The interview is a golden opportunity to make a great first impression and convince a potential new boss that you really are the best person for the job.
But what happens when they hit you with those tough questions?
The good news is with the help of [site_name] you can be prepared for anything.
So here’s how to survive a grilling and land that role.
“Why do you want to leave your job?”
Yes, this can be an uncomfortable one, especially if you are having issues in your current workplace. Like a relationship that’s gone sour, it’s best not to criticise your current company. Instead focus on the positives of a move. Tell your prospective new employer it’s time to broaden your horizons and that you relish the opportunity to meet fresh challenges with a company such as theirs.
“Can you tell us a little more about yourself?”
This sounds disarmingly simple until you realise they might not actually want to know everything there is to know about the real you. So plan ahead and boil your answer down to a few key facts about yourself.
Focus on personal characteristics that relate to the role, such as your love of meeting new people, enjoyment of team sports or a passion for creating art – all show strengths and skills that make you well suited to the job.
“Why do you want to work for us?”
This is a golden opportunity to prove you’ve done your research. Show that you are passionate about what they do and what this job means to you beyond the salary.
“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
Don’t be tempted to give templated answers: “I’m a natural at sales” or “If anything, my weakness is just trying too hard”. If, however, you do have drive and determination, explain how you use these to achieve company objectives. Or, if you’ve been lax in some areas, demonstrate how you’re going to work on that to benefit the company.
“Why should we hire you?”
Think back to the job description, what are your unique selling points? You wrote it so simply in your cover letter: why you’ve applied for this particular job, why you think you’ll add value to the team and why you want to enhance your skills and boost your career.
Once you’ve practised these answers until they trip off the tongue naturally and don’t sound rehearsed, you’ll be ready to go for that top role on [site_name].