Top 10 Answers to Interview Questions

Summary

This video script offers expert advice for job seekers on crafting interview responses. It emphasizes the importance of understanding what employers are looking for, particularly in the 'tell me about yourself' question, and provides a framework for discussing one's value to the company. The script also covers how to address common interview questions, such as reasons for leaving a current role and salary expectations, while highlighting the need for research, self-awareness, and aligning personal goals with the company's mission.

Takeaways

• 📝 Tailor your 'tell me about yourself' answer to highlight your value and fit for the role, rather than providing a life story.
• 🔑 Emphasize your specific job titles, the results you've achieved, and your strengths to demonstrate your qualifications for the position.
• 🔍 For the 'walk me through your resume' question, focus on experiences relevant to the job and explain how they translate to the role.
• 🏢 When asked why you want to work at the company, express enthusiasm for the company's mission, values, and how the role aligns with your career path.
• 💡 Frame your answer about weaknesses by admitting a genuine flaw and discussing how you are working to overcome it without it affecting the job performance.
• 🌟 To answer 'what makes you unique,' highlight a unique pairing of skills that sets you apart from other candidates.
• 🤔 When discussing why you're leaving your current role, avoid negative comments and focus on what you're seeking in a new opportunity that isn't available in your current position.
• 🚀 Be clear about your career aspirations and how long you see yourself contributing to the company, showing both commitment and flexibility.
• 🤝 Address what you're looking for in a new position by aligning your career goals, strengths, and desires with the role and company.
• ❓ Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer, such as specifics about the job description, how to exceed expectations, and the onboarding process.
• 💰 When discussing salary, research the market value for the role and present a flexible range based on your findings and the company's situation.

Q & A

What is the most common misinterpretation of the question 'Tell me about yourself' in an interview?

The most common misinterpretation is that interviewees tend to tell their whole life story, including personal details that are irrelevant to the job. What employers actually want to hear is a sales pitch on why the candidate is fit for the role, focusing on relevant experiences and skills.

How should you respond to 'Tell me about yourself' to showcase your value to the company?

You should start by stating your exact title and role, followed by the results you have driven. Then, discuss your biggest strengths and how they relate to the role you are applying for. The goal is to demonstrate how your past experiences and skills make you a good fit for the position.

Why is it important to focus on relevant experiences when discussing your resume in an interview?

Focusing on relevant experiences is crucial because it shows how your past roles and achievements directly relate to the job you are applying for. It helps the interviewer understand how your skills and experiences will add value to their company.

What is the correct approach to answering 'Why do you want to work at this company?'

The correct approach is to demonstrate your research on the company, express your excitement about the role, and show how you align with the company's mission, values, and vision. Avoid focusing on selfish reasons like pay or benefits, and instead emphasize your desire to contribute to the company's goals.

How should you handle the question about your weaknesses in an interview?

You should honestly admit a genuine weakness, but also explain how you are working on overcoming it or how you handle it in a way that does not hinder your performance. Avoid turning a strength into a weakness, as this is often seen as insincere.

What does the question 'What makes you unique?' really mean in an interview?

This question is asking why the employer should hire you over other candidates. You should highlight unique pairings of skills or experiences that set you apart and make you particularly suited for the role.

How should you answer the question 'Why are you leaving your current role?'

You should provide reasons that do not reflect negatively on your work ethic or attitude, and emphasize that the new role offers opportunities that align with your career goals and aspirations, which were not available in your current position.

What does an employer want to know when asking about your career aspirations?

Employers want to understand how long you plan to stay with the company and whether your career goals align with the role and the company's growth. They also want to gauge your flexibility and commitment to the role.

How should you approach the question 'What are you looking for in a new position?'

Focus on the environment and conditions that would allow you to thrive and contribute the most, such as autonomy, support, and clarity from leadership. Avoid listing personal demands or desires that may not align with the company's goals.

What are some effective questions to ask at the end of an interview?

Ask specific questions about the job description, inquire about how you could exceed expectations in the role, and ask about the onboarding process or your potential 30-60-90 plan. This shows thoughtfulness and a genuine interest in the role.

How should you handle questions about salary expectations in an interview?

Research the market value for the role based on your experience and the company's industry. Provide a flexible range that is realistic and justified by your research, rather than stating a specific number that might be seen as unrealistic.