Can you tell me something about yourself?
This question would usually be asked at the beginning of an interview. Use this as an opportunity to share something interesting and exciting about yourself.

Relate your answers to the job role, for example if you are applying for a design role you could for example, share the fact that you design business cards for friends.

If an important trait in the job role you’re applying for is to be competitive, then this would be a great time to share, for example, that you were captain of the basketball team.

Try to relate your hobbies, interests and actions with the job role you’re being interviewed for.

 

What’s a weakness of yours?
Now, this is usually seen as a difficult question to answer, although, it really doesn’t have to be. Think about a weakness that is expected, or think of a skills that you’re currently in the process of strengthening.

For example if you’re a recent graduate your weakness may be that you’ve never worked in a similar role or environment before. However, this would be a fantastic time to talk about any relevant work experience you’ve had.

So, when answering this question, be honest, yet ensure you back up your weakness with a positive action.

 

Give an example of a time you worked as part of a team?
This is a question that is asked regularly, especially if the role requires you to work as part of a team frequently.

Ensure you don’t just give a simple answer such as - ‘I’m a team player, I’m considerate, hardworking and supportive’. Remember that the interviewee is asking for an example, not a list of your team working traits.

Think of a time you’ve worked as part of a team, for example, in your previous role you may have worked with a colleague monthly to produce an end of month report, or you may simply be part of the local football club.

 

What are your long term goals (career aspirations)?
This question is a chance for you to share your aspirations and goals for the future, it’s a fantastic opportunity to show an employer how you would like to progress within a company.

The interviewee will appreciate your ambitions to become a line manager, leader in your field or to create the next ‘big thing’, however if your intentions are to build your savings to support your acting career, I’m not sure how impressed the employer would be.

 

Why do you want to work for this company?
Now, this question is a chance for you to show off about how much research you’ve done and how much time you’ve put into preparation.

Yes, it may be ideal that the company is only a ten minute walk away from your house or a great bonus to be able to leave 4pm every Friday. Although, it’s important that you do not focus on materialistic things, instead focus on, the fact that, for example, you’ve heard the company has a great working ethic and that they over achieved last year on all of their annual targets.

 

Extra tip:
Some organisations like to ask an ‘unexpected question’ to see how you respond under pressure or in stressful situations. Keep calm and be prepared to think of an appropriate answer.

For example, we’ve heard that some people have been asked to share their favorite joke, or think of one unusual fact about themselves.

These questions are nothing to be worried about, the most important thing is that you do share an answer, rather than just expressing that you feel very clueless.