We all need to confront the dreaded interview questions when we begin applying for jobs. It’s important to be prepared for these questions and know the best honest answer that can really impress your future employer. In order to prepare for these questions, you should know the true meaning behind these interview questions and know what they are really asking about you.
“How long have you been searching for a new job?”
Employers ask this question because they want to know if there is something wrong with the candidate in question that other potential employers have already picked up on. For an employer, asking this question instead of “Why haven’t you found a job yet” or “Why hasn’t anyone hired you yet?” comes off much easier and incites a more honest answer from you as the interviewee.
“How did you prepare for this interview?”
Preparing for any interview is always a good thing. Employers want to know you are really enthusiastic about joining their team. Good preparation and researching a company’s background shows to the employer you really want the job and you feel compatible with the company. An employee that is passionate about their organization has a higher likelihood of striving to exceed expectations if they are hired.
“What are your salary requirements for the position?”
When budgets are low, employers will be looking to cut costs wherever they can. It’s important for an employer to avoid revealing to you how much they can afford if they want to find a candidate that is willing to do the job below their budget. Money saved means a bigger bottom line for the company, so never expect the company to reveal how much they are willing to hire you for. Go into the interview prepared with a number you are satisfied with and is fair for the type of work you will be doing.
“What is your greatest weakness?”
This is probably the most infamous interview question you will find when you are job hunting. This question was developed to admit your flaws honestly to your potential employer, but more importantly to reveal to them that you are not a narcissist who thinks they are infallible. If you are unwilling to take fault for your own mistakes, it’s highly unlikely you will work well with others. Revealing your weaknesses to your potential employer will show you are honest and willing to accept that you need some work on the flaws you have admitted.
“Where do you see yourself in five years?”
Employers want to know that you plan on sticking around for a while and are willing to grow with the company. This doesn’t mean you have to feel obligated to work at this company for the rest of your life. It just means your potential employer wants to make sure you are not the type that will easily jump ship for other competitors. They want to know that you are a very loyal worker that is willing to rise within the ranks of their company and become a worthy investment.
“What are some of your hobbies?”
Employers ask this question because they want to know you have a stable and healthy personal life that can go on to carry a positive energy when you come into work every day. Indicators to a potential employer that you are living an unstable life are those who have no hobbies and are just workaholics or party animals. Employers don’t want to hire a workaholic that will overly stress themselves that they no longer want to carry on working for you. On the other hand, they don’t want an employee who comes to work hung-over or unproductive because of their partying the night before.
“What are your thoughts of your old boss?”
No one likes to be talked about badly behind their backs, and neither do your employers. Employers ask this question to gauge whether or not you will talk badly about their own company should there be a situation you get fired by them in the future. Whether or not your gripes with an employer are justified, it’s not what employers want to hear when they interview you.
“Would you retire right now if you had enough money?”
Companies are looking for candidates who have a tireless work ethic, are dedicated, and passionate about the jobs they are doing. They want to know you are willing to go above and beyond without having to seek a reward for your good work. Answering no to this question reveals to your employer that you are passionate about the work and not just in it for the high salary and retirement.
“What type of candidate would you look for if you were hiring a person for this position?”
A good candidate for the position should have a strong understanding of what the position requires and what the employers expect of you when you get the job. Having to train an employee of the roles the position requires, can take more work compared to hiring someone who already knows what’s expected of them and are confident they can get the job done. Answering this question accurately can give you excellent brownie points with your potential employer.
