You’ve made it to the point in your job search where you’re scoring interviews left and right. Now, your next step is to make sure you’re prepared for each of these sit-downs.
When you’re in the hot seat, the last thing you want to be is unprepared. The right amount of preparation and research will help you nail the interview and score your next job. Except, how do you know what they’ll ask? There are several questions that generally stay the same from interview to interview. In most cases, your answer will have to change slightly depending on the company and job. But once you know what to expect, you’re one step closer to making a lasting impression to a potential employer.
Take a look at some of the most common job interview questions in 2022 and how you can tackle them:
Share some of your strengths & weaknesses
This question can be asked in a variety of ways, and may be asked separately. When highlighting your strengths, make sure they match what is noted on your resume and in the job description.
Be mindful with your approach to weaknesses, and answer them honestly. It’s fairly common to spin your answer to this and turn your weakness into a secret strength. Instead, think out-of-the-box with this one, and give the interviewer a real weakness example. This shows that you’re human and just like everyone else – you make mistakes from time to time. Show how you’re taking actions to improve day-by-day and manage this weakness in a workplace setting.
Why do you want to work at this company?
Do your research and always expect a question similar to this. Give a genuine answer that shows you know and understand the company’s values, background or culture. Touch on one of those things and it will set the tone for the rest of the interview.
This could be your future employer, so be sure to show your enthusiasm for the position and company.
Tell me a little bit about yourself
While this is usually kind of a vague question, it is asked in basically every type of interview.
Depending on where you are in your career or stage of life, you’ll want to touch on your previous experience or schooling and what you’re looking for in your next chapter. Talk about some of your attributes as an employee, but keep it to a minimum. Practice a short and sweet response, and follow the elevator pitch template.
If you’ve recently taken some time off of work, be sure to mention this and how it has impacted your mindset going forward.
Why do you think you would be a good fit for this role?
There are a few key touch points you’ll want to hit with this question. Emphasize your experience and skills – noting how you would be an incredible asset to the role. Pick qualifications from the job description that best describe you and explain in-depth how you can help the company achieve their overall goals.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
The employer is looking to gauge your motivation and future goals with this question. Be honest and realistic with your answer, and connect the potential job to your career goals.
Start out with one to two goals and tell the interviewer how working at their company will help you achieve them. You don’t have to have your next five years fully mapped out, but as long as you give a genuine response, the employer will appreciate your honesty.
Having ready answers to these questions will give you the added boost of confidence you need during the interview process. It’s easy to feel intimidated and nervous during an interview setting, but don’t let it get the best of you! Think quick on your feet and always use every answer as an opportunity to sell yourself.
If you’re looking for extra guidance during your job search, you’ve come to the right place! At ETS, our seasoned recruiters will partner with you every step of the way. We’ll ensure your application gets in front of the right people so you’ll score the interview you’ve been hoping for, and then we’ll give you personal insights on how to ace it. Live chat the team now to gain immediate access to over 300 jobs and fast-tracked interviews.
