Let’s be honest – there are few of us that like the interview process.
You have to look your best, act like you aren’t even a little nervous, and answer all the questions in an intelligent manner.
Let’s look at the first round interview questions. By knowing what to expect, you can practice and be prepared. When you are prepared you can nail the interview and be ready for round two.
So what are the first questions asked in interviews?
The 10 First Interview Questions and Tips on Answering Them
These are the typical first round questions –
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
By far the most common question to be asked.
Don’t give the interviewer your life history. Instead give a summary of relevant facts including experience, education, life situations, that show why you are an excellent choice for this job.
2. Why did you leave you last job or why are thinking of leaving?
While it sounds straightforward, it’s the question most often answered incorrectly.
Always answer positively, never talk about money, and never say anything bad about your current/previous employer. If you were part of downsizing put a positive spin on it. For example, “While I became unemployed because of downsizing, now I have the opportunity to grow and explore new horizons.”
3. Tell me what you know about our company.
If you did your homework this won’t be difficult at all.
A good answer will help you stand out.
4. Why are you interested in working for Company XYZ?
The answer here should tie to the previous question and answer.
Again make sure you’ve done your research on the company so you can give a solid answer about your career goals and how you can be an asset to the company.
5. What is your relevant experience?
Be honest and creative as to how your skills, experience, and education will apply to the position and benefit the company.
6. What would your co-workers say about you if they were here?
OK, now is the time to bear your sole like you were in a confessional.
Let’s face it there are going to co-workers past and present that love you and those that don’t think so much of you, and the feelings often mutual. Keep it light, stay positive, and refer to the ones that you know would say good things about you. Then make a comment such as “Tommy Smith says he can always rely on me.”
7. Have you applied elsewhere?
This is your opportunity to indicate you are in high demand without making it sound like you’ve applied for every position on the planet.
Be honest and let them know you are looking for the right career move with the right company.
8. Do you work well under pressure?
Your answer should be positive.
Some love to work under pressure – then tell them so if you are one of these people who thrive. Then again if you fall apart that’s probably not a good answer so think carefully about what you say.
9. What is your greatest strength?
Toot your own horn here!
You might be an excellent problem solver, or perhaps you have an eye for detail. Whatever your strengths that can be tied to the position make sure to tell the interviewer. It’s time to sell yourself. That said; don’t be bragging about how you once ran naked through the streets on a dare. Some things shouldn’t make it to an interview no matter how proud you are of them.
10. What is your greatest weakness?
Be honest. Everyone has weaknesses but turn the weakness into a positive.
For example, “I’ve been told I pay too much attention to detail.”
“The first round interview might feel like the firing squad but with the right answers it could be a bulls eye.”
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