How to Answer These Top 5 Most Common Interview Questions

How to Answer These Top 5 Most Common Interview Questions

Whether you're a first-time job seeker or a seasoned veteran, interviews can be daunting. No matter how prepared you are, it's natural to have some level of nervousness before meeting with a potential employer. The best way to combat those nerves and ace the interview is to be prepared with good answers to common questions.  

To help you out, a recruitment firm  compiled a list of five common interview questions and provided tips on how to answer them so that you can make the best impression possible the next time you're in an interview. 

1. Tell me about yourself.  

This question may seem simple, but it's often the hardest to answer, especially if you're feeling nervous. The key is not to give your entire life story or list off all your previous job duties. Instead, focus on giving a brief overview of your professional accomplishments that are most relevant to the position you're applying for. This is also a good opportunity to talk about any skills or experience you have that make you uniquely qualified for the job. For example:  

"I'm currently a civil engineer and have been working in the field for eight years. I specialize in designing bridges and roads, and I have experience working on projects ranging from small repairs to large-scale construction projects. I received my bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Arizona State University."  

2. Why are you interested in this position?  

When answering this question, avoid simply saying that you need a job or that you're interested in the company because it's a good company. Instead, focus on what qualifications and experience you have that match up well with what the company is looking for in a candidate. You can also mention something specific about the company that interests you or talk about how your previous experience has prepared you for this role. For example:  

"I'm interested in this position because it would allow me to utilize my skills as a civil engineer while also working on larger projects than I've had the opportunity to work on in the past. I'm confident that I have the skills and experience needed to be successful in this role, and I'm excited to learn more about this type of work."  

3. What are your strengths?  

This is an opportunity to sell yourself and highlight why you're the best candidate for the job. Focus on mentioning strengths that are relevant to the job and back them up with specific examples from your past experiences. For example:  

"I pride myself on being an excellent communicator, both written and verbally. In my previous role as a project manager, one of my greatest strengths was keeping all members of the team-including engineers, construction workers, and office staff-on track by ensuring clear and timely communication about deadlines, changes, etc."  

4. What are your weaknesses?  

We all have weaknesses but beware of coming across as too self-critical here or giving an answer that could eliminate you from consideration for the job altogether (like saying you're terrible at time management when the job requires excellent time management skills). Instead, focus on acknowledging a weakness while also discussing what steps you take to overcome it or turn it into a strength. For example:  "In the past, I've struggled with delegating tasks because I want to make sure they're done correctly and meet my high standards. However, I've learned that delegation is essential to being an effective leader, so now I delegate tasks while still staying involved enough to ensure quality control."   

5. Where do you see yourself in five years?  

Your answer to this question should show that you're looking to stay with the company long-term and grow within the organization. Talk about how you hope to develop professionally and contribute value over time while still staying true to your personal goals. For example:  "I hope to continue developing my skills as an engineer while also taking on more responsibility within the company so that I can eventually become a project manager."   

Answering these five questions well during your next interview will put your miles ahead of other candidates who aren't prepared with good responses. Showing that you have thought about your career goals, why this position is a good fit for you specifically, and what value you can add over time will go a long way toward impressing your potential employer-and landing the job! 

Locally owned and operated, Express Employment Professionals in Mesa, AZ is a Full-Service Staffing Agency that provides exceptional service to job seekers and companies within our community.    

Express Employment Professionals of Mesa, AZ    
849 N Dobson Rd #107    
Mesa, AZ 85201    
(480) 820-3700    
https://expresspros.com/mesaaz/