Common Interview Questions…and How to Answer Them

1.    Tell me about yourself.
This is often an ice-breaker question. Keep the answer job or skill related.

2.    What do you know about the type of work we do?
This is your chance to tell what you know from the research you completed ahead of time.

3.    What is your weakness?
Always make this a positive answer. For example, “My spelling is not always perfect, so I always use a spell checker.”

4.    What are your strengths?
Describe your skills in a way that will show you as a desirable employee for the company.)

5.    Why did you leave your last job?
Answer with a positive statement. Try not to say: “I was fired,” “terminated,” “quit,” “had no babysitter,” or “couldn’t get along with coworkers or supervisor”. However, you can say: “new job,” “contract ended,” “seasonal,” “temporary,” “career change,” “returned to school,” to raise a family,” or “relocated.”

6.    Why have you been unemployed for such a long time?
Tell the truth. Emphasize that you were looking for a good company where you can settle and make a contribution.

7.    Why should we hire you?
Make a positive statement, such as “I would like the opportunity to work with you and believe that I can do the work.”

8.    Do you have references?
Be sure to contact your references ahead of time and have their name, current address, and telephone numbers.