No matter how hard you try there are some questions that you can’t escape and it’s best to be prepared for them in the event that you are asked. We don’t want you to be caught off guard so it's time to learn how to respond!
"Tell me about yourself..."
Tell me about yorself is usually how the interviewer chooses to open up the interview. Some people think this is the time to speak about their children, pets or the illusion that they are a “highly motivated individual” or other cliche terms. Sorry to break it toyou but thtis is not what the interviewer wants to hear. Your kids may be lovely but at this point in time…the interviewer does not care (harsh but true). Instead, they want to know what makes you the best candidate for the job:
Speak about your current role. Highlight major achievements and responsibilities
Summarise key points on your professional journey and explain how they’ve helped you prepare for this role
Connect your interests, activities and qualifications to the job by explaining why they would make you successful
"Why do you want this job?"
“Because I’m unemployed” is not the answer, trust us. We asked you what questions gave you difficulty in the past and this was a top question. Interviewees often overthink their responses but here's a simple way to approach this question:
Speak about
Your experience and achievements and how they will add value to the position. A recent, high impact example is pertinent here.
What you bring to the table besides your experience. Think values and soft skills.
Highlight what excites you about the position. There must be something that stood out on the vacancy posting that made you want to apply.
"What questions do you have for us?"
You should always ask questions at the end of an interview! It shows that you’re interested in the position and that you’re actively engaged in the interview process. Moreover, this is your opportunity to find out if this position is a good fit for you. Here are some questions we recently suggested to a client to use in her interview.
What is the biggest challenge I might face in this role?
What can you tell me about the team I may be working with?
Who would i be reporting to?
What is your favourite part about working for Company XYZ?
What are the next steps in the process? / Can you tell me about the steps that need to be completed before you make a decision on filling the position?
Is there anything that we haven’t covered that would give me more insight into what it would be like to work at this institution?
Summarise why you’re a good fit and then ask....Is there any other information that I can provide that would help you make a decision?
We also have a comprehensive list of questions you can ask the interviewer in our Boss Moves Interview Workbook. However, if you prefer personalised assistance, targeted to a particular vacancy or just need a refresher session, click here to learn more about our interview coaching services.
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