Common Job Interview Questions and Answers

Tell me about yourself.

The best answer to the “tell me about yourself” question will relay your skills and previous work experience (as they relate to the job description) in further detail. Your resume and cover letter can touch on these topics briefly, and you can then use the interview to talk more about how you would be the perfect fit for the job.

Why do you want this job?

You can emphasize that this specific position is your dream job and why you think your skills make you the perfect fit for the job. Conversely, the best answer to this question should talk more about what you can provide the company instead of vice versa.

Why are you leaving your current job?

Again, wording is key here. You don’t want to tell the hiring manager that you hated your last job at or complain about your current employer. Even if your boss isn’t the best, it isn’t a good look to talk badly about them to a potential employer either.

Instead, focus on the benefits this new job will bring to your career. You can discuss how this job position is more in line with your interests and long-term goals.

Sample answers to use include:

“I’ve always been interested in [Industry] and the role of [job position] seemed like the perfect opportunity to break into this industry. Being a [senior staff position] is ultimately my goal, so I hope to learn a lot about this type of work in the [job position] role.”

“I have three years of [related work experience], so I think it’s time for me to move up in my career path. [Senior job position] will be a great chance for me to display my leadership skills.”

What motivates you?

It’s best not to use a generic answer like, “I wake up motivated every day.” Instead, tailor your answer to an aspect of the job that will motivate you. For instance, a good answer would be something like, “I’m a team player, so problem-solving with my team members will be a fun challenge for me.”

You can also relate your answer to your greatest strength.

What is your greatest strength?

Writing down a list of your work-related strengths beforehand is a good start. Then you should pick out a couple that would really make you shine in the role.

You also want to talk about a professional work achievement you were able to accomplish because of that particular strength. For instance, if you are outgoing and get along with other team members, then you can talk about how your teamwork skills at your previous job led to a boost in sales or revenue.

What is your biggest weakness?

This might seem like a trick question. After all, talking about your biggest weakness will only make you seem like a less than perfect fit for the job, right? Not so.

Instead, frame your answer in a way that turns your greatest weakness into a learning opportunity that this new job will provide for you.

For example:

My biggest weakness is that I lack experience in Public Relations. In my new media relations role, I hope to learn more about the tools of the trade and learn what it takes to become successful in this industry.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question lets the hiring manager know about your specific career goals and that you will not just be interested in the company for the short term. You might want to draft several sample answers that you can adjust to the job you are applying for.

Is there anything else you want to ask us?

It is always a good idea to have at least one or two questions in mind. Remember, the job interview isn’t just for the hiring managers. You also want to make sure that this job is truly the right fit for your career goals too.

Here are some sample questions to ask:

• “What is the company culture like?”
• “What will the average day of [job position] be like?”
• “What’s your favorite part about working here?”