Unless interviewing for a job is a completely foreign experience to you, the questions, “Tell me about yourself” and “Discuss your top 3 strengths/weaknesses” will not take you by surprise. Most interviews however, will also include some questions that may jolt you out of complacency. It’s not possible to anticipate every question you will be asked, but it’s a great idea to practice fielding a wide range of questions, both traditional and behavioral.
Sample List of Possible Interview Questions:
Tell me about yourself.
What are some of your career strengths / weaknesses?
Are you interviewing with other companies?
Tell me about a time when you had to adjust quickly to changes over which you had no control. How did you handle it? What was the impact of the changes on you?
Describe a situation in which you saw a problem and took action to correct it rather than wait for someone else to do so.
Have you ever done more than was required?
We all make decisions that turn out to be mistakes. Describe a work decision you made that you wish you could do over.
What was the greatest challenge you’ve faced in a previous position?
Are you able to multi-task? Give me some examples.
What areas of your abilities would you like to improve upon?
Describe an occasion when you decided to involve others in making a decision. Why did you do so? To what extent did you use their input?
In what kind of work environment are you most comfortable?
What is a creative idea or change you’ve successfully put to work in a recent job or assignment?
How would your colleagues would describe you?
What function of your job do you like / dislike most?
Tell me something about you that is not on your resume.
Describe how you’ve gone about learning a new technical task.
How do you organize your typical day? Give examples.
How would you rate your communication skills?
Tell me about a time when you encountered a conflict with a co-worker. How did you handle it? What was the outcome?
Do you work well under pressure? What was your greatest achievement while under pressure?
What type of rewards are you seeking regarding this position?
How has your education prepared you for your career?
Are there any concerns you have about this position?
Why should we hire you and not someone else?
How do you manage stress?
What is your least favorite duty and why?
What is your favorite duty and why?
Describe how your skill set will benefit XYZ Company.
What are your short and long-term goals?
What are your salary requirements?
What is the most important thing you want me to remember about you after you leave?
What questions do you have for me?