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Serious jobseekers know an updated resume and a polished cover letter are necessary. These can help applicants stand out among other candidates. They could even get invited to the next step – the interview.
The interview is one of the most important parts of the hiring process. One study shows the interview defines the applicant’s impression of the company. It also impacts how management views a job applicant.
Serious job applicants will study how to prepare for an interview. But they should do more than research the company or find the right outfit for the big day. Jobseekers should also work on how they will respond to interview questions.
The applicant’s answers should showcase their qualifications. It should also prove why they’re the ideal candidate for the job. Here are six common interview questions and tips on how to answer them.
Tell Me About Yourself
Employers ask this question to gain insight into the applicant’s skills. They’re checking to see if the job seeker is suitable for the position.
The applicant’s response must be concise and direct. It should showcase their background. It should also highlight their key achievements and why they’re a great fit for the role.
Jobseekers should start with a brief overview of their professional background. They should mention their achievements. They should also talk about why they’re excited to receive the chance to interview.
Why Do You Want to Work Here?
Career guidance experts say applicants should avoid generic answers to this question. This question checks if the applicant did their research. HR experts aren’t impressed with responses that could also apply to other companies.
Job hunters should do some research. Their answer should include something unique they like about the company. They can also mention potential growth and how they can help. Applicants should also share how the company’s values align with their career goals.
What Are Your Strengths?
This question allows job applicants to talk about what makes them ideal for the post. A good response highlights the individual’s technical and soft skills. The interviewee should describe the personal attributes that are relevant to the job. Do not give 10 or more adjectives. It’s better to select one or two specific qualities.
The applicant should follow this up with a story on how they’ve used this strength in the past. A specific example is more memorable than a generalized situation.
What Are Your Weaknesses?
People don’t like talking about their weaknesses. It’s especially daunting when one’s asked to do so in a job interview. This question goes beyond identifying red flags. The interviewer gauges the honesty and self-awareness of jobseekers.
The applicant should choose a weakness that’s not vital for the job. They should then explain how they’re working on improving themselves. For instance, an applicant admits to being uncomfortable with public speaking. They can then explain that they’re taking courses on it.
Describe a Challenge You Faced at Work and How You Overcame It
Interviewers ask this question to test how well an applicant solves problems. It also gives them an insight into how the individual handles stress.
Job applicants should use the STAR method in their response. They should explain the Situation without giving too many details. They should then discuss their assigned Task and the Action they took. The applicant should highlight the Result. They should remain calm and factual when telling the story. The applicant should expect follow-up questions from the interviewer.
Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
Many job hunters don’t know how vital this question is. It allows the applicant to explore topics the interviewer didn’t address. Asking questions also shows how serious the applicant is about the job.
Job applicants should also prepare their questions. They can ask about the company culture or upskilling programs. They can even ask the interviewer about their own experiences in the company.
Before You Go
Finding that dream job is easy with Seattle Financial. We’re one of the best full-service recruiting and staffing agencies in Washington. Our headquarters are in Kirkland but we have clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. We specialize in connecting top talents with premium companies. We have perfected our recruitment process through years of service. Our company recruits for accounting, finance, and manufacturing roles. We also source talents for HR, sales, and marketing. Give us a call at 206-343-8732 and tell us what you need. You can also email us here.
