Top 5 Interview Questions

That much desired job is only an interview away now! So you think you’re ready to breeze through it? If you still thinking then here’s your chance to gear yourself for the smooth landing! Up ahead are the top 5 questions that most employers ask candidates in a job interview and points you should keep in mind while answering them.

1. Tell me something about yourself and or your background: This one is a chart-topper. Often asked at the very start of an interview, this is a tricky one and should be handled adeptly. The reason why the employer asks this question is because s/he wants to get a sense of who you really are and if you would be the right ‘cultural fit’ for the organization. And of course it also helps your interviewer in assessing your communication skill which is a critical skill for almost all jobs.
   
   The best way of tackling this is by sharing key information about yourself that are your strengths and would be an asset for that role. E.g. If you are giving an interview for finance related role and are good at number/analytical games like Sudoku, Rubik’s Cube etc then you should mention that while talking about yourself. Similarly, if you are going for a teacher’s job interview, you could say that you love to spend time with children etc.
2. Why should we hire you? Or how would you be an asset to our organization?
   This is your chance to hit the jackpot! But beware of going overboard! State the reasons why you would be the right fit and be as objective as possible. Understand the job requirement and the skills as well as the temperament that the job calls for. Only then can you rationally put forth your point and present yourself in the best light. Often a lot of us make the mistake of saying rather subjective things like “we are very keen on working with you and we will put in our best efforts”. Sure anyone interested in that job would do that, so how are you any different? This is why it’s pivotal to avoid making qualitative statements and sticking with rational line of approach.
3. Why did you leave your previous role/company?
   The reason for leaving one’s job could range from personal to professional. At times, you may not be comfortable discussing this. Whatever be the case, you should never bad-mouth your ex-employer as that sets a negative impression on your potential employer. Instead, you could just let your interviewer know that you had strong reasons – personal/professional and that continuing in the previous role would have affected your life goals/plans.
4. How was it working for your last employer/previous organization?
   Again, this is a question that you should tackle well and positively. Even if you’ve not had a great time in your last job, focus on whatever little learning/skills/expertise you’ve gained through that job. This displays a positive attitude and the interviewer sees you as someone who’s open to learning and self-development. That, needless to say, is a trait that every employer dreams and wishes for in his/her employee. Whereas, if you talk ill of your ex-employer it displays a negative attitude and could also put doubts about your work performance/productivity in the interviewer’s mind.
   
5. Where do you see yourself 5 years or so from now?
   This is asked to gauge your long-term vision about your career plans and goals. So just saying something like “I want to gain experience and do the best I can in this business/industry” isn’t good enough. You should give a larger, more macro view of what’s the kind of work you see yourself doing and the specific skills you want to gain to reach that level of work. Also, avoid saying something as drastic as “I see myself in your place/position”! It will only intimidate your interviewer and make him uneasy.
   
   In a nutshell: Remember that there is no dearth of similarly qualified and experienced candidates as yourself. What will truly set you apart from the crowd is your attitude and preparedness for the interview. So spare time to mull over such questions before you walk through that door!

Tagged as: Career advice, common job interview questions, frequently asked interview questions, handling common interview questions, job interview, job interview tips, top interview questions