Do you have an interview coming up? Or are you thinking about applying for roles and want to brush up on your interviewing skills? Either way, you’ve come to the right place. Interviewing is my jam and I love coaching professionals on how to stand out and ace every interview. In this article, I’m going to answer one of the most popular questions I get, which is “What are the 7 most common interview questions and answers.” Together we are going to explore each question, the why behind “the ask”, and how you can answer it, I’m going to share some specific examples from my experience, and some of my top tips for preparing for interviews. My goal is for you to answer in the best way that showcases why you are the best candidate for the role!
Before diving into the 7 most common interview questions and answers, I think it’s important to know who you’re taking advice from. If you’re anything like me, you like knowing the credentials behind the advice. If you don’t care, feel free to keep scrolling.
How do I know what the 7 most common interview questions and answers are?
I’m Chelsea Jay and interviewing is my jam! I’m a Leadership and Career Coach and over the past 10+ years, I’ve conducted interviews as a Senior Leader and Freelance Hiring Manager. I’ve also attended over 100 interviews myself. I’ve tested different strategies and techniques from both the hiring and recruiting end. Now I use everything I’ve learned to help professionals across the globe ace interviews with confidence and ease by providing insight into behavioral interview questions, situational questions, tricky question, and career change advocacy.
Towards the end of the article, I will also answer some frequently asked questions I get when it comes to interviews. (Spoiler: one includes an article that provides you with unique questions to ask an interviewer and how to prepare for an interview). Without further ado, let’s get into what you came here for.
The 7 Most Common Job Interview Questions and Answers
Question #1: Can you tell me about yourself?
Why they ask this question: Honestly, the majority of employers ask this simply because this question has been around for years. When you look up, “What questions should I ask candidates in interviews?” you’ll often find this as a first question. I don’t think it’s a bad question, but I do think it’s a great opportunity to break the ice with your potential employer and highlight your work experience and technical skills. Most hiring panels evaluate your ability to discuss your skills, expertise, and how your experience directly ties into the role. They want to see if you can genuinely sell yourself while staying on topic.
How you should answer: Think of this as your elevator pitch. If you’re like most professionals, you begin by introducing yourself by your name and current job title. You’ll then go into discussing your marriage, kids, hometown, hobbies, etc. If you’re planning on doing this… don’t! If you’ve done this, I want you to get out of the habit of doing this. This may be hard to hear and may even sound a little harsh, but interviewers don’t care about you personally. As an ex-hiring manager, I noticed that many candidates would spend too much time talking about their personal lives instead of demonstrating why they are a good fit. Remember, hiring managers are there to learn how your skills and experience can benefit the company. So give them the answer they’re looking for.
Sample Answer:
“I’m a natural (list at least two characteristics from the job posting) and I’ve really found that I excel in (name industry/type of role). Over the past # of years, I’ve spent time increasing my skill set and abilities in (name traits/competencies you’ve improved on). The work paid off because I’ve been able to (list 2-3 major wins from your current or previous roles). When I saw your opening I felt this was the perfect opportunity to help your organization achieve the same results!”
Question #2: What excites you about this role? (Why did you apply for this role?)
Why they ask this question: They want to see if you’ve researched their organization and whether or not you’ve been intentional with your job search. Truthfully, as a Career Coach, I’ve seen many job seekers just hit the apply button to any and every role without even checking to see if the organization is one they want to work for.
Quick story, I was once an Executive Director for a local nonprofit and I had to hire a Community Liaison. I needed a person who enjoyed networking with the community, traveling statewide, and was good at developing content for promotions and spreading awareness. I got over 200 applicants for the role and interviewed 12. Out of the 12, only 3 took time to research the role and self-reflect on whether or not it was a good fit. The others were speechless when I asked this question and one even told me that they just needed a job and applied.
This question demonstrates your ability to research, take in and review information, and respect others’ time. I know that some questions (as a candidate) can seem pointless, but I promise, they are always being asked for a deeper purpose.
How you should answer: This is a great time to showcase your enthusiasm, excitement, and passion for the role. You also get to drive home why and how you are the best fit for the role. Make sure to do your research on the role, check out the company website, find specific tasks that excite you, and come up with a few examples of how you’ve excelled in these areas in previous roles.
Sample Answer:
“This role compliments my natural soft skills such as, (name 2-3 soft skills) as well as my area of expertise in (name area of expertise). I really enjoy (name 1-2 tasks listed in the job description). Also, I’m good at (list your professional superpower!) I believe this role would allow me to achieve great results for your team while continuing to grow professionally.”
Question #3: What do you know about our company?
Why they ask this question: Similar to, “What excites you about this role?” employers want to see that you’ve done your research on the organization. This includes understanding their mission, vision, challenges, who/what they support, their programs, etc.
Why? Employers understand that you can be great at the job, but if you don’t believe in or care about what they do, why they exist, and their mission, it will eventually impact your representation of them outside of the office. Also, keep in mind, that it’s nice to be proud of the company you work for and what they do. As a Career and Leadership Coach, I find that professionals who don’t believe in their company’s mission or understand the “why” behind the company’s actions, eventually lose motivation and desire for the role as well. For the last few years, I’ve worked with a large number of professionals ready to leave roles they loved because they never (or no longer) believed in the company’s mission and vision.
How you should answer: Show off! Demonstrate that you’ve done your research. Honestly, If this is a company whose values align with your own, this will be easy. Bring up positive things such as their mission, recent accomplishments, community involvement, expertise in their field, etc. Show them that from a distance, you understand why they exist.
Sample Answer:
“I chose to apply to your company not just for the role, but because I believe in (or am excited about) what you do for (name audience (i.e. community, demographic, state, people, animals, etc.)). I strongly believe in doing work that matters for causes/issues I care about. As someone who has a love for (name a topic that relates to them), I know I’d be a natural champion and representative of your organization AND come to work feeling fulfilled each day.”
Question #4: What are your long-term goals?
Why they ask this question: Simply put, they want to make sure that you are going to stick around and commit to growing with their company. You’ve probably heard the term “job hopper” and if you want more information on what it is, check out this article, What is a Job Hopper. Employers see hiring as a heavy investment both financially and time-wise. They want to avoid hiring someone who doesn’t have long-term goals that include their company.
Anytime you apply for a role, it’s important to research the company and the role to make sure that it will contribute to your personal and professional goals, growth, and opportunity to expand within the organization. If you are just looking for a quick 2 to 3-year role to gain new skills, that’s ok, but you may not want to highlight that during the interview process since that can decrease your chances of landing the role. Take time to look at the organizational chart, check out different departments, and ask yourself how you want this company to fit into your life and long-term goals.
How you should answer: This should be an exciting question to answer. Your explanation will give the hiring team insight into who you are as a professional, your goals, and how you want to grow. This question can also give you the opportunity to segway into asking a question of your own. If you want to know what unique interview questions to ask an employer, check out the article, Unique Questions to Ask an Employer.
Sample Answer:
“I’m excited you asked! One of the reasons I want to join your company is that I can easily envision building (or continuing) my career here for the long haul. I notice you also have a variety of departments and specialties that would contribute to my goals of continuous learning. Although I specialize in (name your specialty), I also want to continue building my skills in (name a task/skill they need) which would allow me to contribute to your goals while growing professionally.”
Special note: If you’re looking to eventually move into a management role, great! Keep the management statement general. Saying something like, “After mastering my role, I’d love to develop others and eventually move into a management role.” So many professionals make the mistake of giving wrong answers here, including telling hiring managers that they want their job (or the boss’s job). You want to portray that you’re ambitious without being threatening… make sense?
Question #5: Why are you looking for a new job?
Why they ask this question: When I first opened my coaching practice, I primarily worked with job-hoppers and non-linear professionals (I still do!) and this was a question that professionals were always afraid to answer. This question can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Employers are asking this question to figure out why you left your last job and if they can live up to your expectations so that you don’t leave them as well (for the same reasons). For example, if you’re saying that you’re leaving due to a lack of growth and their organization isn’t set up for growth, then they want to make sure not to hire you. Also, if you’re leaving due to limited flexibility, no remote work options, and a lack of PTO… if they have the same qualities, they don’t want to onboard you only to have you leave.
How you should answer: Answer with confidence. If you’ve had short stints or leaving due to a toxic work environment, own it. If employers detect nervousness, fear, or hesitation in your voice, they will make up their own conclusions. I want you to take time to think about why you’ve made the decisions you have and be comfortable with explaining them. You don’t have to get into extreme detail, but confidently state your reason and focus on why you know their organization is where you want to be next. Focus on the positive and your future work goals. Finally, breathe and remember, you got this!
Sample Answer:
“After working in (name of industry or type of role) for (# of years), I’ve learned more about myself, my values, and my needs in order to thrive in the workplace. My goal is to work for an environment that allows me to do just that. I find that I work best for employers/bosses who (list the qualities you know the company has). From the research I’ve done, I know that your company offers that and I’m excited to contribute and join your amazing time.”
Question #6: What is your greatest strength and weakness?
Why they ask this question: This question may feel like you’re really being put on the spot, but just pause and breathe! They just want to see your ability to self-assess, be critical, and be assertive. Hiring Managers know that everyone has strengths and weaknesses. You can be amazing at your job, but I can guarantee that you are not 100% proficient in all aspects of your role. There’s always something to learn and an opportunity to grow. Especially with constantly changing technology.
How you should answer: Your answer should be honest and transparent! This is also a great opportunity to see if the employer offers training or professional development opportunities. Again, make sure to check out my article, unique interview questions to ask employers.
This is an opportunity to sell yourself on your greatest strengths. Make sure to pick a strength that you know the company/team/or hiring manager needs. Refer to the job description and what they’ve shared with you so far during the interview. Take time to talk about the additional training you’ve received, kudos, and accomplishments related to this strength.
For a weakness, pick something that you want more training or support in. For example, the need for knowledge in AI is quickly growing. Share that while you embrace new technology, this one presents challenges and you’d like to take additional training to grow in this area so that you can bring your findings to the company and make improvements based on what you’ve learned.
Another example of a weakness could involve your desire to build on skills and make improvements. Communication is a great example of a skill that can always be improved. Think of a software program that can be challenging. The first one that comes to mind for me is Excel. Why? It’s a robust program and there’s SO MUCH to learn.
Sample Answer:
“One of the reasons I’ve excelled as a (name type of role), is because my strength is (name your strength). I’ve always had a natural ability to (list what you love most about what you do). This allows me to (list 2-3 things that you do).”
I’ll give you an example from when I interviewed to become an Executive Director.
“One of the reasons that I love management roles is because I love coaching, developing, and leading professionals. I also have always had a natural knack for seeing the bigger picture, gaining buy-in, and creating growth opportunities. These skills have allowed me to build and implement multi-million dollar programs in the community, help professionals reach their goals, and build a strong reputation with stakeholders and community members throughout the state.”
I hope my example helped! Leave a comment below if it did 😊
Question #7: Why are you the right candidate for this role?
Why they ask this question: This common interview question is usually asked towards the end of the interview as a wrap-up. The hiring panel is giving you one last opportunity to sell yourself and share any additional information they may have missed with their standard questions. After answering a variety of questions throughout the interview, this one should come easy to you since you now have examples, you’re more at ease, and you’ve learned more about the role.
How you should answer: Answer with confidence and reassurance. Remember, you applied for the role because it spoke to you and you know that you’d be an amazing fit. Recap how your skills and natural traits complement the role, talk about your experience and how it will contribute to helping them reach their goals, and also share your excitement for why you want to join their company/team.
Sample Answer:
“To be honest, I was excited about joining your team prior to the interview. This interview has confirmed why I want to work with your team. After learning more about the role and meeting you, I know that I can use my experience, skills, and natural traits to (mention something they were excited about within the role or something they mentioned needing). I have so many ideas for how to incorporate (list a technique) to help your team (mention an outcome they need). I’d love to contribute and grow with you if you give me the opportunity!”
Also, make sure to ask, “is there anything else you’d like to know about me? I want to make sure I’ve covered everything so that you can make the best decision for your team.”
Additional Common Interview Questions (Bonus!)
I just provide the 7 most common interview questions and answers, but there are more! The questions asked during the interview process depend entirely on the company, their preferences, and their needs. Below are 2 more common interview questions to be aware of.
Question: Tell me about a time you (demonstrated the skill the need).
Why they ask this question: The interview process is a continuous cycle of you reassuring the team that you have the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to complete the job. They often ask this question to see if you can prove how you’ve completed this job in the past.
How you should answer: This is your opportunity to shine. You should always have a few shining examples of projects you’ve completed, changes you’ve made, and processes you’ve implemented based on the job you’re applying to.
Sample Answer:
“Thank you for asking! In my current/previous role, I was able to (briefly say what you achieved, and how you planned and executed it). I notice that’s something you’re looking for as well, so I’m excited to help your team achieve the same success.”
Question: What is your favorite/least favorite part about your current job?
Why they ask this question: Whew! Don’t fall for this trap. As I often tell many professionals, “keep it cute.” If you’re not familiar with that phrase, it means “keep it classy.” Hiring managers often ask this question to see if you are going to throw your current employer under the bus and start gossiping. Try to always remain professional and keep it positive.
How you should answer: Focus on what you love about your role and what excites you. Also, focus on why you’re excited to potentially work for your new organization. For example, if your current organization isn’t collaborative and you’re looking for a team atmosphere, talk about how you learned about their focus on collaboration.
Sample Answer:
“I love that I get to use my skills to (list outcome). I’m currently looking for an organization that encourages cross-collaboration and teamwork since that’s what I’m missing right now. I know that your organization excels in this which is why I’m excited to interview with you today!”
Special note: Make sure to avoid eye-rolling or sarcastic remarks when answering this question. Some interviewers will try to bait you, don’t fall for the trap!
Common Interview Question FAQs
My goal is to always provide the most helpful information so that you can reach your career goals. In this case, I wanted to share with you the 7 most common interview questions and answers (plus bonus questions) so that you can ace your next interview. My goal is to have you walk in confident, excited, and prepared.
Below are a few questions, I receive quite often about certain questions.
What weaknesses should I say in an interview?
While I want you to be honest and transparent, I also don’t want you to throw yourself under the bus by highlighting major flaws or weaknesses. For example, if you’re switching careers, I don’t want you to focus on the negative.
To paint a clearer picture, let me give you an example. One of my biggest success stories was my client who went from being a semi-truck driver to a social worker. Of course, his biggest weakness was the lack of case management practice. So we focused on his strengths. His strengths included, going back to school for a degree in social work, he volunteered at a local shelter so had excellent people skills, he had a passion for the field, and was skilled in building relationships.
My client leaned on those strengths and briefly mentioned needing more case management experience. He shared how excited he was to apply for this role to get the experience and grow with the company. He ended up landing an amazing internship and full-time Case Manager role shortly after.
In other cases, I recommend my professionals focus on skills they want to build on and aren’t a make-or-break skill for the job. Focus on learning more about technology, improving your project management skills, communication or presentation skills, and if you’re interested in eventually becoming a manager, talk about people management.
After sharing your weakness, I recommend offering a solution such as training, mentorship, or enrolling in a local program.
Your answer and solution will show that you are a self-aware and ambitious problem solver!
What are 3 strengths and weaknesses?
I can’t give you a one-size-fits-all answer, but I can give you some of the most common strengths and weaknesses I see from professionals that I’ve worked with.
3 Strengths:
Area of Expertise for the role (whatever that is for you!)
Managing problems and systems
Managing people (relationship development and community development)
3 Weaknesses:
Technical Programs (Excel, Event Platforms (i.e. Zoom, MSTeams, WebEx), AI)
Communication (Presenting in front of audiences, crafting compelling or persuasive emails and memos, networking)
Conflict and Relationship Management
How do I know that I’m a top candidate? How do I know the interview went well?
You’re in luck! I wrote an article about how you can tell if you’re the top candidate and if the interview went well. As a previous hiring manager and executive director, I provide signs that I have used myself and ones that I’ve experienced when I was the one being interviewed.
Top 13 Signs you will get the job after an interview
To be honest, the truth is your gut will tell you whether or not the interview went well. Pay attention to how you walk away feeling from an interview. Do you feel energized and excited or hesitant and confused? Pay attention to how your body reacts to the interviewers and the entire process. Internally we always know what’s good for us and what isn’t. Let your heart and intuition guide you.
Conclusion
I want you to walk into your next interview with confidence, calmness, and excitement. I know it’s easy to get caught up in wanting to “impress” the hiring team. The truth is, interviewing is a two-way street and they should also be trying to impress you.
Securing a job is always great, but securing the right job is phenomenal. As you are interviewing, pay attention to their behavior, body language, and how they describe what they need. If something doesn’t feel right, go with your gut and believe it. Like I tell my clients, if you have to talk yourself into believing something is a great opportunity, then it’s usually not.
I hope providing the 7 most common interview questions and answers was beneficial for you as you embark on your job search and interview process.
Keep your head up, stay strong, be patient, and remember your value.
You’ve got this, friend.
Cheers to your success!
P.S. I love your feedback. If you found this article helpful, leave a comment below or feel free to share your personal experience (and what you believe the most common interview questions are) to help others who are currently going through the interview process. If you feel like I missed a question, add it below and I’ll write a follow-up article!
