Having a positive attitude and practicing in advance can help you to field tricky questions with ease. Below is a list of common interview questions that you may be asked and tips to think about when preparing your answers.

Q: What motivates you?

Spend some time before the interview to reflect on what truly motivates you. There is no right or wrong answer. Think of specific examples that relate directly to the company or the position.

Q: What interests you about our company?

Before the interview, diligently research the company. Being prepared to discuss current and relevant information will show your interest and intelligence. Give special attention to the "About Us" section of the company's website which will provide insider knowledge into the company and its dynamics. A list of bullet points with these details may be helpful to review just prior to your interview and/or refer to during your discussions.

Q: What was your biggest accomplishment in your current or last position?

A good way to start this answer is by providing an example that directly relates to the position. Describe your past accomplishment in a way that benefits the company, and also brings something new to the position. If asked about failures, be honest. It is certainly appropriate during the description of a failure to highlight a positive outcome. Additionally, you may wish to bring up a situation where you intervened or altered the course of a negative event towards a positive outcome.

Q: Could you tell me about yourself?

With this open-ended question, people tend to start with personal information and their answers are not concise. In reality, the interviewer is interested in your approach and how you tailor the information for the position. The interviewer is also evaluating your delivery and communication. It's best to avoid making a speech about aspects of your life that are not pertinent to the position or your ability to perform them.

Q: What are your strengths?

It is important to highlight your talents and capabilities which relate directly to the position. Think about the skills the interviewer will value and those that will allow you to be successful in the position.

Q: What are your weaknesses?

It’s human nature not to want to discuss weaknesses but it is important to give your answer some extra thought. The interviewer will look to see how you handle the inference and if you answer truthfully. Since it’s impossible to not have a weakness, phrase your answer in your favor by turning the weakness into a strength which an employer would find beneficial. You may also choose to describe a weakness you are working through and the way in which you have been successful in the process.

Remember: If you don't know the answer to a question, don't lie.
Refrain from using the words "I don't know" and instead admit that you don't have knowledge in that certain area but will certainly be interested in becoming more informed.

Questions you may want to ask during an interview:
What would I be expected to accomplish in this position?
What are the greatest challenges in this position?
How is a typical week/day in this position characterized?
Is this a new position? If not, why is the position open?
How would you describe the company's management style?
How many people work in this office/department?
What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
How does one advance in the company? Are there any examples?
What do you like about working here?
Is there anything you might like to see change?
If a job offer is extended, how soon would you like me to start?
When could I expect to hear from you regarding next steps?
How do you think I fit the position?


Questions NOT to ask during an interview:
What does this company do?
If I get the job when can I take time off for vacation?
Can I change my schedule if I get the job?
Did I get the job?