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How to Answer the 9 Most Common Interview Questions

Mary April B -- Hint: Certain interview questions come up again and again. Now that you've been warned, here's your study guide.

Going to an interview gives you a real chance to impress a hiring manager. There's no guarantee about what you'll be asked, but it would be great to know there are a number of questions that come up again and again.

While we, unfortunately, can't read minds, it's important that you have powerful answers to these questions to help you make a big impact. Here are some of the most common interview questions and suggestions on how to answer them. Consider this your interview question study guide.

Can you tell me about yourself?

This is usually an opening question. This is simple, yet many people fail to prepare for it and it's crucial. It is a great opportunity to showcase your strengths. You can start by answering with an overview of what you are doing now and what you've accomplished so far in your career. You can follow the same structure as your resume, giving some examples of your achievements and skills that you've picked up. Don't get into too much detail—the interviewer will ask you to expand with more details in areas where they would like more information.

Why should we hire you?

This question seems forward, but you're in luck if the hiring manager asks it. This is where you get the chance to tell the hiring manager about your skills and the experience you have that are crucial to the job position you're applying for.

Don't just tell about your experience; explain how it could benefit the company.

What are your greatest strengths?

When answering this question, be accurate. Share your true strengths, not those you think the employer wants to hear. Be relevant. Choose the strengths you will share that are most targeted to the position.

What do you consider to be your weaknesses?

An interviewer wants to identify your self-awareness and honesty through this question. Think of something that you struggle with but that you're working to improve. For example, maybe it is hard for you to engage in public speaking but you recently volunteered to run seminars to help you become more comfortable interacting with a crowd.

Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

Be honest and specific about your future goals. Consider that a hiring manager wants to know if you've set realistic expectations for yourself and your career, if you have an ambition, and if the position you're applying for is relevant to your goals and growth.

Why are you leaving your current job?

Definitely keep things positive. You don't have anything to gain by being negative about your past employers. Instead, show that you're eager to take on new opportunities and that the job you're applying for will be a better fit than your last position.

What are you looking for in a new position?

Be specific. You can tell the same things that this position has to offer.

How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

Choose an answer that shows you can meet a stressful situation in a productive and positive manner. A best approach is to talk through your stress-reduction tactics and share an example of a stressful situation you've pass through.

Do you have any questions for us?

An interview isn't just a chance for a hiring manager to get to know you; it's also your opportunity to sniff out whether this job is the right fit for you. What do you want to know about the position? The company? On the actual interview, you may have a lot of questions, so you better have common questions ready to go.

Source: Ezinearticles

© 2019 Mary April B

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