How to Answer 3 Typical Interview Questions
- Racquel Wallen
- Feb 27, 2019
- 2 min read
Hello Keys! For this post, I will take you through how to answer 3 interview questions that most interviewers ask and give you examples of how to answer them. Interviewers are looking for key things when asking these questions but don't worry I'll hep you guys out :)
Question 1: "Tell Me About Yourself"
The interviewer does not want to hear about your age, where you grew up, or what high school you went to. They want to know about your qualifications and how you can be an asset. Here's some points (in order) that you want to speak on to answer this question:
- Most recent education history (and any awards you got while there)
- What in your field interests you the most
- Previous work experience that relates to the job
- Soft skills
- (Optional) Hobbies
Example: I just recently graduated with honours from Humber college with a certificate in HR management. This is the field I chose to pursue because I like dealing with people and I believe that HR is the glue that holds a company together. The areas i'm most interested in are employee engagement and talent acquisition. The previous work experience I have has shown me that this industry is one I really want to pursue. Over my working life, I have gained great presentation skills, and have become more sympathetic to the needs of others which is something that is needed in this field. In my free time I like to read and snowboard.
Question 2: "Why should we hire you"?
This one is where you have to pull out the big guns. Don't just say "because I'm a really hard worker". The employer wants to know what is so valuable about you that they have to hire you right away. Use these highlights to help you formulate your answer:
- Awards you have received
- Certifications
- Describing any significant contributions you made in your previous role (if its a similar job)
- Unique travel experiences that could apply
- If you're from a different cultural background, use this to your advantage by saying how you can increase their cultural sensitivity lol
Question 3: "What is your greatest weakness"?
Please please please do not say you're a perfectionist. This is an old answer. Really think about yourself and the areas you lack, but then of course try to turn it around and say how you're working on your weaker traits to make them into strengths. Have a few weaknesses ready just in case they probe for more.
Example: My greatest weakness is that I have difficulty prioritizing tasks sometimes. I underestimate when smaller projects need to be done and I have left them to the last minute before. I am working on this though. I make sure to frequently stay in touch with my manager and put daily reminders in my calendar of when projects are done so I am getting better at managing this.
And there you have it! Let me know in the chat on our site what other interview questions you would like to see answered :)