Example interview questions

1. Why do you want to work here?

Mention the following:

• the good reputation of the firm

• any other positive information you have about them - for example: their training record or their

equal opportunities policy

• the job will give you the opportunity to do work that interests you

2. Why did you leave your last job?

Be positive. If you left for health reasons, explain that you’re now able to carry out all the

duties for the job you are applying for. Don’t use this as an opportunity to criticise your previous

company. If you were dismissed, say that you take responsibility for your actions and have learnt

from the experience.

3. What did you do in your last job?

Describe the following things:

• skills and duties relevant to the new job

• your responsibilities

• how you worked with others

• if you worked with customers - say how you worked with them

• how long you were there

• whether you were promoted

• responsibilities you volunteered to take on

4. How long have you been out of work and how do you spend your time?

Describe the following:

• what you have done to look for a job

• any voluntary work you have done

• any further education, study or training you have taken part in

• your hobbies and leisure activities – if appropriate

Try to link what you did to the skills and experience the employer is looking for.

5. What makes you think you are the right person for this job?

Tell the interviewer about the following:

• the skills and experience you have which are relevant to the job

• the personal qualities that you bring to the job

6. Why have you had so many jobs?

You could say the following things:

• you wanted to widen your experience in different types of work or

in different companies

• many of the jobs were temporary

• you would rather be in work than out of work

7. Why should the employer take you on?

Be ready for this question and answer confidently and positively:

• describe your skills and experience and how relevant they are to this job

• tell them you are enthusiastic and willing to learn

• tell them you are hardworking, reliable and capable

8. Aren’t you overqualified?

Emphasise the following:

• you are looking for something different

• you can take as well as give instructions

9. How do you get on with people?

Tell the interviewer:

• how you have worked as a team in the past

• how you get on with people at all levels - give examples

• how you have provided good customer service, if this is relevant - give examples

10. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

It is a good idea to have one or two examples of each ready for this question. Employers value

people who can admit their mistakes rather than blaming their failings on others.

• Strengths: The employer should already know your strengths from your application but you

may want to emphasise particular skills relevant to the job by giving examples.

• Weaknesses: Start by describing parts of your last job which you found difficult and then

explain how you overcame these difficulties or be brief but honest - for example: ‘I can

sometimes be a little too enthusiastic’.

11. Do you have any questions?

You may like to prepare for this, as it is almost always asked at an interview.

Asking some questions (but not too many) can show you are interested. One or two of these

may be appropriate.

• Do you offer ongoing training and development?

• What will my first job be?

• How soon will I hear the result of my application?

• Does the company carry out performance reviews and how often?