Status: 15.10.2023, 16:12 PM
By: Laura Knops
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Don't be afraid of the interview: If you are well prepared, you can only win. How to skillfully answer the most frequently asked questions.
While a cover letter and CV inform a potential employer about an applicant's professional qualifications, it is only the personal interview that decides on a future cooperation. Once the first hurdle in the application process has been overcome, it is now time to convince the recruiter in the interview. Applicants should therefore think about answers to typical questions in advance so as not to be taken by surprise. Here you can find out what the most common questions are and how to prepare for them.
Typical interview questions: 1. "Tell us something about yourself"
During the interview, applicants should be authentic. HR managers quickly notice what is real and what is fake. © Pond5/Imago
Recruiters often use this question to introduce the job interview. In this way, the candidate should not only lose his nervousness, but is also invited to explain the most important cornerstones of his professional career so far. Here, applicants can show off their charm and score points with their qualifications. The answer to this classic question also lays the foundation for a successful conversation. In addition to their way of working and important experience, applicants should therefore also include their private side.
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2. Classic question in the job interview: What are your strengths and weaknesses?
The absolute classic among the questions in the job interview is the one about your strengths and weaknesses. What scares many applicants is actually quite simple. Because, of course, you should only choose such a weakness, which can also be interpreted as a strength. It is also important to make it clear to the recruiter that no matter what feature you don't like about it, you are actively working to improve it. Stay honest and authentic, because your counterpart will quickly determine whether you really own a characteristic or just pretend to do so.
3. Question: Why do you want to work for this company?
Not only the job advertisement, but also media reports, social networks and the company's website provide information about the points that speak in favor of a company. Explain why you see yourself at the company, what your career goals are, and how you envision a long-term collaboration. Here you can find out how you can convince in the job interview and sell yourself optimally.
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4. Question: Where will you be in five years?
Asking about candidates' ambitions and future plans is one of the standard interview questions. Applicants should focus on the position they are applying for. While it's desirable for candidates to be open to development, it's not just about moving up the career ladder. Specialization within a subject area should also be strived for.
5. Question: Why should the company choose you?
This question is also aimed at clearly formulating one's own strengths. It is best to refer directly to the requirements of the job advertisement. Concrete examples and facts about the desired skills and experience help the HR manager to draw parallels. The more credibly you argue, the more success you will have.