Interview Questions

Interview Skills

Some people just love interviews; they love the preparation, the challenge, the meeting new people and even the dreaded interview questions.

Some people don't.

Common Interview Questions

Whether you love interviews or are a nervous wreck, there are some common interview questions it's worth preparing for just in case they are asked.

So, tell me about yourself.

Why do you think you are suited for this job?

What previous experience do you have to bring to the job?

Tell us about your greatest success and worst failure.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Why should we hire you?

Standard Questions

In some organisation, especially large ones, local government and other similar organisations, interviewers are obliged to ask identical questions to each candidate.

The thinking behind this is that if everyone is asked the same interview questions, then everyone is being interviewed on a level playing field.

Specific Questions for You

Not all companies operate interviews this way, and they may ask questions of you that they haven't asked anyone else.

This may have to do with the information you have given that then triggers off more of a conversation where new things not on anyone's question list are introduced.

Your Questions To The Interviewers

Now, of course, it is always wise to have a few interview questions of your own to ask the interviewers; that's now pretty much expected.

Most interviewers, towards the end of the interview, will ask:

"Do you have any questions for us?"

Our Advice?

Don't wait to be asked.

Weave your interview questions throughout the interview instead of saving them up for the end.

Including a few earlier questions will make it feel more two-way and less formulaic.

Discrimination

Finally, remember that interviewers are not allowed to ask personal interview questions that could be seen as discriminatory.

For instance, if you are a woman, you cannot be asked if you plan to have children.

It's fine to be asked about hobbies and interests but it is definitely not OK to be asked an interview question probing that doesn't relate to the job.