Interview questions

If interview hell is looming, get a grip &understand the sorts of questions that might come up. The key is to be prepared, so Check out these questions and suggestions then go in there fully armed.

General questions:

1. Tell me about yourself.Keep your answer to one or two minutes. Don’t ramble.If you have a profile or personal statement at the top of your CV use this as your starting point.

2. What do you know about our company?Research the company’s products, size, reputation, image, goals, problems, management style, people, skills, history and philosophy. Be informed and interested. Let the interviewer tell you about the company, let them define their business in their terms.

3. Why do you want to work for us?Don’t talk about what you want; first talk about their needs.You want to be part of an exciting forward-moving company.You can make a definite contribution to specific company goals.

4. What would you do for us? What can you do for us that someone else can’t?Relate past experiences that represent success in working for your previous employer. Talk about your fresh perspective and the relevant experience you can bring to the company.Highlight your track record of providing creative, workable solutions.

5. What do you find the most attractive about this position? Least attractive?List a couple of attractive factors such as the responsibility the post offers and the opportunity to work with experienced teams that have a reputation for innovation and creativity. Say you’d need more information and time before being able to make a judgement on any unattractive aspects.

6. Why should we hire you?Because of knowledge, experience, abilities, and skills.

7. What do you look for in a job?An opportunity to use skills, to perform and be recognised.

8. Please give me your definition of a ... (the position for which you are being interviewed).Keep it brief and actions/results-oriented.

9. How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our firm?Very quickly – after a couple of weeks getting to know your system and clients and a brief period of adjustment on the learning curve.Highlight that you’re a quick learner and used to adapting to new situations.

10. How long would you stay with us?As long as we both feel I’m contributing, achieving, growing etc.