Your CV got you the interview. Now you need to prepare. Most interviews include the same core questions, so practising your answers makes a big difference.
The STAR method
For questions about your experience, use STAR:
- Situation: where and when
- Task: what you needed to do
- Action: what you did
- Result: what happened, ideally with a number
12 common questions
1. Tell me about yourself.
Give a 60-second summary: your current role, two key strengths and why you want this job. Do not tell your whole life story.
2. Why do you want to work here?
Mention something specific about the company: its products, growth, values or reputation, and connect it to your goals.
3. Why are you leaving your current job?
Stay positive. Focus on growth: "I'm looking for more responsibility in…" Never criticise your current employer.
4. What are your strengths?
Pick two strengths that match the job and prove each with a short example.
5. What is your biggest weakness?
Choose a real but manageable weakness and explain how you are improving it.
6. Tell me about a challenge you faced at work.
Use STAR. Show calm problem-solving and a positive result.
7. Describe a time you worked in a team.
Explain your role in the team, how you helped others and what the team achieved.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Show ambition that fits the company, for example growing into a senior or specialist role.
9. Why should we hire you?
Summarise the match: "You need X and Y; I have done X and Y, for example…"
10. What are your salary expectations?
Research typical salaries first. Give a realistic range and say you are open to discussing the full package.
11. What is your notice period?
Answer clearly and honestly. Common answers are "immediately", "one month" or "two months".
12. Do you have any questions for us?
Always say yes. Good questions include:
- What does success look like in the first 90 days?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- What are the next steps in the process?
Final checklist
- Re-read the job advert and your CV
- Prepare 3–4 STAR stories
- Test your internet and camera for online interviews
- Arrive 10 minutes early, or log in 5 minutes early
- Send a short thank-you email the same day
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