7 Top Interview Questions & How to Answer Them

1.     Tell me about yourself – Prepare this ahead of time and rehearse it so it doesn’t sound scripted. This can be your elevator pitch. Include job history, accomplishments, goals, some soft skills, what makes you different and something personal, to make you human! This should be approximately 6-8 sentences maximum.

 2.     Why do you want to work here? This will show a hiring manager if you have done your homework on their company ahead of time. Understand the company, its mission and its culture or unique aspects. This will allow you to customize your interview around why you are a perfect fit for the company.

 3.     What are your biggest strengths? Have 2-3 of your top strengths in mind and prepare a short explanation of why they are your top strengths. Tailor these to the job description. Give examples of them and try not to use the same answers they always hear; good communicator, detail oriented etc…What really makes you stand out? What is your brand?

 4.     What are your biggest weaknesses? We all have them, so own them and show how you fix them or work around them! Try to find some that while they may feel like a weakness to you, but the company may be glad you have. For example, “I tend to rush through tasks because I want to get them done quickly, but I am learning to step back and put a bit more emphasis on quality than speed. I’ve become both efficient and effective.” They may see you as hard worker that gets a lot done in a day! You are showing that you now focus on quality, which is something every employer should be happy to hear.

 5.     Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? You should demonstrate your desire to commit to the job and grow within the company. Talk about how you want to gain the knowledge necessary to benefit the company and move up within the organization over time.

 6.     How do you handle conflict? Explain a situation where you faced a conflict and how you resolved it in a positive manner. Be cautious of using an example of a conflict with a coworker, this may portray you as someone who doesn't get along with others.

 7.     Why should we hire you? Talk about your best skills and accomplishments that show why you are the perfect person for the position! Use specific details from the job description to emphasize why you are capable of doing them better than any other candidates.

Make sure you prepare ahead of your interview; memorize how you will answer these questions so that you aren’t fumbling around for the right answers. Practice with someone so that you learn how to say it clearly and concisely. Always tailor your answers around the job description and what you know about the company.

If you need help with interview coaching, preparation and/or mock questions, I can help!

 Nicki - Professional Impressions Resume Writer/Career Coach

 Website: www.proimpressionsbiz.com | Email: nicki@proimpressionsbiz.com

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