COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

The questions below can be asked in a variety of ways depending on the job you're applying for, the person who is interviewing you and how far along you are in the interview process.  Nonetheless, they are all likely to come up, so be ready to answer them!

Tell me about yourself.

This is often the opening question in an interview.  The employer is asking for a brief profile of you in order to get to know you better and also to compare you to his/her image of the ideal candidate.  Keep your answer to a minute or two - the employer is not looking for your complete autobiography.  Be sure to cover your education, your related work experience and what has motivated you to pursue your chosen career path.  You might conclude your answer by asking the interviewer if there is any other information that he/she would like you to cover.

Why are you interested in this organization?

The employer wants to determine how much research you've done on the company and your chosen career field.  Share some of your knowledge about the organization's products or services, reputation, goals, history or philosophy.  Let your answer show that you've taken the time to do some research (which of course you did!), but don't overwhelm the interviewer.  Make it clear that you want to learn more.

Why do you want this job?

Honestly share what appeals to you most about the position.  Is it the challenge and new opportunities, the atmosphere, the progressive management style, the potential to meet your career goal, the chance to use skills you enjoy?  Your answers should demonstrate how your interest will benefit the employer as well as you.  Avoid talking about the company's fabulous benefits package or generous vacation allowances. 

What are your career plans?

This question is frequently disguised as "Where do you see yourself in 5 (or 10) years?" but the main point is the same.  The question is asked to see how your future plans mesh with those of the organization.  The interviewer wants to know if the job under discussion meets your short-range goals and/or fits well with your future career goals.

What are your strengths?

This is an opportunity to point out the strengths you have acquired through your education, past jobs, campus and community activities.  Relate them to the employer's needs.  Don't be overly modest!  The interviewer asked about your strengths, so tell them!  If you don't brag for yourself a bit, no one else will.

What are your weaknesses?

Be honest about a job-related weakness.  Briefly mention one weakness that you are taking steps to overcome or have already overcome.  For instance, "I tend to look at problems from a 'big picture' point of view, and sometimes I don't pay enough attention to the details."  Or "I'd like to strengthen my knowledge of database applications, and I plan to take a course next semester."  Or "I could probably improve my public speaking skills - I plan to join Toastmasters to get more practice."  If the interviewer presses you for a second weakness, come up with one, but make him/her ask for it.  Avoid answering, "I can't think of any weaknesses." 

What are your salary requirements?

Salary is a delicate topic.  It is desirable to wait and discuss salary when you are confident that you will receive a job offer.  You might say, "I understand that the range for this job is between $____ and $____.  This seems acceptable for the job as I understand it."  You might also answer the question with a question of your own.  "Perhaps you can help me.  Can you tell me what the salary range is for this position?"  If no price range is attached to the job and the interviewer continues to press for answer, you will have to respond with a number or salary range.  You should not leave the impression that it really doesn't matter and that you'll accept whatever is offered.  Be prepared to provide a range such as the mid-twenties.  Base your figure on research into typical salaries for your field in that geographic area.

Not sure what the appropriate salary is for a particular position?  Check out our page on Exploring Career Information for links to several websites that provide salary information.

Illegal Questions

It should be clear to you why an employer is asking a question.  However, the situation may arise when the question does not seem job-related.  For example, questions about marital status, race, religion, nationality and age are illegal.  You can be perfectly upfront if asked an illegal question, let the interviewer know that you have the law on your side and threaten to sue.  That kind of response is not likely to help you in securing a job offer, though.  Instead, you might try to understand the underlying implications of the question.  For instance, if asked "Do you plan to marry of have children in the near future?" you could respond by addressing the interviewer's underlying concern.  "If you're concerned about my ability to travel, please know I am aware the job requires extensive travel and I am looking forward to that aspect of the job."  Should an illegal question arise, seek clarification and answer in the way you feel most comfortable.  It is acceptable to say, "I'd prefer not to answer that question."

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