While it’s great to know about LinkedIn’s unusual question, or how you may do in an interview for an NFL coach, you’re not likely to hear these questions on your next job interview. However, it’s important to stay creative and think outside the box when pondering common interview questions and how to answer them.
To help you prepare for some more likely possibilities, Forbes recently published a list of the 50 Most Common Interview Questions. Take a look at the first 10:
- What are your strengths?
- What are your weaknesses?
- Why are you interested in working here?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
- Why do you want to leave your current company?
- Why was there a gap in your employment?
- What can you offer that someone can’t?
- What are three things your former manager would like you to improve on?
- Are you willing to relocate?
- Are you willing to travel?
When preparing for your next job interview, it would be a good idea to review these 50 common questions, as well as consider how you may answer some more unusual questions and leave a lasting impression at your next job interview. To see the full list of questions, check out the article on Forbes.com.
Of course, we can’t tell you how to answer these questions word for word, but there are a few general rules of thumb that you should keep in mind when you’re answering:
Don’t Lie
This is perhaps the most important piece of job interview advice that you will receive. Never lie when you are on the job interview. Even if the hiring manager buys it, that chicken will eventually come home to roost and bring a world of trouble with it.
Take Your Time Answering
Another piece of general advice for these common interview questions is that you don’t need to fire off an answer as soon as you hear the question. If you’re not sure of what to say, take a moment to collect your thoughts to form and coherent and compelling answer. There’s nothing wrong with a dramatic pause every now and then, but don’t overdo it!
Avoid Using Filler Words
No matter what question is being thrown your way, try to avoid using filler words at all times. Uh, um, and like are some common examples of filler words that not only add nothing to what you’re saying, they also make you sound less confident, less intelligent, and less competent for the job you’re applying for. If you need time to think, pause instead of using a filler word.
Practice
The best way to rehearse your answers is with real-time practice. Luckily, Aced My Interview has all of the expertise and services you need for these common interview questions and how to answer them.
