3 Common Interview Questions & how to answer them

No matter what job you have applied for or the position level, you will be asked questions as part of an interview process. While many employers will ask questions specific to a particular role or industry, it is also a good idea to think about the commonly asked interview questions you might be asked.

Knowing the style of questions you might expect, what the interviewer is asking, and how best to give your answer can help you perform better during the interview process.

We have looked at some of the most common questions candidates get asked, considering what the interviewer is asking and how best to answer.

Question 1. What skills would you say are important for this role?

What is the interviewer asking?
The interviewer will potentially have a profile of the ideal candidate for this role and the skills that they might have. By asking this question, they will want to know that you fully understand the job description and the position.

How can you answer this?
Research is vital in making sure that you answer this question correctly. Take time to read the job description ahead of the interview thoroughly. This will highlight any particular skills the company wants to find in candidates. You can find further information by researching the company and other similar positions.

Question 2. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

What is the interviewer asking?
Most of the time, this question is asked to gain insight into your ambition and the career path you are looking to follow.

How can you answer this?
Employers will want to know that you see yourself growing and gaining new skills. Answering by saying that you would hope to progress through the company or would like to gain experience in a particular area show interviewers that you have thought about what your future could look like within their company. Don’t answer by saying that you see yourself working elsewhere or in a completely different career. This tells employers that you aren’t looking to stay for the long term.

Question 3. What would you say is your greatest weakness?

What is the interviewer asking?
Everyone has weaknesses, and it is important to know what these are. Employers will want to know if any areas might require support or additional training.

How can you answer this?

There are ways to state your weaknesses that don’t make you look like a weak candidate. For example, if you are a people pleaser, you may find it difficult to say no. Rather than saying that you can’t say no and consistently take on more than you can handle, you could answer by describing the time management tools you use to keep on target.

And Finally…..

Before going into an interview, preparing answers for some of the most common interview questions is always a good idea. These can often be adapted for questions that are asked slightly differently and can help you think of things to say if your mind goes blank. Above all, remember to be yourself in an interview. They want to know what makes you the best person for the job, and honesty will always be the best policy.

If you are looking for a new career move or a new member to join your team please do contact us on 01892 530226 or email recruiter@pdrsolutions.co.uk