Top 30 Interview Questions - From a recruiters hiring playbook

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the top 30 interview questions commonly asked by recruiters, along with insights into what employers are looking for in your responses. Understanding these questions and tailoring your answers accordingly can significantly enhance your chances of success in job interviews.

Step 1: Prepare for Common Questions

Familiarize yourself with the following interview questions that are frequently asked:

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why is there a gap on your résumé?
3. What motivates you?
4. Why are you applying for this position?
5. Walk us through your résumé.
6. Why do you want to work here?
7. Why are you the best person for the job?
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
9. What interests you about this position?
10. Why are you a good fit for this position?

Tips for Answering

• Be Genuine: Share your passion and career journey rather than just listing achievements.
• Align with Company Values: Research the company’s mission and values, and connect your answers to them.

Step 2: Use the STAR Method for Behavioral Questions

For questions that require you to provide examples from your past experiences, such as:

• Tell me about a time where you dealt with a tough challenge.
• Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond.
• Tell me about a mistake that you made.

How to Use STAR

• Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge.
• Task: Explain your responsibility in that situation.
• Action: Describe the specific actions you took to address the task or challenge.
• Result: Share the outcome of your actions, focusing on what you learned or achieved.

Step 3: Address Weaknesses and Strengths Effectively

When asked about your weaknesses and strengths, consider the following:

• Weaknesses: Choose a real weakness that you have worked to overcome, and explain how you did it.
• Strengths: Highlight strengths that are relevant to the job description, providing examples of how they have helped you succeed in previous roles.

Step 4: Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

At the end of the interview, you'll likely be asked if you have any questions. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Examples include:

• What is the next step in the hiring process?
• What would you expect me to accomplish in the next six months?
• How long does your hiring process typically take?

Why This Matters

Asking insightful questions not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.

Step 5: Understand the 7-38-55 Rule

Remember that effective communication in interviews involves more than just the words you say:

• 7% of communication is the actual content of your words.
• 38% is based on your tone and voice.
• 55% is conveyed through body language.

Practical Advice

• Maintain good posture and eye contact.
• Use a confident and engaging tone.
• Incorporate appropriate gestures to emphasize your points.

Conclusion

By preparing for these common interview questions, utilizing the STAR method, articulating your strengths and weaknesses, and engaging with the interviewer through insightful questions, you can significantly improve your interview performance. Remember to apply the 7-38-55 rule to enhance your overall communication. Good luck with your next interview!