Tackling the most common interview questions

Interviews can be daunting, to say the least. Even if you might lack some of the required qualifications, a good interview can make all the difference. But facing your prospective employer is one thing, and trying not to make a fool out of yourself is another. And of course, you might be well prepared to answer all the questions related to your field, but sometimes, it’s the most common questions that can be complex to answer. Of course, it’s not like that with everyone, but for many, this is the case. So, here are some of the most common interview questions and the smart and impactful ways to answer them.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

What you want to do here is avoid mentioning the things that are already in your CV. For instance, mentioning where you graduated from and all that is only redundant. Instead, give them an overview of your current work profile (if you have one), or simply tell them about yourself – what kind of a person you are, and your background.

Example: Right now, I am a content writer and SEO Expert. I have been writing for almost 4 – 5 years now. I don’t exactly have a niche writing category. I am comfortable with all kinds of writing, except for sports, or maybe fashion. Because, honestly, I’m not a very athletic person and have little knowledge in fashion. So, I would say I’m pretty versatile.

2. Can you describe yourself?

This is a bit tricky. Because, the question above and this one can appear to be one and the same. And many-a-times, interviewees get flustered when they hear the question above. They’re like “Ummm…didn’t I just do that?” or give that look. Of course, sometimes this question can be combined with the above, but in the case that your interviewers don’t, what you’d like to do here, is actually tell them what kind of a person you are.

Example: Well, I’d describe myself as a versatile person. I can assume most of the responsibilities given to me, and I’m also an ambivert – somewhere between an introvert and extrovert, so, I won’t annoy you with my talks or keep to myself either. You can call me balanced! (You can also be humorous, but don’t make cringy or inappropriate jokes)

3. Why did you leave / Why are you leaving your current job?

Of course, if they want to hire you, they’ll also want to know your comfort zone. Why you left your current job tells interviewers what kind of a work environment are you coming from, or why you weren’t satisfied with your previous job. That helps them assess if the organization’s values and your values align as well, in a way. So, what you want to do here, is be honest…up to a point. Don’t go about dissing your previous workplace, even if it was really bad. Be subtle and polite. Or if you’re leaving just because you seek better opportunities, simply say so.

Example: I quit my last job, because I am looking for better opportunities. I’m very grateful, actually, to have been a part of that organization, and I really learnt a lot. And I also tried to give my best. But in the end, there’s only so much you can do which will help you and the company both. So, now, I’m looking for better personal growth and more challenges as well.

4. What motivates you? How do you find motivation in your work?

This kind of questions helps the interviewer analyze what kind of a job you prefer doing, which assesses the match between you and the job you’ll have to do. It also measures your self-confidence and sometimes, can help to find out whether you’re actually bluffing. But, you might have to exaggerate a bit in this situation.

For example: Well, as a writer, I actually find more sources of inspiration rather than motivation. And once that inspiration is set in place, that becomes my motivation. To do a good story justice, with my words...that is what I try to do. And if any story doesn’t inspire me, then, I motivate myself by convincing myself that this is a new genre for me, and I will learn something new.

5. How good of a team player are you?

Every, or at least, most organizations will ask you this. It helps to assess whether you’re good at communicating your ideas to your team-mates, comprehend instructions and following advice and suggestions. Of course, you, as an interviewee, can never say that you’re not a team player. Even if you are an introvert to the bones, you have to say it in a more appropriate manner.

Example: Actually, I kind of prefer to do my work alone. Because, that enables me to get out all my ideas first, and then criticize them myself. That gives me the confidence boost to work with only the best ideas. But of course, I can work with a team very well, too. I might keep to myself most of the time, but I am a good listener, and will only present my best ideas to the team. And I’m also learning how to be a people-person. So, given the opportunity, I can be a very good team player, too.

6. Where do you see yourself in x (amount of) years?

A question that’s asked almost everywhere. This question actually has a depth to it, which many don’t realize. Understanding how you imagine your life in the future can help the prospective employers understand whether you’re serious about your intention to apply and your personal development. However, there doesn’t have to be a hard and fast answer to this. Keep it simple, don’t exaggerate, and if you haven’t thought that far ahead, simply say so.

Example: Well…5 years, huh? To be honest, I actually have not even thought that far ahead. Because, I am still learning and continuing to grow. I’m only figuring out where I fit in, or where I don’t. So, right now…I’m going with the flow, but let’s say in 5 years, I see myself exactly where I want to be, i.e. I have figured out what I want to do, and developing into the person I want to become.

7. What do you think we could do better or differently?

This is a question mostly asked by start-ups, or those that are trying to change their business models. These questions not only tell the interviewers how much you know about the company, but also if you have the actual knowledge to be in the field. Also, it can be used as a rephrase to “What value can you add to this organization?”. So, be careful. Don’t try to oversell yourself. If you think there’s nothing to change, put it simply that way. If there are lots, don’t overwhelm them by blurting it all out.

Example: Well, I actually think this company is doing pretty well, overall. But there are some minor improvements you could bring. For instance, in your website, I noticed that there are some categories of information that are outdated. You guys should update that timely. If you can’t, maybe hide the content for the time being, so that this doesn’t spread misinformation, because many look to this site for any info related to tech. That’s all I can say based on my expertise.

8. Do you have any questions for us?

Probably, one of the most important questions asked during interviews. It not only allows you to explore any subject and get your queries answered, but also shows the interviewer if you’re genuinely interested in the role or the company as a whole. By this point, you might already know a lot about the company, so, if you don’t have any questions, it’s okay too.

Example: Actually, a few minor ones, regarding your organizational policies? How many paid leaves are the employees entitled to in a year? And how flexible are the working hours?

That’s all there is at the top of my head. Unlike preparing for a test, you should not learn everything by rote. Just follow some general guidelines, and know some key technical terms related to the role. Research. Practice your interpersonal skills. Be confident, or at least, fake it, if you are not. And don’t be intimidated.You may also read  How to Shine At An Interview and How To Avoid The Most Common Job Interview Mistakes .

Good luck!