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Interviews

Example questions to help you understand what an employer is looking for

Some obvious points, but still worth reiterating The obvious
Some obvious points, but still worth reiterating

Here are some example questions to help you understand what an employer is looking for, and why they are asking these questions

Remember that if they are an equal opportunities employer, they will probably score each of your answers in a similar way to your application form. Therefore you want to:

  • give as full an answer as possible
  • provide detail and clear examples
  • don't waffle or list multiple examples

If in doubt, ask the interviewer to repeat all or part of the question or ask if they would like you to give any more detail or a further example.

This is your chance to explain why you are interested both in the role and the organisation and to show the employer you want to work for them Why did you apply for this role?
This is a tricky question, especially if you are only just starting out What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
This question may appear in another form such as, "Give an example of when you have had to work under pressure?" How do you handle pressure?
This is a classic question, which can often appear in a slightly more indirect format like, "what went well and what would you do differently?" as part of another question What are your major strengths and weaknesses?
This question may sometimes be accompanied by the question, "What was your role in the team and what did the team achieve?" Can you give me an example of when you worked as part of a team?
This question may come up in other forms such as, "tell us about a piece of work you are particularly proud of" and is often followed by "what went well and what would you do differently?" Tell us about a project or a piece of work you have completed on your own?
It is important that you DO have questions for the employer Do you have any questions for us?