interview questions for resume writer job

30 Resume Writer Interview Questions and Answers

Common Resume Writer interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

In the world of job searching, a well-crafted resume can make all the difference between landing an interview or getting passed over. As a professional resume writer, you play a pivotal role in helping clients present their skills and experiences effectively to potential employers. Now, as you get ready for your own interview for a resume writer position, it’s time to put your skills to test.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of common interview questions specifically tailored for resume writers. This article will give you insights into what employers are looking for and how best to showcase your writing prowess, strategic thinking, and understanding of recruitment processes.

1. Can you describe your understanding of the role of a Resume Writer?

The interviewer is probing your comprehension of what a resume writer does. This question is designed to evaluate your understanding of the job role, beyond just writing. It includes aspects like understanding client needs, industry trends, and job market dynamics. It’s also about assessing your ability to create compelling resumes that highlight the candidate’s skills, experience, and achievements in a way that appeals to potential employers.

Example: “A Resume Writer plays a crucial role in crafting documents that effectively showcase an individual’s skills, experiences, and achievements. They need to understand the applicant’s career goals, gather relevant information, and present it in a compelling way. A key part of this role involves staying updated on current hiring trends and knowing what employers look for in resumes across various industries. This job also requires excellent writing and editing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to create personalized content for each client. Furthermore, they must be able to provide constructive feedback to clients and work collaboratively with them to improve their resume.”

2. Please share your experience with resume writing. How many resumes have you written till date?

Asking this question, potential employers want to gauge your expertise and experience in the field. The number of resumes you’ve written can provide insight into your understanding of industry trends, your ability to cater to a variety of career levels and industries, and your overall familiarity with the task. It’s not just about the quantity, but also the quality and diversity of your work.

Example: “I have been writing resumes professionally for about five years now. In that time, I’ve written approximately 1000+ resumes across various industries and career levels. My approach is tailored to each individual’s needs, focusing on highlighting their unique skills and experiences in a way that aligns with the job they’re targeting. This requires staying updated with current hiring trends and understanding what recruiters look for. I also provide constructive feedback to help clients improve their personal branding which has proven effective in helping them secure interviews.”

3. How do you ensure that a resume is tailored to the specific needs and goals of a client?

Resume writing is an art of personalization. Employers are looking for candidates that fit their specific needs, and as a resume writer, your job is to make your clients appear as that perfect fit. This question is asked because it’s important for the interviewer to understand how you approach the task of understanding a client’s unique career objectives, experiences, and skill sets, and how you translate that understanding into a compelling and tailored resume.

Example: “To ensure a resume is tailored to the client’s needs and goals, I start with an in-depth consultation. This helps me understand their career aspirations, skills, experiences, and the specific roles they’re targeting.

Post-consultation, I conduct research on industry trends and job descriptions to align the resume with potential employers’ expectations.

I then highlight relevant skills, accomplishments, and experiences that match the target role. The use of keywords from the job description ensures ATS compatibility.

Continuous communication throughout the process guarantees the final product meets the client’s satisfaction. It’s not just about writing a resume, but creating a personal brand for the client.”

4. How do you stay updated with the latest trends in resume writing and job hunting?

As a resume writer, you’re not just responsible for creating a document that details a client’s work history. You’re also tasked with staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving job market. Employers want to know that you’re proactive in staying informed about the latest trends in resume writing and job hunting. This could involve understanding changes in hiring practices, knowing what recruiters are currently looking for, and being aware of innovative formats or platforms. This shows you’re committed to providing the most current and effective service to your clients.

Example: “I stay updated with the latest trends in resume writing and job hunting through a variety of methods. I regularly read top career advice blogs, participate in professional development webinars, and engage with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Additionally, I subscribe to several newsletters from leading career services companies. These resources provide insights into what employers are currently looking for and how best to present that information on a resume. I also use online tools such as Jobscan to understand the role of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) in the hiring process.”

5. Explain how you would handle a client who disagrees with your resume suggestions.

This question is asked to gauge your interpersonal skills and your ability to handle conflict. As a resume writer, you’re expected to collaborate with clients and provide expert advice. However, there may be times when a client disagrees with your suggestions. Your ability to navigate these situations speaks volumes about your professionalism, patience, and communication skills.

Example: “In such a scenario, I would first ensure the client feels heard and understood. It’s crucial to respect their perspective as it’s their resume we’re working on.

Next, I’d explain my suggestions more thoroughly, providing clear reasons backed by industry trends or hiring manager preferences. This can help them understand why certain changes might be beneficial.

If they still disagree, I’d propose a compromise that incorporates both our views. After all, creating an effective resume is a collaborative process.

Lastly, if there’s no agreement, I’d respect their decision. My role is to guide and advise, but ultimately, the final say rests with the client.”

6. What strategies do you use to highlight a client’s skills and achievements on a resume?

The crux of a resume writer’s job is to effectively showcase a client’s skills and accomplishments, helping them stand out in the competitive job market. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to resume writing, hiring managers are interested in your strategies for customizing and tailoring resumes to individual clients and specific job applications. It’s your ability to paint a compelling picture of a candidate’s professional background that they’re really curious about.

Example: “To effectively highlight a client’s skills and achievements, I use targeted language that aligns with the job description. This involves using relevant keywords and industry jargon to catch the attention of hiring managers.

I also prioritize information based on relevance and impact. High-impact achievements are placed at the top of each section to immediately draw attention.

Quantifying accomplishments is another strategy; it provides concrete evidence of a client’s capabilities. For example, instead of saying “improved sales”, I’d write “increased sales by 20% in Q1”.

Lastly, I ensure the layout is clean and professional, making it easy for recruiters to find key information quickly.”

7. How do you handle the challenge of writing a resume for a client changing career paths?

The essence of a resume writer’s job is to showcase a client’s strengths and potential, even when the career path isn’t a straight line. For those clients changing careers, the task becomes trickier. The interviewer wants to see if you have the skills and the creative knack to highlight transferable skills, align past experiences with future goals, and craft a narrative that makes the career change seem like a logical, beneficial step.

Example: “When writing a resume for a client changing careers, I focus on transferable skills. These are abilities that can be applied across various job sectors. I highlight these in the professional summary and experience sections.

I also emphasize any relevant training or education they may have pursued to prepare for their new career path. This shows commitment and initiative towards their chosen field.

Tailoring the language of the resume to match the industry they’re transitioning into is crucial. It demonstrates an understanding of the sector’s terminology and expectations.

Lastly, I make sure to craft a compelling cover letter explaining the career change. This provides context and further showcases their passion and suitability for the role.”

8. Can you describe a situation where your resume writing skills made a significant difference in a client’s job search?

This question aims to assess your effectiveness as a resume writer. It’s not just about creating a visually appealing document, but crafting a narrative that significantly improves a client’s chances of landing their dream job. Your ability to recount specific instances of success demonstrates your expertise and the potential value you bring to your clients.

Example: “One client I worked with was a seasoned professional seeking executive-level positions but had an outdated resume. It lacked modern formatting and didn’t highlight their significant achievements effectively.

I revamped the layout, making it more visually appealing and easy to read. I also rephrased their experiences into accomplishment-focused statements, quantifying results wherever possible.

Post-revision, the client reported a substantial increase in interview calls and eventually secured a high-ranking position within a month. This instance reaffirmed how impactful well-crafted resumes can be in job searches.”

9. How do you incorporate keywords into a resume without it seeming forced or unnatural?

The art of writing a resume isn’t just about showcasing a person’s skills and achievements. It also involves knowing how to make that resume stand out in the sea of applications, many of which will be scanned by applicant tracking systems. These systems often search for specific keywords related to the job description. Therefore, hiring managers want to know if you have the acumen to naturally incorporate these keywords into a resume, without making it look like a grocery list of skills. This demonstrates your understanding of how these systems work and your ability to craft a resume that is both human and machine-friendly.

Example: “Incorporating keywords into a resume involves understanding the job description and industry jargon. The trick is to weave these terms naturally into your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. For example, if ‘project management’ is a keyword, instead of stating “Experienced in project management”, you could say “Led a team of 5 in managing multiple projects resulting in successful on-time delivery”. This approach not only includes the keyword but also demonstrates its practical application. Remember, it’s about maintaining authenticity while ensuring that the resume aligns with what the employer is looking for.”

10. How would you handle a client with a large employment gap?

Gaps in employment can be a red flag for some hiring managers, and as a resume writer, it’s part of your job to help clients present these gaps in the best possible light. Interviewers want to see that you can approach this challenge with creativity and sensitivity, reassuring your client while also developing a strategy to minimize potential negative impacts.

Example: “When handling a client with a large employment gap, I would focus on highlighting their skills and accomplishments that align with the job they’re applying for. It’s crucial to present the gap as a period of personal growth or professional development. If the client engaged in relevant freelance work, took courses, volunteered, or even handled a significant life event during this time, these can be strategically included in the resume. A well-crafted cover letter can also help explain the situation in a positive light. The goal is to shift the hiring manager’s attention from the gap to the candidate’s potential value to the company.”

11. Can you share your process for gathering information from a client to write their resume?

As a resume writer, you are essentially going to be a storyteller, weaving together the most compelling parts of a client’s career into a document that will make employers take notice. To do that effectively, you’re going to need to gather a lot of information from your clients about their career history, skills, and goals. This question gives potential employers insight into your fact-finding process and how you use the information you gather to create a strong, effective resume.

Example: “To gather information from a client for their resume, I start with an in-depth consultation. This involves understanding the client’s career goals and aspirations.

I then request for any existing resumes or CVs they have, to review their work history, skills, and accomplishments. If there are gaps, I probe further by asking targeted questions.

Next, I research the industry and specific roles they’re interested in. This helps me identify key skills and qualifications that should be highlighted.

Lastly, I collaborate closely with the client throughout the process. Their feedback is crucial to ensure accuracy and satisfaction with the final product.”

12. What is your approach to writing a resume for a client with little to no work experience?

The essence of this question lies in your creative problem-solving abilities. Just as every job seeker is unique, every resume you write will be too. The interviewer wants to know if you’re capable of thinking outside the box to highlight a client’s strengths, even if traditional work experience is lacking. Can you leverage their skills, volunteer work, or education to create a compelling resume? That’s what they’re looking to find out.

Example: “In such cases, I focus on the client’s skills, education, and relevant activities. Even without formal work experience, they may have transferable skills from school projects, volunteering or extracurricular activities.

I would highlight their academic achievements, coursework related to the job they are applying for, and any leadership roles in clubs or organizations. Additionally, I’d include any certifications or training programs they’ve completed.

The key is to present these elements effectively to demonstrate potential value to an employer. Tailoring the resume to each specific job application can also increase its effectiveness.”

13. How do you ensure that the resumes you write are ATS-friendly?

As an aspiring resume writer, it’s essential to understand that many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter out resumes that don’t meet specific criteria. This question is designed to test your knowledge of ATS and your ability to write resumes that will make it past these initial screening systems. Your answer will show that you stay current with industry trends and that you’re capable of creating effective, modern resumes.

Example: “To ensure resumes are ATS-friendly, I focus on keyword optimization. This involves tailoring the resume to include relevant keywords that match the job description.

I also avoid using complex formatting like tables or graphics as these can confuse ATS systems. Instead, I use standard fonts and bullet points for clarity.

Another strategy is to include a skills section where specific technical and soft skills related to the job can be highlighted. This increases the chances of the resume passing through the ATS filters.

Finally, I always save the document in an ATS-friendly format such as .docx or .pdf.”

14. How do you handle the pressure of multiple deadlines?

In the fast-paced, deadline-driven world of resume writing, there’s no time for procrastination. Clients often need resumes prepared quickly to meet job application deadlines, and as a resume writer, you’ll need to juggle multiple tasks at once. Hiring managers want to ensure you can manage your time efficiently and produce high-quality work under pressure.

Example: “In managing multiple deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. I use project management tools to keep track of all assignments and deadlines. This helps me visualize the workload and allocate time effectively.

I also believe in open communication. If there’s a risk of not meeting a deadline due to unforeseen circumstances, I communicate this proactively to relevant stakeholders.

Lastly, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for handling pressure. Regular breaks and self-care activities help me stay focused and productive.”

15. What is your process for proofreading and editing resumes?

The devil is in the details when it comes to resume writing. A single typo, punctuation error, or awkwardly worded sentence can make a difference in whether a candidate gets an interview or not. Consequently, hiring managers want to ensure that you have a meticulous, foolproof process for proofreading and editing resumes to maintain high standards of quality and accuracy.

Example: “My proofreading and editing process for resumes is systematic. I begin by checking the overall structure, ensuring that it follows a logical order and includes all necessary sections such as education, experience, skills, etc.

Next, I focus on content accuracy, cross-referencing information provided with any supporting documents to ensure consistency. This step also involves verifying job titles, dates of employment, and responsibilities.

I then scrutinize grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors using both manual methods and software tools.

The final stage involves fine-tuning the language and style. Here, I aim to make sure the resume is concise, uses action verbs, avoids jargon, and maintains a professional tone throughout.

Throughout this process, I always keep in mind the specific industry or role the resume is targeted towards, tailoring the document to highlight relevant skills and experiences.”

16. How do you manage client expectations regarding the outcome of their job search?

Navigating the job market can be a stressful process, and your potential clients might be coming to you with high hopes that your services will land them their dream job. As a resume writer, it’s your responsibility to manage these expectations. This question is designed to assess how you communicate with clients about what they can realistically expect from your services and how you handle situations when those expectations may not be met.

Example: “Managing client expectations involves clear communication and transparency. I would start by understanding their career goals, desired job roles, industries of interest, and experience level.

Based on this information, I can provide a realistic outlook on what they can expect from their job search. If their expectations are too high or misaligned with the market reality, it’s my responsibility to guide them towards more attainable goals.

Regular updates about the progress of their resume writing process is also crucial. This way, clients will be aware of any changes or improvements made, which helps in managing their expectations effectively.

Overall, honesty, regular feedback, and setting achievable targets are key to managing client expectations in their job search.”

17. Can you discuss a time when you had to handle a difficult client? How did you manage the situation?

As a resume writer, you’re bound to encounter a variety of clients with different personalities and expectations. Some may be tough to please, or have unique demands. This question allows hiring managers to understand your problem-solving skills and how you handle challenging situations. It provides a glimpse into your client management abilities and your dedication to providing excellent customer service, even when faced with adversities.

Example: “I recall working with a client who was dissatisfied no matter how many revisions I made to their resume. To manage this, I initiated a detailed discussion about their expectations and preferences. This helped me understand their perspective better.

After getting clarity, I revised the document again while explaining my approach and reasoning behind each change. This created transparency in our communication which eventually led to a satisfactory result for the client. The situation taught me that clear communication and understanding client’s needs are crucial in delivering quality service.”

18. How do you handle feedback and revisions from clients?

This question is important because it evaluates your ability to collaborate effectively with clients. As a resume writer, you’re not just creating a document, but a powerful tool for your client’s career progression. It’s essential that you can incorporate their feedback and make revisions as necessary, showcasing their skills and experiences in the best possible light. This question also probes at your ability to handle criticism and maintain a professional attitude.

Example: “I value feedback as it helps me improve my work and meet the client’s expectations. When I receive revisions, I carefully review them to understand what the client wants. If something is unclear, I ask for clarification rather than making assumptions.

Each revision is an opportunity to learn more about the client’s preferences and needs. Therefore, I handle them with patience and professionalism. My goal is always to deliver a resume that not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations.”

19. What is your experience with writing cover letters and LinkedIn profiles?

As a resume writer, your expertise isn’t limited to crafting compelling resumes alone. Your potential employer wants to gauge your proficiency in creating engaging cover letters and optimizing LinkedIn profiles—essential parts of a holistic job application package. Your ability to effectively write these will demonstrate your understanding of personal branding and your capacity to help clients stand out in a competitive job market.

Example: “I have extensive experience in crafting compelling cover letters and LinkedIn profiles. I understand that both need to effectively communicate a candidate’s skills, experiences, and value proposition.

In writing cover letters, my focus is on tailoring the content to match the job requirements while highlighting unique achievements of the individual. I ensure it’s concise yet engaging, prompting the recruiter to explore the resume further.

For LinkedIn profiles, I emphasize creating a strong headline, detailed summary, and showcasing key accomplishments. Keywords are strategically placed for optimization. This approach not only enhances visibility but also makes the profile appealing to potential employers.

Overall, my goal is always to create documents that enhance personal branding and increase opportunities for job seekers.”

20. How do you measure the success of the resumes you write?

The primary goal of a resume is to secure interviews for the job seeker. So, when hiring a resume writer, employers want to make sure you have a clear understanding of this objective, and that you’ve developed methods to gauge the effectiveness of your work. By asking this question, they are hoping to assess how you track the results of your work and your ability to adapt based on feedback or changing job market trends.

Example: “The success of the resumes I write is primarily measured by client feedback and their subsequent job placement. If a client secures an interview or job offer after using a resume I’ve crafted, it’s a clear indication that my work has been effective. However, I also value ongoing communication with clients to understand how well the resume represents them and aligns with their career goals. This involves soliciting their thoughts on the final product and making adjustments as necessary for optimal results.”

21. Can you describe your experience with various resume formats and when you would use each one?

The essence of a resume writer’s job is to create resumes that stand out and effectively communicate an individual’s skills and experiences. Hiring managers want to ensure you’re familiar with the different types of resumes—chronological, functional, combination, etc.—and know when to use each one. Your ability to select the right format based on a client’s career history, the job they’re applying for, and their future goals is critical to your success in this role.

Example: “I have worked extensively with three main resume formats: chronological, functional and combination.

A chronological format is ideal for individuals with a strong work history in the same field. It allows showcasing career progression and stability.

The functional format focuses on skills rather than employment history. I recommend it for candidates changing industries or those with gaps in their employment history.

Combination resumes blend both formats. They highlight relevant skills while also detailing work experience. This format suits professionals with diverse skills across multiple job roles.

Understanding the candidate’s background and career goals helps me choose the most effective format.”

22. How do you handle clients from diverse industries and job levels?

The core of a resume writer’s job is to effectively articulate a client’s skills, experiences, and accomplishments in a way that is both compelling and relevant to their target job. Yet, each client is unique, coming from different industries and job levels with varying career goals. This question is asked to assess your ability to adapt your writing and consultation style to cater to each client’s specific needs, while also demonstrating your versatility and understanding of different job markets and industry-specific lingo.

Example: “Understanding the client’s industry and job level is crucial in resume writing. I approach each client as an individual, taking time to research their specific sector, understanding its nuances, trends, and key skills required.

For clients at different job levels, I adjust my strategy accordingly. For entry-level clients, I focus on highlighting transferable skills and academic achievements. Conversely, for senior executives, I emphasize leadership abilities, strategic initiatives, and quantifiable results.

Communication plays a vital role too. By actively listening and asking targeted questions, I can extract necessary information that may not be readily apparent. This allows me to craft a personalized, effective resume regardless of the client’s background.”

23. What is your approach to writing a resume for a client targeting a highly competitive industry or role?

As a resume writer, your task goes beyond simply creating a document that summarizes a client’s career history. You’re also expected to understand the nuances of different industries, roles, and job markets, and to tailor your work accordingly. If a client is targeting a highly competitive role, for instance, you need to show that you can craft a resume that will help them stand out in a crowded field. That’s why interviewers want to hear about your approach to these kinds of challenges.

Example: “Understanding the competitive nature of the industry or role, my approach would be to create a bespoke resume that highlights the client’s unique skills and experiences. I’d focus on quantifiable achievements, demonstrating how they’ve made a significant impact in their previous roles.

I’ll also ensure it aligns with industry-specific keywords and trends. This includes researching the target industry thoroughly to understand what employers are looking for.

The layout will be clean and professional, ensuring easy readability. The content will be concise yet powerful, making every word count. It’s crucial to grab attention quickly due to the high number of applicants typically seen in competitive fields.

Lastly, I’d provide guidance on tailoring cover letters for specific roles, as this can further differentiate the client from other candidates.”

24. Can you discuss a time when you had to overcome a significant challenge in your role as a Resume Writer?

As a resume writer, you’ll be dealing with a diverse range of clients, each with their unique career history, aspirations, and challenges. This question is designed to test your problem-solving skills, your ability to adapt to different situations, and your dedication to delivering the best possible service to your clients, no matter how complex the task may be.

Example: “One significant challenge I faced was when a client with an unconventional career path approached me. They had multiple gaps in their employment and a mix of different roles that didn’t follow a clear progression.

Understanding the unique value they brought required deep conversations to identify transferable skills and achievements, as well as creative formatting to present this information effectively on the resume.

The result was a compelling document that highlighted their versatility and adaptability. This experience honed my ability to tell diverse career stories, making me more effective at helping clients overcome potential red flags in their job search.”

25. How do you handle the confidentiality and privacy of your clients?

Trust is a significant pillar in the industry of resume writing. Clients entrust you with their private information including their career history, personal details, and sometimes even their vulnerabilities and insecurities. Maintaining this confidentiality is not just ethically correct but also legally important. This question is designed to assess your understanding and commitment to maintaining high standards of professional confidentiality.

Example: “Maintaining client confidentiality and privacy is paramount in a role like Resume Writer. I handle this by ensuring all information shared with me is used solely for the purpose of creating or enhancing their resume.

I never share any personal data with third parties without explicit consent from the client. All documents are securely stored and deleted once they’re no longer needed.

Furthermore, I make it clear to clients that their information will be handled with utmost discretion. This helps build trust and ensures a comfortable working relationship.”

26. What is your experience with digital tools and software used in resume writing?

It’s a digital age, and the field of resume writing isn’t exempt from it. As a resume writer, you’re expected to not just be good with words, but also proficient in various digital tools and software. This proficiency can range from being able to use Microsoft Word or Google Docs to create a clean, professional-looking resume, to more specialized software for creating visually appealing resumes, or even Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that many employers use to screen resumes. Thus, hiring managers want to know if you have the necessary technical skills to perform your job efficiently and effectively.

Example: “I have extensive experience with various digital tools and software used in resume writing. I am proficient in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Adobe InDesign for creating visually appealing resumes. I’ve also utilized job-specific keyword optimization tools to ensure the resumes pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Additionally, I’ve worked with platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed for understanding market trends and tailoring resumes accordingly. My familiarity with these tools helps me create effective, personalized resumes that stand out.”

27. How do you ensure that your resumes stand out in a sea of applicants?

The essence of being a resume writer is the ability to make clients’ applications shine brighter than the rest. Your potential employer wants to see that you have the creativity, writing prowess, and understanding of current industry trends to craft resumes that will grab the attention of hiring managers and recruiters, and ultimately, land clients their dream jobs.

Example: “To ensure a resume stands out, I focus on customization. Understanding the job description and tailoring the resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences is key.

I also pay attention to keywords that align with the role, ensuring they are present in the resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Visual appeal is another factor. A clean, organized layout helps make information easily digestible.

Lastly, quantifying achievements provides concrete evidence of capabilities. It’s not just about stating what you’ve done, but demonstrating the impact it had.”

28. What is the most complex resume project you have worked on and how did you handle it?

The essence of this question is to gauge the depth of your experience and your problem-solving skills. Resumes can range from relatively straightforward to highly complex, depending on the person’s career history, job level, industry, and more. Through this question, the interviewer wants to understand your ability to handle various complexities and craft compelling resumes under challenging circumstances.

Example: “The most complex resume project I handled involved a client with an extensive career spanning multiple industries. The challenge was to present his diverse experience in a coherent and compelling manner without overwhelming potential employers.

I tackled this by focusing on transferable skills and achievements that reflected the job he was targeting. I also used a functional format to highlight his skills upfront, followed by a chronological listing of his work history. This approach allowed me to showcase his versatility while maintaining clarity. It required detailed discussions with the client and careful crafting of content, but the result was a well-received resume that effectively communicated his unique value proposition.”

29. How do you handle situations when a client is not satisfied with your work?

Being a resume writer isn’t just about crafting compelling career narratives. It’s also about managing relationships and ensuring customer satisfaction. Even the best writers face situations where their work doesn’t immediately meet the client’s expectations. In such cases, it’s important to show your potential employer that you can handle criticism, adapt to feedback, and turn a dissatisfied client into a satisfied one.

Example: “When a client is dissatisfied, I first ensure to listen carefully to their concerns. Understanding their perspective helps me identify the root cause of dissatisfaction.

Next, I apologize for any inconvenience caused and assure them that their satisfaction is my priority. If the issue lies in the content or style of the resume, I offer revisions until they are satisfied with the final product.

Lastly, I use such instances as learning experiences to improve my skills and avoid similar issues in the future. It’s all about maintaining professionalism while ensuring client satisfaction.”

30. Can you discuss your understanding of the role of social media in job hunting and how you incorporate that into your resume writing process?

The digital age has significantly changed the way job hunting and recruitment works. Social media has become a key player in both areas, often serving as the first point of contact between potential employers and job seekers. Employers want to know that you, as a professional resume writer, are not only aware of this shift but also know how to leverage it effectively. That means creating resumes that take into account a client’s online presence and how it can be used to enhance their career prospects.

Example: “Social media has become a crucial tool in job hunting. It is used for networking, showcasing skills and personality, researching companies, and even finding open positions.

As a resume writer, I incorporate social media by ensuring the client’s online presence aligns with their resume. This includes optimizing LinkedIn profiles to match resumes, suggesting appropriate content for professional Twitter or Instagram accounts, and advising on digital etiquette.

Moreover, I highlight any significant online achievements that can strengthen a candidate’s profile. For instance, a well-received blog post or a project showcased on Behance could be included under accomplishments.

In essence, my goal is to create a cohesive personal brand across all platforms, enhancing a candidate’s appeal to potential employers.”

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20 Resume Writer Interview Questions and Answers

Common Resume Writer interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

If you’re applying for a job as a resume writer, you know that the hiring manager is going to be expecting you to have strong writing skills. But they’ll also want to see how your experience has prepared you for the role and what kind of unique qualities you can bring to their team.

To help you prepare for your interview, here are some common questions asked during a resume writer interview—and examples of great answers.

• What strategies do you use to ensure that a resume is tailored to the job description?
• How do you help clients identify their unique skills and experiences to highlight on their resumes?
• Describe your experience with using keywords in resumes to optimize for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Are you familiar with the latest trends in resume design and formatting?
• Explain how you would approach writing a resume for someone who has been out of work for an extended period of time.
• Tell me about a time when you had to write a resume for a client with limited work experience.
• Do you have any experience working with executive-level clients?
• How do you handle clients who are unsure of what they want to include in their resumes?
• What strategies do you use to make sure a resume stands out from other applicants?
• Have you ever written a resume for someone transitioning into a new career field?
• Describe your process for researching industry-specific terminology and jargon to incorporate into resumes.
• What techniques do you use to ensure that a resume is concise yet still conveys all relevant information?
• How do you handle clients who are resistant to making changes to their resumes?
• What advice do you give clients regarding references and letters of recommendation?
• How do you handle clients who don’t know where to start when it comes to writing their resumes?
• What tips do you provide clients to help them prepare for interviews?
• How do you stay up to date on the latest trends in resume writing?
• What strategies do you use to ensure that a resume is free of errors and typos?
• Describe your experience with creating resumes for international clients.
• How do you handle clients who need multiple versions of their resumes for different types of jobs?

1. What strategies do you use to ensure that a resume is tailored to the job description?

Every job is different and every resume should be tailored to the job. This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your understanding of the importance of tailoring a resume to the job description. They want to know that you understand the importance of researching a job and its requirements, and that you understand how to create a resume that is specifically tailored to the job. This can include highlighting relevant skills and experiences, using key words, and emphasizing accomplishments.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should explain your process for tailoring a resume to the job description. This could include researching the company and position, understanding the job requirements, analyzing the language used in the job posting, and using keywords from the job posting. You should also mention that you focus on emphasizing relevant skills and experiences, as well as highlighting accomplishments that demonstrate how you can add value to the role. Finally, you should emphasize that you understand the importance of tailoring a resume to showcase why you are the best candidate for the job.

Example: “When I am writing a resume for a job, my first step is to research the company and position. I want to understand the job requirements and make sure that every aspect of my resume is tailored to them. This includes analyzing the language used in the job posting, using keywords from it, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences, and highlighting accomplishments that demonstrate how I can add value to the role. I also ensure that all of this information is presented in an easy-to-read format that showcases why I am the best candidate for the job.”

2. How do you help clients identify their unique skills and experiences to highlight on their resumes?

Resume writers are expected to have a strong understanding of their clients’ skills and experiences, plus the ability to identify the most important ones to highlight in order to create the best possible resume. This question will help the interviewer understand how you help clients craft their resumes and if you have the skills needed to do the job.

The best way to answer this question is by providing an example of a time you helped a client identify their unique skills and experiences. Talk about how you worked with the client to uncover their strengths, accomplishments, and qualifications that would be most relevant for the role they were applying for. Explain what strategies you used to help them create a resume that was tailored specifically to their experience and needs. Finally, discuss how the resume writing process can be beneficial in helping clients understand their value and potential as job seekers.

Example: “I help my clients identify their unique skills and experiences to highlight on their resumes by researching the job postings they’re applying for and identifying relevant keywords. I then incorporate those keywords into their resumes in a natural way that still emphasizes their individual strengths, accomplishments, and qualifications. This technique has been very successful in helping my clients get noticed by employers and increase their chances of getting callbacks.”

3. Describe your experience with using keywords in resumes to optimize for applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are used by many organizations to scan resumes and determine which applicants are the most qualified for the position. Using keywords in resumes is an important part of optimizing for these systems, and many employers are looking for experienced resume writers who understand the importance of this technique. Answering this question will demonstrate your knowledge and experience in this area.

When answering this question, you should focus on the specific techniques and strategies that you have used to optimize resumes for ATS. For example, you can discuss how you research job postings to identify relevant keywords, how you incorporate those keywords into resumes in a natural way, or any other methods you have used to ensure resumes are optimized for ATS. You should also mention any successes you have had with optimizing resumes for ATS, such as an increase in callbacks from employers.

Example: “I have extensive experience with using keywords to optimize resumes for applicant tracking systems. I usually start by researching the job posting and identifying any specific skills or qualifications that are mentioned in the description. Then, I incorporate those keywords into the resume in a natural way, using synonyms and other variations of the words so that it doesn’t look like the resume was written just for ATS. My clients have seen an increase in callbacks from employers after optimizing their resumes this way.”

4. Are you familiar with the latest trends in resume design and formatting?

Resume design has evolved over the years, and it’s important to show you’re up to date on the latest trends. An employer wants to know that you understand the importance of a resume that is both visually appealing and functionally comprehensive. They also want to know that you are able to create resumes that are tailored to the needs of the client, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

To answer this question, you should be prepared to discuss the latest trends in resume design and formatting. Talk about how you stay up-to-date on these topics by reading industry publications or attending conferences related to resume writing. You should also mention any certifications you have that demonstrate your expertise in this area. Finally, provide examples of resumes you’ve written that showcase your understanding of current trends.

Example: “I stay current on the latest trends in resume design and formatting by regularly reading industry publications and attending conferences related to resume writing. I also have certifications from two leading resume-writing organizations that demonstrate my expertise in this area. For example, I recently designed a resume for an executive client using a modern template with minimal colors and visual elements that still managed to capture their achievements and experience in a visually appealing way.”

5. Explain how you would approach writing a resume for someone who has been out of work for an extended period of time.

Interviewers are looking to understand how you would approach this kind of situation. They want to know that you understand the challenges that come with writing a resume for someone who has been out of work for a long time and that you have the skills to handle it. They are also looking to see if you have the ability to think critically and come up with creative solutions to difficult problems.

Start by explaining that you would take the time to understand the individual’s career goals and objectives. You would then research their industry, target companies, and potential job opportunities. After understanding their professional history, you would focus on writing a resume that highlights their transferable skills and accomplishments while minimizing any gaps in employment. You would also suggest ways to explain why they were out of work for an extended period of time without making excuses or being defensive. Finally, you would review the resume with them to ensure that it accurately reflects their experience and qualifications.

Example: “When writing a resume for someone who has been out of work for an extended period of time, I would take the time to understand their career goals and objectives. Then, I would research their industry, target companies, and potential job opportunities in order to tailor the resume accordingly. I would focus on highlighting their transferable skills and accomplishments while minimizing any gaps in employment. Additionally, I would suggest ways to explain why they were out of work without making excuses or being defensive. Finally, I would review the resume with them to ensure that it accurately reflects their experience and qualifications.”

6. Tell me about a time when you had to write a resume for a client with limited work experience.

Writing a resume can be a daunting task, especially when the client has limited work experience. It’s important for a potential employer to know that you can take an individual’s background and experience and create a compelling resume that effectively presents their skills and accomplishments. This question will help them understand how you approach such a task and the strategies you use to showcase a client’s qualifications.

You should focus your answer on the strategies you used to create a resume that effectively presented the client’s qualifications. For example, you could mention how you focused on highlighting their transferable skills and accomplishments outside of work such as volunteering, internships, or educational experiences. You may also want to talk about how you incorporated keywords from the job description into the resume to ensure it would be picked up by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Additionally, you can discuss how you worked with the client to make sure the resume was tailored to the specific role they were applying for.

Example: “When I had to write a resume for a client with limited work experience, I focused on highlighting their transferable skills and accomplishments outside of work. I also incorporated keywords from the job description into the resume to ensure it would be picked up by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Additionally, I worked closely with the client to make sure the resume was tailored to the specific role they were applying for. My goal was to create a resume that showcased the client’s qualifications in a way that was both compelling and professional.”

7. Do you have any experience working with executive-level clients?

Executive-level clients will often expect a higher quality of work and more attention to detail when crafting their resumes. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate your experience in working with higher-level clients and your ability to deliver on their expectations. Interviewers will want to know if you’ve successfully worked with executive-level clients in the past, as this will give them a better idea of how you would handle similar clients in the future.

To answer this question, you should provide examples of your experience working with executive-level clients. Talk about the processes and techniques that you used to ensure that their resumes were tailored specifically to meet their needs. If you don’t have any direct experience in this area, talk about how you would handle an executive-level client if given the opportunity. Explain what steps you would take to ensure that their resume was crafted to perfection and highlight any research or preparation techniques you would use.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with executive-level clients. Throughout my career as a resume writer, I’ve worked on dozens of resumes for C-suite executives and other high-ranking professionals. To ensure that each resume was tailored specifically to meet their needs, I took the time to get to know them, understand their goals, and research the positions they were applying for. My process included crafting custom job descriptions and highlighting relevant accomplishments to create an impactful resume that showcased their skills and successes. I also provided feedback on how best to present themselves during interviews and how to follow up afterwards.”

8. How do you handle clients who are unsure of what they want to include in their resumes?

Resume writing is about more than just putting words on a page. It’s about helping someone create a document that will get them noticed and increase their chances of landing the job they want. Interviewers will want to see that you have the skills to work with clients who aren’t sure of what to include in their resumes and guide them through the process.

The key here is to show that you have the ability to listen to a client’s needs and help them identify their strengths and weaknesses. Talk about how you would ask questions, such as what type of job they are looking for or what skills and experiences make them stand out from other candidates. Show that you can take detailed notes on the conversation and use those to create a resume tailored to the individual’s goals and qualifications. Finally, demonstrate your willingness to work with clients until they are completely satisfied with their resumes.

Example: “When I work with clients to create a resume, I always begin by listening to their career aspirations and what they think should be included in their document. I ask questions to better understand their experience and skills, and I take detailed notes so that I can accurately capture what they want to include. I also provide guidance on the types of information that should be included and how to best present it. I believe that it’s important to provide a personalized service and to work with clients until they are completely satisfied with their resumes.”

9. What strategies do you use to make sure a resume stands out from other applicants?

Resume writers need to be able to create a document that stands out from the competition. This means you have to have a keen eye for detail and be able to craft an effective resume that highlights the best aspects of a candidate’s background and experience. Interviewers want to know you have the skills necessary to create a document that highlights the candidate’s strengths and downplays their weaknesses.

To answer this question, you should discuss the strategies you use to create a resume that stands out from other applicants. You can talk about how you research industry trends and incorporate those into the design of the resume. Additionally, you might mention the importance of using powerful language and action verbs to make sure the candidate’s accomplishments stand out. Finally, you could discuss how you tailor resumes to each job application by highlighting specific skills and experiences relevant to the position.

Example: “When creating a resume, I make sure to include the latest trends and techniques to ensure it stands out from the competition. I research industry trends and incorporate those into the design of the resume to make sure it is modern and up-to-date. Additionally, I use powerful language and action verbs to make sure the candidate’s accomplishments stand out. I also tailor the resume to each job application by highlighting specific skills and experiences relevant to the position, so the candidate has the best chance of getting noticed.”

10. Have you ever written a resume for someone transitioning into a new career field?

Resume writing is a challenging job, and employers want to make sure you have the experience to help their clients transition into a new field. This question helps employers understand if you have the knowledge and experience to help your clients write resumes for new career paths. It also helps them understand if you’re familiar with the particular challenges that come with transitioning into a new job.

You should be prepared to answer this question by discussing your experience with helping clients transition into new career fields. You can talk about how you’ve worked with clients to create resumes that highlight their transferable skills and experiences for the new job, as well as any strategies you use to help them stand out from other applicants in the field. Be sure to mention any success stories you have of clients transitioning successfully into a new career path after working with you.

Example: “Yes, I’ve written resumes for clients transitioning into a new career field. I specialize in helping clients identify their transferable skills and experiences, and then crafting a resume that highlights those qualifications. I also work with clients to create a strategy for presenting themselves in a new field, such as researching the industry, networking with potential employers, and creating a portfolio to showcase their skills. I had one client who was transitioning from the medical field to finance who was able to secure a job with a top investment bank after working with me.”

11. Describe your process for researching industry-specific terminology and jargon to incorporate into resumes.

Writing a resume that stands out from the competition requires more than just using the right keywords. It requires being able to identify the specific language and phrases that are used in the industry the applicant is looking to join. Interviewers want to know that you have the research skills and knowledge of the industry to be able to craft the perfect resume for any job.

You should be prepared to discuss your research process for finding the best industry-specific language and jargon to include in resumes. Talk about how you stay up-to-date with trends and changes in the industry, such as reading relevant publications or attending seminars. Discuss any strategies you use to identify keywords that are most effective in conveying a candidate’s qualifications, such as conducting interviews with hiring managers or researching job postings. Finally, mention any tools or resources you use to help streamline the research process and ensure accuracy.

Example: “I have a few strategies I use to ensure my resume writing is tailored to the industry. First, I make sure to stay up-to-date with industry trends and news. This helps me identify the keywords and language that are most relevant and effective. I also like to interview hiring managers and recruiters to get a better understanding of the specific language and phrases they look for in resumes. Finally, I use tools like TalentLyft and Upwork to help me quickly identify and research the most popular industry-specific keywords. This allows me to craft resumes that are tailored to the specific industry and job role quickly and accurately.”

12. What techniques do you use to ensure that a resume is concise yet still conveys all relevant information?

Hiring managers want to ensure you have the skills and experience to write effective resumes that will help their clients stand out from the competition. Questions like this help them understand how well you’re able to distill large amounts of data into the most important and relevant points, as well as how well you can communicate these points in a clear and concise way.

To answer this question, you should describe the techniques you use to craft a resume that is both concise and conveys all relevant information. For example, you could talk about how you prioritize key accomplishments and skills, condense long sentences into bullet points, and remove unnecessary words or phrases. Additionally, you can mention any processes you have in place (such as using templates) to ensure that resumes are consistent and effective.

Example: “I use several techniques to ensure that resumes I create are concise yet still demonstrate the candidate’s accomplishments and skills. First, I prioritize key accomplishments and skills so that the most important information is conveyed first and foremost. Additionally, I condense long sentences into bullet points and remove any unnecessary words or phrases to make the resume as succinct as possible. Finally, I use templates to ensure that each resume I create is consistent and effective. This allows me to quickly create resumes that are both concise and informative.”

13. How do you handle clients who are resistant to making changes to their resumes?

Resume writing is both an art and a science, and it’s important for potential employers to know that you can handle the challenges that come with the job. Many clients are resistant to making changes to their resumes, so it’s important for you to demonstrate that you can handle that situation with professionalism and tact. This shows that you understand that what you’re doing isn’t just about making a resume look pretty, but that it’s also about helping the client get the job they want.

To answer this question, you want to demonstrate that you understand the importance of balancing your client’s needs with what will make their resume stand out. You can talk about how you listen to your clients and take their input into consideration while also making sure that their resumes are up-to-date and relevant for the job they’re applying for. Additionally, you can discuss how you use data from past successes to show them why certain changes need to be made in order to get the best results. Finally, you should emphasize that you always put the client first and strive to provide the best possible service.

Example: “I understand that my clients may be resistant to making changes to their resumes, and I always take the time to listen to their concerns and suggestions. I use data from successful resumes I’ve written in the past to show my clients why certain changes need to be made in order to make their resume stand out. I always emphasize that I’m here to help them get the job they want, and that I’ll do whatever I can to make sure their resume is the best it can be. At the end of the day, I always strive to put the client first and ensure that they are satisfied with the service I’ve provided.”

14. What advice do you give clients regarding references and letters of recommendation?

This is a great question to ask a resume writer, as it shows how well they understand the nuances of the job. References and letters of recommendation can be an invaluable part of a job search, but they can also be tricky to navigate. The best resume writers will be able to give advice on how to best utilize these tools to maximize the chances of getting a job.

Your answer should focus on the importance of references and letters of recommendation, as well as how to best utilize them. Explain that references should be chosen carefully and strategically, as they can make or break an application. You should also emphasize the importance of providing a professional reference letter from someone who is familiar with the applicant’s work and qualifications. Finally, you should explain the value of networking and building relationships with professionals in your field, as this can lead to more opportunities down the line.

Example: “I always advise my clients to choose their references carefully and strategically. A strong reference can make a huge difference in the success of an application, so it’s important to pick someone who can vouch for your qualifications and accomplishments. I also suggest that they provide a professional reference letter from someone who is familiar with their work and qualifications. Finally, I emphasize the importance of networking and building relationships with professionals in their field. Doing so can open up opportunities and provide additional references for future applications.”

15. How do you handle clients who don’t know where to start when it comes to writing their resumes?

Writing a resume can be a daunting task, and many clients may find themselves in need of help. It’s important to be able to provide guidance and support to those who don’t know where to start. The interviewer wants to know that you have the skills and knowledge to be able to help those clients through the process.

You should emphasize your experience working with clients who don’t know where to start. Talk about the strategies you use to help them get started, such as asking questions to understand their career goals and objectives, helping them identify key accomplishments, or providing templates and examples that they can use for reference. You should also discuss how you provide guidance and support throughout the process and ensure that the client is satisfied with the finished product.

Example: “I understand that writing a resume can be a daunting task, especially for those who don’t know where to start. When I work with clients who don’t know where to start, I like to start by asking questions to understand their career goals and objectives. This helps me identify their key accomplishments and create a resume that highlights their strengths. I also provide templates and examples that they can use for reference. Throughout the process, I provide guidance and support to ensure that the client is satisfied with the finished product.”

16. What tips do you provide clients to help them prepare for interviews?

Resume writing is much more than just creating a document. It’s also about making sure clients are ready to go into an interview with confidence. If a resume writer can provide tips on how to dress, how to prepare for common questions, and what to do when faced with challenging questions, then the resume writer is likely a great fit for the job.

To answer this question, think about the tips you give clients in preparation for an interview. You can talk about researching the company and industry, practicing answers to common questions, dressing appropriately for the job, being prepared with relevant questions of your own, and having a positive attitude. Additionally, emphasize any experience you have helping clients prepare for interviews or providing career advice.

Example: “I have a lot of experience helping clients prepare for interviews. I always emphasize the importance of researching the company and industry, so they can go into the interview with a deeper understanding of the role. I also make sure they’re prepared with answers to common questions, and I encourage them to practice their answers ahead of time. I also advise my clients on dressing appropriately for the job, coming prepared with relevant questions of their own, and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process. I’ve been able to help many of my clients land their dream job by providing these tips and I’d be excited to do the same for your clients.”

17. How do you stay up to date on the latest trends in resume writing?

Resume writing is a constantly evolving field, with new best practices and standards being developed all the time. Companies want to know that you stay abreast of the latest trends in order to write the best resumes for their clients. They’ll want to know what methods you use to stay up to date and how you incorporate those trends into your work.

To answer this question, you’ll want to demonstrate that you stay up to date on the latest trends in resume writing. Talk about what methods you use to stay informed—such as reading industry blogs, attending webinars and conferences, or joining professional associations like the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC). You should also explain how you incorporate these trends into your work, such as by using new keywords or formatting techniques. It may be helpful to have a few examples ready of resumes you’ve written that reflect current best practices.

Example: “I stay up to date on the latest trends in resume writing by subscribing to industry blogs and newsletters, attending webinars and conferences, and joining professional associations like the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC). I also stay in touch with my network of fellow resume writers and frequently get together to discuss new trends and best practices. I use the latest trends to write resumes that are tailored to the job and industry, and I also use the newest keywords and formatting techniques to ensure that my clients’ resumes get noticed. For example, I recently wrote a resume for a client in the finance industry that included the latest buzzwords and industry lingo to capture the attention of hiring managers.”

18. What strategies do you use to ensure that a resume is free of errors and typos?

Hiring managers want to know that you have a system in place to ensure accuracy in your work. This can include having someone else review your work, utilizing spellcheck and grammar check, or even a combination of both. They want to know that you take the time and put in the effort to make sure the resumes you write are polished and perfect.

You should have a few strategies to answer this question. You can talk about the steps you take while writing a resume, such as utilizing spellcheck and grammar check tools, reading it out loud or having someone else read it for you, and making sure you’re using industry-specific language. Additionally, you can mention any extra measures you take, such as running resumes through plagiarism checkers, providing clients with multiple drafts, etc.

Example: “I always make sure to use spellcheck and grammar check tools to ensure accuracy. Additionally, I read my work out loud to catch any mistakes I may have missed. I also have a few trusted colleagues I send my work to for a second set of eyes, and I make sure to run my resumes through a plagiarism checker to ensure originality. I also provide my clients with multiple drafts so they can review and provide feedback before the final version is sent out.”

19. Describe your experience with creating resumes for international clients.

Crafting a resume for an international client might require a different approach than creating one for someone living in the U.S. International clients may need a resume that’s tailored to the country in which they’re applying for a job and their cultural background. This question will allow the interviewer to gauge your knowledge and experience with creating resumes for clients from different countries and backgrounds.

If you have experience creating resumes for international clients, start by discussing the countries and cultures you’ve worked with. Talk about the challenges that come with crafting a resume for an international client and how you overcame them. If you don’t have experience in this area, talk about your interest in learning more about different cultures and how it would help you create better resumes for international clients.

Example: “I have extensive experience creating resumes for international clients. I’ve worked with clients from all over the world including China, India, the Middle East, and Europe. I understand the cultural nuances of each region and how to tailor a resume to ensure it’s appropriate for the country in which the client is applying for a job. I also have a strong understanding of the language and cultural differences between countries, which helps me create resumes that will stand out from the competition. I’m confident that my experience and knowledge of international resume writing will be an asset to your team.”

20. How do you handle clients who need multiple versions of their resumes for different types of jobs?

Resume writing isn’t just about writing a single document; it’s about helping clients create multiple documents that they can use in different scenarios. This question helps the interviewer understand how you approach this type of situation and how you prioritize the client’s needs when creating different versions of their resume. They’ll also want to know how you use your knowledge of the different types of jobs and industries to tailor resumes for those roles.

Start by talking about the process you use to create multiple versions of a resume for a client. Explain that you work with them to identify their key skills and experiences, then tailor each version of the resume to highlight those specific qualities in relation to the different types of jobs they’re applying for. Talk about how you research industry trends and job descriptions to ensure that the resumes are tailored correctly, and emphasize your ability to quickly adjust the documents as needed. Finally, explain any additional services you offer clients, such as cover letter writing or LinkedIn profile optimization, which can help make sure they have all the materials they need to apply for multiple roles.

Example: “I understand that clients often need multiple versions of their resumes for different types of jobs. To help them with this, I use a comprehensive process that starts with a deep dive into their skills and experiences. I then create a tailored version of the resume for each job they’re applying for, highlighting the qualities and experience that are most relevant to that role. I also research industry trends and job descriptions to ensure that the resume is tailored correctly, and I’m always available to make any adjustments or updates as needed. Additionally, I offer my clients cover letter writing and LinkedIn profile optimization services, so they have all the materials they need to apply for multiple roles.”

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15 Writer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various writer interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

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Common Writer Interview Questions

What is your favorite book and why, what is your favorite movie and why, what is your favorite tv show and why, what is your favorite play and why, what is your favorite musical and why, what is your favorite opera and why, what is your favorite ballet and why, what is your favorite painting and why, what is your favorite sculpture and why, what is your favorite photograph and why, what is your favorite song and why, what is your favorite poem and why, what is your favorite short story and why, what is your favorite novel and why, what is your favorite work of non-fiction and why.

An interviewer might ask "What is your favorite book and why?" to a writer in order to get a sense of what kind of books the writer enjoys and why they enjoy them. This can be important because it can give the interviewer some insight into the writer's taste and interests, and how they might approach writing their own work.

Example: “ My favorite book is 1984 by George Orwell. I love the way Orwell creates a future world that is both believable and scary. The book is a great warning against the dangers of totalitarianism and the need for freedom and liberty. It is also a very well-written book, with complex characters and a fast-paced plot. ”

An interviewer might ask a writer what their favorite movie is in order to get a sense of their taste and interests. This can be important because it can give the interviewer some insight into what kind of stories the writer might be interested in telling, and what kinds of movies they might be good at writing.

Example: “ My favorite movie is The Shawshank Redemption. I love the story, the characters, and the overall message of hope that it conveys. It's a powerful film that stays with you long after you've seen it. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer would ask a writer about their favorite TV show. For one, it can help the interviewer get a sense of the writer's taste in television and what type of shows they might be interested in writing for. Additionally, it can give the interviewer some insight into the writer's personality and why they might enjoy certain types of shows. Finally, the answer to this question can also help the interviewer understand how the writer thinks about television and what they believe makes a good show. Ultimately, the interviewer is looking to get a better sense of the writer as a person and their potential fit for the position.

Example: “ My favorite TV show is The Office. I love the characters, the humor, and the overall feel of the show. It's a great way to relax and escape from reality. ”

An interviewer might ask "What is your favorite play and why?" to a writer in order to gauge their taste in literature and to get a sense of what kind of writing they enjoy. This question can also give insight into what kind of person the writer is and what their interests are.

Example: “ My favorite play is "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. I love the way the playwright uses symbolism to tell the story of a family struggling to make ends meet and deal with their own personal demons. The play is also incredibly moving, and I always find myself tearing up at the end. ”

There could be a few reasons why an interviewer would ask a writer what their favorite musical is. Perhaps the interviewer is looking to get a sense of the writer's taste in music, or what kind of music they are most drawn to. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in learning more about what inspires the writer, and what kind of stories or themes they are most interested in exploring. Ultimately, this question can help the interviewer to better understand the writer and their work.

Example: “ My favorite musical is "The Phantom of the Opera" because it is a classic story with amazing music. The score by Andrew Lloyd Webber is one of the best in musical theatre, and the songs are so beautiful and haunting. I also love the design of the sets and costumes, and the special effects are really impressive. It's just a perfect example of what a musical can be. ”

An interviewer might ask "What is your favorite opera and why?" to a writer in order to gauge their cultural interests and knowledge. It can also give insight into what kind of music the writer enjoys and why they enjoy it, which can be helpful in understanding their taste and preferences.

Example: “ My favorite opera is La Bohème by Giacomo Puccini. I love the story of young love and tragedy, set against the backdrop of bohemian Paris. The music is beautiful and heartbreaking, and the characters are so relatable. I always get goosebumps when I hear "Che gelida manina" and "Si, mi chiamano Mimi." ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask a writer about their favorite ballet. First, the interviewer may be interested in the writer's taste in art and literature. Second, the interviewer may be interested in the writer's creative process and how they approach their work. Third, the interviewer may be interested in the writer's personal life and how their experiences have influenced their writing.

The answer to this question can give the interviewer insight into the writer's creative process, their approach to their work, and their personal life. It can also help the interviewer understand the writer's taste in art and literature.

Example: “ My favorite ballet is Swan Lake. I love the beauty and grace of the dancers, and the music is just gorgeous. It's a classic story that is always enjoyable to watch. ”

An interviewer might ask "What is your favorite painting and why?" to a writer in order to get a sense of the writer's taste and interests. The answer to this question can also provide insight into what the writer finds beautiful or intriguing, and what sort of things inspire them. This question can be important in order to understand the writer's point of view and what drives their creativity.

Example: “ I absolutely adore Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night." It's such a beautiful and peaceful painting, and it always makes me feel incredibly calm. I love the way van Gogh captures the night sky in such an ethereal way, and the stars look like they're twinkling. It's just a really stunning piece of art. ”

There is no one answer to this question. It is important to remember that an interviewer is trying to get to know the writer as a person, and not just as a writer. This question allows the interviewer to learn about the writer's taste in art, and how they think about art in general. It also allows the interviewer to gauge the writer's level of critical thinking and creativity.

Example: “ I absolutely adore Michelangelo's "David"! For me, it represents the perfect male form – strong, muscular and powerful, yet also incredibly graceful and beautiful. It's a truly stunning piece of art that never fails to amaze me. ”

An interviewer might ask a writer about their favorite photograph because they want to know what inspires the writer or what kind of subject matter the writer is interested in. This question can give the interviewer insight into the writer's creative process and what kinds of things they find interesting or important.

Example: “ My favorite photograph is one that I took of a double rainbow over a lake. It was taken early in the morning, and the colors were so vibrant and beautiful. It was just a moment of pure beauty and peace. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask a writer what their favorite song is. One reason is that it can give the interviewer a better sense of the writer's taste and what kind of music they are into. This can be helpful in understanding what kind of writing the writer is likely to produce. Another reason is that the answer to this question can reveal something about the writer's personality. For example, if the writer's favorite song is something upbeat and positive, this might suggest that the writer is an optimistic person. On the other hand, if the writer's favorite song is something dark and melancholy, this might suggest that the writer is a more introspective and reflective person. Ultimately, the interviewer is likely looking for some insight into the writer's taste, personality, and creative sensibilities.

Example: “ My favorite song is "Sledgehammer" by Peter Gabriel. I love the energy and power of the song, and the way it makes me feel when I listen to it. It's also a great song to sing along to when I'm driving. ”

One reason an interviewer might ask a writer about their favorite poem is to get a sense of their taste and what type of writing they are drawn to. This can be important because it can give the interviewer some insight into what kind of writing the writer is likely to produce themselves. Additionally, the answer to this question can also reveal something about the writer's personality and how they view the world. For example, a writer who chooses a dark and depressing poem as their favorite might be viewed as being more brooding and introspective than one who chooses a light and airy poem. Ultimately, the interviewer is likely looking for some clues about the writer's creative process and what type of writing they are likely to produce.

Example: “ My favorite poem is "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot. I love the way it captures the feeling of hopelessness and despair that comes with living in a modern, industrialized society. The poem also has a beautiful use of language, and I enjoy the challenge of trying to understand its complex symbolism. ”

One possible reason an interviewer might ask a writer about their favorite short story is to get a sense of the writer's taste and what kind of stories they are drawn to. This can be important because it can give the interviewer some insight into what kind of stories the writer might be good at writing themselves. Additionally, the interviewer may be looking for signs of a writer's ability to analyze and discuss literature critically, which are important skills for a writer to have.

Example: “ My favorite short story is "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. I love the suspense and mystery that surrounds the story, and I also enjoy the way Jackson uses symbolism to create a sense of unease and foreboding. The story is also a great example of how a small, seemingly innocuous event can have major consequences. ”

This question allows the interviewer to gauge the writer's literary taste and interests. It also allows the interviewer to get a sense of the writer's critical thinking skills and how they articulate their thoughts and opinions.

Example: “ My favorite novel is The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. I love the book because it is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Holden Caulfield, a teenager who is kicked out of a prestigious boarding school and becomes a wanderer in New York City. The book is funny, sad, and honest, and I relate to Holden's struggles with growing up. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask a writer about their favorite work of non-fiction. First, it can give the interviewer some insight into what type of writing the writer is interested in and what they enjoy reading. Second, it can help the interviewer understand the writer's thought process and how they approach writing. Finally, it can help the interviewer gauge the writer's level of critical thinking and analysis.

Example: “ My favorite work of non-fiction is "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger. I love the book because it is a coming of age story that is both funny and sad. The book is also incredibly well-written, and I appreciate the way Salinger captures the voice of his teenage protagonist, Holden Caulfield. ”

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Interviewing as a Writer

Types of questions to expect in a writer interview, portfolio-based questions, technical writing skills questions, behavioral questions, conceptual and creativity questions, industry-specific knowledge questions, project management and organizational questions, stay organized with interview tracking.

Preparing for a Writer Interview

How to prepare for a writer interview.

• Research the Company and Its Content: Familiarize yourself with the company's published work, tone, style, and target audience. Understanding the company's content strategy will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate how your writing can align with their brand.
• Review the Job Description: Pay close attention to the job description to understand the specific writing skills and subject matter expertise required. This will help you to highlight relevant experiences during the interview.
• Analyze Your Writing Samples: Choose writing samples that best represent your range and fit the prospective employer's content needs. Be prepared to discuss the context, objectives, and results of your selected pieces.
• Prepare for Editorial Questions: Expect to answer questions about your editing process, familiarity with style guides, and how you handle feedback and revisions. Demonstrating your attention to detail and openness to constructive criticism is key.
• Practice Your Storytelling: Writers often need to engage and persuade their audience. Practice articulating the narrative behind your career path, your writing choices, and your successes.
• Understand SEO and Digital Tools: If the role involves online content, be ready to discuss your understanding of SEO, keyword research, and any content management systems or digital tools you're proficient in.
• Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Develop questions that show your interest in the company's content goals and how you can contribute to their success. Inquiring about their content strategy, team collaboration, and performance metrics can provide valuable insights.
• Mock Interviews: Conduct practice interviews with a friend or mentor to refine your ability to articulate your writing process and how you overcome common writing challenges.

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10 Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

• Vicky Oliver

Use this guide to stand out from the crowd and land the role you want.

Interviews can be high stress, anxiety-driving situations, especially if it’s your first interview. A little practice and preparation always pays off. While we can’t know exactly what an employer will ask, here are 10 common interview questions along with advice on how to answer them. The questions include:

• Could you tell me something about yourself and describe your background in brief? : Interviewers like to hear stories about candidates. Make sure your story has a great beginning, a riveting middle, and an end that makes the interviewer root for you to win the job.
• How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations? : Share an instance when you remained calm despite the turmoil. If it’s a skill you’re developing, acknowledge it and include the steps you’re taking to respond better to pressure in the future.
• What are your salary expectations? : Before you walk in for your first interview, you should already know what the salary is for the position you’re applying to. Check out websites such as Glassdoor, Fishbowl, or Vault.com for salary information. You could also ask people in the field by reaching out to your community on LinkedIn.

Resignation numbers have remained abnormally high in the U.S. between July 2021 and October 2021, with millions of Americans quitting their jobs  — which also means there are millions of new openings up for grabs. If you’re entering the market for the first time, or just looking to make a change, use this guide to prepare for your next interview.

• Vicky Oliver is a leading career development expert and the multi-best-selling author of five books, including  301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions , named in the top 10 list of “Best Books for HR Interview Prep.” She’s a sought-after speaker and seminar presenter and a popular media source, having made over 900 appearances in broadcast, print, and online outlets.    

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50+ Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

Wouldn’t it be great if you knew exactly what questions a hiring manager would be asking you in your next job interview ?

We can’t read minds, unfortunately, but we’ll give you the next best thing: a list of 53 of the most commonly asked interview questions and answers, along with advice on how to come up with your own responses.

While we don’t recommend having a canned response for every interview question (in fact, please don’t), we do recommend spending some time getting comfortable with what you might be asked, what hiring managers are really looking for in your responses, and what it takes to show that you’re the right person for the job.

Land more interviews by looking for more open jobs on The Muse »

Consider this list your job interview answer and question study guide. (And don’t miss our bonus list at the end, with links to resources on specific types of interview questions—about emotional intelligence or diversity and inclusion , for example—and interview questions by role, from accountant to project manager to teacher.)

50+ most common job interview questions and answers

1. tell me about yourself..

This question seems simple, so many people fail to prepare for it, but it’s crucial. Here's the deal: Don’t give your complete employment (or personal) history. Instead, give a pitch—one that’s concise and compelling and that shows exactly why you’re the right fit for the job. Muse writer and MIT career counselor Lily Zhang recommends using a present, past, future formula. Talk a little bit about your current role (including the scope and perhaps one big accomplishment), then give some background as to how you got there and experience you have that’s relevant. Finally, segue into why you want—and would be perfect for—this role.

Possible answer to “Tell me about yourself.”

“ Well, I’m currently an account executive at Smith, where I handle our top-performing client. Before that, I worked at an agency where I was on three different major national healthcare brands. And while I really enjoyed the work that I did, I’d love the chance to dig in much deeper with one specific healthcare company, which is why I’m so excited about this opportunity with Metro Health Center.”

Read More: A Complete Guide to Answering “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!)

2. Walk me through your resume.

Like “Tell me about yourself,” this question is a common interview opener. But instead of framing your answer around what qualities and skills make you best for the position, your answer should group your qualifications by your past jobs and tell your career story. You might choose to tell this story chronologically, especially if there’s a great anecdote about what set you on this path. Or, as with “Tell me about yourself,” you can begin with your present job then talk about what brought you here and where you’re going next. But regardless, when you speak about your “past” and “present,” highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments for this job and wrap up by talking about the future, i.e. connect your past and present together to show why this job should be the next one you add to your resume.

Possible answer to “Walk me through your resume.”

“Well, as you can see from my resume, I took a bit of a winding road to get to where I am today. In college, I double majored in chemistry and communications. I found early on that working in a lab all day wasn’t for me and at some point I realized I looked forward to the lab class I TA’ed the most.

“So when I graduated, I found a job in sales for a consumer healthcare products company, where I drew on my teaching experience and learned even more about tailoring your message and explaining complex health concepts to people without a science background. Then, I moved into a sales training role at a massive company where I was responsible for teaching recent graduates the basics of selling. My trainees on average had more deals closed in their first quarter than any of the other trainers’ cohorts. Plus, I got so much satisfaction from finding the right way to train each new hire and watching them progress and succeed. It reminded me of my time as a TA in college. That’s when I started taking night classes to earn my chemistry teaching certificate.

“I left my full-time job last year to complete my student teaching at P.S. 118 in Manhattan, and over the summer, I worked for a science camp, teaching kids from the ages of 10 to 12 about basic chemistry concepts and best practices for safe experiments. Now, I’m excited to find my first full-time teaching job, and your district is my top choice. The low student-to-teacher ratio will let me take the time to teach each student in the best way for them—which is my favorite part of the job.”

Read More: How to Respond to “Walk Me Through Your Resume”—and Get Your Interview Started on the Right Note

3. How did you hear about this position?

Another seemingly innocuous interview question, this is actually a perfect opportunity to stand out and show your passion for and connection to the company. For example, if you found out about the gig through a friend or professional contact, name-drop that person, then share why you were so excited about the job. If you discovered the company through an event or article, share that. Even if you found the listing through a random job board, share what, specifically, caught your eye about the role.

Possible answer to “How did you hear about this position?”

  “I heard about an opening on the product team through a friend of a friend, Akiko, and since I’m a big fan of your work and have been following you for a while I decided it would be a great role for me to apply for.” Read More: 3 Ways People Mess Up the (Simple) Answer to “How Did You Come Across This Job Opportunity?”

4. Why do you want to work at this company?

Beware of generic answers! If what you say can apply to a whole slew of other companies, or if your response makes you sound like every other candidate, you’re missing an opportunity to stand out. Zhang recommends one of four strategies: Do your research and point to something that makes the company unique that really appeals to you; talk about how you’ve watched the company grow and change since you first heard of it; focus on the organization’s opportunities for future growth and how you can contribute to it; or share what’s gotten you excited from your interactions with employees so far. Whichever route you choose, make sure to be specific. And if you can’t figure out why you’d want to work at the company you’re interviewing with by the time you’re well into the hiring process? It might be a red flag telling you that this position is not the right fit.

Possible answer to “Why do you want to work at this company?”

“I saw on The Muse that you were also hiring for new positions on the West Coast to support your new operations there. I did some more reading about the new data center you’re building there and that excites me as I know this means there’ll be opportunities to train new teammates. I also learned through a Wall Street Journal article that you’re expanding in Mexico as well. I speak Spanish fluently and would be eager to step up and help liaise whenever necessary.”

Read More: 4 Better Ways to Answer “Why Do You Want to Work at This Company?”

5. Why do you want this job?

Again, companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job, so you should have a great answer about why you want the position. (And if you don’t? You probably should apply elsewhere.) First, identify a couple of key factors that make the role a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer support because I love the constant human interaction and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a problem”), then share why you love the company (e.g., “I’ve always been passionate about education, and I think you’re doing great things, so I want to be a part of it”).

Possible answer to “Why do you want this job?”

“I’ve always been a fan of X Co’s products and I’ve spent countless hours playing your games. I know that your focus on unique stories is what drew me and other fans into your games initially and keeps us coming back for more. I’ve followed X Co on social media for a while, and I’ve always loved how you have people in different departments interact with users. So I was psyched when I came across this posting for a social media manager with TikTok experience. At my last job, I was responsible for launching our TikTok account and growing it to 10,000 followers in six months. Between that experience, my love of gaming, and my deep knowledge of your games and fanbase, I know I could make this TikTok account something special and exciting.”

Read More: 3 Steps for Answering “Why Do You Want This Job?”

6. Why should we hire you?

This interview question seems forward (not to mention intimidating!), but if you’re asked it, you’re in luck: There’s no better setup for you to sell yourself and your skills to the hiring manager. Your job here is to craft an answer that covers three things: that you can not only do the work, but also deliver great results; that you’ll really fit in with the team and culture; and that you’d be a better hire than any of the other candidates.

Possible answer to “Why should we hire you?”

“ I know it’s been an exciting time for General Tech—growing so much and acquiring several startups—but I also know from experience that it can be challenging for the sales team to understand how new products fit in with the existing ones. It’s always easier to sell the product you know, so the newer stuff can get shortchanged, which can have company-wide ramifications. I have over a decade of experience as a sales trainer, but more importantly, most of those years were working with sales teams that were in the exact same boat Gen Tech is in now. Growth is wonderful, but only if the rest of the company can keep up. I’m confident I can make sure your sales team is confident and enthusiastic about selling new products by implementing an ongoing sales training curriculum that emphasizes where they sit in a product lineup.”

Read More: 3 Better Ways to Answer “Why Should We Hire You?”

7. What can you bring to the company?

When interviewers ask this question, they don’t just want to hear about your background. They want to see that you understand what problems and challenges they’re facing as a company or department as well as how you’ll fit into the existing organization. Read the job description closely, do your research on the company, and make sure you pay attention in your early round interviews to understand any issues you’re being hired to solve. Then, the key is to connect your skills and experiences to what the company needs and share an example that shows how you’ve done similar or transferable work in the past.

Possible answer to “What can you bring to the company?”

“As Jocelyn talked about in our interview earlier, PopCo is looking to expand its market to small business owners with less than 25 employees, so I’d bring my expertise in this area and my experience in guiding a sales team that’s selling to these customers for the first time. In most of my past roles, this segment has been my focus and in my current role, I also played a big part in creating our sales strategies when the business began selling to these customers. I worked with my managers to develop the sales script. I also listened in on a number of sales calls with other account execs who were selling to these customers for the first time and gave them pointers and other feedback. In the first quarter, our 10-person sales team closed 50 new bookings in this segment, and I personally closed 10 of those deals. I helped guide my last company through the expansion into small businesses, and I’m eager to do that again at PopCo. Plus, I noticed you have a monthly karaoke night—so I’m eager to bring my rendition of ‘Call Me Maybe’ to the team as well.”

Read More : What Interviewers Really Want to Hear When They Ask “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

8. What are your greatest strengths?

Here’s an opening to talk about something that makes you great—and a great fit for this role. When you’re answering this question, think quality, not quantity. In other words, don’t rattle off a list of adjectives. Instead, pick one or a few (depending on the question) specific qualities that are relevant to this position and illustrate them with examples. Stories are always more memorable than generalizations. And if there’s something you were hoping to mention because it makes you a great candidate, but you haven’t had a chance yet, this would be the perfect time.

Possible answer to “What are your greatest strengths?”

“ I’d say one of my greatest strengths is bringing organization to hectic environments and implementing processes to make everyone’s lives easier. In my current role as an executive assistant to a CEO, I created new processes for pretty much everything, from scheduling meetings to planning monthly all hands agendas to preparing for event appearances. Everyone in the company knew how things worked and how long they would take, and the structures helped alleviate stress and set expectations on all sides. I’d be excited to bring that same approach to an operations manager role at a startup, where everything is new and constantly growing and could use just the right amount of structure to keep things running smoothly.”

Read More: 3 Smart Strategies for Answering “What's Your Greatest Strength?”

9. What do you consider to be your weaknesses?

What your interviewer is really trying to do with this question—beyond identifying any major red flags—is to gauge your self-awareness and honesty. So, “I can’t meet a deadline to save my life” is not an option—but neither is “Nothing! I’m perfect!” Strike a balance by thinking of something that you struggle with but that you’re working to improve. For example, maybe you’ve never been strong at public speaking, but you’ve recently volunteered to run meetings to help you get more comfortable when addressing a crowd.

Possible answer to “What do you consider to be your weaknesses?”

“It can be difficult for me to gauge when the people I’m working with are overwhelmed or dissatisfied with their workloads. To ensure that I’m not asking too much or too little from my team, we have weekly check-ins. I like to ask if they feel like they’re on top of their workload, how I could better support them, whether there’s anything they’d like to take on or get rid of, and if they’re engaged by what they’re doing. Even if the answer is ‘all good,’ these meetings really lay the groundwork for a good and trusting relationship.”

Read More: 4 Ways to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Weakness?” That Actually Sound Believable

10. What is your greatest professional achievement?

Nothing says “hire me” better than a track record of achieving amazing results in past jobs, so don’t be shy when answering this interview question! A great way to do so is by using the STAR method : situation, task, action, results. Set up the situation and the task that you were required to complete to provide the interviewer with background context (e.g., “In my last job as a junior analyst, it was my role to manage the invoicing process”), then describe what you did (the action) and what you achieved (the result): “In one month, I streamlined the process, which saved my group 10 person-hours each month and reduced errors on invoices by 25%.”

Possible answer to “What is your greatest professional achievement?”

“My greatest accomplishment was when I helped the street lighting company I worked for convince the small town of Bend, Oregon to convert antiquated street lighting to energy-efficient LED bulbs. My role was created to promote and sell the energy-efficient bulbs, while touting the long-term advantage of reduced energy costs. I had to develop a way to educate city light officials on the value of our energy-efficient bulbs—which was a challenge since our products had an expensive up-front cost compared to less efficient lighting options. I created an information packet and held local community events aimed at city officials and the tax-paying public. There, I was able to demo the company product, answer questions, and evangelize the value of LED bulbs for the long term. It was crucial to have the public on board and I was able to reach a wide variety of community members with these events. I not only reached my first-year sales goal of $100,000, but I was also able to help us land another contract in a neighboring city. Plus, the community-focused strategy garnered attention from the national media. And I’m proud to say I got a promotion within one year to senior sales representative.”

Read More: The Perfect Formula for Answering “What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment” in an Interview

11. Tell me about a challenge or conflict you’ve faced at work, and how you dealt with it.

You’re probably not eager to talk about conflicts you’ve had at work during a job interview. But if you’re asked directly, don’t pretend you’ve never had one. Be honest about a difficult situation you’ve faced (but without going into the kind of detail you’d share venting to a friend). “Most people who ask are only looking for evidence that you’re willing to face these kinds of issues head-on and make a sincere attempt at coming to a resolution,” former recruiter Richard Moy says. Stay calm and professional as you tell the story (and answer any follow-up questions), spend more time talking about the resolution than the conflict, and mention what you’d do differently next time to show “you’re open to learning from tough experiences.”

Possible answer to “Tell me about a challenge or conflict you’ve faced at work, and how you dealt with it.”

“ Funnily enough, last year I was part of a committee that put together a training on conflict intervention in the workplace and the amount of pushback we got for requiring attendance really put our training to the test. There was one senior staff member in particular who seemed adamant. It took some careful listening to understand he felt like it wasn’t the best use of his time given the workload he was juggling. I made sure to acknowledge his concern. And then I focused on his direct objection and explained how the training was meant to improve not just the culture of the company, but also the efficiency at which we operated—and that the goal was for the training to make everyone’s workload feel lighter. He did eventually attend and was there when I talked to the whole staff about identifying the root issue of a conflict and addressing that directly without bringing in other issues, which is how I aim to handle any disagreement in the workplace.”

Read More: 3 Ways You’re Messing Up the Answer to “Tell Me About a Conflict You’ve Faced at Work”

12. Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership skills.

You don’t have to have a fancy title to act like a leader or demonstrate leadership skills. Think about a time when you headed up a project, took the initiative to propose an alternate process, or helped motivate your team to get something done. Then use the STAR method to tell your interviewer a story, giving enough detail to paint a picture (but not so much that you start rambling) and making sure you spell out the result. In other words, be clear about why you’re telling this particular story and connect all the dots for the interviewer.

Possible answer to “Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership skills.”

“I think that a good leader is someone who can make decisions while also listening to others and being willing to admit when you’re wrong and course correct. In my last role, my team and I were responsible for giving a big presentation to a prospective client. I quickly assigned different tasks to members of my team, but the project never really got moving. I gave everyone an opportunity to share their input and concerns, and it turned out that they were struggling in the roles I’d given them. I ended up switching a few people around. Meanwhile, the employee I’d assigned to give the presentation was nervous, but still wanted to give it a try. I worked with them to make sure they were ready and even held a practice session so that they could rehearse in a more comfortable environment. When the time came for the real thing, they nailed it! We landed the client and the company still has the account to this day. And that employee became a go-to person for important client presentations. I’m really glad I took the time to listen to everyone’s concerns so that I could re-evaluate my approach and help my team be the best it could be.”

Read More: The Best Way to Answer “Tell Me About a Time You Demonstrated Leadership Skills” in a Job Interview

13. What’s a time you disagreed with a decision that was made at work?

The ideal anecdote here is one where you handled a disagreement professionally and learned something from the experience. Zhang recommends paying particular attention to how you start and end your response. To open, make a short statement to frame the rest of your answer, one that nods at the ultimate takeaway or the reason you’re telling this story. For example: “I learned early on in my professional career that it’s fine to disagree if you can back up your hunches with data.” And to close strong, you can either give a one-sentence summary of your answer (“In short…”) or talk briefly about how what you learned or gained from this experience would help you in the role you’re interviewing for.

Possible answer to “What’s a time you disagreed with a decision that was made at work?”

“In my job as a finance assistant, I was in charge of putting together reports for potential company investments. It was important to get the details and numbers right so that leaders had the best information to make a decision. One time, my boss asked me to generate a new report on a Wednesday morning and wanted it done by Thursday at 5 PM. Because I’m committed to high-quality work and I wasn’t sure my boss fully understood what goes into each report, I knew I needed to speak up. At her next available opening, I sat down with my boss and explained my concerns. She was firm that the report would be completed by Thursday at 5 PM. So I decided to ask if there was anyone who could help out. After thinking about it, my boss found another assistant who could put in a few hours. While it was a tight timeline, we got the report done, and the committee was really pleased to review it at the meeting. My boss appreciated my extra efforts to make it happen and I felt good that I hadn’t let the quality of the report slip. It was a good experience of being a team player but also knowing when and how to ask for help. And once I explained how much time and work goes into each report, my boss was careful to assign them further in advance.”

Read More: Here’s the Secret to Answering “Tell Me About a Time You Had a Conflict With Your Boss” in an Interview

14. Tell me about a time you made a mistake.

You’re probably not too eager to dig into past blunders when you’re trying to impress an interviewer and land a job. But talking about a mistake and winning someone over aren’t mutually exclusive, Moy says. In fact, if you do it right, it can help you. The key is to be honest without placing blame on other people, then explain what you learned from your mistake and what actions you took to ensure it didn’t happen again. At the end of the day, employers are looking for folks who are self-aware, can take feedback, and care about doing better.

Possible answer to “Tell me about a time you made a mistake.”

“Early in my career, I missed a deadline that ended up costing us a really big account. There were a lot of factors that contributed to this, but ultimately, I was the one who dropped the ball. From that experience, I went back and thought really hard about what I could’ve controlled and what I would’ve changed. It turns out that I was not nearly as organized as I thought I was. I sat down with my boss, asked for suggestions on how to improve my organizational skills, and a few months later I was able to score an even bigger account for the department.”

Read More: 3 Rules That Guarantee You'll Nail the Answer to “Tell Me About a Time You Made a Mistake”

15. Tell me about a time you failed.

This question is very similar to the one about making a mistake, and you should approach your answer in much the same way. Make sure you pick a real, actual failure you can speak honestly about. Start by making it clear to the interviewer how you define failure. For instance: “As a manager, I consider it a failure whenever I’m caught by surprise. I strive to know what’s going on with my team and their work.” Then situate your story in relation to that definition and explain what happened. Finally, don’t forget to share what you learned. It’s OK to fail—everyone does sometimes—but it’s important to show that you took something from the experience.

Possible answer to “Tell me about a time you failed.”

“ As a team manager, I consider it a failure if I don’t know what’s going on with my staff and their work—basically if a problem catches me by surprise then I’ve failed somewhere along the way. Even if the outcome is ultimately fine, it means I’ve left a team member unsupported at some point. A somewhat recent example would be this training we do every year for new project managers. Because it’s an event that my team has run so many times, I didn’t think to check in and had no idea a scheduling conflict was brewing into a full-on turf war with another team. The resolution actually ended up being a quick and easy conversation at the leadership team meeting, but had I just asked about it sooner it would never have been a problem to begin with. I definitely learned my lesson about setting reminders to check in about major projects or events even if they’ve been done dozens of times before.”

Read More: 4 Steps for Answering “Tell Me About a Time When You Failed”

16. Why are you leaving your current job?

This is a toughie, but one you can be sure you’ll be asked. Definitely keep things positive—you have nothing to gain by being negative about your current employer. Instead, frame things in a way that shows that you’re eager to take on new opportunities and that the role you’re interviewing for is a better fit for you. For example, “I’d really love to be part of product development from beginning to end, and I know I’d have that opportunity here.” And if you were let go from your most recent job? Keep it simple: “Unfortunately, I was let go,” is a totally acceptable answer.

Possible answer to “Why are you leaving your current job?”

“I’m ready for the next challenge in my career. I loved the people I worked with and the projects I worked on, but at some point I realized I wasn’t being challenged the way I used to be. Rather than let myself get too comfortable, I decided to pursue a position where I can continue to grow.”

Read More: 4 Better Ways to Answer “Why Are You Leaving Your Job?”

17. Why were you fired?

Of course, they may ask the follow-up question: Why were you let go? If you lost your job due to layoffs, you can simply say, “The company [reorganized/merged/was acquired] and unfortunately my [position/department] was eliminated.” But what if you were fired for performance reasons? Your best bet is to be honest (the job-seeking world is small, after all). But it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker. Frame it as a learning experience: Share how you’ve grown and how you approach your job and life now as a result. And if you can portray your growth as an advantage for this next job, even better.

Possible answer to “Why were you fired?”

“After working for XYZ Inc. for four years, there were some changes made to the amount of client calls we were expected to process per hour. I used the techniques we were taught after the change took effect, but didn’t want our customer service to slip. Unfortunately, I wasn’t consistently completing the required number of calls, and, as a result, I was let go. I felt really bad about this and in retrospect I could have done better sticking to the process that would have let me meet the per hour quota. But you’ve told me about the customer service standards and the volume expectations here, and I believe it won’t be a problem.”

Read More: Stop Cringing! How to Tell an Interviewer You've Been Fired

18. Why was there a gap in your employment?

Maybe you were taking care of children or aging parents, dealing with health issues, or traveling the world. Maybe it just took you a long time to land the right job. Whatever the reason, you should be prepared to discuss the gap (or gaps) on your resume. Seriously, practice saying your answer out loud. The key is to be honest, though that doesn’t mean you have to share more details than you’re comfortable with. If there are skills or qualities you honed or gained in your time away from the workforce—whether through volunteer work, running a home, or responding to a personal crisis—you can also talk about how those would help you excel in this role.

Possible answer to “Why was there a gap in your employment?”

“I spent a number of years working at a company in a very demanding job, in which—as you’ll see from my references—I was very successful. But I’d reached a stage in my career where I wanted to focus on my personal growth. The time I spent traveling taught me a lot about how to get along with people of all ages and cultures. Now I feel more than ready to jump back into my career with renewed energy and focus and I feel this role is the ideal way to do that.”

Read More: How to Explain the Gap in Your Resume With Ease

19. Can you explain why you changed career paths?

Don’t be thrown off by this question—just take a deep breath and explain to the hiring manager why you’ve made the career decisions you have. More importantly, give a few examples of how your past experience is transferable to the new role. This doesn’t have to be a direct connection; in fact, it’s often more impressive when a candidate can show how seemingly irrelevant experience is very relevant to the role.

Possible answer to “Can you explain why you changed career paths?”

“Ever since my brother was diagnosed with a heart condition, I’ve been training and running with him in your annual Heart Run to raise money for your organization and help support patients with expenses not covered by insurance. Each time, I’ve been struck by how truly dedicated and happy to be there your employees have been. So when I saw this posting for a fundraising role, it felt like it was meant to be. For the last 10 years of my career I’ve been an account executive for various SaaS companies, and I’ve really honed my skills when it comes to convincing organizations to make regular payments for something over the long-term. But I’ve been looking for a position in fundraising where I can use these skills to really help people and I’m highly motivated to do that with your organization.”

Read More: How to Explain Your Winding Career Path to a Hiring Manager

20. What’s your current salary?

It’s now illegal for some or all employers to ask you about your salary history in several cities and states, including New York City; Louisville, North Carolina; California; and Massachusetts. But no matter where you live, it can be stressful to hear this question. Don’t panic—there are several possible strategies you can turn to. For example, you can deflect the question, Muse career coach Emily Liou says, with a response like: “Before discussing any salary, I’d really like to learn more about what this role entails. I’ve done a lot of research on [Company] and I am certain if it’s the right fit, we’ll be able to agree on a number that’s fair and competitive to both parties.” You can also reframe the question around your salary expectations or requirements (see question 38) or choose to share the number if you think it will work in your favor.

Possible answer to “What’s your current salary?”

“Before discussing any salary, I’d really like to learn more about what this role entails. I’ve done a lot of research on [Company] and I am certain if it’s the right fit, we’ll be able to agree on a number that’s fair and competitive to both parties.”

Read More: Here's How You Answer the Illegal “What's Your Current Salary” Question

21. What do you like least about your job?

Tread carefully here! The last thing you want to do is let your answer devolve into a rant about how terrible your current company is or how much you hate your boss or that one coworker. The easiest way to handle this question with poise is to focus on an opportunity the role you’re interviewing for offers that your current job doesn’t. You can keep the conversation positive and emphasize why you’re so excited about the job.

Possible answer to “What do you like least about your job?”

“In my current role, I’m responsible for drafting media lists to pitch. While I’ve developed a knack for this and can do it when it is necessary, I’m looking forward to a job that allows me to have a more hands-on role in working with media partners. That’s one of the things that most excited me about your account supervisor position.”

Read More: What Interviewers Really Want When They Ask, “What Do You Like Least About Your Job?”

22. What are you looking for in a new position?

Hint: Ideally the same things that this position has to offer. Be specific.

Possible answer to “What are you looking for in a new position?”

“I’ve been honing my data analysis skills for a few years now and, first and foremost, I’m looking for a position where I can continue to exercise those skills. Another thing that’s important to me is the chance to present my findings and suggestions directly to clients. I’m always very motivated by being able to see the impact of my work on other people. And I’m definitely looking for a position where I can grow since I hope to take on managerial responsibilities in the future. To sum it up, I’d love a position where I can use my skills to make an impact that I can see with my own eyes. Of course, the position is only part of the equation. Being at a company where I can grow and work toward something I care about matters, too. DNF’s goal of being at the intersection between data and education inspires me, and I’m really excited about this opportunity.”

Read More: 4 Steps for Answering “What Are You Looking for in a New Position?”

23. What type of work environment do you prefer?

Hint: Ideally one that's similar to the environment of the company you're applying to. Be specific.

Possible answer to “What type of work environment do you prefer?”

“I really like the environment in my current position. My manager is a great resource and always willing to help out when I run into an issue, but they trust me to get my work done so I have a lot of freedom in how I schedule and prioritize, which is very important to me. Everyone has their own cubicle, so it’s often pretty quiet to get our work done, but we all get lunch together and our team has a lot of check-in meetings and communicates frequently via Slack so we still get a lot of opportunities to bounce ideas off each other. So I like both individual and more collaborative work. How would you describe the mix here?”

Read More: 3 Steps to Answering “What Type of Work Environment Do You Prefer?”

24. What’s your work style?

When an interviewer asks you about your work style, they’re probably trying to imagine you in the role. How will you approach your work? What will it be like to work with you? Will you mesh well with the existing team? You can help them along by choosing to focus on something that’s important to you and aligns with everything you’ve learned about the role, team, and company so far. The question is broad, which means you have a lot of flexibility in how you answer: You might talk about how you communicate and collaborate on cross-functional projects, what kind of remote work setup allows you to be most productive, or how you approach leading a team and managing direct reports. Just try to keep it positive. And remember, telling a story will almost always make your answer more memorable. 

Possible answer to “What’s your work style?”

“I tend to do my best work when I’m collaborating with colleagues and we’re working together toward a common goal. I was that rare student who loved group projects and now I still get a rush of excitement when I’m planning marketing campaigns with a team and bringing new and different voices into the fold. When I was working at XYZ Agency, I made it a habit to extend invitations to folks in different departments to join certain brainstorming and feedback sessions. Some of our most successful campaigns grew out of the ideas we generated together with coworkers in IT, HR, product, and customer success. That’s why I was so excited to learn that this role would have me working closely with the product and sales teams as well as with a talented marketing team. The other thing I find is crucial to making these collaborations successful is organization and documentation, so I’m also really big on creating one central home for all materials related to a project, including meeting notes, action items, drafts of campaign copy and visuals, and timelines.”

Read More: How to Answer “What Is Your Work Style?” in an Interview (Plus Examples!)

25. What’s your management style?

The best managers are strong but flexible, and that’s exactly what you want to show off in your answer. (Think something like, “While every situation and every team member requires a bit of a different strategy, I tend to approach my employee relationships as a coach...”) Then share a couple of your best managerial moments, like when you grew your team from five to 15 or coached an underperforming employee to become the company’s top salesperson.

Possible answer to “What’s your management style?”

“ Management style is so hard to put your finger on, but I think in general a good manager gives clear directions and actually stays pretty hands-off, but is ready and available to jump in to offer guidance, expertise, and help when needed. I try my best to make that my management style. I also go out of my way to make sure I know when my team needs help. That means plenty of informal check-ins, both on the work they’re doing and on their general job satisfaction and mental well-being. I remember one project in particular at my most recent position that involved everyone working on a separate aspect of the product. This meant a lot of independent work for my team of seven people, but rather than bog everyone down with repetitive meetings to update me and everyone else on progress made, I created a project wiki that allowed us to communicate new information when necessary without disrupting another team member’s work. I then made it my job to make sure no one was ever stuck on a problem too long without a sounding board. Ultimately, despite the disparate project responsibilities, we ended up with a very cohesive product and, more importantly, a team that wasn’t burnt out.”

Read More: How to Answer “What’s Your Management Style?”

26. How would your boss and coworkers describe you?

First, be honest (remember, if you make it to the final round, the hiring manager will be calling your former bosses and coworkers for references!). Then try to pull out strengths and traits you haven’t discussed in other aspects of the interview, such as your strong work ethic or your willingness to pitch in on other projects when needed.

Possible answer to “How would your boss and coworkers describe you?”

“Actually, in my most recent performance review in April, my direct supervisor described me as someone who takes initiative and doesn’t shy away from hard problems. My role involves a lot of on-site implementation, and when things go wrong, it’s usually up to me to fix it. Rather than punting the problem back to the team, I always try to do what I can first. I know she appreciates that about me.”

Read More: 3 Strategies for Answering “How Would Your Boss or Coworkers Describe You?”

27. How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

Here’s another question you may feel the urge to sidestep in an effort to prove you’re the perfect candidate who can handle anything. But it’s important not to dismiss this one (i.e. don’t say, “I just put my head down and push through it,” or, “I don’t get stressed out”). Instead, talk about your go-to strategies for dealing with stress (whether it’s meditating for 10 minutes every day or making sure you go for a run or keeping a super-detailed to-do list) and how you communicate and otherwise proactively try to mitigate pressure. If you can give a real example of a stressful situation you navigated successfully, all the better.

Possible answer to “How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?”

“I stay motivated by thinking about the end result. I’ve found that even in the midst of a challenging situation, reminding myself of my goals helps me take a step back and stay positive.”

Read More: 3 Ways You’re Messing Up the Answer to “How Do You Deal With Stressful Situations?”

28. What do you like to do outside of work?

Interviewers will sometimes ask about your hobbies or interests outside of work in order to get to know you a little better—to find out what you’re passionate about and devote time to during your off-hours. It’s another chance to let your personality shine. Be honest, but keep it professional and be mindful of answers that might make it sound like you’re going to spend all your time focusing on something other than the job you’re applying for.

Possible answer to “What do you like to do outside of work?”

“I’m a huge foodie. My friends and I love trying new restaurants in town as soon as they open—the more unusual the better! I love discovering new foods and cuisines, and it’s also a great activity to share with friends. I try to go out with the same group at least once a week and it’s a fun way to make sure we keep in touch and share experiences even when we’re busy with other things. We even took a trip to New York City and spent each day in a different neighborhood, buying something to share from a few restaurants.”

Read More: How to Answer “What Are Your Hobbies?” in an Interview (It’s Not a Trick Question!)

29. Are you planning on having children?

Questions about your family status, gender (“How would you handle managing a team of all men?”), nationality (“Where were you born?”), religion, or age are illegal—but they still get asked (and frequently). Of course, not always with ill intent—the interviewer might just be trying to make conversation and might not realize these are off-limits—but you should definitely tie any questions about your personal life (or anything else you think might be inappropriate) back to the job at hand. 

Possible answer to “Are you planning on having children?”

“You know, I’m not quite there yet. But I am very interested in the career paths at your company. Can you tell me more about that?”

Read More: 5 Illegal Interview Questions and How to Dodge Them

30. How do you stay organized?

Would you want to work with a hot mess? Yeah, we didn’t think so. Neither does anyone else. A disorganized worker doesn’t just struggle in their own role, they can also create chaos for peers, managers, direct reports, clients, customers, and anyone else they interact with. So interviewers will often ask about how you keep yourself organized to make sure you’d be able to handle the workload and gauge what you’d be like to work with. In your answer, you’ll want to reassure them you’d have things under control (both in what you say and how you say it), describe a specific system or method you’ve used (bonus points if you can tie it to the role you’re interviewing for), and explain how it benefited you and your team. Just make sure your answer is succinct and, well, organized.

Possible answer to “How do you stay organized?”

“I take pride in my ability to stay organized, and it’s really come in handy in my past roles and especially the social media assistant job I’m in now. First, I keep a really meticulous calendar for each of the platforms I’m responsible for using Hootsuite—which I noticed you use here as well—and I try to block off time twice a week to get ahead on creating and slotting in posts. 

“ Second, I’m a big fan of Trello, where I have one personal board I use as a to-do list color-coded by type of task and marked with priority level and one shared marketing team board that we use to coordinate campaigns launching across social, email, and other channels. We pay very close attention to the news in case we need to pause a campaign. If needed, I’d tag all the relevant stakeholders on Trello, immediately suspend all scheduled content in Hootsuite, and start a discussion on Slack or suggest a meeting to reassess strategy.

“Finally, I created a shared folder on Google Drive with subfolders by campaign that I update with one-pagers on goals and strategies, assets, a record of the actual posts deployed, performance analyses, and retros. That way, there’s a go-to place for anyone on the team to refer back to past projects, which I’ve found really helps us learn from every campaign and incorporate those learnings into what we’re working on next.”

Read More: What Interviewers Really Want to Know When They Ask “How Do You Stay Organized?”

31. How do you prioritize your work?

Your interviewers want to know that you can manage your time, exercise judgement, communicate, and shift gears when needed. Start by talking about whatever system you’ve found works for you to plan your day or week, whether it’s a to-do list app you swear by or a color-coded spreadsheet. This is one where you’ll definitely want to lean on a real-life example. So go on to describe how you’ve reacted to a last-minute request or another unexpected shift in priorities in the past, incorporating how you evaluated and decided what to do and how you communicated with your manager and/or teammates about it.

Possible answer to “How do you prioritize your work?”

“I’d be lost without my daily to-do list! At the beginning of each workday, I write out tasks to complete, and list them from highest to lowest priority to help keep me on track. But I also realize priorities change unexpectedly. On one particular day recently, I had planned to spend most of my time making phone calls to advertising agencies to get price quotes for an upcoming campaign. Then I did a quick check-in with my manager. She mentioned she needed help putting together a presentation ASAP for a major potential client. I moved the more flexible task to the end of the week and spent the next few hours updating the time-sensitive presentation. I make it a point to keep lines of communication open with my manager and coworkers. If I’m working on a task that will take a while to complete, I try to give a heads-up to my team as soon as possible. If my workload gets to be unmanageable, I check in with my boss about which items can drop to the bottom of the priority list, and then I try to reset expectations about different deadlines.”

Read More: A Foolproof Method to Answer the Interview Question “How Do You Prioritize Your Work?”

32. What are you passionate about?

You’re not a robot programmed to do your work and then power down. You’re a human, and if someone asks you this question in an interview, it’s probably because they want to get to know you better. The answer can align directly with the type of work you’d be doing in that role—like if, for example, you’re applying to be a graphic designer and spend all of your free time creating illustrations and data visualizations to post on Instagram.

But don’t be afraid to talk about a hobby that’s different from your day-to-day work. Bonus points if you can “take it one step further and connect how your passion would make you an excellent candidate for the role you are applying for,” says Muse career coach Al Dea. Like if you’re a software developer who loves to bake, you might talk about how the ability to be both creative and precise informs your approach to code.

Possible answer to “What are you passionate about?”

“One of my favorite pastimes is knitting—I love being able to create something beautiful from nothing. Of course, knitting also requires a keen attention to detail and a lot of patience. Luckily, as an accountant I have cultivated both of those qualities!”

Read More: 3 Authentic Ways to Answer “What Are You Passionate About?” in a Job Interview

33. What motivates you?

Before you panic about answering what feels like a probing existential question, consider that the interviewer wants to make sure you’re excited about this role at this company, and that you’ll be motivated to succeed if they pick you. So think back to what has energized you in previous roles and pinpoint what made your eyes light up when you read this job description. Pick one thing, make sure it’s relevant to the role and company you’re interviewing for, and try to weave in a story to help illustrate your point. If you’re honest, which you should be, your enthusiasm will be palpable.

Possible answer to “What motivates you?”

“I’m driven primarily by my desire to learn new things—big or small—and take on new responsibilities so that I’m constantly growing as an employee and contributing more to my team and organization. I spent several summers working as a camp counselor and felt most fulfilled when I volunteered to lead planning for a talent show, jumped in to help with scheduling logistics, and learned how to run pickups efficiently. All of that experience helped immensely when I took a step up to become the lead counselor last year focused on operations, and that’s what excites me so much about the opportunity to take on this managerial role for the after-school program.”

Read More: 5 Easy Steps to Answer “What Motivates You?” in an Interview

34. What are your pet peeves?

Here’s another one that feels like a minefield. But it’ll be easier to navigate if you know why an interviewer is asking it. Most likely, they want to make sure you’ll thrive at their company—and get a glimpse of how you deal with conflict. So be certain you pick something that doesn’t contradict the culture and environment at this organization while still being honest. Then explain why and what you’ve done to address it in the past, doing your best to stay calm and composed. Since there’s no need to dwell on something that annoys you, you can keep this response short and sweet.

Possible answer to “What are your pet peeves?”

“It bothers me when an office’s schedule is really disorganized, because in my experience, disorganization can cause confusion, which can hurt the motivation of the team. As a person who likes things to be orderly, I try to help keep my team on task while also allowing for flexibility.”

Read More: 6 Tips for Answering “What Are Your Pet Peeves?” in an Interview

35. How do you like to be managed?

This is another one of those questions that’s about finding the right fit—both from the company’s perspective and your own. Think back on what worked well for you in the past and what didn’t. What did previous bosses do that motivated you and helped you succeed and grow? Pick one or two things to focus on and always articulate them with a positive framing (even if your preference comes from an experience where your manager behaved in the opposite way, phrase it as what you would want a manager to do). If you can give a positive example from a great boss, it’ll make your answer even stronger.

Possible answer to “How do you like to be managed?”

“I enjoy having my hands in a lot of different projects, so I like working with managers who allow their employees to experiment, be independent, and work cross-functionally with other teams. At the same time, I really welcome it when a boss provides me with support, guidance, and coaching. No one can do anything alone, and I believe when managers and employees collaborate together and learn from one another everyone comes out on top.”

Read More: 3 Easy Steps to Answer “How Do You Like to Be Managed?” in an Interview

36. Do you consider yourself successful?

This question might make you uncomfortable. But you can think of it as an opportunity to allow the interviewer to get to know you better and to position yourself as an excellent choice for this job. First off, make sure you say yes! Then pick one specific professional achievement you’re proud of that can be tied back to the role you’re interviewing for—one that demonstrates a quality, skill, or experience that would help you excel in this position. You’ll want to explain why you consider it a success, talk about the process in addition to the outcome, and highlight your own accomplishment without forgetting your team. Zooming in on one story will help if you feel awkward tooting your own horn!

Possible answer to “Do you consider yourself successful?”

“I do consider myself successful, even though I’m early in my professional career. I took a full load of classes in my junior year of college because I wanted to take that summer to volunteer for a human rights organization overseas. I knew that I needed to make sure I was on track with my major, minor, and graduation requirements. It was difficult to juggle it all with my part-time job, which I kept to help account for the fact that I wouldn’t be earning money over the summer, and there were a few sleepless nights. But it was worth the hard work: I ended the year with a 3.9 GPA and the opportunity to volunteer for the agency in Ghana without falling behind my graduation timeline. For me success is about setting a goal and sticking with it, no matter how hard it is, and this experience was proof that I could be successful even when there’s a lot to balance, which I know there always is at a nonprofit like this one.”

Read More: How to Answer “Do You Consider Yourself Successful?” Without Feeling Like a Show-Off

37. Where do you see yourself in five years?

If asked this question, be honest and specific about your future goals, but consider this: A hiring manager wants to know a) if you've set realistic expectations for your career, b) if you have ambition (a.k.a., this interview isn't the first time you’re considering the question), and c) if the position aligns with your goals and growth. Your best bet is to think realistically about where this position could take you and answer along those lines. And if the position isn’t necessarily a one-way ticket to your aspirations? It’s OK to say that you’re not quite sure what the future holds, but that you see this experience playing an important role in helping you make that decision.

Possible answer to “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

“In five years, I’d like to be in a position where I know more about my longer-term career aspirations as a designer. I will have gotten experience working for a design agency and know more about the industry overall. I’ll have grown my technical skills and learned how to take feedback from clients and incorporate it. And the way your agency is set up, I’ll also have gotten the opportunity to design different kinds of deliverables—including websites, branding, and ad campaigns—for different kinds of clients to see where I really feel at home before settling on a focus.”

Read More: How to Answer “Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?”

38. How do you plan to achieve your career goals?

Having goals shows interviewers you care, are ambitious, and can think ahead. Having a plan for how you’ll achieve your goals demonstrates your self-motivation as well as organizational and time management skills. Finally, the fact that you’ve accomplished past goals you’ve set for yourself is proof of your ability to follow through. All together, these are indications that you can not only set and achieve goals of your own, but also help your prospective boss, team, and company do the same. To craft your answer, make sure you focus on one or two goals in detail, explain why the goals are meaningful, communicate what milestones are coming up, highlight past successes, and connect back to this job. 

Possible answer to “How do you plan to achieve your career goals?”

“My current goal is to earn the CPA license so that I’m fully certified and prepared to contribute in a junior staff accounting job. My undergraduate degree is in finance and I completed an accounting internship with XYZ Company last summer. While I was there, I decided that each week I’d ask one person from a different team to coffee to learn about their job and career path. Not only did those conversations impress upon me the importance of getting my CPA as soon as possible, they also helped me realize I was eager to pursue forensic accounting, which is why I’m so excited about the opportunity to join this team. In order to ensure I earn my CPA this year, I enrolled in NASBA workshops, created a study schedule to keep myself on track, and will be taking my first trial test in three weeks. I plan on taking the actual test within the next three to six months.”

Read More: How to Answer “How Do You Plan to Achieve Your Career Goals?” in an Interview

39. What are your career aspirations?

Career aspirations are bigger and loftier than career goals. With this question, interviewers are asking: What kind of career would make you happiest (while also being realistic)? Your aspirations might revolve around what kind of company you’d like to work for, what tasks you’d like to do, who you’d like to help, or how you’d like to be seen by your colleagues. So to answer this question, talk about what would energize and fulfill you and connect it to the position you’re interviewing for. Be specific about how this job will help you achieve your career aspirations.

Possible answer to “What are your career aspirations?”

“After growing up in a food desert, my biggest professional aspiration is to help make healthy food more widely available and accessible regardless of where you live. I also love solving complex problems. Currently, as a project manager, I specialize in strategic planning and combine it with a natural ability to engage critical stakeholders—resulting in on-time and under-budget delivery. This role would help me use those skills to work on a mission I’m passionate about. I am determined to use these skills to help your organization guarantee our community has access to affordable, nutritious food and information to make healthy decisions. In the next five or so years, I would love to take on additional responsibility and be in a decision-making role to drive the mission beyond our community and support even more families in gaining access to nutritious food options.”

Read More: How to Answer “What Are Your Career Aspirations?” in an Interview

40. What’s your dream job?

Along similar lines, the interviewer wants to uncover whether this position is really in line with your ultimate career goals. While “an NBA star” might get you a few laughs, a better bet is to talk about your goals and ambitions—and why this job will get you closer to them.

Read More: The Secret Formula to Answering “What's Your Dream Job?” in an Interview

41. What other companies are you interviewing with?

Companies might ask you who else you’re interviewing with for a few reasons. Maybe they want to see how serious you are about this role and team (or even this field) or they’re trying to find out who they’re competing with to hire you. On one hand, you want to express your enthusiasm for this job, but at the same time, you don’t want to give the company any more leverage than it already has by telling them there’s no one else in the running. Depending on where you are in your search, you can talk about applying to or interviewing for a few roles that have XYZ in common—then mention how and why this role seems like a particularly good fit.

Possible answer to “What other companies are you interviewing with?”

“I’m interviewing with a few companies for a range of positions, but they all come down to delivering an excellent customer experience. I wanted to keep an open mind about how to best achieve that goal, but so far it seems that this role will really allow me to focus all of my energy on customer experience and retention, which I find very appealing.”

Read More: How to Answer “What Other Companies Are You Interviewing With?”

42. What makes you unique?

“They genuinely want to know the answer,” Dea promises. Give them a reason to pick you over other similar candidates. The key is to keep your answer relevant to the role you’re applying to. So the fact that you can run a six-minute mile or crush a trivia challenge might not help you get the job (but hey, it depends on the job!). Use this opportunity to tell them something that would give you an edge over your competition for this position. To figure out what that is, you can ask some former colleagues, think back to patterns you’ve seen in feedback you get, or try to distill why people tend to turn to you. Focus on one or two things and don’t forget to back up whatever you say with evidence.

Possible answer to “What makes you unique?”

“I basically taught myself animation from scratch. I was immediately drawn to it in college, and with the limited resources available to me, I decided to take matters into my own hands—and that’s the approach I take in all aspects of my work as a video editor. I don’t just wait around for things to happen, and when I can, I’m always eager to step in and take on new projects, pick up new skills, or brainstorm new ideas.”

Read More: A Simple Way to Answer “What Makes You Unique?” in Your Job Search (Plus, Examples!)

43. What should I know that’s not on your resume?

It’s a good sign if a recruiter or hiring manager is interested in more than just what’s on your resume. It probably means they looked at your resume, think you might be a good fit for the role, and want to know more about you. To make this wide-open question a little more manageable, try talking about a positive trait, a story or detail that reveals a little more about you and your experience, or a mission or goal that makes you excited about this role or company.

Possible answer to “What should I know that’s not on your resume?”

“Well, one thing you won’t find on my resume: the time I had to administer emergency CPR. Last year, I was at the lake when I saw a young girl who looked like she was drowning. I was a lifeguard in high school, so I swam out, brought her to shore, and gave her CPR. Although this was—hopefully—a one-time event, I’ve always been able to stay calm during stressful situations, figure out a solution, and then act. As your account manager, I’d use this trait to quickly and effectively resolve issues both within the team and externally. After all, obstacles are inevitable, especially in a startup environment. And if anyone needs CPR at the office beach party, well, I’m your woman.”

Read More: The Right Way to Answer “What Should I Know That’s Not on Your Resume?”

44. What would your first few months look like in this role?

Your potential future boss (or whoever else has asked you this question) wants to know that you’ve done your research, given some thought to how you’d get started, and would be able to take initiative if hired. (In some interviews, you might even get the more specific, “What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?”) So think about what information and aspects of the company and team you’d need to familiarize yourself with and which colleagues you’d want to sit down and talk to. You can also suggest one possible starter project to show you’d be ready to hit the ground running and contribute early on. This won’t necessarily be the thing you do first if you do get the job, but a good answer shows that you’re thoughtful and that you care.

Possible answer to “What would your first few months look like in this role?”

“It’s been exciting to hear about some of the new initiatives the company has started in our previous conversations—like the database project and the company-wide sync, but I know there’s still a lot for me to learn. The first thing I’d do is line up meetings with the stakeholders involved in the projects I’d be tackling to help me figure out what I don’t know and then go from there. Hopping into a database project halfway through can be tricky, but I’m confident that once I know what all the stakeholders are looking for, I’ll be able to efficiently plot out our next steps and set appropriate deadlines. From there, I’ll be focused on hitting the milestones that I’ve set for the team.”

Read More: The 30-60-90 Day Plan: Your Secret Weapon for New Job Success

45. What are your salary expectations?

The number one rule of answering this question is: Figure out your salary requirements ahead of time. Do your research on what similar roles pay by using sites like PayScale and reaching out to your network. Be sure to take your experience, education, skills, and personal needs into account, too! From there, Muse career coach Jennifer Fink suggests choosing from one of three strategies:

• Give a salary range: But keep the bottom of your stated range toward the mid-to-high point of what you’re actually hoping for, Fink says.
• Flip the question: Try something like “That's a great question—it would be helpful if you could share what the range is for this role,” Fink says.
• Delay answering: Tell your interviewer that you’d like to learn more about the role or the rest of the compensation package before discussing pay.

(And here’s some more info on responding to a question about your salary requirements on an application form .)

Possible answer to “What are your salary expectations?”

“Taking into account my experience and Excel certifications, which you mentioned earlier would be very helpful to the team, I’m looking for somewhere between $42,000 and $46,000 annually for this role. But for me, benefits definitely matter as well. Your free on-site gym, the commuter benefits, and other perks could definitely allow me to be a bit flexible with salary.”

Read More:  3 Strategies for Answering “What Are Your Salary Expectations?” in an Interview

46. What do you think we could do better or differently?

This question can really do a number on you. How do you give a meaty answer without insulting the company or, worse, the person you’re speaking with? Well first, take a deep breath. Then start your response with something positive about the company or specific product you’ve been asked to discuss. When you’re ready to give your constructive feedback, give some background on the perspective you’re bringing to the table and explain why you’d make the change you’re suggesting (ideally based on some past experience or other evidence). And if you end with a question, you can show them you’re curious about the company or product and open to other points of view. Try: “Did you consider that approach here? I’d love to know more about your process.”

Read More: How to Answer the “How Would You Improve Our Company?” Interview Question Without Bashing Anyone

47. When can you start?

Your goal here should be to set realistic expectations that will work for both you and the company. What exactly that sounds like will depend on your specific situation. If you’re ready to start immediately—if you’re unemployed, for example—you could offer to start within the week. But if you need to give notice to your current employer, don’t be afraid to say so; people will understand and respect that you plan to wrap things up right. It’s also legitimate to want to take a break between jobs, though you might want to say you have “previously scheduled commitments to attend to” and try to be flexible if they really need someone to start a bit sooner.

Possible answer to “When can you start?”

“I am excited for the opportunity to join your team. I have several projects to wrap up in my current role at [Company]. I plan to give them two weeks’ notice to make a smooth transition for my coworkers and will be happy to come onboard with the team here after that time.”

Read More: 4 Ways to Answer the Interview Question “When Can You Start?”

48. Are you willing to relocate?

While this may sound like a simple yes-or-no question, it’s often a little bit more complicated than that. The simplest scenario is one where you’re totally open to moving and would be willing to do so for this opportunity. But if the answer is no, or at least not right now, you can reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, briefly explain why you can’t move at this time, and offer an alternative, like working remotely or out of a local office. Sometimes it’s not as clear-cut, and that’s OK. You can say you prefer to stay put for xyz reasons, but would be willing to consider relocating for the right opportunity.

Possible answer to “Are you willing to relocate?”

“I do love living in Raleigh and would prefer to stay here. However, for the right opportunity I’d be willing to consider relocating if necessary.”

Read More: The Best Responses to “Are You Willing to Relocate?” Depending on Your Situation

49. How many tennis balls can you fit into a limousine?

1,000? 10,000? 100,000? Seriously? Well, seriously, you might get asked brain-teaser questions like these, especially in quantitative jobs. But remember that the interviewer doesn’t necessarily want an exact number—they want to make sure that you understand what’s being asked of you, and that you can set into motion a systematic and logical way to respond. So take a deep breath and start thinking through the math. (Yes, it’s OK to ask for a pen and paper!)

Read More: 9 Steps to Solving an Impossible Brain Teaser in a Tech Interview (Without Breaking a Sweat)

50. If you were an animal, which one would you want to be?

Seemingly random personality-test type questions like these come up in interviews because hiring managers want to see how you can think on your feet. There’s no wrong answer here, but you’ll immediately gain bonus points if your answer helps you share your strengths or personality or connect with the hiring manager. Pro tip: Come up with a stalling tactic to buy yourself some thinking time, such as saying, “Now, that is a great question. I think I would have to say…”

Read More: 4 Steps for Answering Off-the-Wall Interview Questions

51. Sell me this pen.

If you’re interviewing for a sales job, your interviewer might put you on the spot to sell them a pen sitting on the table, or a legal pad, or a water bottle, or just something . The main thing they’re testing you for? How you handle a high-pressure situation. So try to stay calm and confident and use your body language—making eye contact, sitting up straight, and more—to convey that you can handle this. Make sure you listen, understand your “customer’s” needs, get specific about the item’s features and benefits, and end strong—as though you were truly closing a deal.

Read More: 4 Tips for Responding to "Sell Me This Pen" in an Interview

52. Is there anything else you’d like us to know?

Just when you thought you were done, your interviewer asks you this open-ended doozy. Don’t panic—it’s not a trick question! You can use this as an opportunity to close out the meeting on a high note in one of two ways, Zhang says. First, if there really is something relevant that you haven’t had a chance to mention, do it now. Otherwise, you can briefly summarize your qualifications. For example, Zhang says, you could say: “I think we’ve covered most of it, but just to summarize, it sounds like you’re looking for someone who can really hit the ground running. And with my previous experience [enumerate experience here], I think I’d be a great fit.”

Read More: How to Answer “Is There Anything Else You’d Like Us to Know?”

53. Do you have any questions for us?

You probably already know that an interview isn’t just a chance for a hiring manager to grill you—it’s an opportunity to sniff out whether a job is the right fit from your perspective. What do you want to know about the position? The company? The department? The team? You’ll cover a lot of this in the actual interview, so have a few less-common questions ready to go. We especially like questions targeted to the interviewer (“What's your favorite part about working here?”) or the company’s growth (“What can you tell me about your new products or plans for growth?”) If you’re interviewing for a remote role, there are some specific questions you might want to ask related to that.

Read More: 57 Smart Questions to Ask in a Job Interview in 2022

Bonus questions

Looking for more common interview questions and answers examples? Check out these lists of inquiries for different types of jobs.

• Behavioral interview questions
• Phone interview questions
• Remote interview questions
• Second interview questions
• COVID-related interview questions
• Diversity and inclusion interview questions
• Emotional intelligence interview questions
• Internship interview questions
• Manager interview questions
• Account management interview questions
• Accounting interview questions
• Administrative assistant interview questions
• Brand management interview questions
• Customer service interview questions
• Data science interview questions
• Digital marketing interview questions
• Financial analyst interview questions
• IT interview questions
• Nursing interview questions
• Product marketing interview questions
• Project management interview questions
• Retail interview questions
• Sales interview questions
• Software engineering interview questions
• Teaching interview questions

Want even more advice for answering common interview questions?

If you are looking for more in depth advice about these 53 interview questions and how to answer them, here's a list of articles with detailed guides to teach you how to approach your responses.

• Tell me about yourself.
• Walk me through your resume.
• How did you hear about this position?
• Why do you want to work at this company?
• Why do you want this job?
• Why should we hire you?
• What can you bring to the company?
• What are your greatest strengths?
• What do you consider to be your weaknesses?
• What is your greatest professional achievement?
• Tell me about a challenge or conflict you’ve faced at work, and how you dealt with it.
• Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership skills.
• What’s a time you disagreed with a decision that was made at work?
• Tell me about a time you made a mistake.
• Tell me about a time you failed.
• Why are you leaving your current job?
• Why were you fired?
• Why was there a gap in your employment?
• Can you explain why you changed career paths?
• What’s your current salary?
• What do you like least about your job?
• What are you looking for in a new position?
• What type of work environment do you prefer?
• What’s your work style?
• What’s your management style?
• How would your boss and coworkers describe you?
• How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?
• What do you like to do outside of work?
• Are you planning on having children?
• How do you stay organized?
• How do you prioritize your work?
• What are you passionate about?
• What motivates you?
• What are your pet peeves?
• How do you like to be managed?
• Do you consider yourself successful?
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
• How do you plan to achieve your career goals?
• What are your career aspirations?
• What’s your dream job?
• What other companies are you interviewing with?
• What makes you unique?
• What should I know that’s not on your resume?
• What would your first few months look like in this role?
• What are your salary expectations?
• What do you think we could do better or differently?
• When can you start?
• Are you willing to relocate?
• How many tennis balls can you fit into a limousine?
• If you were an animal, which one would you want to be?
• Sell me this pen.
• Is there anything else you’d like us to know.
• Do you have any questions for us?

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Employer Resources

• Most Common Interview Mistakes Are You Guilty of Any of Them?
• 4 Questions You Need Answered What You Need to Know Before Hiring
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Job Seeker Tips

• Top 4 Interview Mistakes What to Avoid At Your Next Interview
• Are You Prepared? 3 of the Best Ways to Prepare for Your Interview

Career Advice

Most common job interview questions (and how to answer them).

August 02, 2024

“So, tell me about yourself,” your interviewer begins. “Why should we hire you?”

Job interview questions like these are so common, you’d think most candidates would just breeze right through them.

But actually, these common interview questions constantly trip candidates up – if you’re not expecting them, that is.

We’ve seen this happen countless times. A candidate turns up at an interview. They’ve done their homework on the company, convey confidence in their actions and have the experience and capabilities to do the job comfortably.

But if the hiring manager hits you with one of these questions, the confident facade then crumbles. This is why it’s important to know which questions you may face when applying for a new role – here’s the most common ones that you’re likely to face.

Most Common Interview Questions (and Best Answers)

• Tell me about yourself
• Tell me about your current role and responsibilities
• What are your expectations from this job?
• Why should we hire you?
• What is the reason for leaving your job?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Can you explain your career gap?
• What’s your leadership style?
• Do you work well under pressure?
• Why do you want this job?
• How long do you plan to work for us?
• Do you have any questions?

If you’ve landed yourself an interview with an agency recruiter or headhunter , you can expect most of the above to be asked, but you could also encounter some additional, slightly different interview questions.

When a headhunter reaches out or agrees to meet with you, they probably already have a specific role (or roles) in mind for you, and want to determine if you’ll be a good fit for them. You might or might not be told what these roles are before your meeting.

But don’t take this meeting lightly – it’s important to try and impress the headhunter. An awesome headhunter can really   upsell you to potential hiring managers and negotiate on your behalf!

Common Interview Questions From Headhunters

• What kind of company do you want to work for?
• What’s your current salary?
• What’s your minimum or expected salary?
• What’s your availability or notice period?
• What do you enjoy most in your current role?
• What’s your least favourite part of your current role?
• What do you know about XYZ company?

When it comes to each company hiring process that you encounter, they’ll all be a little different. Though, these 20 questions pop up commonly throughout during job interviews – let’s look at them in a little more depth.

“Tell me about yourself”

Interviewers like to ease into interviews with this question.

It’s a deceptively simple and generically broad question – one that could easily lure you into narrating your entire life story.

Don’t fall into that trap!

When interviewers ask this question, they’re trying to find out how compatible you are with the role and company.

A simple way to respond to this is to structure your answer into Past, Present and Future:

• Past : How you got to where you are in your career today, your previous work experience. Your unique career narrative !
• Present : Share about your current role and scope, your accomplishments.
• Future : Build off what you share about Past and Present, talk about what you’re looking for in your next career move, and why you’re a great fit for this role.

For example, in an interview for a Sales role at a software firm, you could lead with this;

“I’ve loved building computers since I was fourteen! I found it was cheaper to build them on my own than to buy a pre-assembled one, and I also had the opportunity to sell these custom-made computers to my friends. Later on, I set up my own eCommerce website and sold them there too. When I’m not making computers, I enjoy writing my own code and committing them onto my Git repository, and am in the midst of contributing to an open source project”.

This answer works for a few different reasons, including that it;

• Shows your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the field.
• Highlights your entrepreneurial ability and self-starter attitude.
• Demonstrates your technical expertise – skills and knowledge in software and hardware.

Follow this up by talking about what you currently do at work (Present), and where you see yourself headed in your career – relating that to your desired new role (Future).

But keep it short! Don’t go into too much detail here and bore your interviewer.

Keep your answer succinct, no more than 2 minutes.

Think of this as a Cliffs Notes summary – it should give your interviewer just enough of an overview of the most important, and relevant, parts of your career story.

If interviewers want to hear more about a particular aspect, they’ll definitely ask follow up questions!

What about personal interests and passions? You can talk about these too!

If they’re related to your work (as in the above example), do talk about your passions and interests if you’re comfortable – they’re part of your career narrative, and will make you more memorable to interviewers.

If they’re not relevant, you can still speak about your travels, hobbies etc. briefly – especially if they show your personality, and affirm why you’re a good fit for the company!

Don’t forget, recruiters are people too!

So, take the opportunity to try and connect with them. It’s a bonus if you find common interests with the recruiter or hiring manager through your personal sharing. You’ll then set a positive tone for the rest of the interview.

“Tell me about your current role and responsibilities”

Here’s your opportunity to sell your skills and experiences!

Give a brief overview of 3-5 of your main duties, and make sure to include:

• Keywords : These industry and role specific keywords will show the recruiter or hiring manager that you’re an expert in your field
• Achievements : Show that you don’t just do your job, you’re AMAZING at it!
• Metrics : Give a sense of scale and context to your achievements
• Narrative : Make yourself memorable

Detailing your job description isn’t always easy, but it’s worth doing if you want to stand out from other candidates. Some examples include;

“I’m a Digital Marketing Manager , specialising in digital integration, social media management, and content creation…”. “As Head of Technology I oversee IT infrastructure for 8 business units, across 600 end users and more than 1,500 devices…” “In leading Sales , I’ve secured 24% year-on-year growth over the last 4 years, bringing in an additional $25M in revenue…” “As a former Software Engineer , I approach all challenges in a focused, logical manner…”

Your job responsibilities are key to getting that new role, so don’t undersell yourself when hiring managers ask you what you do in your current role.

“What are your expectations from this job?”

Don’t confuse this question with salary expectations! (don’t even bring up salaries until you are offered the role)

This question is about your professional expectations – what you hope to learn, contribute, and achieve in this new role . An example of a good answer is;

“I believe I’ll be able to achieve professional advancement through exposure to new design tools such as AutoCAD and Figma. I’m proficient in Adobe Bridge and Adobe XD, which I’d used while working at ABC Graphic Design Co, working on projects for clients in the FMCG and Healthcare industries. I’d be thrilled to share my knowledge on these sectors and tools with my colleagues. In addition, this role also grants me a new opportunity to work on Real Estate related projects, which I haven’t had the chance to do.”

This answer demonstrates your enthusiasm to and commitment for professional growth, whilst also showing your willingness to share your own knowledge and expertise with your colleagues, which can add value to the firm.

“Why should we hire you?”

The trick to answering this question is in connecting your past work experiences and achievements to how you’ll contribute and add value to your new firm.

You could go with something like;

“I believe my depth of experience in Sales and Marketing in the B2B technology industry, where I worked for ABC and QWE Company handling marketing across all channels in SEA, make me a good fit for this role, with its similar scope and focus. In my previous role, I led regional, cross-functional teams and drove strategy that tripled sales to over $90 million within 6 months. I’m confident of leading the team at XYZ Co. to achieve results.”

Why does this answer work? Well, it shows the relevance of your past work experiences – depth and breadth of scope you handled It also emphasises your achievements , and sells the interviewers an aspirational result backed by numbers.

“What is the reason for leaving your job?”

When recruiters ask this, what they’re really asking is:

• What new role would be a good fit for you?
• Are you likely to leave a company again in a short period of time?
• Are there any red flags or issues a potential new employer should be aware of?

So when you answer “Why did you leave your last job?”, be honest, but positive.

Yes, maybe you hate your old job and are drained by office politics and constant backstabbing. But these aren’t reasons you need to share with your interviewer.

Whatever your reasons for leaving are, reframe them in a positive light.

Positive and acceptable reasons for leaving your previous job

Letting your current company know why you want to leave your current or previous position is important. There are some socially acceptable reasons for leaving your current role.

• You’re looking for new challenges, work opportunities and professional growth
• Change in career direction
• You were made redundant or the company closed down
• Your company restructured or underwent a merger or an acquisition
• Your work duties were changed, reduced, or outsourced
• You had to travel on business too often
• You took a longer term break from work
• Your job now requires you to move to a foreign country
• You were employed on a contract basis and are now looking for new opportunities

Poor explanations for leaving your previous job

If you want to make yourself stand out as the ideal candidate, try to avoid answering any of the following statements.

• You dislike your job or boss
• You’re sick of your work or bored of your job
• You hate the long hours
• Too much office politics
• Unable to get a promotion or pay raise
• You failed to hit work targets
• You were fired

Sample answer for “What is the reason for leaving your job?”

If it’s been some time since your last job, how do you explain the reasons you’d left? An example of a strong answer would be;

“I had a great experience working at my previous company. It’s taught me so much about the fundamentals of Social Media Marketing, how to independently plan social media strategies and campaigns, and manage client accounts. I’m ready for a new challenge and want to gain exposure to other Marketing fields, especially Digital Marketing.”  

Be honest and share the reason you were laid off. Talk about what you’ve been doing in the interim – perhaps upskilling yourself , trying out potential new careers, etc.

“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Hiring new employees means investing in them for the long-term.

Employers naturally want to ensure that you’re clear about your career objectives, and that they can support your aspirations.

Here’s what not to say:

• “In your job.”
• “I haven’t planned that far ahead.”
• “At a bigger company with better opportunities”

Your response should be realistic and show that you’ve indeed given your career future thought. Tie it back to the role you’re interviewing for.

Unsure what your long-term career goals are? We have another in-depth article that’ll help you discover your career aspirations . However, a good sample of what you can say is;

“I’m excited about this role – I think it’ll be a fantastic opportunity for me to broaden my expertise and apply the new skills I’d picked up in my previous job. In 5 years, I hope to have grown my leadership and strategic capabilities significantly to undertake a senior managerial position, leading a team of my own and overseeing larger scale projects in this company.”

This answer works well because it:

• Communicates a clear direction for professional growth.
• Emphasises your enthusiasm for the role
• Iterates your commitment and desire to grow with the company.

“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Your answer to this question reflects your level of self-awareness .

When describing strengths, share what you’ve achieved professionally as a result of your strengths . A good Sample answer for “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” is;

“I’m no counselor by any means, but I’m thankful that my colleagues trust me enough to confide in me any personal worries or concerns they may have that are impacting their work. I’m also grateful that they trust my training and are confident to voice any questions they may have when they are unsure. Together, our team of 5 managed to grow Sales revenue by threefold in 6 months.”  

It’s also important that you don’t defend or gloss over your weaknesses. Identify and be honest about them. But to give a great answer, talk about how you’re actively improving your weaknesses .

Reposition them as strengths. An example of how you can do this is to say something like;

“Well, I used to have really poor attention to detail. Speed is my biggest asset but it sometimes results in overlooking certain glaring mistakes. To reduce errors, I’ve started returning to completed documents or presentations a few hours later with fresh eyes, making mistakes much easier to spot – before sending them to clients. I’m learning better ways to improve everyday.”

Being self aware is an admirable attribute to have, so it’s worth saying something you really mean instead of giving a generic answer.

“Can you explain your career gap?”

Everyone has different reasons for gaps in their CV.

If yours is a short gap (1-3 months), you can omit this. It’s understood that you’ve recently left your job and are in the midst of your job hunt.

But never lie about your career gap. Be honest and upfront with the hiring manager. Acknowledge the gap and explain its circumstances.

Just as you would when talking about why you left your previous job, frame your career gap positively .

For example, if you took time off to study, mention new skills you’ve picked up.

“I enrolled myself for a Master’s in Business Administration Course while doing freelance work on the side. This allowed me to learn and develop additional skills such as Cross-Border Management and Regional Portfolio Management to better manage your organization’s core portfolio.”

Or, if you took time off for personal or family reasons, you could say something like;

“I decided to take a personal sabbatical in order to spend more time with my family and take care of my young children. During my spare time, I enrolled in online cooking classes, did some fitness training, and engaged in blogging to develop new skills while staying at home.”

If you took time off to travel, you could say something like;

“After my stint with company ABC, I spent 6 months travelling to several cities, including Beijing, Paris, and San Francisco. In all my travels, I met a lot of people from different racial and cultural backgrounds, learned various foreign languages, and discovered natural hidden beauties across the world. I can say that this experience renewed my perspective in life, and prepared me to take on new challenges as I go back to the corporate world.”

These answers work well as they:

• Show candidates continuing to stay productive and broadening their skill sets.
• Highlight how activities during career gaps remain relevant to career.
• Frame personal time as opportunities for professional development.

“What’s your leadership style?”

Interviewers ask about your leadership or management style to gauge your fit with the employer and team. There are many different common leadership styles .

“I try not to micromanage and believe in allowing my team to work independently. I set clear directions and timelines from the get-go, and trust my team to do the necessary work to accomplish tasks. However, I do weekly check ins with each team member to keep tabs on work progress, and provide as much guidance as needed. I make sure that deadlines are met and expenses do not exceed the given budget of the team. For example, three months ago, I was tasked to lead a team of 5 to prepare a report for our regional MD. From day one, I called a meeting with the team. We set clear roles and weekly deliverables for each team member, and a realistic timeline. The project progressed smoothly over the next 6 weeks, and my team completed the task a week ahead of the project deadline.”

Support your answer where possible with personal examples and anecdotes.

“Do you work well under pressure?”

Work pressure is part and parcel of any job.

At senior and management positions, high pressure situations and stakes come with the territory.

“I don’t get stressed easily.” is never a good answer!

Tell your interviewer about stress management methods you use. Share a real example too of how you’ve successfully managed a high stakes situation under pressure.

It gives your interviewer insight into your decision-making process, and confidence that you know how to keep your emotions in check when dealing with difficult situations.

Here’s a good sample;

“I keep myself calm while prioritising the tasks expected of me to accomplish. For example, I was assigned to complete a 100-page report in a week. The report was requested by a client at a last minute, and I was tasked to complete this above all of my other regular duties. While multi-tasking can help me complete multiple tasks at the same time, I decided to narrow my focus instead. I rescheduled my less urgent tasks, and focused on completing this report first. Instead of completing the 100-page report in one go, I strived to complete 20 or more pages a day to ensure consistency and prevent burnout. Choosing to narrow my focus over multi-tasking when placed under pressure allows me to keep my focus and submit higher quality work with fewer errors.”  

“Why do you want this job?”

Here’s your opportunity to express your enthusiasm in the role, and show you’ve done your research!

First, talk about the company’s strengths – what makes them unique in their field over their competitors, what growth opportunities do they offer.

Then, sell what you have to offer – how you’ll bring value to the organisation through your skills and experience.

“XYZ company is a fast-growing e-commerce company in the beauty and skincare space. I understand you’re planning to bring several exciting new products to the market in the coming months. I want to be a part of your business as it grows, and I know my specialised experience in marketing and communications for MNCs in this industry would help your company with positioning and amplifying awareness for these products, leading up and through to launch.”

This is one of the most common questions you’ll get when interviewing for a new position, so it’s a good idea to have something prepared if you want to avoid a difficult situation.

“How long do you plan to work for us?”

Remember, hiring is a long-term investment for the company!

Potential employers ask this question to gauge your commitment to the company and role.

Even if you’re in it for the long haul, we suggest leaving out numbers that may create unrealistic expectations. Instead of giving a rough estimate such as “5 to 10 years”, use something like this;

“I’d love to continue working for ABC Co. for as long as my skills are needed to contribute effectively to the company, and I feel challenged and am able to grow professionally.”

This will show them that you’re the perfect candidate for the role without picking a number of years out of thin air.

“Do you have any questions for me?”

If you’re hearing this, you’ve arrived at the end of the interview.

Remember – an interview is a two-way conversation.

You should always be ready with questions for your interviewer.

Failing to do so is a clear indicator that you haven’t prepared or researched sufficiently!

Take this opportunity at the end of the interview to clarify any questions you may have about the company or the role.

Ask thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and company, and show you’ve done your research.

If you’re wondering what questions to ask during your interview, take a look at these examples. You can ask questions about the role:

• What are the indicators of success for this role?
• What does a typical day look like in this role?
• If I get this job, what would you like me to achieve in the short- and long-term?

Or, you can choose to ask questions about the company or interviewer themselves;

• How would you describe the management style or culture of the company?
• Why do you enjoy working here?
• What are some of the company’s recent challenges?
• What are the company’s goals for the coming year?

Asking your own interview question shows initiative, so it can be useful to prepare examples beforehand.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the most common questions you may get from a headhunter.

“What kind of company do you want to work for?”

Here’s what the headhunter really wants to find out:

• What matters to you
• What you think would be a good fit!

Good things to consider when you answer this question:

• Culture of the company
• Size of the company
• Market or industry

“I really enjoy collaborative, team-focused environments…” “I like working with small-sized firms, where I feel I can really make a difference…” “I’d love to transition to the tech sector…”

A good headhunter will try to find you a role that’s a perfect fit, because when you’re happy in your new job, your employer is usually pleased too – and that makes a happy recruiter!

“What’s your current salary?”

Here’s the deal:

Great employees get underpaid all the time.

Are you currently earning less than you should be?

It’s okay, recruiters won’t judge you for this. They just want to see if roles they have in mind for you would mean a raise (yay!) or a potential cut (oh no!)

So be honest with them

Money may be a taboo subject for a lot of people, but when exploring a new role with a headhunter, it’s best to discuss it openly.

And one of the benefits of using headhunters is that they can negotiate your salary on your behalf! When it comes to career information like this, you may as well be honest, as it’ll

“What’s your minimum or expected salary?”

Is it wrong to say that you would like to set a minimum expected salary for your next role?

No, not necessarily.

Remember, most recruiters get paid a percentage of your annual salary, so it’s in their interest to get you an amazing salary package!

With this headhunter question, all recruiters really want is to check that their available roles are within your expected salary range.

One of the positions they’re hiring for looks excellent, but the money isn’t quite right?

Again, recruiters can negotiate for you, and maybe get you more!

In the event that a hiring manager can’t adjust the salary, a great headhunter will always discuss it with you.

They do not just pitch you at your lowest price-tag.

“What’s your availability or notice period?”

The biggest mistakes you can make when answering this recruiter question? Firstly, not knowing your notice period in advance

Did you not know you were having an interview today? This is something that you should research before you get to the interview stage, as it’s commonly asked.

And even worse is saying that you can leave your current job early. This can be taken as a sign of disrespect to your current employer, and will make any prospective company wonder if you’ll be as unprofessional with them.

Smart hiring managers won’t prioritise a weaker candidate over you just because they can start a few weeks earlier.

Don’t worry, and don’t try to cut corners. Be prepared, be professional, and come out looking like a great candidate!

“What do you enjoy most in your current role?”

Wondering why a recruiter would ask this, if you’ve already discussed your duties and responsibilities?

That question was to gauge your skillsets and work experience, while this one is all about your personality and work satisfaction.

Recruiters want to know what makes you happy at work, so they can find a role that’s equally fulfilling and exciting for you.

They’re giving you the opportunity to tell them, so take it and share what you like about your work.

And remember to focus on the why! It’ll help your recruiter build a better picture of you.

The better they know you, the more effectively they can sell you to a hiring manager!

“I love client relationship management, because I really enjoy making connections …” “…data research & analysis is for me the best part of my role, as I find uncovering hidden insights and trends fascinating …” “I get great personal satisfaction fixing something that’s broken , so troubleshooting and support is my favourite part of my job…”

“What’s your least favourite part of your current role?”

Here’s the top secret to a great interview – stay positive.

Even when tackling headhunter questions that are easy to feel negative about!

All they really want to know is what roles you wouldn’t enjoy, so don’t stress about it.

Relax, be honest, and try to stay upbeat. Saying:

“Data entry is probably my least favourite part of my job”

Sounds a lot better than:

“I hate data entry!”

So, be honest but try to keep things positive when you’re chatting with a headhunter or employer, and let your personality shine through.

“What do you know about XYZ company?”

Your headhunter has a specific role in mind for you:

1. If you know in advance which company it’s for:

Be sure to do your research!

Preparation shows you’re a serious professional, and reflects really well on you as a candidate.

2. If you don’t know in advance:

If you find yourself put on the spot and don’t know anything, that’s okay.

You can’t know everything about everyone, even if they’re in the same market as you, and you’re not expected to.

It’s perfectly acceptable to say you don’t know much, as long as you show you’re willing to follow-up after.

“I know they’re engaged in X, Y, and Z, but that’s about it. However, I’ll do some investigation and research into them!”  

You’ve already put in the hard work – done up a killer resume and cover letter, beefed up your LinkedIn profile , rigorously researched the company and role – to get your foot in the door.

You’re this close to landing your dream job.

Don’t let a common interview question be your undoing.

Use these questions as a foundation to prepare thoroughly for your interview.

You’ve got this – we’re rooting for you!

Return to Ultimate Singapore Job Search Hub

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CVs & Résumés

• Nov 18, 2019
• 11 min read

20 Best Résumé Writing Tips that Will Get You an Interview

Read our tips and tricks on writing a standout résumé and landing an interview for the job of your dreams.

Melina Theodorou

Career and Culture Writer

Today’s job market is fiercely competitive.

With hiring managers often having to sift through numerous résumés for a single position, only the best of the best make it to the next stage of the hiring process. Indeed, if you want to land a good job, you need to be able to compete against a fleet of other equally qualified candidates.

An impressive résumé , then, is what you need to stand out from the crowd.

With only a few seconds to grab an employer’s attention, there’s a lot to consider when crafting your résumé. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled the best résumé writing tips that will help you get an interview for your dream job!

You can also feast your eyes on the most essential résumé tips in our video version:

1. Choose the Right Format

A chronological résumé  helps employers assess your most recent work first, bringing immediate attention to your current experience. While this is a popular format, however, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right one for you. In fact, there’s an array of résumé formats to choose from, each one with its own merits.

For example, if you have some employment gaps, then a skills-based résumé  could be a better option, as it brings attention to your abilities rather than your experience. Likewise, a combination résumé  is a great way to emphasise both your experience and your relevant skills.

2. Model Your Résumé to the Job You Want

Hiring managers aren’t looking for generic content but rather specialised skills and industry-related expertise.

To give recruiters what they’re looking for, your CV or résumé should be tailor-made for the position you’re applying for. That means that you’ll need to do extensive research on the role and the company itself. From there on, incorporate your most relevant experience and knowledge within your résumé.

On another note, be sure to include targeted keywords that will help your résumé stand out. This is particularly important if you’re applying to a bigger company, as it will help your résumé pass through the applicant tracking system (or ATS, for short). Resume.io , meanwhile, warns against adding too many keywords when writing your résumé, as it makes it unreadable to people.

3. Add a Punchy Career Summary

To grab the hiring manager’s attention, your career summary needs to be short and snappy. It should be no longer than two or three sentences, and you should use the space to highlight your professional experience, job-specific skills , relevant achievements and career objectives . Avoid redundancies and select points that can demonstrate you’re the ideal candidate for the job.

Start by listing your strongest character traits in a few words, then mention your current title, responsibilities and years of experience, and then move on to noteworthy career achievements. Then, briefly state your objectives for working at the company you’re applying for.

4. Detail Your Previous Roles

Employers are looking for candidates with illustrated professional experience. By doing so, you can further demonstrate your skills and experience to hiring managers and how they match their needs.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you should list every single responsibility and job you’ve held during your career. Simply list the skills that are essential for the role you’re applying for and tailor the content so that you can demonstrate your experience. Remember to accompany these with some metrics and statistics to make your points more impactful (more on that later).

5. Highlight Your Achievements

Identifying your achievements is an excellent way to boost your résumé and differentiate yourself from other candidates with similar skillsets. So, while you should detail your most important duties and responsibilities in previous positions, you need to combine these with your professional accomplishments.

Don’t forget to accompany these with some impressive facts and figures, too. This will surely show the value you can bring to the company and give you a competitive advantage over other candidates.

6. Quantify Your Experience

Numbers, metrics and figures are an excellent way to demonstrate your skills to employers. By quantifying information, you can highlight your professional achievements and show how your contributions have helped your current company achieve its goals.

When listing your duties and achievements, make sure to use any quantifiable evidence that can justify the work you’ve done. For example, you could include points like ‘Managed a team of 20 people’, ‘Increased sales by 80%’ or ‘Oversaw a budget of $12 million’.

7. Use Action Words

The best way to distinguish your accomplishments when detailing your work experience is to use compelling action verbs .

Words like ‘manage’, ‘led’ and ‘responsible for’ have been used rather excessively over the years, so try to avoid them as much as possible. Instead, opt for alternative action verbs that will make your achievements more personable, like ‘coordinated’, ‘launched’, ‘improved’, ‘supervised’ and ‘identified’.

8. Skip Cliché Terms

The content of your résumé should be unique in every possible way. To achieve this, you need to keep the content clear of overly generic terms such as ‘hard worker’ or ‘team player’.

The objective here is to make yourself as memorable as possible to the recruiter, but with every applicant vouching to their ‘ attention to detail ’ and ‘ great communication skills ’, this often becomes repetitive and devoid of meaning.

The best way for you to show off professional attributes is to provide solid examples and hard facts. Break away from cliché content and back up any claims you make with evidence.

9. Pay Attention to Formatting

Making your CV or résumé easy to navigate through helps recruiters absorb important information easily.

Large paragraphs and blocks of text are the first things you should avoid. Instead, break up information in easily digestible and concise parts.

Place the most important information within the first two-thirds of the first page and make good use of any available white space. That said, while your résumé shouldn’t be crammed with text, it should also not contain too many blank spots.

Also, strive for neat page transitions where your paragraphs aren’t halved across two pages.

10. Consider Using a Template

Your résumé’s presentation could have a major impact on your job search success . Indeed, the best way to grab a hiring manager’s attention is with a visually pleasing template that will draw them in and encourage them to read its content.

It’s crucial that you pick the right layout and design for the position you’re applying for. What is an acceptable template will depend on the particular industry, but the good news is that there are countless options to choose from.

Pro tip: make sure that your chosen template is optimised for ATS software!

11. Economise Your Space

There’s a lot that needs to be covered within just two A4 pages , and if you’re a seasoned professional, then the chances are that you’ll have a lot of worthwhile experiences to go through.

To avoid overcrowding your résumé with information, you can start by omitting the ‘résumé’, 'CV' or ‘Curriculum Vitae’ heading. Instead, put more emphasis on your name and professional title, which should be both placed at the top of the first page.

If you have an extensive list of experience, you should also avoid going into too much detail about older roles you’ve held. Instead, focus on your most recent experience and achievements (typically up to 15 years).

To top that off, be sure to use bullet points and to avoid long descriptive sentences.

12. Be Consistent

If you choose to bold or italicise your title or include months or just years in your dates of employment, make sure you do so throughout the entire résumé. Also, it’s a good idea to only pick a single font style that is both readable and professional-looking, such as Arial, Helvetica or Verdana.

Other things to look out for include the size (between and 10 and 12 points) and colour of your text, as well as the tone and tense. Writing in the third person and the past tense is recommended.

13. Mind the Employment Gaps

Employment gaps often raise red flags for recruiters, which is why you need to be transparent about them. As a principle, you should provide the reasons behind extended unemployment periods.

Word to the wise: don’t lie about the duration you worked at your last job, as the hiring manager can quickly corroborate your employment dates with a simple call to your previous employer.

Even if your résumé contains employment gaps , you can use it to your advantage and highlight any volunteer work you did or any other skills you gained during your time off.

14. Use a Professional Email Address

Your contact details should be appropriate and up to date. More specifically, your email address should comprise of your name and surname or at least your initials and be devoid of arbitrary words.

A strange email address like ‘ [email protected] ’ is unlikely to make a good impression on the hiring manager, and it will most probably reflect badly on your sense of professionalism. Instead, create a new email address designated for your applications and business-related emails, and include that within your résumé.

15. Include Useful Links

Nowadays, most résumés are submitted electronically. One of the biggest advantages of this is that you can make your document all the more informative by including links to your professional social media profiles , online portfolio or professional blog. This is a great opportunity to wow recruiters and give them a real taste of your expertise in your field.

So, before you submit your résumé, be sure to add links to any relevant platforms that can show off your work. These should be placed in the header of the first page along with your contact information.

16. Don’t Get Too Personal

You need to be mindful about the personal details that you include on your résumé. Information like your age, gender, home address and nationality should generally be avoided, as this not only can affect an employer’s decision but also take up unnecessary space.

On another note, while in some countries you are required to include a photo of yourself in your résumé , it’s generally discouraged.

You should also cut out any personal pronouns like ‘I’, ‘me’ and ‘my’ to avoid being repetitive and wasting valuable space on your résumé.

17. Include Personal Interests

Including some of your hobbies and interests adds a dash of your personality to your résumé.

That said, do avoid generalities like travelling, reading and playing sports. Think of this as another opportunity to be personable and show off any skills that might be relevant to the job.

For example, list a specific sport that requires team effort or some other activity that highlights your interest in your industry. If you have volunteer experience , meanwhile, you should also include this either within your interests list or as a separate section altogether.

18. Give it the Right File Name

Before sending off your résumé electronically, make sure that you’ve given the document a professional file name.

With hundreds of résumés competing for hiring managers’ attention, sending yours off under a generic name like ‘Résumé.doc’ or ‘MyRésuméFirstdraft.doc’ just won’t make the cut.

Instead, give it a personalised touch and go for a simple format like ‘John-Smith-Résumé.doc’. This will give your résumé a professional look, differentiate it from the rest and help recruiters remember your application a little bit better.

19. Proofread It (and Proofread it Again)

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your résumé is sending it off without taking the time to proofread it.

It’s quite easy to miss small errors when you’ve been looking at it for hours on end, so the best thing you can do is get a fresh pair of eyes and make the most out of online tools like Grammarly or Hemingway App.

Remember: it takes just one small grammar mistake to make a recruiter doubt your ‘atension to detail’, and this can be detrimental to your application’s success.

20. Get a Professional’s Help

If you’re too stressed about writing your very first résumé  or updating your existing one , you simply don’t have the time, or you just don’t know where to start, then turning to a professional résumé writer  (like CareerAddict's very own résumé service ) for some much-needed help might be a good idea!

There’s a lot you need to consider when putting together your CV or résumé. From formats to templates and what sections to include, there’s plenty of ground that needs to be covered in such a short space.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach you can take, by following these tips, you’ll be able to craft a job-winning résumé in next to no time.

Do you have anything you’d like to add? Join the conversation down below and let us know!

This article is an updated version of an earlier article originally published on 22 August 2017.

Finding a Job

Job Applications

81+ Job Interview Questions and Answers for 2024 [Full List]

You applied for a job.

After you’ve created a killer resume and cover letter and passed the first screening, it's time to face the final challenge:

Your job interview.

That’s something that scares even the best of us.

Being judged by someone who has your future in their hands is one of the most anxiety-inducing experiences out there.

And, to calm you before an interview, you might have heard the interviewers and hiring managers say that there are no right or wrong answers.

But here’s the thing:

They are almost always looking for the right answers.

This is where this guide comes in.

We’re going to cover some of the most common job interview questions and answers, and turn you into a bona fide interview expert by the time you get to the end.

This guide is going to include:

22 Most Common Job Interview Questions

• 18 Most Common Situational Interview Questions
• 10 Most Common Behavioral Interview Questions
• 50 Sample Answers for Different Professions and Levels of Experience

So, let’s get started!

Job interview questions are designed to let the interviewer learn more about you and how well you would fit in with their company. That being said, there are a few questions out there that you can expect during just about any interview you go to.

Some of these include:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Describe yourself in three words.
• What do you know about this company/organization?
• How did you hear about this position?
• Why did you decide to apply for this position?
• Why do you want to work here?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What is your greatest strength?
• What is your greatest weakness?
• What is your greatest accomplishment?
• What motivates you in your professional life?
• What skills are you currently working on improving?
• What are you looking for in a new position?
• Can you describe your ideal job?
• Are you considering other positions at other companies?
• What is the professional achievement you’re most proud of?
• What kind of working environment do you work best in?
• What are your career goals?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
• Why should we hire you?
• What are your salary requirements?
• Do you have any questions for us?

18 Situational Job Interview Questions

A subset of job interview questions you can expect are situational interview questions .

Typically, these questions either reference something from your resume, like an employment gap or a career change, or they present you with a hypothetical situation and ask how you would handle it.

Some of the most popular questions in this category include:

• Why haven’t you gotten your degree?
• Why have you switched jobs so many times?
• Why did you change your career path?
• Why did you decide to leave your previous job?
• Why is there a gap in your work experience?
• Why were you fired?
• How do you feel about working weekends or late hours?
• How would your boss describe you?
• What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?
• Are you a team player?
• Are you a risk-taker?
• How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?
• If you had a choice, would you rather innovate a process or follow the established procedures for it?
• Do you think there is a difference between hard work and smart work?
• How quickly do you adapt to new technology?
• What are your interests outside of work?
• If you had to choose between a high-paying job you don’t enjoy and a lower-paying job you are passionate about, what would you choose?
• What do you think our company/organization could do better?

10 Behavioral Job Interview Questions

• How have you handled a challenge in the workplace before?
• Can you give me an example of a time when you performed well under pressure?
• What was a time when you showed leadership qualities?
• Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with a difficult coworker. How did you manage it?
• Tell me about a time you had to quickly adjust your priorities to meet changing demands. What did you do?
• Have you ever had to deal with a dissatisfied customer? How did you resolve the situation?
• Can you talk about a time when you had to go above and beyond your regular duties to get the job done?
• Describe a moment when you had to make an unpopular decision. How did you handle the feedback?
• Tell me about a time when you used data or analytics to make a decision. What was the outcome?
• Describe a time when you had to learn a new skill to complete a task. How did you approach it?

How to Answer 22 of the Most Common Job Interview Questions [+ Sample Answers]

These questions are the ones you’re bound to hear at just about any job interview - whether you’re an intern or a senior professional with a decade of work experience.

All of these questions are used to learn more about you, both as a person and as a professional.

If you understand what the interviewer is looking for with each of these questions, you’ll be able to give the right answer and rock that interview!

Now, we’re going to go through 22 of the most common job interview questions and sample answers for each.

Let’s get started!

#1. Tell me about yourself

This is usually the first question asked in an interview, so it acts as your introduction.

How hard can it be to talk about yourself? We do it on a daily basis, without much thought.

However, hiring managers aren’t looking for your whole life story, your third-grade achievements, or what you had for dinner last night. Instead, they are looking for a pitch.

Make sure your answer is relevant to the position you are applying for. Aim to present yourself as the ideal candidate for the job in a few words.

A good rule of thumb is to structure your talking points as follows:

• Briefly introduce yourself: What’s your name? How long have you been working in the field?
• What do you love about your job?
• What are your top 2-3 skills or achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for?

Now, let’s go through some sample answers:

“Hey! So, my name is John Doe and I’ve worked as a business analyst for 5+ years in Company X and Company Y.

I have some background in data analysis, having studied Information Systems at ABC University.

Throughout my career, I’ve done some pretty impressive stuff, if I do say so myself, haha.

For example, at Company X, I led a project to migrate all operations data to a new data warehousing system to cut down on costs. The new solution was a much better fit for our business, which eventually led to savings of up to $200,000 annually.”

Not bad, right? But if you don’t have a lot of work experience, you can still make a stellar introduction:

“I am Jane Doe, a recent college graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

I have just graduated with honors in Biochemistry. I know my way around a lab and have had multiple opportunities to put my knowledge into practice as a chemistry research assistant.

The lab felt like home, which is why I’d love to work as a lab assistant. I am passionate, hard-working, and extremely responsible. I am also looking forward to putting into practice all the things I learned during my time at university.”

Learn more about how to introduce yourself in an interview in our dedicated article.

#2. Describe yourself in three words.

There are tons of different versions of this question, like “What word would you use to describe yourself?” and “What five words would people use to describe you?” but the same idea applies to all of them.

The interviewer uses this question to test how well you can summarize your key strengths and if you can make a convincing elevator pitch in a few choice words.

So, make sure to choose words that are positive, relevant to the job, and actually reflect your personality or work ethic.

Here are a few examples to inspire you:

"Innovative, reliable, and adaptable. I tend to bring creative solutions to any challenge I’m up against. I also consistently deliver on my commitments, and I easily adjust to changes, so unfamiliar situations don’t phase me at all."

"Collaborative, diligent, and enthusiastic. The first is because I thrive in team environments, and I love working with others. Then the next one is because I pay really close attention to the details in my work; it’s almost compulsive for me. And I’m also, well, enthusiastic - I’ve been told I bring positive energy to every project I work on."

Learn more about words to describe yourself in our dedicated article.

#3. What do you know about this company/organization?

A quick search on the company’s about page should be enough information, right?

Well, yes and no.

Think of this as an open-ended question. There’s no real wrong answer here, except maybe:

“I don’t know anything about this organization.”

However, the more you actually know about the company, the better your chances of getting hired.

Imagine two equally competent candidates:

• One who doesn’t particularly care much about your company and is only applying because they know you pay a good salary.
• One who’s been following your company’s blog for ages, loves your product, and has several friends already working at the company.

Which one would you pick? The second one, obviously.

So, with this job interview question, your goal is to convince the hiring manager that you’re the right candidate for their company.

Now, how do you do that? Well, a rule of thumb here is to do some research on the company before the interview and learn the following:

• What does their product or service do?
• What impact does the product / service have?
• What’s the company's culture like?
• What is the latest news about the company? How are they performing?

...and pretty much whatever other type of information you can dig up.

Here are some possible answers to this question:

“I hadn’t heard about you until recently, actually. I found out about Company X through your job ad on RandomJobBoard.

After doing some brief research on you guys, I ended up falling in love with your software and your mission.

Now, I’ve worked with a ton of different project management software, like Software 1 and Software 2, but none of them were as intuitive as Software 3.”

“Well, I know that you’re one of the biggest investment banks in Middleton. Company X pops up on the news pretty often, and I’ve read that you’ve invested in some of the hottest tech IPOs and have several up-and-coming biotech companies in your portfolio.

I was particularly interested in your recent investment in Startup X. I found that interesting because I love robotics and it’s cool that you’re expanding in that direction.”

#4. How did you hear about this position?

Although at first glance this might seem like a straightforward question, you should use this opportunity to highlight your interest in the company.

Even if you haven’t been continuously refreshing the company’s website for job listings, you should more or less make it seem like you have. 

Start by telling the hiring manager what you like about the company or what excites you about the job opportunity.

Additionally, if someone inside the company told you about the position or recommended that you apply, definitely make sure to mention that.

You’ll have a much better chance of getting hired if someone credible can vouch for your skills.

So, mention their name and their position inside the company and give their reasoning - why do they think you’re a good fit for the position?

Some possible answers to this question might be:

“I’ve known about XYZ Tech for a long time - I’m a big fan of your products. I even own one of your latest phone models!

I love the company’s passion for creating super intuitive, beautiful hardware, and I would love to be a part of it.

So, when I saw your job ad on JobBoard Website, even though I wasn’t actively looking for a job at the time, I couldn’t help but apply!”

“I heard from Jim Doe, my old coworker and college friend, that Company X was looking for a new sales director. He encouraged me to apply and said that my experience managing a sales team at Company Y would be helpful here.

I’ve heard a lot about Company X from Jim, and I’m a big fan of the way you do things there. I’ve always wanted to work for a company with a flat organizational structure.”

#5. Why did you decide to apply for this position?

This question is something interviewers ask to see how passionate you are for the role.

And no, the answer isn’t:

“Well, I’m very passionate about not starving to death.”

“Well, I needed the money, and you guys tend to pay a lot.”

What the interviewer is looking for here is to see how passionate you are about the job or the company.

After all, job performance is directly linked to job satisfaction. The happier you are about your position at the company, the more productive you’ll be.

And here’s the kicker - your enthusiasm will be very evident during the interview.

When you’re talking to a person who’s genuinely interested in something, you can pretty much feel them glow as they talk. And if you’re a hiring manager who’s interviewed hundreds of people, this will be a good sign to hire the candidate.

So, use this knowledge to your advantage. 

When asked this question, your answer should include two things:

• What exactly motivated you to apply for this position?
• Why this specific company? Have you heard of them before?

Let’s look at some sample answers to get the point across:

“I’m very passionate about sustainability and renewable energy. In fact, I minored in Environmental Science at XYZ University.

I’ve always wanted to put my engineering degree towards a good cause - and the position as a Sustainability Coordinator at Company XYZ is just what I’ve been looking for.

I’ve been following your company for the past few years, and I love how you’re changing the renewable energy landscape in the USA.”

Keep in mind, though, that if you don’t know much about the company or the position, that’s okay, too. Just be honest and let your genuine interest in the job shine through.

That being said, we always recommend you do your homework before going to an interview.

Let’s look at an example where the candidate doesn’t know too much about the company:

“I’ve always wanted to get into marketing. I’ve done promotional jobs here and there, but I’ve never had the opportunity to do something more serious.

I do think I have just the right skills to get started, though: copywriting, basic Photoshop, and, of course, lots of creativity.

So, I thought that an internship at Company X would be an awesome start to my career in marketing.”

#6. Why do you want to work here?

This is another great question that the interviewer can use to see how much you know about the company and whether you’re genuinely interested in the role.

Here, the interviewer wants to see if you've done your research. Do you have any specific reasons for applying?

It's crucial to let your enthusiasm shine through and align your answer with the company's values and goals. 

So, avoid generic or self-centered answers like: 

"I just need a job and your company seemed okay. Plus, the salary is good." 

Saying something like that will just tell the interviewer you’re not actually interested in the job - you’re just a random applicant.

We recommend focusing on what attracts you to the company and how you can contribute to its success.

Here are a couple of examples of how to answer this question:

"I'm impressed by your company's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the tech industry. Your recent project on renewable energy actually aligns perfectly with my passion for environmental conservation. I also think my skills in software development could contribute to the upcoming green initiatives I read you’re planning." 

"Well, your company's reputation for fostering employee growth appeals to me a lot. I also read about your collaborative work culture and that sounded like a great fit for my work style. I saw that you recently expanded into some emerging markets, too, so that looks like an exciting opportunity. I actually have some experience with international business, so I think I could help out with that." 

Learn more about how to answer “ Why do you want to work here? ” with our dedicated article.

#7. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, that goes without saying.

But the reason hiring managers use this question is because they want to evaluate your honesty and self-awareness. They want to see if you can give yourself a realistic assessment and if you're actively working on improving yourself.

For strengths, choose a few qualities relevant to the job and be ready to back them up with examples.

For weaknesses, on the other hand, focus on showing how you're addressing them.

Make sure you avoid any cliché answers, such as presenting strengths as weaknesses.

"My strength is that I'm a perfectionist, and my weakness is that I work too hard." 

Something like that is going to come across as insincere and it won’t provide real insight into you as a candidate.

Instead, be genuine. Show the hiring manager that you’re self-aware and give them real strengths and weaknesses with your answer.

Here are a couple of possible answers:

"One of my key strengths is my ability to lead cross-functional teams. I’m great at bringing diverse groups together to achieve a common goal. As for weaknesses, I sometimes struggle with delegating tasks. I'm addressing this by trying to consciously empower my team members. I’m trying to focus on mentoring them instead of micromanaging." 

"I'd say my strength lies in my analytical skills. I can quickly interpret data and translate it into actionable insights. My biggest weakness is public speaking, though. I've been trying to work on it by taking a Toastmasters course and volunteering to present more often in team meetings." 

Learn more about how to answer “ What are your strengths and weaknesses? ” with our dedicated article.

#8. What is your greatest strength?

Here, you want to strike a balance between what your actual strengths are and what the interviewer wants to hear.

Narrow your answer down to three strengths at most. Pick one or two skills that would help you really excel at the job and one or two personal skills or traits.

Not sure what your strengths are? No worries! Check out the table below to learn what strengths are perfect for your field:

When you pick your strengths, back them up with a specific situation or a story that shows how you’ve used them to benefit you on the job.

After all, the interviewer can’t know whether your “ leadership skills ” are an actual strength or if it just means that you were super active in your high school class.

Here are some possible answers you can check out:

“My biggest strength is that I’m good at picking up new skills. I’ve worked a variety of different odd jobs - things like working as a waiter , house-keeper, cook, and a bunch more you’ve probably seen on my resume.

For most of those jobs, I ended up picking up all the needed skills within one or two weeks, with basically no previous experience.

So, I’m pretty sure that while I don’t have any experience as a bartender, I have the right attitude, and I’m certain I can get good at it within a week or two.”

“My biggest strength is that I’m very efficient at working under pressure. No matter the crisis or amount of stress, I can make the right decisions on-the-spot.

As an event manager at Company X, we were organizing an IT conference for a client. There were a ton of last-minute hiccups - some speakers canceled and the catering company said they’d be late for the lunch break. On top of that, we were understaffed because two of our volunteer organizers got sick and couldn’t show up.

At that point, things looked so bleak that we were considering canceling the event or postponing it. Instead, I took the initiative in my hands and sorted through the problems one by one.”

Learn more about how to answer “ What is your greatest strength? ” with our dedicated article.

#9. What is your greatest weakness?

This is always a tricky one.

After all, you don’t want to highlight your flaws during an interview, so it’s guaranteed to be a tough question.

The trick to answering this is realizing that the interviewers don’t expect you to be perfect. Everyone has flaws, weaknesses, and things they need to improve about themselves.

When asking this question, the interviewer actually wants to learn:

• Whether you have the right skills for the job . If you’re applying for a position as a server in a busy restaurant and your biggest weakness is performing under pressure, then you’re definitely not getting a call back.
• If you’re self-aware and really know what your downsides are. Someone who can’t admit to a fault is someone who probably won’t take criticism well or own up for mistakes.

And no, fake humble-brag weaknesses don’t count as weaknesses. You can’t just say that your biggest weakness is that you “work too hard” or that you’re “a perfectionist.”

The key here is to mention a weakness that’s real, but not something that would get in the way of you doing your job.

You wouldn’t want to say you’re bad at math if you’re applying for an accountant position, would you?

It’s also good practice to mention how you’re working towards overcoming your weakness and that you realize how it affects you negatively.

If possible, try to balance it with a positive side effect, like two sides of the same coin.

Possible answers here might include:

“My biggest weakness has always been my communication skills . I’ve always been pretty shy and anxious, even as a kid. Over the years, though, I’ve been really working on the issue.

At this stage, I’m much better than I’ve ever been, but I’m still far from perfect.

This, however, won’t have any impact on my job as a software developer. Despite lacking communication skills, I’m very good at working in a team.”

“Well, as a recent graduate, I’d say my biggest weakness is the lack of real-life work experience .

While I’ve worked on a dozen software projects at my university, I don’t have the experience of working in a fully agile environment with an experienced team.

But I’m willing to do my best and catch up as fast as I can.”

Learn more about how to answer “ What is your greatest weakness? ” with our dedicated article.

#10. What is your greatest accomplishment?

This question is a great opportunity to share a significant achievement that reflects your character and values. 

Here, the interviewer wants to understand what success looks like to you . 

So, choose an accomplishment that shows off your transferable skills or qualities relevant to the job.

Just avoid any answers that are unprofessional, such as:

"My greatest accomplishment was catching up on One Piece. It took months of watching!" 

Personal accomplishments can also show valuable qualities like perseverance, leadership, or personal growth.

That being said, do try to focus on professional accomplishments.

Here are a couple answers you could give:

"My greatest accomplishment was completing a marathon last year. It required months of disciplined training, pushing through physical and mental barriers. The experience taught me a lot about setting long-term goals, being consistent, and how far perseverance can take you. I apply the same principles in every aspect of my life but that, by far, made me feel the most sense of accomplishment." 

"Well, I am a teacher , but what I’m most proud of is volunteering to teach English to refugees in my community. Over two years, I helped over 50 individuals improve their language skills, which helped their integration and job prospects. This experience really improved my communication skills, cultural awareness, and I learned to adapt my teaching style to meet really diverse needs." 

Learn more about how to answer “ What is your greatest accomplishment? ” with our dedicated article.

#11. What motivates you in your professional life?

This hiring manager wants to understand what drives you and what keeps you engaged at work. 

So, be honest. Think about what inspires you and try to connect it to the job or the company's goals.

Just make sure you avoid any statements like:

"I'm only motivated by money and promotions. I'll do whatever it takes to climb the corporate ladder." 

Believe us, the interviewer isn’t going to find it funny.

Besides, while ambition isn't bad, showing a lack of passion for the work itself is .

Focus on intrinsic motivations - what do you enjoy? Why does it make you feel good? And how can that benefit both you and the company over time?

Take a look at a few possible answers:

"I like solving complex problems. There's a great sense of satisfaction in overcoming challenges and seeing the positive impact of my work. I also find collaborating with talented coworkers incredibly inspiring - it pushes me to continually learn and improve my skills, so every day is a new adventure."

"What drives me, professionally, is the ability to make a meaningful difference. Whether it's improving a process that benefits my team or contributing to projects that positively impact our clients, knowing that my work actually matters keeps me engaged. I'm also really motivated by continuous learning and career growth opportunities in my field." 

#12. What skills are you currently working on improving?

The interviewer wants to see whether you're proactive about your career development and staying up to date on the latest trends in your field.

So, use this question to show your commitment to professional growth. We recommend choosing skills that are relevant to the job but not crucial to the role you're applying for.

These might be good answers:

"I'm currently working on my data visualization skills. While I'm decent at data analysis , I'm learning to use tools like Tableau to create more impactful presentations of what I find. It could help me communicate really complex information more effectively so I could show it to stakeholders, for example." 

"I've been focusing on improving my project management skills. Although my role is mainly in software development, I've been studying agile methodologies and using project management software in my personal projects, too. I think this can help me collaborate better with our project managers and even potentially let me take on leadership roles in the future."

#13. What are you looking for in a new position?

The easiest way to answer this question would be to just say that you’re looking for whatever the company is offering.

Look at it from the point of view of the potential employer. Would they hire someone if they answered this question with:

“A good salary. And, uh, well, that’s about it.”

That answer pretty much says that the moment the candidate gets a higher paying offer, they’re going to bail.

So, explain to the interviewer that this job at this company is the perfect fit for you. Mention what your short-term and long-term career goals are and how this position ties into them.

You can answer with something like this:

“I'm looking to further apply my machine learning skills that I developed during my 2+ years of work at Startup X. There, I used to do programmatic ad model design.

Now, I’m looking for an opportunity to work on a larger scale project that involves setting up programmatic ads for audiences of more than ten million people.

I’m confident that working on such a large-scale project will also give my career a significant boost.”

#14. Can you describe your ideal job?

The interviewer wants to know how well the position aligns with your personal preferences and expectations.

Of course, they’d be thrilled if your ideal job matches what they can offer, but that doesn’t mean you should just describe the exact job you’re applying for.

Be honest about your preferences while trying to align them with at least some aspects of the job you're interviewing for.

And, obviously, avoid describing a completely different job.

"My ideal job would be working as a travel blogger, exploring new places, and never being in an office."

That wouldn’t be an ideal answer for an in-house writer working at a marketing agency.

So, try to strike a balance. Talk about things you genuinely value but also highlight the things you like about the job you’re applying for.

Here are a couple of examples:

"My ideal job would involve solving complex problems in a collaborative environment. I thrive when I’m working with diverse teams, tackling challenges, and driving innovation. I'm also passionate about continuous learning, so opportunities for professional development like the ones your company offers are important to me."

"Hmm, well, I’d say the ideal job is one that lets me make a meaningful impact while growing professionally. I'm looking for something that offers a balance of independent work and team collaboration, with opportunities to take on increasing responsibilities over time. I'm also drawn to companies that value work-life balance and contribute positively to society, which is why I'm particularly excited about this position."

#15. Are you considering other positions at other companies?

This is another tricky question.

You might be wondering - how much does the interviewer actually need to know here?

On one hand, if you admit to having interviews with other companies, it might look like you’re not 100% dedicated to this one. 

But, on the other hand, if you say you are not considering other positions, it might make you seem like you don’t have other options, which could give the company the upper hand in any future salary negotiations.

So, what’s the deal with this question anyway?

Well, the interviewer is probably asking because they want to know whether they have competition in hiring you. They also want to know if you’re serious about the industry and if you’re legitimately looking to be employed in this specific field of work.

If you do have other interviews lined up for other companies, just say that you are keeping your options open but that you prefer this job to the others.

And if you don’t have any other options? Stick to the same approach.

Whatever you do, just don’t make yourself seem desperate for the job.

With that in mind, here are a few possible answers:

“Well, I’ve had two interviews during the past week with companies in X and Y industries.

But I’m very passionate about this industry and the work you’ve done over the past several years is impressive. So, I’m more inclined toward working for you if everything works out.”

“Not yet. I wasn’t really actively looking for a job until my friend, John, recommended your company. I’m not looking for just any company - I want an interesting, engaging project, like what you’re working on.”

#16. What is the professional achievement you’re most proud of?

This is another version of “Why should we hire you?” and “What is your greatest accomplishment?”

This one’s pretty straightforward. You’re just supposed to mention your greatest professional achievement and you’re good to go.

However, the achievement has to be related to the job you’re applying for. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Sales Manager :

“In my previous sales position, I managed to hit and exceed department KPIs by 50%+ for six months in a row.”

“I’m very good at underwater basket-weaving, and I’ve woven 20+ baskets in the past year.”

See the difference?

So, find a professional achievement that shows off your skills and experience. Just make sure it’s somehow relevant to the company or organization you were part of at the time, whether that’s your previous job, volunteer position, or an extracurricular activity from your time in university.

Here are some possible answers:

“My biggest achievement is the fact that I went from being an intern to managing company X’s entire marketing over two years.

As an intern, I basically had zero instructions on what to do - it went like, ‘Hey, go learn social media advertising and get it going.’ The founders didn’t exactly expect me to achieve much and didn’t particularly care since they were 100% focused on making the product work.

Instead of just complaining about a lack of direction, I started reading up on digital marketing - pretty much anything I could get my hands on. I learned how to do content marketing for example, from Neil Patel’s blog and started putting everything into practice.

My first success was getting an article to go viral, which generated over $5,000 in revenue in a single day. While that’s not much for a software company, it felt like a lot for an intern.

After that, the founders gave me a lot more trust and they assigned me a small marketing budget of $1,000 per month. I had a lot more confidence in my abilities, so I started experimenting with other strategies.

Then, over the next two years, I got promoted to Head of Marketing. After making a couple of hires, I managed to scale up our marketing efforts, growing the company from $2,000 to $30,000 in monthly recurring revenue.”

“My greatest professional achievement so far is graduating from University X within four years, with a GPA of 3.9. My family wasn’t able to support me financially, so I had to take care of all the bills on my own.

But hard work and dedication paid off. I ended up graduating with almost no student loans. I managed this through a combination of:

• Working part-time while studying
• Doing seasonal full-time work during the summer
• Maintaining a high CGPA and winning two scholarships over four years

It wasn’t easy but it’s definitely something I’m proud of.”

#17. What kind of working environment do you work best in?

The point of this question is to see whether you’ll fit in with the company’s working environment.

For example, some organizations are pretty structured and hierarchical. They require tight organization and have a well-planned day filled with rules and guidelines on how to do things.

If you’re the creative, think-out-of-the-box type who likes to break the rules and innovate, this probably won’t cut it for you.

But other companies are more laid back, with a lot less bureaucracy. The type that says ‘go get us more sales’ and lets you do your own thing.

But if you’re the type who prefers to have strict to-dos and objectives, you probably won’t enjoy that job as much.

So, what’s the takeaway? Different people work best in different environments, and that’s okay.

Before you go into the interview, go through the company’s website and social media pages to get a sense of the general vibe and environment there.

You can also look at employee reviews on GlassDoor , or if you know someone already working there, ask them. 

Answer accordingly, depending on what you learn. For example:

“I work best in smaller companies. I really dislike the corporate world - rules, guidelines, SOPs, and so on. I perform best when I have a certain level of freedom to do things. Want to find innovative solutions to problems you didn’t even know you had? I’m your guy.

Want someone to just blindly follow instructions and do what they’re told? Then we probably wouldn’t be a good fit.”

“I love working in a youthful, energetic environment. You know, when you’re working on a common goal with a team of people who are as passionate as you are?

I like to think of my work as a second home and my coworkers as family. 

The last company I worked at had an environment like that, and I excelled at the job.

I have had that exact feeling about Company X since the moment I walked in here for the interview. So, I’m pretty excited to get to know how you guys work!”

#18. What are your career goals?

This question helps the hiring manager understand what your long-term aspirations are and how the role fits into your career path .

They want to see if your goals align with what the company can offer and if you're likely to stay and grow with them. 

So, be honest about your ambitions, but also show how they connect to the position and company you're interviewing for.

Whatever you do, don’t tell them they’re basically a short-term stepping stone for you.

"My goal is to start my own company within the next two years, so I'm just looking for some experience." 

No one could blame an interviewer for not calling you back after an answer like that.

Instead, try giving an answer like:

"In the short term, I want to become an expert in my role. I’m looking forward to continuously improving my skills and contributing to team projects. Then, in the long-term, I want to move into a leadership position where I can mentor others and drive innovation in the field. I'm excited about the growth opportunities your company offers since they seem to match my goals perfectly."

"My biggest career goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the industry. I want to have all the know-how necessary to contribute to its advancement. I'm passionate about staying at the forefront of emerging technologies in fintech. Eventually, I want to take on a role where I can influence strategy and maybe drive change on a larger scale. Your company is super progressive and forward thinking, so I think that’s a great match for me.” 

Learn more about how to answer “ What are your career goals? ” with our dedicated article.

#19. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Sometimes the honest answer to this is, “Hopefully not doing this.”

Especially with entry-level jobs.

But don’t think the hiring manager doesn’t know that. They just want to hear you say that in a more diplomatic way.

Generally, what the interviewer wants from this question is to learn whether you’re an ambitious person and if your career expectations are realistic or not.

Make sure to avoid any of the cliche answers, like:

“In five years? I’ll be in your seat, haha.”

As cute as that might be, the interviewer wants a real answer.

So, think realistically about what the next step after this position is and whether it is possible to reach it within the company you are applying for.

“Within the next five years, I’d like to reach the position of a Senior Business Consultant. By then, I would like to have accomplished a few things, like:

• Helping over 20 organizations improve their businesses.
• Create a personal network of highly specialized professionals.
• Learn as much as I can about optimizing and improving clients’ businesses, as well as the essentials of operating a company.”

“As a start, I want to learn if accounting is the right field for me. While I loved what I studied at university, I want to see if actually working in the field feels the same.

If I do end up enjoying it, I’d like to specialize in either internal auditing or forensic accounting, since I really like to discover and solve problems. From what I’ve seen from your job ads, you guys are hiring for both, so I hope it’s going to be possible to move up from the position of an intern within the next few months!”

Learn more about how to answer “ Where do you see yourself in five years? ” with our dedicated article.

#20. Why should we hire you?

This is the ultimate humble-brag question. 

The trick here is to sell yourself without looking arrogant, desperate, or needy.

You want to stay away from the extremes here. For example, if you think you’re a good fit for the job, say that you “have the right experience.”

But whatever you do, don’t oversell yourself. Grandiose statements like “I’m the best salesman you’ve ever met!” don’t do anything to convince the hiring manager.

Instead, make a more general statement and back it up with your experiences and notable achievements .

There are three things you can mention:

• That you’re super passionate about working for the company, and why
• Which of your skills and experience fit their requirements for the role
• How you’re going to help the company solve their existing problems

Some possible answers include:

“Well, as a start, I have all the skills and work experience required for the job. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager for 5+ years, and over the past two years, I’ve closed several deals totaling six figures.

On top of that, I have experience working with tech companies, so I’ll be able to pick up all the product specifics much faster than someone from a different background.”

“I have just the right skill-set to excel as an executive assistant . While I haven’t previously worked as a personal assistant, I pretty much fit the bill for the role.

I’m extremely organized, having managed several project teams at my university. I led the organization of a charity event and the graduation ceremony. In total, both involved continuous communication with 12+ companies, over 30 speakers, and 15 sponsors.

I’m very meticulous and organized, and I’m more than capable of helping the CEO get the most out of their free time.”

Learn more about how to answer “ Why should we hire you? ” in our dedicated article.

#21. What are your salary requirements?

This is always a tricky question.

On one hand, you don’t want to lowball yourself, but at the same time, you don’t want to be told “no” because you gave such an outrageous number.

When negotiating your salary , keep these three things in mind:

• What’s the average salary for someone of your skill-level?
• How much does the company pay employees of your skill level? Websites like GlassDoor should be super helpful here.
• How much are you getting paid at your current company? In most cases, you can probably negotiate a pay bump from what you’re currently getting.

The final number you tell them should incorporate all three of these points.

And, generally speaking, if you know for a fact that the company is doing well and compensating its employees accordingly, you can quote a higher salary.

The same goes if your skill-level is above average for the position - your salary should reflect your expertise.

As a rule of thumb, you can figure out two numbers: what’s your “good” scenario, and what’s the “best” scenario?

Always answer the interviewer with your “best” salary requirement. They’ll probably negotiate it down, and you’ll be left with something closer to the “good” number you thought up.

You could also answer with a salary range instead of a specific number. Though, keep in mind that they’ll probably pick a number somewhere in the middle of that range.

“My salary expectation is around $70,000 annually.”

“My salary requirement is in the $30,000 - $40,000 range, annually.”

#22. Do you have any questions for us?

You’re going to hear this question at the end of every interview you attend. 

While there isn’t a right answer, there is definitely a wrong one, and that’s:

“Nope, all good! Thanks, I’ll be on my way.”

This question lets you show your enthusiasm about the company, so don’t waste it.

Besides, imagine that they’ve already hired you and you’re starting tomorrow. What would you want to know about them?

Keep in mind, though, that the questions you ask shouldn’t be too easy or too obvious. Asking, “So, what does your company do?” won’t sit well with the interviewer, especially if it’s at the end of your interview.

Other than showing the hiring manager that you’re really interested in working for them, this is your opportunity to really find out more about the ins and outs of the place.

And the answers you get from the interviewer could also tell you whether you really want to work there or not. 

But what kind of questions can you ask? Here’s a list of some of the best ones:

• What does a regular day at this company look like?
• What’s the best thing about working for the company?
• What’s the worst thing about working for the company?
• What would you say are the biggest challenges a person in this position might face?
• What are the most important skills and qualities one must have to succeed in this position?
• What do you like best about working for this company?
• What are the most pressing issues and projects that need to be addressed?
• Do you have training programs available to employees?
• What sort of budget is there for my department?
• What kind of opportunities do you have for future development?
• What are the performance expectations for someone in this position?
• Do departments usually collaborate with one another?
• Do you celebrate birthdays or retirements in the office?
• Do employees usually hang out with each other outside of work?
• Is there anything else I can help you with at this stage?
• What is the next step in the hiring process?

For a complete list of all the questions you can ask the interviewer , check out our article!

How to Answer 18 of the Most Common Situational Interview Questions [+ Sample Answers]

You’ve made it past the difficult part. 

You already know the most common job interview questions, so you can probably handle whatever the interviewer throws at you.

Depending on your specific situation, though, you might also need to learn how to answer a few situational job interview questions.

These questions can also be pretty varied, and sometimes they can be used interchangeably with behavioral interview questions, which we’ll cover further down in this article.

As a rule of thumb, situational interview questions will ask you about a situation .

This might be unique to you, such as something from your resume , or it might bring up a hypothetical situation so the interviewer can learn more about how you think.

The best way to explain this is by breaking down some of the most common situational interview questions.

So, let’s dive in!

#1. Why haven’t you gotten your degree?

As a start, keep in mind that the interviewer isn’t necessarily judging you for your level of education .

If they were looking for someone with a better degree, they wouldn’t have invited you to an interview to begin with. The lack of a degree probably isn’t a dealbreaker here, but your answer to the question could be.

With this question, the interviewer is trying to see your reasoning for pursuing a career instead of getting a degree, whether that’s a BA, MA, Ph.D., or something entirely different.

So, explain why you didn’t think that another degree was the right thing for you at the time.

Just don’t say you were lazy, that you didn’t feel like it, or that it’s a waste of money, even if that might be the case.

Instead, try giving compelling arguments, such as:

• You wanted to see whether it was the right field for you.
• You didn’t have the financial resources at the time.
• You wanted to get some practical work experience before committing to a degree.

“At this stage of my life, I decided to pursue a career instead of furthering my education. On the one hand, I want to make sure that Marketing is what I want to do with my life.

On the other hand, I also think that in my field, practical work experience is a lot more valuable than any academic theory I could learn.

So far, my decision has paid off pretty well - I’ve already gotten a lot of experience doing online marketing for 3+ companies and delivering great results.

I might eventually decide to pursue a Master’s degree to get some specialized knowledge, but at this point, I really don’t see the point in that.”

“Because it’s not in sync with my future career path. I think that for software engineering, practical experience matters a lot more than having a degree.

I’ve already done an internship as a Junior Javascript Back-end Developer, and I believe that it gave me a lot more knowledge than my B.A. in Computer Science, so I dropped out after two semesters.

While I am eventually planning on finishing my Bachelor’s, it’s going to be in a more theoretical field, like Artificial Intelligence or Robotics.”

#2. Why have you switched jobs so many times?

If you’ve switched jobs in a very short period of time, like two or more full-time positions in the span of one year, the interviewer is likely to ask about it.

After all, job-hopping is one of the biggest red flags for HR managers.

You might have had a good reason for it, though. For example, maybe the second company you got hired in just wasn’t a good culture fit for you.

But you’ll have to communicate that.

Employers tend to be skeptical for some of the following reasons:

• You might be a job hopper . Some people tend to switch jobs the moment they get a better salary offer, which puts a strain on companies looking for serious employees.
• You might be unqualified for the job and have left your previous jobs because you couldn’t deliver.
• You might get bored easily at work and your solution to that is to quit.

So, your job here is to convince the interviewer that you don’t belong to any of those categories. 

You need to make them believe that you won’t just jump ship a couple of months after getting hired because a recruiter PM’d you on LinkedIn with a better offer.

The best way to answer this question is to explain the exact reason you switched jobs. It could be one of the following:

• The company's culture wasn’t a good fit. This happens to the best of us - sometimes, the company just isn’t the right one.
• The job description was misleading and you ended up doing something you either didn’t enjoy or were not qualified for.
• You learned that you simply didn’t enjoy the job, whether because of the work environment, internal processes, or something related to your tasks. While this isn’t the best answer, it’s honest, and chances are, the hiring manager will understand.

“The last company I got hired at just wasn’t what I expected. The hiring manager didn’t communicate the role well enough.

As you already know, I’m a copywriter - I write sales copy. I work with landing pages, email marketing, and sales pages.

But around a week after I started work at the company, I realized that they were actually looking for something completely different. They asked me to write generic blog and social media posts, which is pretty far off from what I do.

This really wasn’t what I expected, and it’s not something I find interesting.”

“Well, as a start, my first job was in a big corporation straight out of university. While I did learn a lot there about Software Engineering practices, I also learned that a huge company with lots of regulations, rules, and the like just isn’t for me.

So, at the end of my internship there, I decided to try working at a startup. I enjoyed that job a lot more, as it gave me a lot of freedom when it came to problem-solving. I wasn't told how to do everything, rather, I was given the option of coming up with my own solutions.

Unfortunately, the company went up after failing to raise money, which put me back on the job market.

And here I am. XYZ Company is pretty much the place I’ve always wanted to work, from what I’ve heard about your company culture, and I thought I’d really fit in here.”

#3. Why did you change your career path?

If you recently made a career change , the interviewer is sure to ask about it.

But don’t worry - there’s nothing wrong with taking a different career path. 

Lots of people go through a career change . Some even do it several times in their lifetime!

As long as you’re good at what you do, no one cares if you were a pediatrician in one year and a professional chef the next.

When you get this question, all you have to do is answer honestly. Explain how your old job just wasn’t for you at this stage in your life and how the job you’re applying for is so much more interesting and aligned with your new career path .

“I just realized that being a doctor isn’t for me. While I did enjoy my time in medical school, the commitment was too much. I couldn’t spend so many years studying while my family was supporting me.

I wanted to start making money and help them out way before that, so I dropped out of university and started taking online courses in accounting .

At this point, I’m pretty good at it, having done two internships so far in Company X and Company Y.”

“Simply because I enjoy sales much more than accounting. After five years of working as an accountant for Company X, I decided I wanted to try something new.

I asked my boss at the time to let me switch to the sales team, and I ended up liking it and being pretty good at it. I learned a lot, and I’m ready to take the next step in my career.”

#4. Why did you decide to leave your previous job?

There are a few things the interviewer wants to learn from this question.

First, did you have a good reason for leaving your last job? The hiring manager doesn’t want someone who leaves the second things go south.

“Oh, well, the company started bleeding cash and was on its way to bankruptcy, so I left.”

“I just felt like it was time - I got to a point where everything I was doing felt monotonous. I learned as much as I could in that position while delivering great results. But it was time to switch to something new.”

The hiring manager also wants to know if you left on good terms. Meaning, did you go through the offboarding process, instructing your coworkers on how to take up your responsibilities? Or did you just say “bye” and stop showing up at work?

“Things started to get really boring, and the boss man was kind of annoying. I figured I deserve better, so I just ghosted them and now I’m looking for a new job.”

“I didn’t feel like the company’s values matched mine. The management was too controlling and micromanaging everything. I prefer to have some control over my work so I can go above and beyond when I see an opportunity.

Of course, I went through the off-boarding properly. So, I discussed things with my manager, gave a timely notice of resignation, and transferred everything I was working on to my replacement.”

Another thing the hiring manager wants to know is if you left voluntarily or if you were fired.

“I got fired for consistently being late.”

“I was fired, actually. The fault was mainly in my communication skills at the time. I misunderstood my supervisor’s instructions and ended up setting a higher monthly spend on an ad account for the client. The losses were less than 3-figures, but apparently, the relationship with the client was already strained, so they ended up leaving.

I really took this to heart and worked very hard on improving my communication skills to make sure that I don’t make any mistakes like that again.”

#5. Why is there a gap in your work experience?

In most cases, a gap in your work experience doesn’t really mean anything. You probably have a very good reason for it.

But the interviewer will definitely ask about it, and you should be ready to give an adequate answer.

There’s no secret to answering this question; you just need to let the interviewer know about your situation, whatever that may have been. Examples include:

• Parental leave
• Health issues
• Taking care of a family member
• Time off to pursue further education
• Relocating to a different city
• Working on a personal project

Whichever the case may be, just explain the situation briefly and move on.

There’s just one thing you should keep in mind: If you were laid off at work or you quit and had trouble getting a new job after that, you should be very subtle about it.

If the interviewer knows that you’re struggling to find a job, you’re going to give them the upper hand in salary negotiations.

“I had a baby and had to take maternity leave to take care of my family.”

“I was really burnt out by my job at Company X, so I wanted to take some time to myself to recover. I used that to get back into school and get my Master’s degree, which put me back on track to pursue the career I want.”

#6. Why were you fired?

Now this is a tough one.

Getting fired is pretty much never good.

Keep in mind that we’re talking about getting fired, not getting laid off. There’s a huge difference between the two.

• Getting laid off means that you got let go for something that had nothing to do with your competence. This could be budget cuts, company down-sizing, etc.
• Getting fired , on the other hand, means that you got let go for a reasonable cause. And chances are, it’s probably your fault.

If you’re applying for a job after getting fired and the interviewer asks you about it, you should be honest. After all, they can easily check-in with your previous employer.

Your best shot here is to be critical about your mistakes and explain what you’ve done to improve.

“None of it was my fault! My boss was mean and just hated me for no reason.”

An answer like the one above just makes you look defensive, and that’s a huge red flag for the hiring manager.

Instead, try saying something that shows that you’re aware of your shortcomings.

“The main fault was a miscommunication. The interviewer at my previous company wasn’t clear about the job responsibilities - from what I understood, they were looking for a senior-level marketer to oversee their email marketing operations.

At the end of the day, though, it turned out that the company was looking to experiment with email marketing and needed some specifically to set it up from scratch.

While I did my best to deliver, in the end it turned out that their niche doesn’t actually need email marketing. This was against the management’s vision, so they decided to let me go.”

#7. How do you feel about working weekends or late hours?

Usually, you can expect this question if you’re applying for a job that requires working odd hours or shifts.

In that case, your answer should be pretty straightforward - since you’re applying for the job in the first place, you probably don’t have any problems working at unusual times.

“Sure! I’m okay with working late hours or weekends, as long as you let me know about it at least a few days in advance.”

However, if you’re applying for just about any other type of job, this question is a huge red flag.

Here’s the thing: Is the employer just checking your dedication to the role, or are they looking for someone who’s going to work 24/7 with no overtime pay?

In this case, ask them to clarify what they mean.

“Given enough warning, sure, emergencies happen. Is that something I’ll be required to do often? Do you offer overtime pay for this kind of situation?”

#8. How would your boss describe you?

This question is pretty similar to “What is your greatest strength?” with the main difference being that it should be from the point of view of your boss or coworkers.

Here, you want to focus on your best traits and achievements that you’ve been praised for. After all, the interviewer might ask for a reference .

There are a couple of ways to answer this question:

For example, you could describe a specific situation where you excelled at work and received praise from your boss.

“They’d say I’m super hard working. During my weekend-off, not one, but three of my coworkers got sick, and I had to spot for them.

The weekend was peak season in Nantucket, so the restaurant was getting seriously overwhelmed. All of a sudden, we went from being very prepared for the season to complete panic.

I had to jump between serving, bussing, and line-cooking, but overall, I managed to survive through the weekend successfully. My boss was super grateful, too.”

Alternatively, you could quote a performance review.

If you’ve previously worked in an office job, you’re probably all too familiar with these.

And if your boss gave you a glowing performance review? Make sure to mention it here!

“Well, in my last performance review in September, my boss described me as someone who takes initiative.

My position as a PR manager involves constantly keeping track of our clients brand reputation and, if something goes wrong, dealing with it as fast as possible.

In a lot of cases, you need to be very proactive - if you wait for your entire team to have a meeting on how to deal with the issue, it might already be too late.

There were 4-5 different situations where I had to take charge and react to problems literally the moment they arose, whether it was during my work hours or not.”

#9. What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?

If you’re applying for a senior or leadership role, you’re probably going to get this question.

Chances are, at this stage of the interview, you already know a lot about your future position and the company.

Now, it’s time to show off your knowledge of the field and explain how you’re going to start making things happen at the company.

So, here’s how to answer the question:

You’re probably going to need to get to know the company first. You’re going to be learning as much as possible, including information on:

• What does the company do?
• What are the key processes?
• What does your department do?
• What are the current problems and challenges?
• Where can you help?

Here, you’ll start making an impact. From all the information you’ve gathered so far, suggest a few initiatives you could take on. Examples include:

• You’d audit the company's email marketing strategy and suggest improvements.
• You’d help come up with better ad copies for Facebook marketing.
• You’d help the team with their ongoing marketing initiatives.

At this point, you should already have an effect on the company. Describe several things you think are going to be working better than before you joined. Some examples could be:

• Online ads are going to perform better by 10-20%
• Email marketing operations are going to be more streamlined, taking significantly less manpower

Sound good? Now, let’s look at a sample answer to this question in action:

“Okay, well… in the first 30 days, I’d dive into understanding the company, our processes, and the team’s challenges. I’d get to know what we do, who our key players are, and where we need help.

Then, by 60 days, I’d start making changes. Things like improving our email marketing, refining ad strategies, and supporting ongoing projects.

At 90 days, I’d aim to have already left a mark. I think we could boost ad performance by 10-20%, streamline email operations, and start seeing real improvements in our marketing efforts. I want to make a positive impact quickly.”

#10. Are you a team player?

Wherever you’re applying, the answer to this question should pretty much always be some version of “Yes!”

Even if you’re applying for a completely solo role, you’re probably still going to have to work with a team occasionally. 

We’d recommend being very specific about your answer here. Don’t just say yes, give the interviewer a specific example of when you excelled at working as part of a team.

“I’m much better at working as part of a team than alone, actually. That’s what I love about working in advertising - everyone has their own specific type of creative spark, and when you combine it all, magic happens!

I’m good at both leading and following in terms of creativity and brainstorming. I’m also super receptive to others’ ideas and do my best to help them execute it without nay-saying or criticism.”

“Yep, definitely. I excel at team-work. 

This one time, while working at Company X, I was assigned to an existing team working on a web application for a business process management company.

They were working on a tight deadline and needed help on the API side.

I optimised their development cycles and oversaw a team of three developers while collaborating with the other two dev teams.

Everything went pretty well, and we managed to finish the project on time.”

#11. Are you a risk-taker?

This one can be tricky and the answer here depends on your profession and field.

Just ask yourself: Is risk-taking a valuable skill for the job?

If you’re a pilot, for example, the answer should be a strict “No!”

But, on the other hand, if you’re a day trader, then risk is an essential part of your job.

So, depending on how valuable risk-taking is for your job, answer accordingly.

You could also give a more strategic answer.

Let’s say, for example, you work in investment banking. You need to be a risk taker to some extent, but being too risk-friendly might make the entire company go bankrupt.

The strategy here would be to show that you’re all about calculated risk . You’re willing to take chances, but only when the odds are in your favor.

Try to give examples of situations where you had to take risks, and what the end-results were.

Let’s look at some possible answers:

“Yes, I’m a risk-taker. I believe that to achieve real results, you always need to be willing to take a certain level of risk.

Pretty much any marketing initiative you launch is tied to risk. You can plan everything from the beginning until the end, but no matter how well you plan it out, things might just not work out.

It’s just part of the job - in order to succeed, you need to launch risky campaigns on a regular basis, and hopefully, one in every five is going to bring you massive results.”

“I’m not a risk-taker; I’m more of a risk-manager. As someone who’s been in finance for years, I can say with a lot of confidence that there’s risk in everything.

The most important things are to one, minimize your risks; and two, minimize potential damages if everything goes very, very wrong.

While working at Investment Bank X, we had a very interesting policy for investing in new fintech projects. We used to avoid moon-shots, high-tech projects, and anything that had an experimental business model.

Our strategy was to invest in proven technology. As in, proven product-market fit, business model, etc. In most cases, these were runner up companies. We wouldn’t invest in that one innovative company that was all over the news - we’d instead invest in their latest competitor. More often than not, this ended up being more profitable and significantly less risky.”

#12. How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

If you’re applying for a high-stress job, you’re guaranteed to be asked this question.

The aim of this question is to see if you’re the type of person who would survive working at the job or fall through the cracks when the first signs of trouble show up.

So, obviously, you wouldn’t answer with something like:

“Well, I tend to have panic attacks and cry easily, so I end up running away from work sometimes.”

(Although, if that’s the case, we really don’t recommend you go for a high-stress job to begin with.)

Instead, say that you perform well during stressful situations and give one or two examples of a situation where you had to perform well under pressure.

Here are some possible answers to inspire you:

“Well, I can’t say I particularly enjoy stressful situations, but I am very good at working under pressure.

During chaos and panic, I tend to take a step back, think, plan, and prioritize.

For example, there have been times I’ve had to juggle multiple university projects and assignments at the same time. I would break up large assignments into small, individual tasks and prioritize based on things like:

• How fast I could complete each task
• Which task would take the longest
• Which project had the earliest deadline

This way, my work became a lot more manageable. The more times I had to go through that, the better I performed overall.”

“I actually prefer working under pressure. I look at it as a challenge - a situation where I really have to up my game to succeed.

As a cook, working under pressure is pretty much part of the job. I’ve been in several situations where the restaurant was understaffed for the occasion. In fact, it’s pretty much a constant thing during peak season.

When there’s a ton of orders coming in and we can barely keep up, I tend to get significantly more productive than usual. Funny enough, my manager even said the kitchen has more blunders when it’s slow than when it’s a rush. I guess we just adapt to that really well.”

#13. If you had a choice, would you rather innovate a process or follow the established procedures for it?

This question is meant to assess your approach to problem-solving and your adaptability in the workplace .

The interviewer wants to understand if you're more of an innovator or if you prefer following protocol.

There are no right answers here. Different roles and different companies are going to value different approaches.

Just avoid any extreme answers that might make you seem too rigid or reckless. Such as:

"I always prefer to follow established procedures. Change is risky and unnecessary if things are working fine."

Try to strike a balance here. Show the hiring manager that you don’t have a problem doing things the way you’re supposed to, but that you’re also not afraid to try something new.

"I think there's value in both. It really depends on the situation.

If the current process is fine, I'd follow it. But if I see potential for improvement, I'd do some research, propose changes, and look for feedback. Then I might try doing things my way.

It’s always good to try something new but it shouldn’t be at the expense of what already works great, you know?"

"Honestly, I prefer following established procedures. That way, I can always ask for advice or have something to fall back on.

I can try and figure something out on my own if I have to but I would always start out by following the go-to way to do things."

#14. Do you think there is a difference between hard work and smart work?

By definition, hard work is when you, well, work hard. It’s when you’re willing to put in a lot of work to get the job done.

Smart work, on the other hand, means doing the work efficiently. If you manage to get the job done in two hours instead of five, with the same end-result, you’re doing smart work.

Keep in mind, though, that by asking this question, the interviewer is looking to understand what your work ethic is like.

Meaning that they’re looking for a healthy combination of both, not just one.

So, they want you to be the candidate who can think smartly and work hard. 

Here’s how you can explain how you excel at both:

“I don’t really have a preference - I believe that both hard and smart work are important to get the best results.

Smart work lets you figure out the best and most efficient way to get things done.

But hard work means that you’ll do the job right. Even if there’s no way to do it smartly or efficiently, you’ll be willing to put in long hours of work to get it done.

I’d say I’m the type who does both. 

For an example of smart work, during my time at XYZ Corp, I was in charge of the sales department. As a process improvement initiative, I migrated from an outdated, in-house CRM to Pipedrive. This improved the department’s productivity by around 20%.

But the whole migration process took around three months of hard work. As the software we were using was outdated, trying to learn how to map and migrate our data was a lot more complicated than we’d expected.”

#15. How quickly do you adapt to new technology?

Today, whether you’re applying for a software engineering job or as a cashier in a supermarket, you’re going to need to use technology, at least on some level.

And it’s very common for a company to adopt new tech. This could be a new point of service system, self check-out kiosks, customer management software, or whatever else.

Generally, you should be able to pick up new tech as soon as possible. Any new change shouldn’t completely disrupt your work.

So, when answering this question, you should talk about your computer skills and how tech-savvy you are.

Here are a few possible answers:

“I’m pretty tech-savvy. I’ve worked with a lot of different Point of Service systems so far and have zero difficulties learning how to use new ones.”

As a given, I own a PC, have used Office 365, and all the usual stuff.”

“I’ve always been interested in tech. In fact, I’m the type of person who actively seeks out new software to help solve business problems at work.

I’ve worked with 3 different Customer Management Softwares in the past, such as PipeDrive, SalesForce, and Zoho CRM.”

#16. What are your interests outside of work?

If the interviewer asks you this question, take it as a good sign!

It means that they liked your professional background, and now they’re just trying to get to know you and see if you’re a good fit for the company culture.

It’s pretty hard to go wrong here, unless you’re going to say something like:

“I don’t really have hobbies. Sometimes I play video games, I guess?”

Now, there’s nothing wrong with playing video games, but the goal here is to get you to talk about your hobbies and interests .

Bonus points if you can mention something that’s also relevant to your job. For example, creative writing if you’re applying for a copywriting job.

Let’s check out some possible answers here:

“I’m a big fan of creative writing. I have my own personal short-story blog and I contribute actively to several online writing communities, like /r/WritingPrompts on Reddit.

Oh, and I’m also a huge fan of the New York Giants.”

“Well, I’m very interested in all sorts of sports. I like to keep active, as it really helps keep me productive. Over the past two years, I’ve done a bit of everything - fencing, archery, hiking, and several other things.”

#17. If you had to choose between a high-paying job you don’t enjoy and a lower-paying job you are passionate about, what would you choose?

This question is designed to give the interviewer insight into the values and priorities in your career.

They want to understand what motivates you and how you balance job satisfaction with other important factors, like your salary.

There's no universally "correct" answer here, but it is important to be thoughtful and explain the reason behind your answer.

That being said, avoid saying something that leans too far in either direction. You don’t want to seem like you’re solely motivated by money or that you don’t care about your salary at all.

"I'd definitely choose the high-paying job. At the end of the day, money is the most important thing in a career."

The best approach is to show that you value both job satisfaction and financial stability, and explain how you'd try to find a balance.

Here are a couple of possible answers that could work:

"Well, financial stability is important but I think that having passion for my work is crucial for any long-term success or satisfaction.

I'd lean towards the job I'm passionate about since it's likely to be better for me mentally , and it could lead to better performance and opportunities for growth.

But I'd also work to increase my value in that job. Maybe I could eventually get both, but I would prioritize passion for sure."

"That’s a tough one. Generally, I value both job satisfaction and financial security. Ideally, I would look for a middle ground – a job that I enjoy and that also provides fair compensation for me.

But if I’m forced to choose, I would probably go for the job with better compensation. I have too many responsibilities to prioritize a fun job over a good salary.

Besides, I’m a pretty curious person, so I’m sure I could eventually find satisfaction in any type of job. I just think I would find it hard to really enjoy a job if I felt like I wasn’t being compensated properly."

#18. What do you think our company/organization could do better?

Well, this one’s interesting!

While not too common for most organizations, it’s a favorite amongst tech companies.

Answering this question shows a couple of things:

• You’re genuinely passionate about the organization, and you’ve done your research
• You’re not afraid of giving feedback

Obviously, you should be very political about your feedback. You can’t just say something like:

“Well, a lot of things, really. I’m not enjoying the interview process, for example. And your product could use a lot of work, no offense. But hey, there’s always room for improvement, am I right?”

Instead, you want to show off the research you’ve done. Talk about anything that might seem off about their product or business. Such as:

“I actually went through your resume builder before coming to the interview and found several things that seemed kind of counter-intuitive.

Not to say that it’s too hard to understand or something, but it took me a while to figure out some stuff.

If you want, I can open up my laptop and show you what I mean.”

How to Answer 10 of the Most Common Behavioral Interview Questions [+ Sample Answers]

Finally, behavioral job interview questions are questions that focus on how you’ve performed in the past and give the hiring manager an idea of how you would behave in their organization.

These questions are used to understand your problem-solving abilities, thinking patterns, and whether you can think on your feet.

Just about any behavioral interview question can be answered by using the STAR method .

The STAR method gives you a structure your answer should follow. The acronym stands for:

• (S)ituation - Set the scene and give the interviewer context for the story you’re about to tell them.
• (T)ask - What was your role in this example? Describe what the specific problem or responsibility you had to handle was.
• (A)ction - Explain all the steps you took towards addressing your task.
• (R)esults - Wrap up your example with what the results were. If possible, provide numbers or other concrete data.

Want to learn more about STAR interview questions ? Check out our dedicated article on the topic.

Now, let’s check out the sample answers to the ten most common behavioral interview questions:

#1. How have you handled a challenge in the workplace before?

Situation: “During my last job, I was managing the creative and web development team in charge of creating an online store for a client. Two days before deploying, we found a major bug that messed up the whole front-end user experience.”

Task: “Now, we could have pushed the deadline a bit, but that would have messed up the relationship with the client. The project was already postponed once because of unforeseen circumstances, so this one was a do or die. We had to figure out a way to fix it on time.”

Action: “I briefly discussed it with the management team and assembled a task force consisting of web developers from my team and some software engineers from another department. We focused 100% of our time on fixing the issue and even got in a few hours of overtime to make sure we were on track.”

Results: “It was hard work but we actually managed to launch on time at the end. The client was happy, and the team was relieved that all our efforts paid off.”

#2. Can you give me an example of a time when you performed well under pressure?

Situation: “As a seasonal worker, I’d say my entire career is high-pressure. My last position was as a line cook during the summer tourist season at the XYZ Restaurant near Yellowstone Park. There was a lot of work, and the restaurant was pretty much always full.”

Task: “On one occasion, the town we were in was hosting a festival, so we suddenly had this huge wave of hungry tourists, all at once. We had no time to prepare, so we had to roll with it and make sure everyone was served.”

Action: “I coordinated with the hostess and expo to make sure they were pacing the customers, not seating everyone at once. That way, the line cooks had more time to prepare everything. We encouraged them to seat smaller parties first, like two to four people, so we could get their food out faster. Bigger tables are always a challenge, especially during a rush like that. Every second counts when you’re working in a kitchen, so we used every spare moment to prep for the expected large parties.”

Results: “In the end, it worked out. We managed to roll out all the food on time, there were no complaints about quality, and though we were all stressed out by the end of the night, the customers were happy. It goes to show how teamwork can really make or break a high-pressure situation.”

#3. What was a time when you showed leadership qualities?

Situation: “As an entry-level marketer , there wasn’t much expected of me at XYZ Company.

Task: “My main to-dos involved doing research and completing whatever tasks were assigned to me. But one day, during a brainstorming session with the content marketing team, I had a chance to give my input.”

Action: “I came up with a pretty good idea of how to market the company. The gist of it was that we’d interview company clients who were very successful at using our software product, then create case studies on what exactly they’re doing, and include them in our email marketing strategy.”

Results: “The Chief Marketing Officer loved the idea and put me in charge of executing the project and it worked like a charm. We secured five new clients within the first two months of the campaign.”

#4. Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with a difficult coworker. How did you manage it?

Situation: "At my previous job, I was part of a project team working on a new product launch. One of my team members, let’s call him John, was particularly difficult to work with. He often dismissed others' ideas and insisted on doing things his way, which created tension within the team."

Task: "As the project coordinator, it was my responsibility to ensure the team worked smoothly and efficiently, which meant finding a way to work with John and keeping the project on track."

Action: "I decided to have a one-on-one conversation with John to understand his perspective better. I approached him in a friendly and non-confrontational manner and asked for his input on the project. During our conversation, I realized that he felt his expertise was being overlooked. I acknowledged his experience and suggested that we incorporate some of his ideas while also encouraging him to be open to others' contributions. I also made sure to involve him more in decision-making processes to make him feel valued."

Results: "After our talk, John became more cooperative and started listening to the team’s suggestions. The atmosphere improved significantly, and we were able to complete the project on time. Our collaborative efforts led to a successful product launch, and I even received positive feedback from my manager on how I handled the situation."

#5. Tell me about a time you had to quickly adjust your priorities to meet changing demands. What did you do?

Situation: "Last year, I was working as an editor for a publishing company. We were in the middle of finalizing the edits for a big book release when our CEO suddenly decided to push forward the launch date by two weeks."

Task: "I needed to quickly adjust my priorities and ensure the book was ready for the new deadline. This meant reworking my schedule and coordinating with the rest of the editorial team to speed up the editing process without compromising quality."

Action: "I immediately called an emergency meeting with my team to discuss the new timeline. We broke down the tasks and redistributed the workload to make sure everyone was on the same page. I also reached out to the author and designers to let them know about the change and get their commitment to the new schedule. To stay on track, I set up daily check-ins to monitor our progress and address any issues that came up quickly."

Results: "Thanks to the team’s hard work and cooperation, we managed to meet the new deadline. The book was released on time and received positive reviews. Our CEO appreciated our flexibility and dedication, and it was a great example of how we could come together to handle unexpected changes effectively."

#6. Have you ever had to deal with a dissatisfied customer? How did you resolve the situation?

Situation: "Yeah, I’ve had to deal with upset customers before. One time, when I was a retail manager at a clothing store, a customer came in really frustrated because the dress she bought a week ago had torn after she wore it once."

Task: "I had to calm her down, fix the issue, and make sure she left happy."

Action: "I listened to her, apologized for the problem, and took a look at the dress. I told her that we want our customers to be satisfied with our products. I offered her a choice between a full refund or a new dress. To make up for the trouble, I also gave her a discount voucher for her next purchase. I made sure to report the issue to our supplier to avoid this happening again."

Results: "She was pleased with how we handled everything. She exchanged the dress and even used the voucher to buy something else. Later, she left a nice review about our customer service. So, by listening and being helpful, we turned a bad situation into a positive experience for her."

#7. Can you talk about a time when you had to go above and beyond your regular duties to get the job done?

Situation: "Definitely. When I was working as a customer service representative at an online retail company, we had a customer who ordered a gift for her daughter's birthday. Unfortunately, there was a mix-up with the shipping, and the package was delayed, so it would arrive after the birthday."

Task: "I needed to resolve the issue and make sure the customer was happy, even though it wasn't technically our fault that the shipping company delayed the package."

Action: "I apologized sincerely for the inconvenience and assured her I would make it right. I arranged for a replacement gift to be sent overnight at no extra cost and offered a partial refund for the trouble. Additionally, I personally wrote a card and included a small complimentary item from our store as a gesture of goodwill. I also kept the customer updated throughout the process to ease her concerns."

Results: "The customer was thrilled with the quick resolution and the extra effort we put in. She received the replacement gift the next day and was very grateful for the card and the complimentary item. She sent a thank-you email and later left a glowing review about our exceptional customer service . By going above and beyond, we managed to turn a negative experience into a positive one, and she became a loyal customer."

#8. Describe a moment when you had to make an unpopular decision. How did you handle the feedback?

Situation: "As a project manager in my previous role, we were nearing the deadline for a major project, but it became clear that we wouldn't meet all the client's additional feature requests without pushing the timeline significantly."

Task: "I had to make a tough call to prioritize the core requirements and inform the client that we couldn't accommodate all the requested features within the original timeframe."

Action: "I met with the client, explained the impact of adding the features on time and budget, and proposed focusing on delivering the core project scope. I also suggested incorporating the additional features in future phases."

Results: "Initially, the client was disappointed, but they appreciated my transparency and how I understood their needs. We agreed on the core scope for the initial release, so that maintained project timelines and kept the client satisfied."

#9. Tell me about a time when you used data or analytics to make a decision. What was the outcome?

Situation: "As a business development manager , I needed to find new growth opportunities for our software products."

Task: "I had to figure out which markets would be most promising for us to focus on."

Action: "I dug into our customer data and market trends using our CRM system. I also looked at what our competitors were up to. Based on all that, I recommended that we target the healthcare sector, where there seemed to be a rising demand for our software."

Results: "We shifted our strategy to concentrate more on healthcare. It paid off because we started getting more leads and ended up signing some major new contracts in that sector. Using data to guide our decisions really helped us expand into a profitable new market."

#10. Describe a time when you had to learn a new skill to complete a task. How did you approach it?

Situation: "I remember one project where I needed to create animations for a client's website redesign."

Task: "To do this, I had to learn Adobe After Effects, which was totally new to me."

Action: "I started by watching tutorials online and taking a beginner's course. Then, I practiced in the evenings, experimenting with different features until I felt comfortable navigating the software."

Results: "After a few weeks of learning and practice, I successfully created the animations the client wanted. They were really happy with the results, and it added a dynamic touch to their website. Learning After Effects did a lot more than help me finish the project, though. I’d say the whole experience broadened my skills as a graphic designer , so it was great."

Want to learn more about behavioral interview questions ? Check out our in-depth guide here.

[BONUS] Job Interview Questions Infographic

Now, it’s time for a quick recap!

Check out our new infographic on some of the most common job interview questions and how to answer them:

Key Takeaways

And we’re finally here!

If you managed to get to this point, you definitely deserve a high-five!

Now, to wrap up this article, let’s go through a couple of essential tips on acing your interview:

• Make sure you’re prepared to answer all the common job interview questions. Wherever you’re applying, you’ll likely be asked several of them.
• Think of the answers you’ll give for the situational interview questions that apply to you. Be ready to talk about any gaps in your work experience, why you didn’t complete your degree, or anything else that the hiring manager might ask.
• Understand how to answer behavioral job interview questions with the STAR method. Make sure you have a few examples ready before the interview.
• Make sure you follow basic interview etiquette. Maintain eye-contact with the interviewer, be polite, dress for success, and so on.

And finally, good luck on the interview! You got this!

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10 Good Weaknesses for a Job Interview That Aren’t “I Work Too Hard”(+ Sample Answers)

• Júlia Mlčúchova , 
• Updated March 28, 2024 11 min read

How to answer the classic interview question "What is your greatest weakness" ? And do you really need to prepare your weaknesses for job interview?

Believe us, you do! Because knowing your weaknesses is equally as important as knowing your strengths . 

When it comes to job interviews, we’re constantly encouraged to present our finest selves to seem like the absolute best candidate for the job. So talking about your flaws may seem counterintuitive.

Yet, this question seems to be one of the recruiters’ most favourite . 

That's why it's a good idea to get ready for this eventuality and prepare yourself to frame the answer in your favour . 

If you want to learn more, keep reading our article and discover: 

• Why are recruiters asking this question;
• How to know what is your greatest weakness;
• What NOT to say when answering;
• A list of good weaknesses for a job interview;
• Examples of how to answer “What is your greatest weakness?”

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What the recruiters really want to know

Top 10 good weaknesses for a job interview.

• How to answer “What is your greatest weakness?” in 4 steps

What is your greatest weakness sample answers

How not to answer “what is your greatest weakness”, key takeaways: top 10 best weaknesses for job interview.

Honestly, this feels like a trap, inviting you to reveal your shortcomings and ruin your chances at getting hired. 

But, regarding job interviews , nothing is ever haphazard! So, you probably won't be too surprised when we tell you that there's more to this question than meets the eye. 

When recruiters ask about your weaknesses, here's what they actually want to know : 

• Whether you're self-aware and capable of introspection. Can you look at yourself and recognize your deficiencies? And can you be self-critical? Because both of these are key qualities of anyone's dream employee. 
• Whether you're reliable. Not in the sense of being able to do anything and everything. But in the sense of knowing your limits and being honest about communicating them. Because employers need to know that you won’t bite off more than you can chew. 
• Whether you have a “growth mindset". Next is their interest in your ability to face challenges. Do you perceive them as opportunities to grow and develop professionally? Or avoid them completely? 
• Whether you're a good fit for the company culture. Lastly, they want to gauge how well you work with others. For example: Would you be able to own up to your mistakes, learn from them and move on? Or are you more likely to play the blame game? 

As you can see, your response can offer a glimpse into your resilience, workplace attitude and adaptability . Qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting.

Have a job interview coming up?

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A “good weakness” is one that isn't core to the job in question , is believable, and is possible to work on .

Of course, there's no one-size-fits-all set of weaknesses because everyone's experiences and challenges are unique. However, there are a couple of common vulnerabilities that you may find relatable AND are suitable.

In case you're struggling to identify yours, this list may help you find it: 

• Lack of professional experience with non-essential skills.  
• Taking criticism too personally. 
• Imperfect presentation skills. 
• Struggling to ask for help. 
• Discomfort with giving criticism. 
• Difficulties delegating tasks to others.  
• Impatience with slow processes. 
• Difficulties with prioritizing tasks. 
• Inability to let go of projects.
• Being too blunt. 

And now, let's look at each of these in more detail. Plus, we'll also briefly discuss how you can try to fix them. 

#1 Lack of professional experience with non-essential skills

In other words, not having a deep understanding of a skill that may be beneficial, but not indispensable. For example, while a project manager isn't required to have proficiency in graphic design, knowledge of Illustrator may be useful for creating simple visual materials for presentations.

This weakness is relatively safe, yet it still communicates your “growth mindset.” Plus, it's an easy fix – just mention a particular course that targets the skill in question .

#2 Taking criticism too personally

This one is pretty real and believable. The ability to receive feedback and objective criticism is necessary for any professional, yet it's not something that comes naturally to many.

For instance, you could say that in the past, it was difficult for you to distinguish between criticism of you as an employee, and criticism of you as a person . But through a conscious shift in mindset, you came to recognize it for what it really is – an opportunity to improve.  

#3 Imperfect presentation skills

Another fairly common weakness is the fear of public speaking . Whether it be presentation for teams, your management, or clients, some degree of public speaking is necessary for pretty much any corporate position.

To improve upon this weakness, you can enroll into a course (such as this Harvard University course via EdX) where you can hone these skills and earn a certificate.   

#4 Struggling to ask for help

You simply can't be a lone wolf in a corporate setting. So you can talk about your inability to ask your colleagues or supervisors for help because you don't want to add to their workload and seem like a burden.

But after several negative experiences you've realized that seeking assistance is the responsible thing to do, because it facilitates the completion of projects . So, you've decided to work on your communication skills , and now you’ve become more productive.

#5 Discomfort with giving criticism

If you happen to occupy a leadership position, it doesn't matter to what capacity, there are times when you have to put your foot down if something isn't working . And not everybody is comfortable with that.

There might’ve been situations where you avoided giving your junior colleagues criticism out of fear of being too harsh. But mention that you're working on this problem by going through a leadership and communication programme . 

#6 Difficulties delegating tasks to others

Another weakness you could mention is reluctance to pass tasks to others . Whether it stems from your desire for perfection, not wanting to increase your colleague's work load , or your need to have things under control, this weakness of yours has caused a decrease in overall team efficiency.

But soon enough you've come to recognize your own faults. You've started by delegating small, low-risk tasks at first. Gradually, you've established open communication for any question or feedback, and learned to trust your colleagues more. As a result, the productivity, efficiency and job satisfaction of your entire team increased. 

#7 Impatience with slow processes

For instance, your lack of patience manifested whenever you felt that your own work pace was hindered by your colleague’s slower tempo. And sometimes, it caused tensions within the team.

So, you did a bit of research and discovered that there are stress-reduction techniques you could learn that target your impatience management. Additionally, you developed a habit of using the extra time between projects by tackling smaller tasks which keep you occupied and productive.

#8 Difficulties with prioritizing tasks

Maybe you're that type of person that says “yes” to everything and then ends up struggling to juggle all the tasks you took on. Because of this, you've reached out to a professional who advised you to work on your time management skills .

Maybe you've gone through a training in the ABCDE method , and now you're able to categorize your tasks based on their urgency. You felt the results of your effort immediately – you became less stressed, which improved your productivity, as well as your relationship to work itself. So now you feel more confident and in control. 

#9 Inability to let go of projects

Imagine this: you've managed to complete your project ahead of time and instead of marking it as complete and moving on to a new task, you just keep coming back to it. Even if the project is executed to perfection.

And this was a problem, because it prevented you from working more efficiently and not wasting any time. But, after you've completed a project management programme , you've learned how to curb this behaviour. Now, you practice setting yourself clear criteria for project evaluation which help you not to dwell on one task for too long. 

#10 Being too blunt

Lastly, you can say that, in the past, you're too direct in your communication with your colleagues. You've realized that your communication skills could use some training when several of your co-workers accused you of being too harsh.

So, to fix this weakness, you completed a course that taught you how to deliver your comments in a more sensitive way. For example, to insert criticism (constructive, of course) in between two positives to make the impact of your words less biting. As a result, the awkward workplace tension disappeared and your co-workers became more receptive to your feedback. 

How to answer “ What is your greatest weakness ?” in 4 steps

Essentially, you should approach the weaknesses for job interview question as an opportunity to demonstrate that you're not only aware of your faults but that you're also actively trying to overcome them . 

So, the perfect answer to "What is your greatest weakness" should follow these 4 steps:

First, select a real weakness that you’ve actively worked/are working to improve. For instance, do you tend to take criticism too personally? Can you be impatient with slow processes? Do you struggle to ask for help?

Next, describe how and when you noticed this weakness. Maybe you received feedback from your supervisor? Or a project you worked on didn't go as planned? In any case, outline what exactly was the problem.

Then, you have to show that once you became aware of this weakness, you rose to the challenge and decided to work on yourself. Being aware is not enough. You must also show willingness to grow. For example: enrolling in a course, mentorship programme, workshop, or developing new habits and practices.

Finally, share the results of your efforts. Ideally, you'll be able to show how your newly sharpened tools contributed to your team or project. And don't be afraid to acknowledge that you're still working on them, if that's the case.

Although this structure is fairly simple, it works wonders! Feel free to use it when preparing your answers. And remember, the narrative is entirely in your hands! 

And finally, we should take a quick look at these 4 example answers.

Notice that all of them follow the structure we've outlined above (weakness, context, improvements, results). 

And if any of these correspond with your own weaknesses, you can just copy and tweak them so that they reflect your own experience. 

Weaknesses for job interview: Presentation skills

“My biggest weakness is my presentation skills. It was only last year that I realized my public speaking skills needed improvement. I was really struggling to overcome my nervousness during team presentations. I realized very quickly that I have to do something to get better at it. So I enrolled in a public speaking course and practiced at every opportunity I got: presentations, reports, even family gatherings! After two months I noticed that I became more confident and comfortable during presentations. I’m by no means perfect, but I received positive feedback from our clients recently. ”

Weaknesses for job interview: Delegating tasks

“The thing I really struggled with in the past was my ability to delegate tasks to my co-workers. I’ve always felt this need to ensure that every single task is completed to a certain standard. And I used to have problems trusting my team even though they always did a stellar job. Eventually, this caused unnecessary tension among us. I realized that it was me who was at fault. So, I decided to work on myself. I improved my communication skills and made sure that my team knows that they can turn to me with any questions. After some time, our relationships and mutual trust improved. And we were able to complete complex projects well ahead of deadlines . If I recall correctly, our overall productivity improved by some 20% . ”

Weaknesses for job interview: Asking for help

“ I remember that when I started out as an accountant, I suffered from a serious imposter syndrome. I was self-conscious of my lack of experience, so I felt that I needed to prove myself. Plus, I really didn’t want to seem like a burden, so whenever I was struggling with new systems or processes, I simply wouldn’t ask anyone for help . Of course, now I know how unfounded and unprofessional this behaviour was. The key thing I’ve changed was my own mindset . I started to look at these challenging moments as opportunities to foster stronger teamwork. I feel that by reaching out to others, I learned a lot about the importance of collaboration. And it also made me more patient with newcomers ! Now, I always make sure they know that they can reach out to me with anything and not feel bad about it.”

Weaknesses for job interview: Being too blunt

“When I look back on my previous work experience, I can definitely say that I used to be pretty blunt when it came to giving feedback to my colleagues. See, I’ve always valued honesty and transparency above everything. And I thought that that’s what makes effective workplace communication. But I was so wrong! My co-workers often felt that I’m being too insensitive, and that caused tension between us. To address this, I enrolled in a leadership programme that taught me how to better phrase my concerns. I’ve found the ‘praise-criticism-praise’ technique especially useful! Soon, all that awkward energy was gone. And my co-workers actually became more receptive to my feedback and we worked much better together as a team .” 

Now that we've gone over the best answers, let's also talk about how NOT to present your weaknesses.

Again, it's pretty simple, just avoid doing these things: 

• Saying that you have no weaknesses. Who’re you trying to fool my friend? Certainly not the recruiters! Indeed, if there's one way to communicate your lack of awareness, it's this! 
• Trying to pass your strengths for weaknesses. Not even Michael Scott can pull off a Michael Scott. So, skip saying you're too much of a perfectionist, or that you work too hard! 
• Using a skill/quality that's essential for the job as your weakness. For example, if you're applying for the job position of an accountant, don't say you're bad at maths or that you pay no attention to details. 
• Oversharing personal information. Just to be clear, recruiters don't care much about the details of your weaknesses. Maybe your nervousness about public speaking is rooted in a bad experience from childhood. Even if so, keep this detail to yourself. Instead, go into lengths about how to address and correct your weakness.  

To sum it all up, the weaknesses for job interview question isn't a strategy to reveal your faults, but an opportunity to show that you're self-aware , introspective , and determined to continue improving on your weak areas. 

When preparing your answer, try sticking to this simple, yet effective structure:

• Introduce your weakness.
• Provide a real-life professional context.
• Demonstrate your effort and determination to improve.
• Mention the results of your improvement (if possible). 

In case you don't know what your weaknesses are, you can draw inspiration from our list of the most appropriate weaknesses for a job interview : 

•  Being too blunt. 

If you're preparing for a job interview, be sure to also check out how to answer these common questions:

• Why are you interested in this position?  
• Why should we hire you?
• Why did you leave your previous job?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
• Why are you looking for a new job?

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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