�Job interviews are a common source of anxiety for many and much of this seems to stem from a concern that you will be thrown by a difficult question. The range and nature of questions you may be asked at interview is vast and it is therefore neither practicable nor desirable to swot up on questions in preparation. By completing the assessment activities we recommend in our career coaching programmes you will be more fully and confidently prepared and able to give natural, authentic responses.
The following questions are provided to give you an idea of typical questions and to give you an opportunity to check your preparedness, perhaps by randomly selecting a few questions and answering them. You may find it helpful to ask a friend, family member or your Coach to assist you.
- Tell me about yourself.
- What is it about this role that appeals to you?
- Tell me why we should offer this job to you?
- Where do you hope/intend to be in the next three years?
- How would your ex-boss/ex-colleagues describe you?
- What would you say were your main strengths?
- What is your biggest weakness?
- Give me an example of your problem solving skills.
- Tell me about an occasion where your communication skills made a difference to the situation.
- Describe a time when you had to persuade a reluctant person to take a particular course of action.
- Describe a situation when you had to deal with an angry customer.
- What type of responsibilities do you delegate? Give examples of projects where you made best use of delegation.
- What would you describe as your greatest achievement?
- What leadership qualities do you possess?
- How would you describe your management style?
- How do you keep up with technical developments in your field?
- Describe a time when you were faced with unrealistic/unfeasible goals? How did you handle the situation?
- If we offer you this job what area(s) would you feel most unconfident about?
- If we offered you this job what would be your first priority on joining?
- Are you considering other jobs at this time? How does this opportunity compare?
- What salary are you seeking?
- How do you motivate your team?
- Give me an example of when your work has been criticised. How did you respond?
- Why did you stay so long in your last role?
- Would you be prepared to relocate?
- Can you give me an example of your team work and leadership?
- Do you prefer working on your own or in a team?
- What do you do when you're not working?
- What do you know about us?
- Do you have any questions for me?
There are no right answers to these questions. What is important is that you can answer relevant questions confidently, honestly and in a way which positively promotes your abilities, experience and skills.
E: sarah.jaggers@managingchange.org.uk
