5 Interview Questions You Need to Be Prepared to Answer

July 30 2020 - Did you know that 23 percent of hiring professionals recommend wearing blue to an interview?

Hiring professionals say wearing navy blue attire makes an applicant look trustworthy and confident. However, what you wear to an interview won't guarantee you'll leave with the job.

Even with the right outfit, an interview can go sour if you aren't prepared for the questions. So, which questions should you be prepared to answer for your next interview?

We're here to fill you in! Keep reading below to learn five of the most common interview questions you should know how to answer!

1. What Makes You Unique?

Interviewers want to know what sets you apart from other candidates. Clearly something on your resume sparked their interest, so it's up to you to expand on your unique qualities.

When answering this question, pinpointing specific skill sets you have can set you apart from the competition. Listing every single qualification you possess can make a resume clunky, but this interview question gives you the chance to highlight why you'd make a great asset.

2. Career Transition Review: Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?

It's best not to bad mouth your past employer when faced with this question. A more positive way to answer this is by talking about your desire to fill a bigger role. By leaving your current job, you are taking the first step to growing professionally.

Depending on whether you are employed at the time of the interview, an interviewer may instead ask "Why did you leave your previous job?"

If you've been out of the workforce for a while, this type of question can be intimidating. These tips from Centennial Inc. can help you feel confident about your answer.

3. How Did You Overcome a Difficult Workplace Situation?

Interviewers will often ask this question to understand your approach to problem-solving and conflict resolution.

If you're discussing an unfortunate interaction with a customer, for example, avoid putting the blame on the customer. An interviewer would rather hire someone who either takes accountability for their mistakes or quickly finds a way to resolve the matter.

4. Self-Evaluation Interview Questions: What Are Your Greatest Strengths/Weaknesses?

These interview questions often go hand-in-hand.

When listing your strengths, do your best to relate them back to the role you're applying for. This question gives you the opportunity to bring up qualities that are only visible when you're working, rather than on a resume, such as time-management skills and your ability to work well with others.

While it's important to be candid about your weaknesses, be sure to close it by telling the interviewer what you're doing to improve upon them.

5. Do You Have Any Questions?

This is typically the final question an interviewer will ask you, and it's important that you have at least one or two questions lined up for them. Preparing questions will show that you're truly interested in the role and what it has to offer.

Asking the interviewer about their own time with the company opens up a more free-flowing dialogue, where you can share similar experiences you've had in your previous roles as well. It's a great way to make an interview more personal and create a lasting impression.

Carry Yourself With Confidence

Interviews can be very intimidating. However, if you're prepared for the interview questions above, you'll have a good shot at nailing your interview. Remember - preparation is key!

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