Five Commmon Interview Questions

An interview is an important interaction where you are given the opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and suitability for a specific role in an organisation. Regardless of whether the interview is for a job, an academic admission, or other pursuits, it offers candidates a platform to directly communicate their strengths and qualifications. An interview assists interviewers to evaluate the qualifications of the candidate through a series of questions and discussions and enables the candidate to gain more knowledge about the organisation. This article aims to discuss the types of interviews, preparation for before and during the interview as well as five common interview questions.

 

Preparing for the different types of interviews

Before attending your interview, it is important to have a foundational understanding of the specific interview type. As outlined by Mahadave (2020), the following knowledge is necessary for the different types of interviews:

 

In-person interview

The traditional in-person interview is the most common type of interview and requires proper preparation:

• Demonstrating confidence and professionalism through a firm handshake
• Being mindful of your body language
• Arrive on time or before the scheduled time

Telephonic interview

In this scenario, the employer will contact you to reschedule the interview. On the day of the interview, remember to:

• Select a quiet, distraction-free space 
• Have notes ready for challenging questions, considering the interviewer can hear but not see your notes
• Dress appropriately, it contributes to your confidence even if the interviewer cannot see you

Virtual interview

Virtual interviews are gaining popularity due to its cost-effectiveness, particularly for nationwide or international organisations. On the day of the interview, make sure to:

• Ensure that your Wi-Fi connection and webcam are functioning properly 
• Maintain a clean and tidy environment around you, positioning your camera toward a neutral background
• Ensure ample lighting for visibility
• Dress professionally, as the interviewer will have a visual of you during the virtual meeting

 

Before an interview

Preparing for an interview requires gathering essential information about the employer and the role of the job since this information will contribute to a boost in your confidence during the interview (Allegheny, 2018). Gathering information beforehand is important since interviewers are likely to assess your level of preparation as well as evaluate your enthusiasm for the job role and the organisation (Walters, 2023). Important information like; the organisations mission, vision, industry trends, client information and awareness of their competitors is crucial in your response towards basic questions as it indicates an interest in your potential employer (Allegheny, 2018) and communicates your seriousness about the job (Walters, 2023).

It is crucial to create a positive first impression regardless of the interview type. In order to create a positive impression ensure that you are punctual, choose the appropriate attire reflecting the job role, and minimise fashion accessories and strong fragrances. Turn off mobile devices to prevent distractions and disturbances. Ensure that you greet everyone with respect and professionalism as well as maintaining silence until the interview officially starts. 

Preparing for an interview can help alleviate common worries and nervousness. Mahadave (2020) created the following interview checklist, which can be incorporated into your preparation for the interview.

• Examine the job description
• Research the job role
• Research the company
• Know what you are going to wear
• Practice your posture
• Arrange transportation beforehand
• Devise question to ask the interviewer/s
• Prepare and practice answers to the most common questions

 

During the interview 

According to Allegheny (2018), it is recommended to follow these guidelines during the interview – maintain composure and:

• Upon arrival take time to use the restroom, double check your attire, get a drink of water, and clear your thoughts
• Extend a proper handshake and introduce yourself to everyone who is present
• Maintain consistent and positive eye contact
• Speak slowly and observe the facial expressions and body language of the interviewer/s
• Keep an open posture and sit upright 

 

Five common interview questions

1. Tell me about yourself: Avoid discussing personal problems; instead, focus on sharing professional and personal accomplishments that highlight your ambition, dedication, and motivation. Frame your responses to showcase your personality and demonstrate how your capabilities align with the job requirements. Approach this question as an opportunity to effectively “market” yourself, as suggested by Skillings (2012).
2. What is the most difficult work situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it?: Provide an answer that includes a degree of vulnerability to demonstrate your ability to learn and grow from experiences. Share a genuine and honest situation where you encountered a challenge, emphasising authenticity and capability. Discuss a specific problem, describe how you navigated through the difficulty, and highlight the effective solution you implemented, as recommended by Mahadave (2020).
3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?: When talking about your strengths, steer clear of appearing overly self-promotional. Emphasise three qualities that align with the employer’s requirements and a blend of skills suited to the job role. Similarly, when addressing weaknesses, refrain from sounding negative. Instead, focus on showcasing how you’ve taken steps to improve your weaknesses, such as through participation in training courses, as suggested by Walters People (2020).
4. Where do you see yourself in five years?: Present yourself as ambitious and goal-oriented, considering the potential path this particular job role can offer you within the organisation. Maintain a realistic outlook on how the job and the organisation align with your career aspirations, as advised by Walters (2023).
5. Why are you the best candidate for the job?: This question offers an opportunity to demonstrate why you should be considered an asset to their organisation. Reinforce your strengths and highlight a combination of skills and experiences. Convey confidence and enthusiasm to instill belief in your abilities and commitment, as recommended by Skillings (2012).

 

References

Allegheny. (2018). Preparing for the interview: Types of interviews, preparing for the interview, salary negotiation, and inappropriate interview questions. Allegheny Career Education, 1-16. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjS28eE4oKEAxU-VEEAHZn2D7IQFnoECA0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsites.allegheny.edu%2Fcareer-professional-development%2Ffiles%2F2018%2F06%2FPreparing-for-the-Interview.pdf&usg

Mahadave, K. S. (2020). Interview tips – A Guide. University of Kwazulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, Durban. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiW0MuH1IKEAxWsQkEAHQ2VAToQFnoECCgQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Faessupport.ukzn.ac.za%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F07%2FInterview-tips-A-guide-Web.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2S4B4pykA9O

Skillings, P. (2012). How to answer the top 10 questions you’ll get in your job interview. Job interview training guides. Skillful Communications. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjKwZfX1IKEAxUXUkEAHZQNAwMQFnoECBYQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gvsu.edu%2Fcms4%2Fasset%2FA5A7D4FD-936E-4562-8EC79EFCECAC7F3B%2Fbiginterview-top-10-questions.pdf&usg=AOvVa

Walters People. (2020). Seven most common interview questions. Retrieved from Walters People: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiO8eWA8YKEAxX4UkEAHTnQDTA4ChAWegQIBxAB&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walterspeople.be%2Fcareer-advice%2F7-most-common-interview-questions.html&usg=AOvVaw3LDLSU_Sqj1n_-fXURoAc

Walters, R. (2023). The complete interview guide: Helping you land the perfect role. Retrieved 2024, from Robert Walters Group: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwimhuGY4YKEAxX1WEEAHRFjBeUQFnoECDsQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.robertwalters.co.nz%2Fcontent%2Fdam%2Frobert-walters%2Fglobal%2Ffiles%2Fcomplete-interview-guide%2FIntervie