10 Common Basic Interview Questions

Interviews are easy to prepare for, yet incredibly unpredictable. You might guess the first couple of questions on the big day, but what if they throw a curveball that you can’t answer? To avoid any surprises, here are the 10 most common interview questions an employer might ask you.

Man and woman talking in office

Tell me about yourself

This is the most common question that usually crops up first. Employers ask this to get a summarized version of your work background, as well as what you can offer the company.

What are your strengths?

Employers want to know which skills and abilities you bring to the table, and how they can be applied in a work setting.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question encourages you to set out your future goals and assess if they align with your prospective role. The interviewer doesn’t expect you to know exactly what you will do in five years’ time. It’s a clever way to reveal your intentions with the company. 

Why should we hire you?

This basic interview question is the most common yet. Employers want to know why you believe you are the best candidate for the position. Asking this helps them to know what sets you above the other candidates.

What can you do for us that other candidates can’t?

If you have any unique skill sets that give you a niche in the position, this is where the interviewer expects you to mention them.

Why are you leaving your previous job?

Employers ask this question because they want to know what is important to you in a job.

What do you think of your previous boss?

This allows the interviewer to see your loyalty, ability to work with others, social skills, and how you handle relationships with your boss.

What were the responsibilities of your last position?

Employers want to know if you applied certain abilities in your previous role, and whether they match the position you’re going for now.

What’s your ideal company?

Interviewers want to know why you chose their company over others. Here is where they will gauge your passion for the job.

Are you willing to relocate?

The position you are applying for may require you to move or transfer elsewhere. This question helps the interviewer to know your commitment and flexibility for the company.

Read more: Tell me about yourself (Explained)

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