General Interview questions Flashcards
Tell me about yourself
- Share what you think is important in their hiring decision.
- Attempt to differentiate yourself from the other candidates.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Focus on them. In five years you should have made a significant impact to their bottom line.
- Learning is important. Mention the areas you wish to strengthen.
Why should we hire you?
- Convince them that they’d be crazy not to hire you.
- Demonstrate that you are a candidate they’ll need now, and will ALSO need in the future.
Why do you want to work here?
- Emphasize why you’d be a good fit in the company culture.
- This is not just a job and a paycheck. This is what you want to do and the best place to do it.
What do you know about us?
- DO YOUR RESEARCH.
- Learn more about them than what is listed on their website.
How would people describe you?
AVOID: hard-worker, good communicator, team player.
- Get creative. Have stories to back it up.
- Present attributes that make you sound like the go-to guy/gal at work.
What is your greatest strength?
Focus on something THEY need that you can provide.
What is your greatest weakness?
- Show that you have growth opportunities and are not perfect.
- Include that you already have a plan to combat this weakness.
When can you start?
- Don’t get arrogant.
- Be honest.
How did you find this job?
- Make sure you did your research. Be able to go into a little detail.
- If they found you, explain that the HR contacted you and mentioned it could be a good fit, while also mentioning that you did your own research to confirm.
Why do you want this job?
Do NOT mention:
- Money
- Location
- Benefits
- Schedule
Mention how you think it’s the best next step in your career.
Describe how the job meets your professional needs and how you can contribute to your highest potential.
Why do you want to leave your current job?
-Highlight a reason the hiring manager can’t be concerned about.
Why did you quit your last job?
-Keep it short, no need to expand on this one.
Why were you fired?
- Minimize the severity of the situation.
- Don’t cast blame on others
- What did you learn?
Explain your gap in employment
-Paint a picture that you were productive, improving yourself, or something constructive.