Job Interview - Positivity is the answer

Q: Why do you want this job?

Be honest with yourself: Are you interested in what the position entails? Or is it just an impressive increase in salary? You should know exactly what will be expected of you. Have you seen a job description ? Have you researched the companys website? A recommended answer could be: I am convinced that the role would very much suit my career aspirations and current skill set.

Q: Why should I hire you?
This question is all about selling yourself. Try pointing out your strengths by using examples of work you have previously done in relation to the requirements for this role. You could say something like: I believe that the job specification listed many skills I could bring to the organization.

Q: What is your biggest weakness?
This is known as a negative question, one that interviewers use to test your ability to keep your cool. Lets face it: we all have weaknesses. But you should try to spin your weaknesses into something positive. A possible answer could be: I think time management is something I could work on, but I am getting better at prioritizing. Avoid being a perfectionist or saying things like, I have no weaknesses that I know of. This makes you come across as arrogant and overconfident.

Q: Why are you leaving your current role?
Always remain positive when discussing your reasons for leaving. You should have a structured response to this question before your attend an interview. Simply stating that you would like a new challenge or change of environment can sometimes also send out warning signals to employers, as they may be concerned about hiring a job hopper who is constantly on the look out for something more challenging. Be honest but professional. No employer will want to hire if you are negative about previous employers and you will immediately be seen as unprofessional.

Q: Tell me about yourself?
This is not the opportunity to tell the interviewer your life story. When interviewers ask this question, they are actually more interested to know what you enjoy in your career and as a person and how well you would fit in with the culture of the company. A good answer to this could be something like: I like meeting new people and enjoy being involved with administration for projects and events .

Q: Where do you want to be in five years?
Unfortunately, many people are usually not prepared for it, and few actually know where they want to be in five years time. A suggested answer could be: Id like to think I will be working for a successful organization such as this but in a role with increased responsibility, or, Whatever I do, I want to be doing it to the best of my ability. It is the way you answer rather than what you say thats the most important here.

Finally, always remember that the interview is a two-way process, so it is important to have a list of questions you can ask your interviewer at the end. These could include asking the interviewer what motivated them to join the organization, or if they have any reservations about your skill set/experience at this point.

Remember that an interview does not have to be a grueling process if you are well-prepared and know exactly why you are going for the role. The key to a successful interview is to be positive.