daily basis?

This question allows the interviewer to see what motivates candidates to work and excel, and what kind of qualities the candidates can see in the company. To answer this question is necessary to find a special feature on the company and relate it to your career aspirations. An example of good answer might be:

• I like the teamwork and good treatment to people, and I see that this company can offer me that. I can also see that the company offers me many opportunities for my professional development.

Why are you leaving (left) your last job?

The answer the interviewer is looking for here is "for growth." Because the company wants a candidate that is looking to expand out of their comfort zone and move their career to the next level. Most businessmen would submit that a candidate who is not motivated is not worth hiring because; it is a sure sign of lack of commitment at work. That is why a motivated candidate even when slightly less qualified would be a better option to hire. An example of good answer might be:

• I want to get ahead and be recognized for my work, and I think my previous job did not help me with that

If you would have the opportunity to work in this company, what would you do differently?

This is definitely one of the most difficult questions to answer. Here, the interviewer tries to discover some special things about the candidates that will provide insight into their dreams and ambitions. However, it also seeks if the candidate looks bad things inside or outside the company. So, you must take special care at the moment to answer this question. An example of good answer might be:

• I do not see anything wrong with the company, that is why I want to work here

What are your goals for the future?

With this question, interviewers pretend to know if you are a person with great ambitions and what you are able to do to achieve those goals. Be careful when answering this question, because most times the excessive ambition can lead to misunderstanding and sometimes the lack of ambition might suggest that you are not totally committed to the work. To answer this question, you must have clear your goals and tell the interviewer that you want to achieve your goals by working hard. An example of good answer might be:

• I have many goals in life, and would like to achieve them by working hard.

Other important Open-Ended questions are:

• How do you handle stress and pressure?
• What challenges are you looking for in a position?
• How will your greatest strength help you perform?
• Why did you select your college or university?
• Are you willing to spend at least six months as a trainee?
• What makes you want to work hard?
• Do you get on well with your last boss?
• Give me an example of a time when you got really motivated at work