Career Tips

Interview Questions Worth Preparing For

Here are some sample interview questions that are usually asked during most interviews.

Your Qualifications

Describe an example when you suggested a new way of working that improved the outcome.

Answer: If you can't think of a work-related example, share an experience from your personal or academic life. This question aims to evaluate your soft skills, such as problem-solving, troubleshooting, creative and critical thinking, and your ability to voice feedback and challenge the status quo.

Other questions about your qualifications:

Why did you pursue this career?

Have you ever led a team or coached someone in school or at work? Explain your role and responsibilities.

Since you graduated, how have you upskilled yourself?

How do you stay updated with changes in your industry?

Your Career Goals

Why are you interested in this role and our company?

Answer: The interviewer wants to understand your motivation and see if the role aligns with your career goals. Show that you've done your homework about the company and use this opportunity to align your interests with the role's requirements.

Why do you want to leave your current job?

Answer: Be honest about your motivations, whether it's career progression, developing new skills, or seeking a platform that meets your aspirations. Avoid speaking negatively about previous employers or colleagues, as it reflects poorly on you and could backfire if the interviewer knows your ex-employer.

Other questions about your career goals:

What would you like to be doing five years from now?

How will this job fit into your career plans?

What do you expect to do or learn from this job?

Your Work Experience

What specific skills have you acquired or used in previous roles that you can apply to this position?

Answer: Highlight your value to the team by drawing from past work experiences. Emphasize key selling points about your expertise and profile, and mention transferable skills from personal life or school.

Other questions about your work experience:

Tell us about a project you’ve led or participated in that you’re proud of.

Describe a past experience where you overcame a challenge at work.

Have you ever participated in activities outside your primary responsibilities?

Share an incident where you took responsibility to analyze a problem and found a viable solution.

What are your strengths?

What is your biggest weakness?

Behavioral-Based Questions

Tell us about a time when you entered a new environment and how you adapted to it.

Answer: Employers want to hire people who are agile, adaptable, and resilient. Share an experience where you overcame differences and challenges during times of change or adversity.

Have you ever dealt with a difficult situation with a client or colleague? How did you manage and respond to it?

Answer: Conflicts happen in the workplace. Highlight your ability to remain objective, consider all perspectives, and make informed decisions. This is a great chance to showcase your interpersonal communication skills.

In a scenario where your colleague is facing a challenge at work, what do you do?

Answer: Demonstrate that you're a good team player by describing the technical and soft skills you used to help your colleague overcome the challenge.

Describe a decision you made that wasn’t popular and how you handled implementing it.

Answer: Explain the importance of considering all perspectives in decision-making. Share how you communicated your opinion to help others understand your viewpoint.

Other behavioral-based questions:

What type of workplace culture are you most productive in?

Describe the type of manager you’re most inspired by or want to work for.

Tell me about a time when you worked effectively under pressure.

Give an example of a goal you reached and how you achieved it.

What do you do if you disagree with someone or when someone disagrees with you at work?

Share a recent example of how you motivated your colleagues.

What qualities do you find important in a co-worker?

Questions to ask your Interviewer

Remember, an interview is a two-way conversation. You're not just there to answer questions; you're also there to ask them. This is your chance to learn more about the company, the team you'll be working with, and the organization's values and goals. It's your opportunity to see if you're a good fit for them.

Questions You Can Ask

  • Is this a newly created role or are you filling a recently vacated position?
  • How will this role contribute to the team and department?
  • What are the reporting lines within the team?
  • What are the short-term and long-term expectations for this position?
  • Are there opportunities for career development and advancement?
  • Can you describe the team and organizational culture?
  • How long have you been with the company, and what keeps you here?
  • What sets your company apart from its competitors?
  • When should I expect to hear back about the interview and next steps?

Questions You Should Avoid

  • How much will I get paid for this role?
  • What type of bonus do you offer, and am I eligible?
  • What does your company do?
  • Can I arrive early or leave late as long as I complete my hours?
  • Was the previous person fired from this job?
  • How many warnings do you give before firing someone?
  • Is job sharing an option?
  • Can I see the pantry and break areas in your office?
  • What is considered a good absenteeism record here?
  • When can I start taking annual leave?