Helping Career Professional Succeed in the Job Interview

May 31, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Job Interview Question How do you approach a project?

How do you approach a project?

Explanation of the Question:

Common asked question in project management jobs, keep this answer short (it is easy to give a long-winded answer to this type of question) and demonstrate how you plan, prepare and approach projects – use an example if possible.

If you have a prince2 qualification or any other project management qualification, explain the models used to manage projects.

Example Interview Answer

“I recently completed a high valuable project; Afer reading the project brief and the desired objectives I created a set of work packages that were required to be completed. For each work package, I projected the severity of a number of risks which I recorded on a risk assessment log. Once everything was in place I create an action for individual team members to compete and plan review meetings with each department.

Overall, my approach to project management is one of being planned and organised.”

May 31, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Job Interview Question Have you ever had a problem with a supervisor?

Explanation of the Question:

This could be a trap-they want to see if you will speak ill of a pass employer. Start by explaining that “you have always worked well with your supervisors”, if they push this question, continue by giving an answer along the lines of this:

Example Interview Answer

“The only thing I can think of is when I was asked by a supervisor to complete a task, and I already had a task that needed completing by a certain deadline. My supervisor was a little stressed but we prioritized the work and got both jobs done on time”

May 31, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question What kind of person would you refuse to work with?

Explanation of the Question:

Start by explaining how you get on well with everyone, and then stop to think. Carry on by saying you would not want to work with someone who was violent or someone who was lazy.

Example Interview Answer

“I always get on well everyone I meet, I am often told how friendly and approachable I am. I like to give everyone a chance but I wouldn’t like to work with someone who is violent or lazy”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question Why should we hire you?

Explanation of the Question:

A great question to be asked, as your answer will be highly positive and will sell you in the most generous way-don’t be shy here! Start with “by hiring me…” now give them a great selling line, what is the one thing they want from you?

Then tell them how you will do it, use examples from previous job roles to highlight your ability and knowledge

Example Interview Answer

“By hiring me, you will gain an experienced sales manager who has a proven track record. I lead by the front and my motivational leadership style has ensured an increase in profits in the last 2 companies I have worked for”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question Do you work well within a team?

Explanation of the Question:

Some people are thrown when they are asked this question when they are applying for a position to work alone.

Every company works as a team, so you are a good team player, give an example of when you have worked well within a team.

Example Interview Answer

“A team always works better than an individual as you have a wider skill base and more collective experiences to rely on. You also have the advantage of motivating to achieve goals and targets.

Remember TEAM – Together Everyone Achieves More. In my last job, I worked as part of a small team dedicated to improving sales, by sharing all our experiences and ideas we were able to come up with an achievable action plan”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

Interview Question and Answer Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Where do you see yourself in 4-5 years’ time?

Explanation of the Question:

Tell the interviewer how you want to progress through their company, a manager does not want to be re-advertising and interviewing in a year’s time, do not infer that you may want to leave after a certain amount of time.

Example Interview Answer

“I am really keen to learn how your company operates; I can see myself attending any available training and using this knowledge and my own drive and ambition to work my way up within this company.”

Interview Q&A “Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?” VIDEO

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question Why do you want this position?

Why do you want this position?

Explanation of the Question:

Your research will pay off with this question; explain you have always wanted to work for their company and the reason why.

Discuss how your goal has always been to work in this industry as you always wanted to (job criteria) and finally finish by explaining how your previous experience or qualifications will add value to the company.

Example Interview Answer

“Since becoming qualified my goal has been to work with your organisation, as I believe my vision is in line with your company mission. I have always had a creative side and feel that a good advertisement makes a difference for companies looking to be successful. My experience in advertising, my creativity and my rapport with clients will add value to your company.”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Explanation of the Question:

This is sometimes asked as an opening question to get you talking and to calm your nerves, a lot of people answer “Socialising with friends” “Playing on my computer” “Taking my family on day trips”. Whilst these are valid and honest answers they do not really bring anything to the table that is special, that makes you stand out.

If you can say that you volunteer you will be guaranteed to impress! Although this should be truthful! You can apply to volunteer in any area you like, ideally in a position relevant to the job you are applying for. Volunteering is seen as a positive activity by all employers; you only need to volunteer once or twice a month and when you can answer this question with

Example Interview Answer

“Currently I’m volunteering for Oxfam, I really get a lot out of helping others. Whist volunteering I have learned to communicate with people on all levels and I have improved my customer service skills, both face to face and over the telephone”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question Describe your work ethic

Explanation of the Question:

You will only be employed if you have a good work ethic; explain how you are determined, hard-working and enjoy getting your task completed on time and to a good standard.

Example Interview Answer

“I have always been a hard worker, once given a task I like to ensure it is completed on time to a good standard. If working on a short deadline, I will work late to ensure I meet the deadline”

May 24, 2014December 10, 2020

How to Answer the Interview Question Aren’t you overqualified for this role?

Explanation of the Question:

Employers are always worried that an employee who is overqualified for a position, will take the job once offered and leave when offered a better-paid position relevant to their qualifications.

Answer by stating how much you enjoy this type of work and how this is a career move, not just a job. It is also good to highlight that you would pick this job over one relevant to your qualifications. Never say you’re looking for work with less responsibility or stress – keep the answer positive.

Example Interview Answer

“For me, this is a career move, not just a job. I am really interested in this industry and would choose this role over one with higher pay, relevant to my passed qualifications”