Job interview questions and how to answer them

An important part of any interview is asking questions. Whilst some interview questions will be very job-specific, there are some questions that can be asked at any job interview. Here I will explain how you can answer some of the most common interview questions. 

When answering any interview question you must use professional and courteous language. Do not use any slang, inappropriate humour or swear words. Also do not slag any previous employers or moan about any aspect of your last job. Not only is this extremely unprofessional but the interviewer will probably wonder what you may end up saying about them. 

Tell me a bit about yourself.

This may be the first question you are asked and is typically used as an ice breaker to get things started. You should see this as an opportunity to let the interviewer/s get to know you. 

However, your answer should still be professional and be focused on your education, experience, skills and achievements. Do not talk about personal information such as your boyfriend/girlfriend, family, political views or hobbies. 

Your response should be no longer than 2 minutes and should include: 

• What you are currently doing in terms of employment or education (you could also mention any extracurricular activities)
• Any successes or achievements in your current role 
• What you are hoping to do next 

Why should we hire you?/Why are you the right person for the job? 

This is one of the most common and important questions that you are extremely likely to be asked at a job interview. The employer wants to know what you can bring to the job and how you can contribute to the company. 

When answering this question you should focus on your skills, qualifications, previous experience and any achievements. Tailor these to the job you are interviewing for. Think about what value you can bring to the job that the other candidates can’t. 

Read over the job description and research the company to identify exactly what it is they are looking for. Consider your own experience, skills and qualities and how they can align with this. Try to give an example of a time when you have used your skills, knowledge or experience successfully. 

Do not prepare a scripted answer to this and simply repeat it to the employer. Whilst it is sensible to have a rough idea of what you may possibly say, the employer will immediately notice if you are offering a rehearsed answer. 

Why are you interested in the job?

This is your chance to show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the job. Your answer can be tailored to suit you and your skills, qualities and previous experience.

To answer this question you should fully understand the company, the job and its responsibilities and the skills required. Your answer should focus on why this job is right for your skills, qualities and experience and why you would fit in well with the organisation. For example, will you have a chance to apply your skills or knowledge? Are there opportunities for you to further your learning? Will you fit in well with the company and the other employees? 

The interviewer wants to see that you understand the job and that you have done your research about the company. This will demonstrate to them that you are seriously interested in the job. 

Do not say things like “I need a job” or “I need the money”. 

Why do you want to work here? 

This is similar to “why are you interested in the job?” except your answer should be focused more on the organisation rather than the job itself. The interviewer will want to know why you want to join their organisation and what made you interested in this particular job.

Ask yourself “Why do I want to work here?” What is it that attracted you to this particular company? You should not mention things like “the location is near to where I live” or “the pay is higher than other organisations”. Instead, you can mention things like the organisation’s reputation, culture, product/services, leadership or projects such as environmental campaigns, charity work or education/training programmes. 

Try to avoid being too general when answering. Do not give general statements such as “I would love to work here as I’ve heard this is a good company”. Instead you try to give some specific reasons as to why you want to join the organisation.

Questions to ask the interviewer/s 

Almost all interviewers will ask you if you have any questions you would like to ask them. It’s always a good idea to have a few questions prepared in advance. Some of them may be covered during the interview so it’s always good to have a backup. 

Some possible questions you could ask:

• What do you enjoy the most about working here? 
• Are there opportunities for progression within the company? 
• What is the culture like at this company? 
• When can I expect to hear from you? 
• What are the next steps in the interview process? 

Questions not to ask

• What is the salary for this job? You should not give the impression that you are only interested in the job to earn money (even if this is true). 
• What will my holiday entitlement be? It is inappropriate to ask about holidays at the interview stage. Wait until you have been offered the job. 
• Have I got the job? This will make you look impatient. The interviewer will contact you when they are ready. 
• Can I leave early sometimes? This will give the impression that you do not like being at work and are not committed to the job.