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Interview 101: Most Common Job Interview Questions And The Best Answers - Jobs/Vacancies - Nairaland

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Interview 101: Most Common Job Interview Questions And The Best Answers by BuzzeeMo(m): 11:39pm On Nov 24, 2017
Having been at both ends of the interview table myself so many times, I have decided to cover the most common job interview questions here and suggest the best possible answers that should, all things being equal, get you hired.

The questions may not be worded in this exact same way, so you should be ready to adapt to any situation. The answers provided are to give you an idea of how to approach the questions in a very professional manner. You don’t have to copy them verbatim; be as honest as possible.

Job Interview Question: Tell me about yourself

This is a simple interview question but also one of the questions candidates fail very easily. Don’t resort to telling the interviewer your private life history and genealogy; they are more interested in the value you will bring. Instead, be business-focused, well targeted and answer the question directly.
Sample Answer

I’ve been working for the past four years as a [client service agent and customer relations manager]. I have been trained and certified on a host of customer service techniques and software. I would describe myself as hardworking with a versatile skill-set, willingness and ability to satisfy a customer at all cost. Let me quickly share an experience with you so you’d know what I’m about.

In my previous job as customer service agent in a hotel, I had just resumed work in the morning when I met a dissatisfied guest at the lobby complaining that his room hadn’t been cleaned and threatening to abruptly end his stay. I apologized to him and immediately went and did the cleaning myself, offered him free breakfast and made sure he had a comfortable experience throughout his stay in the hotel. The guest was happy in the end, as he returned on another business visit, and has been returning ever since. Sometimes, he even refers other people to the hotel. That earned me much positive appraisal from the management.

Now I’m seeking a new challenge and look to take my career to the next level and be a part of a team that allows me to focus my energy on my best strength, which is working directly with customers. I’d like to build a long term career that lets me focus on professional growth.

Job Interview Question: Why should we hire you?

Here, come with examples of what you can mean for the company. Any of the following answers will do. Show that the job is just as important as you are.
Sample Answers

You will be getting a smart man/woman who has been proactive in keeping abreast in his field. I always have the good of the company as my goal; I am a decision taker and definitely not a 9-5 person. In my previous position I was able to streamline the business processes which led to a cost reduction of 30% for some of them as well as a reduced process time.

I am a good fit for the position because I have the skills and passion you’re looking for, and I can use these skills to create a mutually beneficial relationship with the company. [The company’s name her] goals are top priority to me, because growth for the company means growth for me as well.

Because I am qualified for this position from all aspects – be it my skill-set, experience or education. With everything together I am confident that I will perfectly fit in the role and will benefit the organization to the fullest.

Job Interview Question: Why did you leave your last job? Or why do you want to leave your present job?

This question may trick you to begin to badmouth your previous job or employer, but don’t. Just be honest. Again, tell them the truth. If you suck at what you did, or are unhappy at your last position, tell them. And make sure you tell them how you have adjusted ever since, how this job is different, and how you can better use your skills in this job. Humanize the interview and don’t focus too much on getting the job, get to know the interviewer on a personal level, have fun with it
Sample Answer

Well, I could have stayed there but I am ambitious. I want to better myself and get ahead. Based on the job description I felt like we were a good match.
Job Interview Question: Why have you been unemployed for such a long time?

This question is to test your honesty, so if you lie about it and tell what ever reason without proof, it’s not good. Best is to tell the truth. You can hide inconvenient details, but be honest. You will have several rejections but eventually it will pay off. If you have been unemployed for too long, consider stepping down on the career ladder and then step up gradually. Say something you can prove because a good hiring manager will ask a followup question.

There are different reasons people may remain unemployed. Depending on the reason for your unemployment, the following sample answers may suffice.
Sample Answers

I could have stayed where I was and that was comfortable, but I wanted more. So I took a risk to make the transition, knowing that the job market is hard. But I haven’t really been out of a job. I have been doing some freelance while taking various courses that I think have enhanced my value.
I wanted to take a number of courses and I could not do that next to my job, so I took a risk, quit and enrolled myself/went back to school. In the interim I sustained myself with freelance work.

Job Interview Question: Tell me your ability to work under pressure

They want to know how you can cope with or handle pressure.
Sample Answers

That doesn’t really bother me; I just focus on the tasks that need to be done and do them within the time frame that is set for them. If you know your capability to work, there will be no pressure really.

I handle pressure and stress by remaining calm, focused, and methodical. I prioritize tasks and complete them in the time allowed by adjusting speed, although being sure not to compromise quality.

Job Interview Question: What’s your expectation from the job?

Note that this question is not about you, but the company. What value do you bring to the company?

Continue reading--> https://buzzeemo.com/job-interview-questions-best-answers/

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