Top 10 interview questions
The secret to slaying them at an interview is to have planned an answer for every potential question, but where do you start? Well, how about the top 10 most-asked interview questions?
1. What are your weaknesses?
Your boss wants to know that you're self-aware, but think carefully about what weakness you reveal - saying you have a tendency to nod off around 3pm every day is NOT a good move. Show that you're trying to address a weakness, preferably giving examples of how you've done so. Oh, and don't say: I haven't got any. They'll know that you're fibbing.
2. Why should we hire you?
This is the opposite question - a chance to let them know what your strengths are. The most important thing here is not to be vague about your attributes; really shout them out and give precise examples of positive things you've done that have benefited your last employers.
3. Why do you want to work for us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to show how serious you are about this job; so serious that you've researched the company, its philosophies and its working practice - all of which, of course, are exactly what you're looking for. Just don't mention money or financial packages as a reason.
4. Why did you apply for this job?
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This is a slightly different question - more about the position itself than just the employer. Mention things like new challenges, using previously gained experience in an exciting new role, or the opportunity to learn. Try to be specific and give examples. Again, don't say: Because I want to earn more money.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years' time?
This is an opportunity to show that you've really thought about what you want from the job. Be honest if you're ambitious, but try to be realistic - you're not going to be MD in five years' time if you're going for a job as postroom assistant. If you research beforehand and drop in job titles from their current corporate structure, it'll reflect very well.
6. Why did you leave / are you leaving your job?
If you lost your last job because of redundancies, say so. There's no shame in it and there are few people nowadays who haven't lost a job in this way. If you're still in a job, don't slag off your employers. You may be looking to leave but it still shows a lack of loyalty. Instead, focus on what you'd be gaining by joining the interviewers' organisation.
7. What salary are you seeking?
This is a tricky one because you don't want to come across as money-grabbing, but equally you don't want to sell yourself short. Try to find out the going rate for your position and, if possible, whether the company is a generous payer, then set yourself an amount below which you're not interested. You could also turn the question around: What do you see as an appropriate salary range for my experience?
8. What achievement in your life are you most proud of?
One man's cherished memories are another man's dull holiday snaps, so the important thing here is not so much what you're proud of, but showing exactly why you're proud of this thing and what you learned from the experience. If you can't think of a work example, pick something more personal. For example: I'm proud of bringing up my son because it showed I could be less selfish and could look after someone completely dependent on me.
9. What motivates or drives you?
Again, this question demonstrates your self-awareness (or lack of it). There's really no wrong answer here, but don't come across as cocky or money-grabbing. Equally, if you just want a job that you can look forward to every morning and be comfortable in, then say that too. An interviewer is looking for honesty.
10. If you were an animal, what would you be?
The answers to this sort of pop-psychological question can be very revealing, so think carefully before you answer. Answering a cute little kitten may not get you taken seriously, while a man-eating lion may seem too aggressive. Buy yourself a little time by saying something like goodness, what a good question, while you think of the sort of impression you want to make. And if all else fails, make them laugh - it'll ease the tension, if nothing else!
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