Responding to the Top 7 Interview Questions

On Monday, I posted a list of some of the most common interview questions and asked readers to think about how they’d respond to each one. Today’s post digs in deeper and offers tips on answering these questions.

1. What do you know about our company? Here’s your chance to show off the research you conducted about the organization before the interview. That’s right, you’ll need to find out some basic information about your prospective employer before showing up for the interview. Good things to know include: how long the company has been around, what they do and what’s unique about them. If the company has a website, review the About Us pages. Other ways to get more background include asking friends and family what they know about the company.

2. What are your strengths? When answering this question, think about your strengths which would be most valuable in relation to the job you’re applying for. Sure, being a trivia wiz or a great dancer are fun abilities, but they’re probably not what the interviewer is looking for, unless you’re applying to be the next host of “Jeopardy” or a contestant on “So You Think You Can Dance.”

3. What are your weaknesses? This is one of the most dreaded interview questions around. Nobody wants to list off their low points to a potential employer. But don’t despair – answering this question wisely can score major points with an interviewer. Instead of focusing on character weaknesses, like a bad temper or laziness, mention weaknesses that are job specific. Also, be sure to tell the interviewer what you’re doing to remedy the problem.

4. How would your last boss describe you? It’s always a little bit difficult to speak for someone else. In this case, it’s usually best to cite something specific the boss said about you in the past. For example, “My supervisor at Widget Manufacturing frequently praised my ability to work quickly and safely.”

5. Why did you leave your last job? Be careful on this question. You never want to bash your past employer or supervisor. You also don’t want to sound money hungry by listing low compensation as your main reason for leaving. Instead, try to focus on what the job you’re applying for offers that your last job didn’t. For instance, the position you’re interested in might have more opportunities for growth, be closer to your home or offer better hours.

6. Where do you want to be in five years? This is your opportunity to share your goals and interests. But, remember to keep it professional. The interviewer doesn’t need to know that you hope to buy a Harley Davidson or win the lottery. Most interviewers ask this question because they want to know if you’ll stick with them over the long haul. Even if you’re not sure where you’ll be in five years, try to give an answer that shows you’d be open sticking around if things go well.

7. Why do you want to work here? The winning answer for this question is not: “Because I need a job.” While that may be what’s running through your mind, the interviewer is looking for specific reasons their job opening appeals to you. When answering this question, think about how your skills would benefit the company. For example, “I want to work at XYZ company because your need for an energetic office manager is a great fit with my background and personality.”

What interview questions do you have a hard time answering? How do you prepare before an interview?

Comments

[Emma]

One question I have got that always throws me off when asked is: "I have a stack of resumes/applications here on my desk. Why should I hire you over all of these other people?" It is always tough to answer especially if they have already asked about your personal strengths since repeating an answer never seems like a good idea.

[Summer]

I agree, Emma, that is a difficult one. I usually find it best to summarize how your unique skills would be of use in that specific position.
Here's an example:
Q. Emma, why should I hire you for this position as sales manager at XYZ Industries?
A. You should hire me because your need for someone who can sell 25 widgets a day is a great match with my abilities. In the past, I've exceeded my sales goals by 10%. On top of that, at my last job, I successfully led a team of 5 other sales people to increase their widget orders by 15%.

[vincent]

one question that i always have problem with is, "what are your weaknesses?" the question seems easy but it's hard 'cause i never thought of my weaknesses or any weaknesses in my passed jobs.

[omer mohammed]

im just wondering to find warehouse job specially, loading truck or unload truck, qarantinte area,checking discrentance report, damage report,,
the area im intersting, for around beaverton cite, oregon state,

[Orlando]

Those are great suggestions Summer. The only thing I stumble with during an interview is not being able to sit still, how do you propose I fix this complex?

[Summer]

Fidgeting can be a problem, especially when you're really nervous. What about bringing a portfolio filled with past work examples to show during the interview? This would give your hands something to do.

Another idea is to fold your hands on top of the table, sit up straight and make consistent eye contact to ensure that you aren't wiggling around during the interview.

[Lisa]

I have been in the same field for nearly 15 yrs. I left my last position(employed for 3 1/2yrs)due to an unsatisfactory work environment. Actually, it was due to a hostile employee who I felt had anger issues. I had spoke to my supervisor about this situation and they did not respond only moving him to another office. The day I left,he had me cornered up against a wall yelling at me with clenched fists was the bottom line. I left this position. I was denied unemployment, appealed their decision and won my unemployment claim.Oh by the way the employee was fired 1 month after I left due to insubordination and not following company policy.My question is, how do I answer the question...Why did you leave your last job? I am not a quitter by any means, I have always been a loyal employee with excellent work ethics.

[Summer]

Lisa,
Your situation is a tricky one. While the job you left sounds like it was a very difficult one for you, it's still important that you try to show a positive attitude if asked about your previous employment.
Perhaps you could try something like, "I really enjoyed my last job and the line of work I was in. However, I left due to a situation that was beyond my control." If the interviewer asks for further clarification, you could then explain that your work life suffered due to the actions of an employee who was later terminated for insubordination. Explain that this was a one-time occurrence and that you normally get along excellently with those around you (as long as that's true.)
Best wishes on your job search!

[Roger]

I have a felony conviction that is less than 7 years old, and I
just got out of prison. What's the best way to handle the question about the gap in my employment?

[Summer]

Hi Roger,
Thanks for your question. I believe the best way to handle your situation is to be upfront and honest about your conviction and prison time. While you may prefer to keep the matter concealed, it's probably in your best interest to be forthcoming. For example, if the employer runs a background check and discovers your felony charge, you will look much better if you've already discussed the matter with them. You don't need to provide a lot of details on the situation - just a brief overview should be enough.
To try and put a positive light on the situation, talk about what you've learned from your time in prison and how you have changed since your felony conviction.
Additionally, if you have personal and professional references, provide these during the interview process. This will help the employer feel more comfortable offering you a position.
And remember, to keep a positive attitude. Don't get discouraged if the first few jobs you apply with turn you down. Eventually, you will find an employer that will look beyond your past and see your strengths.
Best wishes on your job search!

[Lydia Thomas]

The question i don't find easy to answer is where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years time, as God is the only person who knows the answer to that question. The question about your weaknesses well, no person wants to reveal their weak points even if they have any.