The number and range of questions asked during an interview are limitless. So, how do you begin to know what to expect as you prepare ahead of time?
Here’s a look at some of the most common inquiries that come up as hiring managers narrow down their decision – and how to reply:
Classic Questions
- Why should we hire you? Sell yourself and your skills. Craft an answer that conveys that you can not only do the work, but deliver great results, and that you’re the best fit for the job.
- What are your greatest professional strengths? Pick out a few specific qualities relevant to the position and illustrate them with examples from your own experience. (Hint: Target job description keywords!)
- What do you consider to be your weaknesses? Beyond identifying any major red flags, your interviewer is gauging your self-awareness and honesty. Describe something you’re struggling with but working to improve. And remember, nobody’s perfect!
About Your Work History
- What has been your greatest professional achievement? Use the STAR method – situation, task, action and results – to frame your response. As with most responses, be specific and use numbers and details to strengthen your case.
- Tell us about a challenge you faced and how you handled it. Be honest, and stay professional and calm as you tell your story. Focus more on the resolution than the problem, and describe what you’d do differently the next time to achieve desired results.
About You and Your Goals
- What’s your work style? In asking this broad question, your interviewer is likely trying to envision you in the role. Focus on what’s important to you and how it aligns with all you know about the position and the company so far. You might talk about how you communicate and collaborate on cross-functional projects or how you approach leading a team or managing direct reports. Keep it positive and tell a compelling story.
- How do you deal with pressure? Talk about your strategies for dealing with stress, such as keeping detailed to-do lists or meditating for five minutes a day. Then, describe how you communicate and otherwise proactively mitigate pressure.
- Where do you see yourself in five years? A hiring manager wants to know if you’ve set realistic career expectations, if you’re ambitious, and if the position lines up with your goals and growth. Think realistically about where this job could take you as you craft your response.
Wrapping Up Your Interview
- Is there anything else you’d like us to know? Use this as an opportunity to finish strong. If there’s something relevant that you haven’t had a chance to address, here’s your opportunity. Otherwise, briefly and confidently summarize your qualifications.
PrideStaff Fresno can help you take your career to the next level, whether it’s interview or resume prep, making the right contacts, or finding the best opportunity out there for you in the Central Valley and beyond. Contact us today to hear more.