January 27, 2015
To proceed to the next hiring process or get absorbed immediately by the company, you need to answer questions asked by the recruiter correctly. Here are 7 common job interview questions and answers to convince the employer you are a reliable and trustworthy person.
Tell us about yourself?
This is usually the first question that recruiters ask interviewees to break the ice and get conversation going. Use this chance to explain your academic qualifications, career and experiences. The best way to do this is by starting with your academic qualifications before explaining your current position or status. Desist from giving personal details unless they are relevant to the job opportunity available.
Why are you looking for another job?
Despite the fact that this question appears very simple and direct, it can tip the scale against you if not well handled. It is highly recommendable not to mention money or remuneration as a reason why you want to leave your current job as this may paint a negative image to the panel. Ideally, you should stay positive, brief and professional when explaining your reasons. For example, you can say that you are looking for other career growth and development opportunities.
What do you know about the company?
This question is used to gauge your knowledge on the operations, services and products offered by the employers. To answer this question correctly, you need to carry out a thorough background research. As you do so, jot down the most important information that you can easily remember and explain to the recruiters.
Why do you want this job?
Again, information gathered when doing the research will come in handy. Your answers should be specific and linked to the company’s values and objectives as well as your personal aspiration. For example, you can say you want to work in a market leading company with proven track record of providing high quality products to clients and providing numerous career growth opportunities to its employees.
Name a few companies that offer similar or same services and products?
As mentioned earlier, you need to have a clear understanding of the company and industry as a whole. This question is used to gauge candidate’s knowledge on the market. Mention two or three similar companies and explain their differences and similarities.
What would your colleagues say about you?
This is always mistaken as an opportunity to disclosure the nifty gritty issues at your current workplace. Use specific positive statements to answer such as “Alphan always says am hardworking and reliable during meetings and conferences”.
Have you ever worked in stressful situations?
If yes, how did you handle the situation? The secret behind this question is to gauge your ability to work under pressure or stressful environments. Again, give specific situations or projects that you managed to conduct and complete on time despite the pressure from management. It is also totally fine to state that you work best under pressure if at all that attribute is relevant to the job.
Take time think about each question before giving an answer to score high points. Alternatively, consult a professional career coach for details on these and other common interview questions and answers.