We don’t always know what questions we may get asked in an interview, but we highly recommend being prepared and think in advance about what you would say in an interview.
To get you started, we have put together the top 11 interview questions below:
-
Tell me a bit about yourself
This is a common opening question to get the conversation started. Give a brief and concise description about who you are, your experience, strengths and skill sets. Tailor your answer to the job role you are applying for and keep it short and sweet.
-
What do you know about our company?
Do your research prior to the interview and find out as much information as possible about the company. The interviewer is keen to find out if you have taken the time to do your homework. Look into the products or services they provide and find out what their mission, vision and values are. Is there anything on their website that stands out to you that may create a better engaging conversation? You must demonstrate that you would be a good resource to their organisation.
-
What excites you about this role?
Take a good look at the job advertisement and pay attention to what they are seeking in skill level, competencies and desired behaviours for the role. This is an excellent opportunity to talk about your skill sets and strengths, providing examples of what you enjoy doing and relating it back to what’s required in the role.
-
Tell me how you plan, organise and prioritise your workload.
The interviewer is wanting to know what methods you use to ensure deadlines are met. There are no right or wrong answers here, your response gives an indication of how you operate, your organisational and communication skills.
-
Tell me about the most challenging task you have ever worked on?
The interviewer is wanting to know how you handled a stressful situation. Give an example of an actual task that you worked on or took part in, explaining why it was challenging, what you did and the outcome for the company. Thinking on the spot for an example can be quite difficult when under pressure. Employer’s don’t want to hear you say, ‘I don’t know’ or ‘I can’t think of any’. To best answer this question, equip yourself with past experiences/ anecdotes prior to the interview so you’re ready to answer with confidence.
-
What are your strengths?
Choose a few key strengths that would be a good fit for the role you have applied for and strong skills sets you have that make you a good candidate.
-
What are your weaknesses?
We’re not all perfect but there’s no need to go on and on about your weaknesses. Choose 1 or 2 weaknesses that you would like to improve on and can be improved on such as public speaking, time-management etc. Employer’s ask this question to see if you have self-awareness and are willing to learn and improve as you go.
-
What does customer service mean to you?
This demonstrates your understanding of what customer service is and why it is so important for businesses to provide excellent customer service. You need to show your interviewer how you would provide excellent customer service to ensure their customers continue to come back. Be ready to provide an example of great customer service and poor customer service you have experienced. Learn more about Customer Service and download our 10 Steps to providing Excellent Customer Service HERE!
-
Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult customer. What was the issue and how did you overcome this?
The interviewer is wanting to know your ability to deal with conflict. Provide an actual example of how you dealt with a difficult customer. Again, ensure you have an anecdote ready to go so you can answer with confidence! To learn more on how to deal with irate or angry customers and download our cheat sheet HERE!
-
Can you tell me about a time you have gone above and beyond for either the company or a customer?
This shows commitment, teamwork and your positive attitude for the role. This is your chance to show the employer that you can take the initiative to go above and beyond in your role. Make sure you have a good anecdote that demonstrates this.
-
What can you bring to this company?
This demonstrates what you are prepared to do in the role to be committed to the company to go above and beyond to make a difference. This is your chance to sell yourself and make a lasting impression to the interviewer. Remember: It’s not about what the employer can do for you but what you can do for the employer!
