Job interviews can be stressful, but wouldn’t it be a blessing if you knew the questions the interviewer was going to ask? While we don’t practice mind reading or any form of witchcraft—and we don’t recommend memorizing answers word-for-word—we have brought you a list of questions you are likely to be asked.
Furthermore, if you understand the interview process and prepare for common questions, you will be able to navigate the interview with confidence. Interviewers ask these questions to get a sense of the candidate’s skills, interests, work experience, and more. Consider this list your study guide for your next interview.
Top 11 Common Job Interview Questions and Answers
Job interviews can be overwhelming, but being prepared with responses to the most frequent questions can boost your confidence. Generally, interviewers ask these questions to understand who you are, what you bring to the role, and if you will be a good fit. In this guide, you will learn about 11 common questions and simple tips to help you answer them confidently.
1. Can you tell me about yourself?
This is the simplest and most common question, yet people often fail to prepare for it. Usually, people tell their entire work or educational history, but the key is to present 2 or 3 achievements that prove you are fit for the job and finish by explaining how those experiences will help you in this role. Define what you do and the interests that relate to the job. You can also plan and practice what you want to say, as this is a “safe” opening question.
2. What are your strengths?
Be very specific. For example, instead of saying you are a “people person,” say you excel at building relationships and have strong communication skills. Add an example of how you used those skills in a previous role. Hiring an interview coaching expert can help differentiate your answers from other candidates. Mention strengths appropriate for the position, such as leadership for a management role.
3. What is your weakness?
This question can define your chances. Your interviewer is evaluating your self-awareness, so do not say you have no weaknesses or that you “work too hard.” Instead, mention something you struggle with but are actively improving. For example, if you struggle with public speaking, mention a debate or course you recently joined to improve.
4. Why do you want to work here?
No one wants to hire someone who works only for money; they want someone passionate. Analyze the job requirements and how they align with your interests. Mention what you like about the company’s culture or mission to show you’ve done your research.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Candidates are evaluated on two bases: whether they are ambitious and whether their future goals align with the current position. Think realistically about where this role could take you. They want to see if you are career-oriented. It is also okay to say you are open to exploring how this role helps you decide your long-term path.
6. Why are you leaving your current job?
The key factor is to stay positive and not frame previous employers negatively. Frame it as being excited for new opportunities or seeking professional growth. If you were let go, be sincere, keep it simple, and stay honest.
7. What are your interests and hobbies?
This helps interviewers see how you fit into the company culture. Keep it moderately professional. Interests like cooking, gardening, or painting can showcase your creative side and personality.
8. What are you passionate about outside of work and how does it influence your professional life?
Share a personal passion that genuinely excites you. If you love hiking, highlight how it challenges you mentally and physically. Connect it to work: hiking teaches perseverance and problem-solving. It also refreshes your mind, allowing you to return to work with focus.
9. Why should we hire you?
Explain why you are the right person for the job and that you deliver results on time. Even if you lack certain knowledge, emphasize your willingness to learn and how you will be a great addition to the team and culture.
10. What are your salary expectations?
This can be tricky. Research job boards to find salary ranges for similar positions based on skills and experience. Present your expectations but emphasize that you are flexible and willing to negotiate based on the value of your skills and industry standards.
11. Do you have any questions for me?
This is your last chance to leave a strong impression. Find out if the job is right for you by asking about the team, the department, or recent company developments.
The key is to be honest, stay calm, and show your personality. Interviewers want to see if you fit the team. When talking about past failures, don’t panic—show what you learned from them. Be ambitious but realistic with your goals. Finally, take a deep breath, believe in yourself, and go ace that interview!