The Top 5 Interview Questions and How to Answer Them Like a Boss

Wouldn’t it be awesome to know exactly what a hiring manager will ask during an interview? Well yes. But until we obtain that power, the second-best way to slay an interview is preparation. Preparing for an interview, especially responses to questions, will help your confidence, personality, and charm shine through. And even though your professional experience and skills get you the interview, showing a cool demeanor and friendly personality can help you land the job.

Here is a little secret about the interview process. Although each one has its own flow and job specific questions, they follow a similar pattern. And there are common questions that make an appearance in most interviews.

What are they? The top 5 questions that creep into almost every interview are listed below with tips on answering them like a true baller. So, start your preparation today. Write down your responses to the questions and practice saying them with confidence. Let your personality shine through and get ready for the offers to roll in.

Tell me about yourself?

This question always stumps job seekers. Yes, it is open ended, but the hiring manager is looking for how you directly connect to the position. Your answer should really focus on telling an engaging story about your professional experience, interests, and how they align with the role. However, don’t think of this as a regurgitation of your resume. Tell a story. Make it interesting. Let your personality come through. This is an opportunity to give an overview of you.

Why are you interested in this job?

There is a reason you applied for this role and now is the moment to be honest and state your why. What stood out about the position? What about the job duties or responsibilities make it an exciting next step in your career? Also show your interest in not just the job but the field and even company. Do your research about the company and role and let that show when you answer this question. You will see some big smiles if you drop a line about the company that proves you did your homework and prepared for the interview.

What are your greatest strengths?

You are awesome at so many things and now you get to spell them out with pride. Pick 1-2 strengths that really align with the job description. That is the key to answering this question. Make sure you stick to the role. Another consideration is to not just say I’m a great leader, but to back it up with a short story of how you displayed leadership skills in your past or current position. Make the example measurable if you can. For example, mention how many employees you supervised if you are discussing your leadership skills.

What are your weaknesses?

Yes, we hate this one. But don’t stress. We all have areas for improvement. Just make sure your weakness is not related to the essential components of the job.  Whatever you pick be clear on how you became aware of this weakness and most importantly what you are doing to improve it. This is the best place to show self-awareness, your ability to reflect, learn, and grow.

Why should we hire you?

This is your point to tell the hiring manager what makes you unique and how you will kill it at the job. Confidently state how you can do the job, drive results, and fit in within the company. You also want to add in what makes you different from the other candidates. Think about that special thing you can offer that no one else can provide to the company.

Now that you have the questions get your practice started. And remember display confidence and be you. Your unique attributes are what will get you the job so show the recruiter or hiring manager who you really are.

Learn more about my coaching and how to work with me at www.jasmineescalera.com.