Common Job Interview Questions and Answers



Examples of typical job interview questions showing how to answer them effectively



As part of your interview preparation, we introduce and explain a further list of common job interview questions. Rather than trying to memorise questions and answers, try to understand the reasoning behind the answers and adapt them to your own situation. This is important because the interviewer(s) may not ask the exact questions you see in these pages. You will find, however that many typical job interview questions are similar and require similar answers and reasoning. The following is a list of common job interview questions and answers. Try to adapt the answers to suit your unique and individual experience, making sure, where possible that the evidence is in your CV/resume.

Sample selection of typical interview questions:

1. Tell us a little about yourself?
This a good starting question that helps the interviewer(s) assess whether a candidate is able to confidently talk about themselves and project their personality. Naturally, you will need to be familiar with your CV/resume, including remits, chronology and achievements.

2. Why do you want to leave your current job?
Another typical interview question. It is perfectly acceptable to give an answer based on a need for challenge and career progression. Be enthusiastic and tell the interviewer part of your reason is to work within their organization. If you've researched the organization sufficiently, mention something about the organization which makes you want to join them and play a part.

3. Do you take your work home with you?
Here, the interviewer wants to establish whether you appreciate the importance of good work/life balance. The best answer is that if, on occasion, your boss ask you, then you will oblige in order to help the company meet important deadlines and objectives. Employers understand one of the best ways to ensure staff perform at an optimum level is the need to have a sound work/life balance. Therefore avoid giving a "yes" answer to this question.

4. Why do you want this post?
This is another common interview question. Try answering this question with evidence in your resume. You can explain that the job is a natural progression from your current/previous position and that it draws on your core skills and competencies. Also tell the interviewer you are drawn to the company, giving positive, if not flattering reasons, drawn from your research of the organization. Show the interviewer genuine enthusiasm to be a part of their organization. Employers value this and it could well be the deciding factor in you getting the job.

The above questions are among the most common job interview questions. As mentioned earlier, try to establish a logical and common sense approach to answering questions. A calm disposition and a common sense approach will help you handle most if not all questions, including the unexpected.


Common Job Interview Questions And Answers
TYPICAL JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS