Job Interview Preparation: Key Questions and Responses

Introduction

• Discussion on preparing for job interviews.
• Focus on 10 common interview questions and possible responses.

Common Job Interview Questions

1. Tell Me a Little About Yourself

• Purpose: Common introductory question.
• Response: Discuss education, work experience, and relevant projects.
• Example: "Well, I got my bachelor's degree in biochemistry."

2. How Did You Hear About the Position?

• Purpose: Understand how candidates found the job.
• Response: Explain where you found the job (internet, newspaper, friend, etc.).
• Example: "I found an advertisement about the job on the internet."

3. Why Are You Interested in This Position?

• Purpose: Gauge the candidate's interest in the job.
• Response: Relate career goals or specific company/job aspects.
• Example: "I think I'm a good fit for the company and its goals."

4. Why Should We Hire You?

• Purpose: Highlight unique qualifications and suitability.
• Response: Discuss special qualifications, certifications, or experiences.
• Example: "I'm a goal-oriented person who likes to work at a fast pace."

5. What Do You Consider Your Strengths and Weaknesses?

• Purpose: Self-awareness in professional settings.
• Response: Discuss professional strengths and weaknesses, and how you manage weaknesses.
• Example: "I'm very detail-oriented, but I often take on too much at one time."

6. Tell Me About a Time When You Overcame a Challenge at Work

• Purpose: Assess problem-solving skills.
• Response: Share a relevant story about overcoming a work challenge.
• Example: "When I was having trouble communicating with a client, I reached out to a co-worker for support."

7. What Are Your Career Goals?

• Purpose: Understand long-term objectives.
• Response: Align career goals with the company’s objectives.
• Example: "I want to create a global advertising campaign strategy."

8. Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?

• Purpose: Assess long-term vision and commitment.
• Response: Explain professional goals aligned with the company.
• Example: "I see myself in a managerial position in this company working on multiple projects for multiple markets."

9. Why Do You Want to Work Here?

• Purpose: Determine specific interest in the company.
• Response: Mention specific company aspects you find appealing.
• Example: "I think there's a lot to learn and I think there are opportunities for promotion."

10. Do You Have Any Questions for Me?

• Purpose: Evaluate candidate's interest and curiosity about the company.
• Response: Prepare thoughtful questions about the company, not about salary or vacation.
• Example: "What do you think is the most rewarding part about working here?"

Conclusion

• Suggestions for broader application of these responses in other interview settings (e.g., university, scholarship).
• Encouragement to prepare questions for the interviewer.
• Reminder to visit EnglishClass101.com for more resources.