50+ Top Interview Questions and Answers

Wouldn’t it be awesome if you could anticipate the questions a hiring manager will ask you during your future job interview?

We can’t read minds, but we can give you the next best thing: A list of 50 of the top interview questions, along with suggestions on how to answer them all.

While we don’t recommend having a generic response for every interview question, we do advise spending some time feeling comfortable with what you might be asked, what hiring managers are looking for in your responses, and what it takes to demonstrate that you’re the right person for the job.

Consider this a study guide for interview questions and answers.

50+ Most Common Job Interview Questions

  1. Please tell me about yourself.
  2. Please go through your resume with me.
  3. How did you learn about this opportunity?
  4. Why do you wish to work for this particular company?
  5. Why do you seek this position?
  6. Why should we hire you?
  7. What can you offer the company?
  8. What are your strongest points?
  9. What do you perceive your flaws to be?
  10. What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
  11. Tell me about a work problem or disagreement you’ve experienced and how you handled it.
  12. Tell me about an instance when you displayed your leadership abilities.
  13. When was the last time you disagreed with a decision made at work?
  14. Tell me about a moment when you messed up.
  15. Tell me about a moment when you messed up.
  16. Why are you quitting your current position?
  17. Why were you fired?
  18. What caused the gap in your employment?
  19. Can you explain why you switched careers?
  20. What is your current pay?
  21. What is your least favorite aspect of your job?
  22. What qualities do you seek in a new job?
  23. What kind of workplace do you prefer?
  24. What is your working personality?
  25. What is your leadership style?
  26. What would your boss and coworkers say about you?
  27. How do you handle pressure and tough situations?
  28. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
  29. Do you intend to have children?
  30. How do you keep yourself organized?
  31. How do you organize your time?
  32. What do you find interesting?
  33. What drives you?
  34. What are some of your pet peeves?
  35. How would you want to be managed?
  36. Do you think of yourself as successful?
  37. What do you want to be in five years?
  38. How do you intend to reach your professional objectives?
  39. What are your career goals?
  40. What is your ideal job?
  41. Which other firms are you interviewing with?
  42. What distinguishes you?
  43. What should I know about you that isn’t on your resume?
  44. What would your first few months in this position look like?
  45. What are your salary objectives?
  46. What do you believe we could do differently or better?
  47. When can you begin?
  48. Are you willing to move?
  49. How many tennis balls can a limousine hold?
  50. Which animal would you like to be if you could be any animal?
  51. Please sell me this pen.
  52. Is there anything else we should know?
  53. Have you got any queries for us?

  1. Please tell me about yourself.

Because this question appears straightforward, many individuals neglect to prepare for it, yet it is critical. Here’s how it works: Don’t provide your whole job (or personal) history. Instead, deliver a pitch—one that is brief and appealing, and that demonstrates why you are the best candidate for the position. Lily Zhang, a Muse writer and MIT career advisor, suggests adopting a present, past, and future formula. Discuss your present position briefly (including the scope and potentially one major accomplishment), then provide some history on how you got there and relevant experience. Finally, explain why you desire and are qualified for this position.

A possible response to the question “Please tell me about yourself.
“Well, I’m presently an account executive at Smith, where I manage our highest-performing customer. Previously, I worked at an agency on three distinct big national healthcare brands. And, while I thoroughly liked my work, I’d love the opportunity to go further into one specific healthcare organization, which is why I’m so enthusiastic about this opportunity with Metro Health Center.”

  1. Please go through your resume with me.

This question, like “Please tell me about yourself.,” is a typical interview opening. Instead of focusing on what traits and talents make you the greatest candidate for the job, your response should organize your qualifications by previous employment and convey your professional journey. You might tell this tale in chronological order, especially if you have a terrific anecdote about what led you down this route. Alternatively, like with “Please tell me about yourself.,” you can start with your current position and then discuss what led you here and where you’re heading next. However, while discussing your “history” and “now,” highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments for this position and conclude by discussing the future, i.e. link your past and present to illustrate why this job should be the next one you add to your CV. 

A possible response to the question “Please go through your resume with me.”
“Well, as you can see from my resume, I followed a somewhat circuitous route to get where I am now. I double majored in chemistry and communications in college. I discovered early on that working in a lab all day wasn’t for me, and I soon recognized that the lab class I attended the most was the one I looked forward to the most.”

“So, after graduation, I went to work in sales for a consumer healthcare goods firm, where I relied on my teaching expertise and learned even more about customizing your message and communicating complicated health ideas to people who don’t have a science background.” Then I went into a sales training job at a large corporation, where I was in charge of teaching young grads the fundamentals of selling. My trainees closed more transactions in their first quarter on average than any other trainer’s cohort. Plus, finding the best approach to teach each new worker and watching them improve and succeed gave me a lot of happiness. It brought back memories of my time as a TA in college.”

“Last year, I quit my full-time job to complete my student teaching at P.S. 118 in Manhattan, and over the summer, I worked at a scientific camp, teaching youngsters aged 10 to 12 about fundamental chemical principles and safe experimentation. Now, I’m looking forward to my first full-time teaching position, and your district is my first pick. Because of the low student-to-teacher ratio, I will have more time to educate each kid in the best way possible, which is my favorite part of the work.”

  1. How did you learn about this opportunity?

Another relatively simple interview question, this is actually a fantastic opportunity to stand out and demonstrate your enthusiasm for and connection to the organization. For example, if you learned about the position via a friend or professional contact, include that individual and explain why you were so enthusiastic about the opportunity. Share how you learned about the firm through an event or an article. Even if you spotted the job posting on a random employment portal, describe what piqued your interest in the role. 

A possible response to the question “How did you learn about this opportunity?”
“I heard about a product team opening from a friend of a friend, Akiko, and because I’m a big fan of your work and have been following you for a while, I figured it would be a perfect job for me to apply for.”

  1. Why do you wish to work for this particular company?

Be wary of canned responses! If what you say is applicable to a variety of other firms, or if your response makes you seem like every other candidate, you’re passing up an opportunity to differentiate yourself. Zhang suggests one of four approaches: Do your research and highlight something that makes the company unique that really appeals to you; discuss how you’ve seen the company grow and change since you first heard of it; concentrate on the organization’s opportunities for future growth and how you can contribute to it; or share what has gotten you excited from your interactions with employees thus far. Whatever path you take, be careful to be explicit. 

A possible answer to “Why do you wish to work for this particular company?”
“I read on Entrepreneur that you were also hiring on the West Coast to assist your growing activities there. I conducted some additional research on the new data center you’re constructing there, which excites me since it implies there will be possibilities to teach new coworkers. A Wall Street Journal story also informed me that you are growing in Mexico. I speak Spanish fluently and will gladly step up and assist with liaising whenever needed.” 

  1. Why do you seek this position?

Again, firms want to recruit people who are enthusiastic about the work, so you should have a strong explanation for why you want the position.  First, identify a couple of key aspects that make the role a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer care because I love the constant social contact and the satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a problem”), then share why you love the company (e.g., “I’ve always been passionate about education, and I think you’re doing great things, so I want to be a part of it”).

Possible answer to “Why do you seek this position?”
“I’ve always admired X Co’s products and have spent numerous hours playing your games. I know that your emphasis on unique tales is what first drew me and other fans to your games and keeps us coming back for more. I’ve been following X Co on social media for a long time now, and I’ve always liked how you have staff from various departments connect with users. So when I saw this job opening for a social media manager with TikTok expertise, I was ecstatic. My previous employment required me to build our TikTok account and expand it to 10,000 followers in six months. With that background, my passion of gaming, and my extensive understanding of your games and fans, I am certain that I can create this TikTok account something unique and entertaining.” 

  1. Why should we Hire you?

This interview question appears direct, yet if you’re asked it, you’re in luck: There is no greater opportunity to pitch yourself and your abilities to the hiring manager. Your task here is to develop an answer that addresses three points: that you can not just perform the work but also give excellent outcomes; that you’ll fit in well with the team and culture; and that you’d be a better hire than any of the other applicants. 

Possible answer to “Why should we Hire you?”
“I know it’s been an exciting period for General Tech, with so much growth and acquisitions, but I also know from experience that it may be difficult for the sales staff to comprehend how new products fit in with current ones. It’s often simpler to market what you know, so newer products may be overlooked, which can have far-reaching consequences for the organization. I have over a decade of expertise as a sales trainer, but more significantly, I spent the majority of those years dealing with sales teams who were in the same situation that Gen Tech is today. Growth is fantastic, but only if the rest of the organization can keep up. I’m convinced that by establishing an ongoing sales training curriculum that stresses where they place in a product portfolio, I can ensure that your sales force is confident and passionate about selling new goods.”

  1. What can you offer the company?

When interviewers ask this question, they are not just interested in learning about your past. They want to see that you grasp the company’s or department’s problems and difficulties, as well as how you’ll fit into the present organization. Read the job description carefully, investigate the firm, and pay attention in your early round interviews to grasp any challenges you’re being recruited to solve. The idea, therefore, is to tie your talents and experiences to what the organization requires and to offer an example of how you’ve done similar or transferrable work in the past.

Possible answer to “What can you offer the company?”
“As i got to know that, XYZ company is trying to extend its market to ABC area and targeting x people, so I’d contribute my knowledge in this area as well as my experience directing a xx team that is selling to these clients for the first time. This sector has been my primary emphasis in most of my previous employment, and in my present role, I also had a significant role in developing our sales strategy when the company began selling to these clients. I collaborated with my bosses to create the sales script. I also joined in on a number of sales conversations with other account executives who were selling to these consumers for the first time and provided them with tips and other comments.

  1. What are your strongest points?

This is an opportunity to discuss something that makes you excellent—and a fantastic match for this position. When answering this question, consider quality above quantity. In other words, don’t recite a laundry list of adjectives. Instead, choose one or two (depending on the question) unique traits applicable to this role and demonstrate them with examples. Generalizations are seldom as memorable as stories. And if there’s anything you’ve been meaning to discuss because it makes you a strong contender but haven’t had the chance, now is the moment. 

Possible answer to “What are your strongest points?”
“I’d say that bringing structure to chaotic workplaces and developing systems to make everyone’s lives simpler is one of my biggest abilities. In my present position as an executive assistant to a CEO, I developed new processes for almost everything, from meeting scheduling to monthly all-hands agendas to event preparation. Everyone in the organization was aware of how things operated and how long they would take, and the frameworks reduced stress and set expectations on all sides. I’d be thrilled to apply the same approach to the position of operations manager at a startup, where everything is fresh and continuously evolving and might benefit from just the right amount of structure to keep things going smoothly.”

  1. What do you perceive your flaws to be?

Beyond finding any big red flags, your interviewer is attempting to measure your self-awareness and honesty with this question. So, “I can’t fulfill a deadline to save my life” isn’t an option—nor is “Nothing! I’m flawless!” Strike a balance by considering something you struggle with but are attempting to better. For example, perhaps you’ve never been good at public speaking but have lately volunteered to organize meetings to assist you get more comfortable speaking in front of a group.

Possible answer to “What do you perceive your flaws to be?
“It can be difficult for me to determine when the folks I work with are overburdened or unsatisfied with their assignments. We have weekly check-ins to ensure that I’m not asking too much or too little of my staff. I like to ask if they feel on top of their task, how I can better assist them if there’s anything they’d want to take on or get rid of, and if they’re interested in what they’re doing. Even if the answer is ‘everything is OK,’ these encounters create the framework for a healthy and trustworthy relationship.” 

  1. What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

Nothing says “hire me” like a track record of producing outstanding achievements in previous employment, so don’t be timid when answering this interview question! The STAR approach (situation, task, action, results) is an excellent way to do this. Set the scene and the work at hand to offer the interviewer with context (e.g., “In my previous employment as a junior analyst, it was my responsibility to handle the invoicing process”), then describe what you did (the action) and what you accomplished (the result): “In one month, I optimized the process, saving my group 10 person-hours per month and reducing invoice mistakes by 25%.”

Possible answer to “What is your proudest professional accomplishment?”
“My proudest achievement was convincing the little municipality of Bend, Oregon to replace old street lighting with energy-efficient LED lights while working for a street lighting firm. My function was designed to promote and sell energy-efficient bulbs while emphasizing the long-term benefit of lower energy expenses. I had to come up with a means to educate city light authorities about the benefits of our energy-saving bulbs, which was difficult because our goods were more expensive up front compared to less efficient lighting solutions. I prepared an information packet and organized local community events for city leaders and the general public.” 

  1. Tell me about a work problem or disagreement you’ve experienced and how you handled it.

You’re probably not keen to discuss workplace disputes during a job interview. However, asking explicitly , don’t claim you’ve never had one. Be open about a terrible circumstance you’ve been through. “Most individuals who inquire are merely searching for proof that you’re prepared to tackle these types of difficulties head on and make a genuine effort to resolve them,” says former recruiter Richard Moy. Stay calm and professional when you recount the tale (and answer any follow-up questions), focus on the resolution rather than the disagreement, and explain what you’d do differently next time to demonstrate that “you’re open to learning from difficult situations.” 

Possible answer to “Tell me about a work problem or disagreement you’ve experienced and how you handled it.”
“Funnily enough, I was part of a group last year that put together a training on conflict mediation in the workplace, and the amount of opposition we had for demanding attendance really put our training to the test. One senior member of staff in particular appeared determined. It required some attentive listening to grasp that he believed it wasn’t the greatest use of his time given his responsibilities. I made a point of acknowledging his worry. Then, in response to his direct complaint, I described how the training was intended to enhance not just the company’s culture, but also the efficiency with which we operated—and that the aim was for the training to make everyone’s burden seem lighter. He ultimately showed up and was present when I spoke to the entire team about identifying the main cause of a problem and resolving it directly without bringing up additional concerns, which is how I approach every workplace argument.”

  1. Tell me about an instance when you displayed your leadership abilities.

You don’t need a fancy title to act as a leader or display leadership abilities. Consider a moment when you led a project, took the initiative to offer an alternative method, or helped encourage your team to complete a task. Then, using the STAR approach, tell your interviewer a tale, providing enough information to build a picture (but not so much that you start rambling) and spelling out the outcome. In other words, explain why you’re sharing this tale and connect the dots for the interviewer.

Possible answer to “ Tell me about an instance when you displayed your leadership abilities.” 
“I believe that a good leader is someone who can make judgments while also listening to others and being prepared to confess and remedy mistakes. In my previous position, my team and I were in charge of delivering a large presentation to a prospective customer. I rapidly allocated various duties to individuals in my team, but the project never really got off the ground. I invited everyone to discuss their thoughts and worries, and it turned out that they were suffering in the jobs I’d assigned to them. I ended up rearranging a couple folks. Meanwhile, the employee I’d assigned to deliver the presentation was apprehensive but eager to participate. I worked with them to ensure they were prepared, including holding a practice session so they could rehearse in a more comfortable setting. They nailed it when it came to the actual thing! We won the customer, and the firm still holds the account. And that individual rose to the position of go-to person for major client presentations. I’m pleased I took the time to listen to everyone’s concerns so I could rethink my strategy and assist my team be the best it could be.” 

  1. When was the last time you disagreed with a decision made at work? 

The perfect example, in this case, is one in which you handled a conflict professionally and learned from the experience. Zhang advises paying close attention to how you begin and conclude your response. To begin, make a brief comment that frames the remainder of your answer, nodding to the ultimate conclusion or the reason you’re delivering this tale. “I learned early in my professional career that it’s acceptable to disagree if you can back up your hunches with statistics,” for example. To finish strong, provide a one-sentence summary of your response (“In short…”) or explain quickly how what you learned or acquired from this experience might aid you in the position you’re interviewing for. 

Possible answer to “When was the last time you disagreed with a decision made at work?”

“As a financial assistant, I was in charge of compiling reports for future firm investments. It was critical to have the data and figures correct so that leaders could make the best judgment possible. My supervisor once requested me to create a fresh report on a Wednesday morning and have it completed by Thursday at 5 p.m. I felt I needed to speak out since I was devoted to producing high-quality work and wasn’t sure my employer completely understood what went into each report. I met with my employer on her next available opportunity and discussed my worries. She insisted on finishing the report by Thursday at 5 p.m. So I decided to inquire around to see if anyone might assist. After some thought, my supervisor located another assistant who could work a few hours. Despite the short deadline, we completed the report, and the committee was delighted to examine it at the meeting. My supervisor praised my additional efforts to make it happen, and I felt pleased that I hadn’t compromised the report’s quality. It was a terrific experience to be a team player while also understanding when and how to ask for assistance. And, once I mentioned how much time and effort each report requires, my employer was mindful to assign them farther in advance.” 

  1. Tell me about a moment when you messed up.

When you’re attempting to impress an interviewer and obtain a job, you probably don’t want to dig into your prior mistakes. However, talking about a mistake and winning someone over are not mutually incompatible, according to Moy. If done correctly, it may be beneficial. The goal is, to be honest without blaming others, then explain what you learned from the mistake and what steps you made to prevent it from happening again. At the end of the day, companies want self-aware people, who can accept feedback, and want to improve. 

Possible answer to “Tell me about a moment when you messed up.”
“Early in my career, I missed a deadline that cost us a large account. Many variables contributed to this, but ultimately, I was the one who dropped the ball. After that incident, I went back and truly thought about what I could have managed and what I would have altered. It turns out that I wasn’t quite as prepared as I imagined. I spoke with my manager and asked for advice on how to enhance my organizing abilities; a few months later, I was able to secure a larger contract for the department.”

  1. Tell me about a moment when you messed up.

This question is quite similar to the one about making a mistake, and approaching your response should be in the same manner. Choose a genuine failure about which you can speak openly. Begin by explaining to the interviewer how you define failure. For example: “As a manager, I consider it a failure if I am caught off guard. I try to be informed about what’s with my staff and their job.” Then, relate your narrative to that definition and describe what happened. Finally, remember to share what you’ve learned. It’s fine to fail—everyone does—but you must demonstrate that you learned something from the experience.

Possible answer to “Tell me about a moment when you messed up.”
“As a team manager, I consider it a failure if I am unaware of what is going on with my personnel and their work—basically, if an issue catches me off guard, I have failed somewhere along the route. Even if the solution is eventually satisfactory, it means I abandoned a team member at some stage. A recent example is the training we provide every year for new project managers. Because my team had organized the event so many times, I didn’t think to check in and had no idea a scheduling problem was escalating into a full-fledged territorial war with another team. The resolution was really a short and straightforward talk at the leadership team meeting, but if I had just inquired about it sooner, it would never have been a problem in the first place. I definitely learned my lesson about establishing reminders to check in on significant projects or events, even if I’d done it thousands of times before.” 

  1. Why are you quitting your current position?

This is a difficult question, but you can rest assured that you will be asked it. Maintain a good attitude—you have nothing to gain by being critical of your current employment. Instead, phrase things such that it’s clear that you’re excited to take on new challenges and that the position you’re applying for is a better fit for you. “I’d like to be a part of product creation from start to finish,” for example, “and I know I’d have that chance here.” And what if you were fired from your most recent job? Keep it simple: “Unfortunately, I was a let go” is the correct response. 

Possible answer to “Why are you quitting your current position?”
“I’m prepared for the next step in my profession. I liked the people I worked with and the projects I worked on, but I saw that I wasn’t being pushed as much as I used to be. Rather than becoming too comfortable, I chose to seek a place where I could continue to develop.” 

  1. Why were you fired?

Of course, they may follow up with the query, “Why were you let go?” If you were laid off, just state, “The company [reorganized/merged/was purchased], and sadly my [position/department] was removed.” But what if you were dismissed due to poor performance? Your best bet is to be truthful (the job-seeking world is small, after all). However, it does not have to be a deal breaker. Frame it as a learning experience: Explain how you’ve changed and how you now approach your career and life as a consequence. And if you can depict your development as a benefit for this future job, that’s even better.

Possible answer to “Why were you fired?”
“After four years of working at XYZ Inc., there were some changes made to the number of customer calls we were required to process every hour. I employed the strategies we were taught once the shift went into force, but I didn’t want our customer service to suffer as a result. Unfortunately, I was let go because I was not regularly completing the requisite amount of calls. I felt terrible about it, and in retrospect, I should have stuck to the approach that would have allowed me to reach the per hour requirement. But, based on what you’ve informed me about the customer service standards and volume expectations here, I don’t think it’ll be an issue.” 

  1. What caused the gap in your employment?

Perhaps you were caring for children or elderly parents, coping with health concerns, or exploring the world. Somehow it took you a long time to find the proper employment. Whatever the cause, you should be ready to explain the gap (or gaps) on your resume. Seriously, practice speaking your response out. The idea is to be truthful, but it doesn’t mean you have to reveal more information than you’re comfortable with. You can also discuss how talents or attributes you polished or obtained in your time away from the workforce—whether via volunteer work, running a household, or responding to a personal crisis—would help you flourish in this career. 

Possible answer to “What caused the gap in your employment?”
“I worked at a firm for several years in a highly hard profession, and as you can see from my references, I was quite successful. But I’d reached a point in my job when I wanted to concentrate on my personal development. Traveling taught me a lot about how to interact with people of many ages and cultures. Now I’m more than ready to return to my profession with fresh vigor and concentration, and I believe this position is the right opportunity to do so.”

  1. Can you explain why you switched careers?

Don’t be alarmed by this question; instead, take a deep breath and explain to the recruiting manager why you’ve made the professional choices you have. More importantly, provide a few instances of how your previous experience may be transferred to the new job. This does not have to be a direct link; in fact, it is frequently more striking when a candidate can demonstrate how irrelevant experience is quite pertinent to the post. 

Possible answer to “Can you explain why you switched careers?”
“I’ve been training and running with my brother in your annual Heart Run to raise money for your charity and aid people with expenditures not covered by insurance since my brother was diagnosed with a heart problem. Every time, I’ve been struck by how committed and pleased your personnel have been to their jobs. So when I spotted this job opening for a fundraiser, I knew it was meant to be. I’ve spent the last ten years of my career as an account executive for several SaaS firms, and I’ve really developed my talents when it comes to getting enterprises to make long-term payments for anything. But I’ve been seeking a position in fundraising where I can put my abilities to good use and truly benefit people, and I’m excited to do so with your organization.”

  1. What is your current pay?

In some cities and jurisdictions, including New York City, Louisville, North Carolina, California, and Massachusetts, it is currently prohibited for certain or all companies to inquire about your payment history. But, no matter where you reside, hearing this question may be unsettling. Don’t be alarmed; there are various options available to you. For example, Muse career consultant Emily Liou suggests deflecting the topic with something like, “Before taking any remuneration, I’d like to learn more about what this work entails.” I’ve done a lot of study on [Company], and I’m sure that if it’s the appropriate fit, we’ll be able to agree on a price that’s fair and competitive to both sides.” You may alternatively reword the question to include your wage expectations or needs (see question 38), or you can choose to divulge the figure if you believe it would benefit you.

Possible answer to “What is your current pay?”
“Before we talk about pay, I’d like to hear more about what this position entails. I’ve done a lot of study on [Company], and I’m certain that if it’s the appropriate fit, we’ll be able to come to an agreement on a price that’s fair and competitive to both sides.”

  1. What is your least favorite aspect of your job?

Take your time here. The last thing you want is your responsibility to turn into a diatribe about how bad your current employer is, how much you despise your boss or that one employee. The correct way to respond to this question with poise is to focus on a benefit that the role you’re applying for provides that your present employment does not. You may keep the dialogue upbeat by emphasizing your enthusiasm for the position.

Possible answer to “What is your least favorite aspect of your job?”
“In my present position, I’m in charge of creating media pitch lists. While I’ve got a flair for it and can do it when required, I’m looking forward to a position that will allow me to deal with media partners on a more hands-on basis. That’s one of the things that piqued my interest in your account supervisor position.”

  1. What qualities do you seek in a new job?

Hint: Ideally, the same benefits that this employment provides. Make your point.

Possible answer to “What qualities do you seek in a new job?”
“I’ve been polishing my data analytic abilities for a few years now, and I’m searching for a position where I can put those talents to use. Another crucial aspect for me is the opportunity to personally deliver my results and recommendations to clients. Being able to observe the influence of my job on other people is always tremendously motivating for me. And I’m absolutely searching for a position where I can advance, as I intend to eventually take on managing duties. To summarize, I’d like to be in a position where I can use my abilities to create an effect that I can see. Of course, the position is simply one factor. Working for a firm where I may advance and contribute to a cause that I care about is also important. I’m incredibly pleased about this chance since DNF’s objective of being at the crossroads of statistics and education motivates me.”

  1. What kind of workplace do you prefer?

Hint: Choose one that is comparable to the setting of the organization to which you are applying. Make your point.

Possible answer to “What kind of workplace do you prefer?”
“I enjoy working in my present setting.” My boss is a fantastic resource and is always prepared to assist when I have a problem, but they trust me to get my work done, so I have a lot of flexibility in how I schedule and prioritize, which is really important to me. Everyone has their own cubicle, so it’s often quiet to get our work done, but we all have lunch together and our team has a lot of check-in meetings and interacts often via Slack, so we still have a lot of opportunity to bounce ideas off one other. As a result, I like both individual and team work. “How would you characterize the blend here?”

  1. What is your working personality?

When an interviewer inquires about your work style, they are most likely attempting to picture you in the position. What strategy will you take to your work? How will it be to collaborate with you? Will you get along with the current team? You may assist them by focusing on something important to you that resonates with all you’ve learned thus far about the position, team, and organization. Because the question is wide, you have a lot of leeway in how you respond: you may discuss how you communicate and cooperate on cross-functional projects, what sort of remote work setting helps you to be most productive, or how you handle team leadership and managing direct reports. Just try to stay optimistic. Remember that telling a narrative nearly always makes your response more memorable. 

Possible answer to “What is your working personality?”
“I prefer to produce my best work when I’m cooperating with coworkers and working toward a shared objective.” I was the uncommon student who enjoyed group assignments, and I still get a sense of excitement when I’m designing marketing campaigns with a team and bringing in fresh and diverse viewpoints. When I worked at XYZ Agency, I made it a routine to invite people from other departments to participate in brainstorming and feedback sessions. Some of our most successful initiatives originated from concepts we developed alongside colleagues in IT, HR, product, and customer success. That’s why I was thrilled to find that this position will require me to collaborate directly with the product and sales teams, as well as a great marketing team. Another factor that I believe is critical to the success of these partnerships is organization and documentation, therefore I’m a big fan of having one central location for all project documents, such as meeting notes, action items, drafts of campaign content and images, and timetables.” 

  1. What is your leadership style?

The finest managers are bold but adaptable, which is precisely what you want to demonstrate in your response. (Think something like, “While each scenario and team member necessitates a somewhat different method, I like to approach my employee connections as a coach…”) Then, discuss a few of your most memorable management events, such as when you increased your team from five to fifteen people or trained an underperforming employee to become the company’s top seller. 

Possible answer to “What is your leadership style?”
“Management style is difficult to pin down, but I believe that in general, a good manager offers clear directives and keeps hands-off, but is ready and accessible to pitch in and offer guidance, knowledge, and aid when required.” I make every effort to make that my managerial style. I also go out of my way to ensure that I am aware when my team requires assistance. That includes frequent informal check-ins, both on their work and on their overall job happiness and emotional well-being. At my most recent job, I recall one project in particular where everyone worked on a different piece of the product. This meant a lot of independent work for my seven-person team, but rather than bogging everyone down with repeated meetings to update me and everyone else on progress, I created a project wiki that allowed us to communicate new information when needed without interfering with another team member’s work. I therefore made it my mission to ensure that no one ever remained trapped on a problem for too long without a sounding board. Ultimately, despite the disparities in project responsibilities, we produced a highly unified product and, more significantly, a team that was not burned out.” 

  1. What would your boss and coworkers say about you?

First and foremost, be truthful (remember, if you make it to the final stage, the hiring manager will contact your previous bosses and coworkers for references!). Then, attempt to highlight skills and characteristics that you haven’t highlighted in other portions of the interview, such as your strong work ethic or willingness to pitch in on other projects as required.

Possible answer to “What would your boss and coworkers say about you?”
“In fact, my direct supervisor defined me as someone who takes initiative and doesn’t shy away from difficult challenges in my most recent performance evaluation in April.” My job entails a lot of on-site implementation, and when something goes wrong, it’s typically my responsibility to repair it. Rather than deferring to the team, I always attempt to accomplish what I can first. I know she likes that about me.”

  1. How do you handle pressure and tough situations?

Here’s another question you might want to avoid to demonstrate that you’re the perfect candidate who can manage anything. But don’t disregard this one (for example, don’t reply, “I just put my head down and push through it,” or “I don’t get stressed out”). Instead, discuss your go-to stress-reduction tactics (whether it’s meditating for 10 minutes every day, going for a run, or keeping a super-detailed to-do list), as well as how you communicate and otherwise try to reduce pressure. All the better if you can provide a real-life example of a stressful circumstance you successfully negotiated. 

Possible answer to “How do you handle pressure and tough situations?”
“I keep motivated by imagining the eventual outcome.” Even in the midst of a difficult situation, reminding myself of my goals allows me to take a step back and be positive.” 

  1. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Interviewers will occasionally inquire about your hobbies or interests outside of work to get to know you better—to discover what you’re passionate about and dedicate time to in your spare time. It’s another opportunity to show off your personality. Be honest, but keep it professional, and avoid replies that make it appear as if you’ll be spending all of your time focused on anything other than the job you’re looking for.

Possible answer to “What do you enjoy doing outside of work?”
“I’m a big foodie. My friends and I are always eager to explore new eateries in town as soon as they open—the more eccentric, the better! I enjoy learning about various foods and cuisines, and it’s also a fun thing to do with friends. I try to get out with the same group at least once a week since it’s a wonderful way to stay in contact and share experiences even when we’re busy with other things. We even went to New York City and spent each day in a different district, buying something from a few places to split.” 

  1. Do you intend to have children?

Questions on your family situation, gender (“How would you manage leading an all-male team?”), nationality (“Where were you born?”), religion or age are all illegal—but they are nevertheless asked (and frequently). Of course, not always with malice—the interviewer may simply be trying to strike up a discussion and may not understand these are off-limits—but you should always relate any queries about your personal life (or anything else you believe may be improper) back to the job at hand.

Possible answer to “Do you intend to have children?”
“You know, I’m still not there. However, I am really interested in the job opportunities at your organization. Could you please elaborate?” 

  1. How do you keep yourself organized?

Would you want to work with someone who is a hot mess? We didn’t think so either. Nobody else does either. Disorganized employees not only struggle in their function, but they may also cause havoc for their peers, bosses, direct reports, clients, customers, and everyone else with whom they deal. As a result, interviewers will frequently inquire about how you keep yourself organized to ensure your ability to handle the task and judge your personality. In your response, you should reassure them that you will have things under control (both in what you say and how you say it), identify a particular system or approach you’ve employed (extra points if you can relate it to the position you’re interviewing for), and explain how it benefited you and your team. Just make sure your response is brief and well-organized. 

Possible answer to “How do you keep yourself organized?”

“I take pleasure in my ability to keep organized, and it’s came in helpful in my previous employment, particularly the social media assistant job I’m currently in.” First, I use Hootsuite—which I noted you also use—to keep a careful schedule for each of the platforms I’m responsible for, and I try to block off time twice a week to stay ahead on generating and scheduling content.” 

“Second, I’m a huge admirer of Trello, where I have one personal board that I use as a to-do list, color-coded by task type and tagged with priority level, and one shared marketing team board that we use to coordinate campaigns launching across social, email, and other platforms.” We keep a careful eye on the news in case we need to suspend a campaign. If necessary, I’d tag all key stakeholders on Trello, immediately pause any planned material in Hootsuite, and initiate a Slack conversation or recommend a meeting to evaluate strategy.”

“Finally, I built a shared folder on Google Drive with campaign-specific subfolders that I update with one-pagers on goals and strategy, assets, a record of actual posts delivered, performance assessments, and retros.” That way, anybody on the team can go back to previous initiatives, which I’ve found really helps us learn from each campaign and implement those learnings into what we’re working on next.” 

  1. How do you organize your time?

Your interviewers want to know that you can manage your time, make decisions, communicate effectively, and shift gears as necessary. Begin by discussing whatever method you’ve found useful for planning your day or week, whether it’s a to-do list app or a color-coded spreadsheet. You should include a real-life example in this case. So go on to detail how you’ve behaved in the past to a last-minute request or similar unexpected shift in priorities, including how you analyzed and determined what to do as well as how you communicated with your boss and/or coworkers about it. 

Possible answer to “How do you organize your time?”
“I’d be completely lost without my daily to-do list!” To assist keep me on track, I jot down activities to perform and prioritize them from highest to lowest importance at the start of each workday. However, I am aware that priorities might shift abruptly. On a recent day, I had intended to spend the most of my time calling advertising firms to gather pricing quotations for a forthcoming campaign. Then I quickly checked in with my manager. She indicated that she wanted assistance putting up a presentation for a significant potential customer as soon as possible. I pushed the more flexible assignment until the end of the week and spent the next hours editing the time-sensitive presentation. I make an effort to maintain open channels of communication with my management and coworkers. If I’m working on a task that will take a long time to accomplish, I attempt to notify my colleagues as soon as feasible. If my workload becomes onerous, I consult with my employer to determine which tasks may be moved to the bottom of the priority list, and then I try to modify expectations about certain deadlines.”

  1. What do you find interesting?

You are not a machine programmed to accomplish your job and then shut down. You’re a person, and if someone asks you this question during an interview, it’s usually because they want to learn more about you. If you’re applying to be a graphic designer and spend all of your free time producing graphics and data visualizations to post on Instagram, your answer may be directly related to the sort of work you’d be doing in that capacity. However, don’t be hesitant to discuss a pastime that is unrelated to your day-to-day employment. “Take it one step further and relate how your passion would make you an exceptional fit for the position you’re seeking,” Muse career adviser Al Dea advises. For example, if you’re a software developer who enjoys baking, you may discuss how your ability to be creative and exact impacts your approach to coding. 

Possible answer to “What do you find interesting?”
“Knitting is one of my favorite hobbies; I adore being able to make something beautiful out of nothing.” Knitting, of course, necessitates a close attention to detail as well as a great deal of patience. Fortunately, as an accountant, I have honed both of those skills!”

  1. What drives you?

Before you freak out over answering what feels like a penetrating existential question, remember that the interviewer wants to know that you’re thrilled about this position at this firm and that you’ll be motivated to succeed if they hire you. So consider what has invigorated you in prior employment and what made your eyes light up when you read this job description. Choose one item, make it relevant to the position and firm you’re applying for, and attempt to use a narrative to assist emphasize your argument. Your excitement will be evident if you’re honest, which you should be. 

Possible answer to “What drives you?”
“I’m mostly motivated by my desire to learn new things—big or small—and take on new tasks so that I may continue to grow as an employee and contribute more to my team and business.” I worked as a camp counselor for several summers and felt most happy when I offered to head preparations for a talent show, stepped in to assist with scheduling difficulties, and learned how to handle pickups effectively. All of that knowledge was invaluable as I advanced to become the lead counselor focusing on operations last year, and it’s what excites me so much about the potential to take on this leadership job for the after-school program.”

  1. What are some of your pet peeves?

Another question that appears to be a minefield. However, it will be easier to navigate if you understand why an interviewer is asking the question. Most likely, they want to ensure that you’ll prosper at their company—and to see how you handle disagreement. So, while remaining honest, choose something that does not contradict the ethos and surroundings of this firm. Then, while remaining calm and controlled, explain why and what you’ve done in the past to address it. You may keep this remark short and quick because there’s no reason to dwell on anything that irritates you. 

Possible answer to “What are some of your pet peeves?”
“It disturbs me when an office’s schedule is particularly unorganized, since disarray, in my experience, may promote uncertainty, which can undermine team motivation.” As someone who prefers order, I attempt to keep my team on track while still allowing for flexibility.” 

  1. How would you want to be managed?

This is another of those questions about finding the appropriate fit—both for the firm and yourself. Consider what worked well for you in the past and what did not. What did your prior managers do to inspire you and help you achieve and grow? Choose one or two things to focus on and always frame them positively (even if your preference comes from an experience where your manager behaved oppositely, phrase it as what you would want a manager to do). If you can provide a positive example from a fantastic supervisor, it will strengthen your response. 

Possible answer to “How would you want to be managed?”
“Because I appreciate having my hands in a variety of tasks, I enjoy working with managers that encourage their staff to explore, be independent, and collaborate with other teams.” At the same time, I like it when my supervisor offers me support, direction, and coaching. Nobody can achieve anything alone, and I think that when managers and people interact and learn from one another, everyone wins.” 

  1. Do you think of yourself as successful?

This inquiry may make you feel uneasy. However, you might take it as a chance to get to know the interviewer better and present yourself as a good candidate for this role. First and foremost, make sure you say yes! Then, choose one particular professional accomplishment you’re pleased with that relates to the position you’re applying for—one that exhibits a quality, ability, or experience that will help you flourish in this position. You’ll want to explain why you think it’s a success, discuss the process and the end, and highlight your accomplishment while not neglecting your colleagues. If you feel embarrassed tooting your own horn, focusing on one tale will help!

Possible answer to “Do you think of yourself as successful?”
“I consider myself successful, despite the fact that I am still in my early professional career.” In my junior year of college, I took a full load of school because I intended to volunteer for a human rights group overseas that summer. I knew I had to stay on pace with my major, minor, and graduate requirements. It was tough to balance everything with my part-time work, which I retained to compensate for the fact that I wouldn’t be earning money over the summer, and there were a few restless nights. But the effort was worthwhile: I finished the year with a 3.9 GPA and the opportunity to serve for the organization in Ghana without falling behind on my graduation schedule. Setting a goal and sticking to it, no matter how difficult it is, is what defines success for me, and this experience proved that I could be successful even when there is a lot to balance, which I know is always the case at a charity like this one.”

  1. What do you want to be in five years?

If you are asked this question, be honest and detailed about your future ambitions, but keep this in mind: A hiring manager wants to know a) if you’ve set realistic professional objectives, b) if you have ambition (i.e., this isn’t the first time you’ve considered the question), and c) whether the position corresponds with your goals and progress. Your best chance is to think realistically about where this position may lead you and respond accordingly. And what if employment isn’t a one-way ticket to your dreams? It’s alright to admit that you’re not sure what the future holds, but that this experience will be beneficial in assisting you in making that decision. 

Possible answer to “What do you want to be in five years?”
“I’d like to be in a situation in five years when I know more about my long-term professional goals as a designer.” I’ll have gained experience working for a design firm and will be more knowledgeable about the industry as a whole. I’ll have improved my technical abilities and learnt how to integrate client input. And, because of the way your business is set up, I’ll have had the opportunity to develop all types of deliverables—including websites, branding, and ad campaigns—for various types of customers before settling on a focus.” 

  1. How do you intend to reach your professional objectives?

Having objectives demonstrates to interviewers that you care, are ambitious, and can plan. Having a strategy for achieving your goals indicates your self-motivation as well as your organizational and time management abilities. Finally, the fact that you’ve achieved previous targets you set for yourself demonstrates your capacity to follow through. All of this indicates that you may not only create and attain your own goals, but also assist your future employer, team, and organization in doing so. When crafting your response, make sure to focus on one or two goals in depth, explain why the goals are important, convey upcoming milestones, highlight prior triumphs, and relate to this position. 

Possible answer to “How do you intend to reach your professional objectives?”
“My current objective is to obtain my CPA license so that I am completely certified and ready to participate in a junior staff accounting position. My undergraduate degree is in finance, and I just finished an accounting internship with XYZ Company. While I was there, I decided to invite one member from each team to coffee each week to learn about their profession and career path. Not only did those talks emphasize upon me the significance of obtaining my CPA as soon as possible, but they also made me understand that I was keen to pursue forensic accounting, which is why I’m so happy to be a part of this team. I enrolled in NASBA seminars, established a study program to keep myself on track, and will take my first trial exam in three weeks to assure I obtain my CPA this year. I intend to take the actual exam within the next three to six months.”

  1. What are your career goals?

Career aspirations are more ambitious and lofty than career goals. Interviewers are asking: What type of job would make you the happiest (while still being realistic)? Your ambitions may focus on the type of firm you want to work for, the jobs you want to accomplish, who you want to serve, or how you want to be perceived by your coworkers. So, in response to this question, discuss what would excite and complete you and tie it to the position you’re interviewing for. Be clear about how this employment will assist you in achieving your professional goals.

Possible answer to “What are your career goals?”
“After growing up in a food desert, my primary professional goal is to help make nutritious food more widely available and accessible to everyone, regardless of where they reside. I also enjoy addressing difficult challenges. As a project manager, I now specialize in strategic planning, which I combine with a natural ability to engage key stakeholders, resulting in on-time and under-budget delivery. This position would allow me to put those abilities to use for a purpose that I am passionate about. I am committed to use my abilities to assist your organization in ensuring that our community has access to inexpensive, nutritious food as well as information to make good choices. In the next five years, I’d like to take on more responsibility and make more decisions to expand the purpose outside our neighborhood and help even more families obtain access to good food alternatives.” 

  1. What is your ideal job?

Similarly, the interviewer wants to know if this position is truly in line with your long-term professional ambitions. While “an NBA star” may elicit a few giggles, a better choice is to discuss your aims and ambitions—and how this position will help you get closer to them.

  1. Which other firms are you interviewing with?

Companies may inquire who else you’re interviewing with for a variety of reasons. Perhaps they want to know how serious you are about this position and team (or even this area), or they want to know who else is competing to employ you. On the one hand, you want to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position, but you also don’t want to give the firm any more leverage than it already has by informing them there are no other candidates. Depending on where you are in your search, you can mention applying to or interviewing for a few opportunities that share XYZ, and then explain how and why this role appears to be a particularly strong fit. 

Possible answer to “Which other firms are you interviewing with?”
“I’m interviewing with a few firms for a variety of professions, but they all revolve around providing an exceptional customer experience. I wanted to have an open mind regarding the best way to achieve that aim, but so far it appears like this job will allow me to focus all of my work on customer experience and retention, which I find extremely appealing.”

  1. What distinguishes you?

“They truly want to know the solution,” Dea assures. Give them a reason to choose you above other prospects. The trick is to keep your response relevant to the position you’re seeking for. So your ability to sprint a six-minute mile or ace a trivia challenge may not help you obtain the job (but hey, it depends on the job!). Take use of this moment to tell them something that will offer you an advantage over your competitors for this position. You may question some previous coworkers, reflect on patterns you’ve noticed in feedback, or attempt to distill why people prefer to turn to you to find out what it is. Concentrate on one or two points, and remember to back up your claims with proof.

Possible answer to “What distinguishes you?”
“I literally taught myself animation from the ground up. I was pulled to it right away in college, and with little resources, I opted to take matters into my own hands—an strategy I employ in all parts of my job as a video editor. I don’t sit around waiting for things to happen, and when the opportunity arises, I’m always willing to jump in and take on new tasks, learn new skills, or develop new ideas.”

  1. What should I know about you that isn’t on your resume?

If a recruiter or hiring manager is interested in more than just what’s on your résumé, that’s a positive indicator. It most likely implies they reviewed your CV, believe you are a good fit for the post, and want to learn more about you. To make this broad question more digestible, discuss a good quality, a story or detail that tells more about you and your experience, or a purpose or objective that excites you about this career or firm. 

Possible answer to “What should I know about you that isn’t on your resume?”
“One thing you won’t see on my CV is the time I had to perform emergency CPR. I was at the lake last year when I noticed a little girl who appeared to be drowning. I used to be a lifeguard in high school, so I swam out, got her to land, and performed CPR on her. Despite the fact that this was, presumably, a one-time occurrence, I’ve always been able to remain calm in difficult situations, think out a solution, and then act. As an account manager, I’d use this characteristic to promptly and efficiently address issues both within and outside the team. After all, challenges are unavoidable, particularly in a startup atmosphere. And if somebody needs CPR during the workplace beach party, I’m the gal to call.”

  1. What would your first few months in this position look like?

Your possible future boss (or anyone else has asked you this question) wants to know that you’ve done your study, considered how you’d get started, and are capable of taking initiative if recruited. (In certain interviews, you may even be asked, “How would your first 30, 60, or 90 days in this capacity look?”) Consider what facts and features of the firm and team you’d want to become acquainted with, as well as which colleagues you’d like to meet with. You may also recommend one viable startup project to demonstrate your readiness to get in and help right away. If you obtain the job, this may not be the first thing you do, but a decent response demonstrates that you’re attentive and kind. 

Possible answer to “What would your first few months in this position look like?”
“It’s been fascinating to hear about some of the new projects the firm has launched in past talks, such as the database project and company-wide sync, but I know there’s still a lot for me to learn.” The first thing I’d do is schedule meetings with stakeholders engaged in the projects I’d be working on to figure out what I don’t know, and then I’d move from there. It can be difficult to jump into a database project halfway through, but I’m certain that once I understand what all of the stakeholders are looking for, I’ll be able to quickly plan out our following stages and establish acceptable timeframes. From there, I’ll concentrate on meeting the goals I’ve set for the squad.” 

  1. What are your salary objectives?

The first guideline of addressing this question is to determine your pay requirements ahead of time. Investigate what comparable positions pay by using sites like PayScale and contacting your network. Remember to consider your experience, education, talents, and personal requirements as well! Jennifer Fink, a career consultant at Muse, then recommends one of three strategies: 

  • Give a pay range: But, according to Fink, keep the bottom of your given range toward the mid-to-high point of what you’re truly looking for.
  • Toss the question around: “That’s a fantastic question—it would be good if you could disclose the range for this function,” Fink suggests.
  • Delay in responding: Before addressing salary, tell your interviewer that you’d like to learn more about the position or the remainder of the remuneration package.

Possible answer to “What are your salary objectives?”
“Given my expertise and Excel certifications, which you said earlier would be highly beneficial to the team, I’m seeking for a salary of $42,000 to $46,000 per year for this function.” However, perks are also important to me. Your free on-site gym, commuting advantages, and other amenities may allow me to be a little more flexible with my compensation.”

  1. What do you believe we could do differently or better?

This question may really mess with your head. How can you provide a substantive response without offending the corporation or, worse, the individual you’re dealing with? Take a big breath first. Then begin your response by saying something nice about the company or product you’ve been requested to discuss. When you’re ready to provide constructive input, provide some context for the viewpoint you’re bringing to the table and explain why you’d make the suggested adjustment (ideally based on some past experience or other evidence). And, by concluding with a question, you may demonstrate that you’re interested in the firm or product and open to alternative points of view. “Did you think about that method here? I’d like to learn more about your procedure.”

  1. When can you begin?

Your objective here should be to establish reasonable expectations that will benefit both you and the organization. What that sounds like depends on your unique scenario. If you’re ready to start right away—say, if you’re unemployed—you may offer to start within a week. However, if you need to give notice to your existing employer, don’t be scared to say so; people will understand and appreciate your intention to finish things properly. It’s also reasonable to wish to take a break between jobs; however, you should explain that you have “already scheduled responsibilities to attend to” and attempt to be flexible if they need someone to start sooner.

Possible answer to “When can you begin?”
“I am thrilled about the prospect of joining your team. In my present position at [Company], I have various assignments to complete. I want to give them two weeks’ notice to ensure a seamless transition for my coworkers, and I will be delighted to join the team here after that.”

  1. Are you willing to move?

While this may appear to be a straightforward yes-or-no question, it is frequently a little more difficult. The most straightforward case is one in which you are completely open to moving and would be prepared to do so for this chance. If the response is negative, or at least not for now, you may repeat your excitement for the employment, explain briefly why you are unable to relocate, and propose an option, such as working remotely or from a local office. It’s not always as clear-cut, and that’s fine. You can explain you prefer to stay put for xyz reasons, but would consider migrating if the appropriate opportunity presented itself.

Possible answer to “Are you willing to move?”

“I enjoy living in Raleigh and would wish to stay.” However, given the perfect opportunity, I would be happy to relocate if required.”

  1. How many tennis balls can a limousine hold?

Seriously, you could get asked questions like this, especially if you work in a quantitative field. But keep in mind that the interviewer isn’t looking for an exact figure; they want to ensure that you comprehend what’s being asked of you and that you can react in a methodical and logical manner. So take a big breath and start doing the math. (Yes, it is acceptable to request a pen and paper!)

  1. Which animal would you like to be if you could be any animal?

These appear to be random personality-test type questions that come up in interviews because hiring managers want to evaluate how you think on your feet. There are no incorrect answers here, but you’ll get extra points if your response allows you to convey your talents or personality or connect with the hiring manager. Pro tip: Create a delaying strategy to buy yourself some time to consider, such as stating, “Now, that is a terrific question.” I believe I would have to say…”

  1. Please sell me this pen.

If you’re applying for a sales position, your interviewer may put you on the spot to sell them a pen on the table, a legal pad, a water bottle, or anything else. The major reason they’re testing you? What you do in a high-pressure circumstance. So, try to remain cool and confident, and use your body language—making eye contact, sitting up straight, and so on—to demonstrate that you can manage this. Listen carefully, understand your “customer’s” demands, be explicit about the item’s characteristics and advantages, and finish strong—as if you were genuinely making a transaction.

  1. Is there anything else we should know?

Your interviewer asks you this open-ended question just when you thought you were done. Don’t be alarmed—it’s not a trick question! You may take this as an opportunity to end the conference on a positive note in one of two ways, according to Zhang. First and foremost, if you haven’t already said something important, do it now. Otherwise, you can provide a brief summary of your qualifications. “I believe we’ve covered most of it, but just to conclude, it seems like you’re looking for someone who can really hit the ground running,” Zhang suggests. And given my past experience [list it here], I believe I’d be a good fit.”

  1. Have you got any queries for us?

You’re undoubtedly aware that an interview is more than just a chance for a hiring manager to grill you—also it’s a chance for you to determine whether a position is a good fit for you. What information do you need about the job? What about the company? The division? The group? You’ll go over a lot of this in the interview, so prepare a few less-common questions. We particularly enjoy questions aimed towards the interviewer (“What is your favorite part about working here?”) or the company’s expansion (“What can you tell me about your new products or plans for growth?”). If you’re interviewing for a remote position, there are certain special questions you should ask.