Congratulations! You’ve made it to the interview stage of the job application process. But now comes the pivotal moment where you must showcase your skills, experience, and personality to secure the role.

In this, the second instalment of our interview series, we focus on mastering interview questions. While every interview is unique, some common questions often appear. Let’s delve into these questions and explore ways you can respond to leave a lasting impression on your potential employer.

1. Tell me about yourself.

This seemingly simple question often catches candidates off guard. It is an excellent opportunity to connect the dots on your resume so the interviewer understands what you have done and why. Focus on highlighting your professional journey, relevant experiences, and key achievements. Keep it concise, engaging, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

2. What are your greatest weaknesses?

This can be a daunting question that you need to get right! While it is essential to be authentic and honest, your response should be strategic and not self-sabotaging. Harvard Business Review suggests reimaging your weakness to challenges. In answering this question, choose a skill that you are overcoming with training (which allows you to end your answer on a positive note) and ”stay away from overdone and perhaps concerning examples like ‘perfectionism’ or ‘being a workaholic’, as well as weaknesses that are just strengths in disguise (‘Sometimes, I work too hard/research too much/consider too many ideas).” The weaknesses you select should be able to be overcome with training and development.

3. Why do you want to work here?

Interviewers often ask this question to determine whether you took the time to research the company. Indeed recommends doing “your homework and learning about their products, services, mission/purpose, history and culture”. In your answer, highlight the aspects of the company that appeal to you and align with your values and career goals. If you don’t understand their strategic direction, keep this broad in case you pinpoint something specific that the organisation may be changing.

4. Why are you leaving your current job?

The best approach to answering this question is to focus on the positives. In his LinkedIn article, Jeff Haden suggests focusing on the positives a move will bring, such as wanting to achieve, learning, and accomplishing. Don't talk about how difficult your current boss is, how you don’t get along with your coworkers, or badmouth previous employers. In preparing your response to this question, be thoughtful and give your interviewer confidence that you’re deliberate about this job change.

5. Describe a challenging situation you faced at work and how you overcame it.

Employers want to gauge your problem-solving skills and resilience. Choose a challenging but manageable scenario and structure your response using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus on highlighting your ability to remain calm under pressure and how you effectively and efficiently resolved the issue.

6. Where do you see yourself in five years?

This question evaluates your long-term career goals and your commitment to professional growth. Indeed Career Guide recommends aligning your response with the role trajectory and the company — express enthusiasm for opportunities to develop your skills and take on increasing organisational responsibilities.

7. How do you handle constructive criticism?

Employers value candidates who are open to feedback and willing to learn and grow. Share a positive experience where you embraced constructive criticism and used it as an opportunity for self-improvement. Emphasise your ability to listen actively, reflect on feedback, and adapt.

8. What are your salary expectations?

Many will find this question tricky, but employers ask it to ascertain your worth—your skill level and experience in the industry — to ensure you match the role you are applying for. Seek advises researching similar roles, so you know the salary and then adding a small margin, which provides room for negotiation. Make sure you’ve considered all elements of your current package; if you’re referring to a base salary, or base + Superannuation rather than total salary package, be specific so there’s no confusion.

The key to performing well in an interview is research, preparation and demonstrating interest in the company and role. Research the company, the role and who will be conducting the interview (LinkedIn is a great place to start for this). Consider the likely questions you will be asked and practice your answers, considering the relevance of your responses. With this research and preparation, feel confident that you will present yourself well in showcasing your experience and suitability for the role and will leave a positive impression on your potential employer. For more information, download our Ultimate Interview Guide. Good luck!