How to answer interview Qs
Job interviews do vary, but there are some questions that you will be asked every time. Here's your guide on how to answer them.
Tell me about yourselfMost interviews open this way and it is your opportunity to give a good first impression to the interviewer. Talk them through your CV, starting with your highest qualification and then running through the jobs you've had so far. Keep your answer to under five minutes and don't go into too much detail - the interviewer will ask you to expand on items that are interesting or relevant to them.
Why do you want to work here?
Those four magical words "I need a job" never seem to appeal to interviewers. This is your opportunity to show that you have really thought about this. You should have done some research on the company, so you should have knowledge of the company's values and products. Discuss how these match your career plans and how you would love the opportunity to work for them.
What are your strengths?
Tailor your answers to the skills required for the job you are interviewing for. These could be measurable skills, such as computer skills, or intangible skills such as man management. If you're not sure where to start, take a look at the job advert, which will list the skills the employers would like. Make sure you back up your answer with some examples.
What are your weaknesses?
Normally, this is the question that no one looks forward to, but there's no need to worry. You know they will answer this, so think up the answer beforehand. Concencrate on an item that you have worked on to improve. So if you aren't great at using computers, tell the interviewer about the IT courses you've been on. Whatever you do, don't say you don't have any weaknesses - as it's simply not true - and don't say "I tend to work too hard", because that's not really answering the question.
What three things would your manager say about you?On this question, you have the chance to talk yourself up without sounding arrogant. After all, it is someone else's words. Include some about why you are suitable for the job and some about you as a team member. For example: "My boss has told me he never has to check my work, he can always rely on me and he enjoys my sense of humour."
Why should we hire you and not someone else?
Have a think about what you can offer that is rare or unique. Are you very good both technically and with people, for example. Once you have given your reason, back it up with examples.
Where do you see yourself in five years' time?
You'll need to show the interviewer that you have both ambition and the determination to make it a reality. Talk about the kind of job you'd like to have and how the position you are interviewing for fits into that.
What salary are you looking for?
Try to avoid giving a specific number - if you're too high, it may put you out of the running and if you're too low, you will be in a poor position for negotiating if you get the job. If the employer has provided a guideline salary, say it’s around the area you’re seeking.
If you were an animal, what would you want to be?
Lots of interviewers have unusual questions like this to see if you can think quickly. They can also act as a psychological test to see the kind of person you are. If you answer ‘a hamster’, you will make a soft, passive impression. If you answer ‘a lion’, you will be seen as aggressive. What type of personality do you need for this job?
Ask the interviewer questions yourself
Make sure you ask the interviewer questions to show your interest in the company and the job. Prepare some questions which can give you more information on the position and the company.