Wouldn’t it be nice if employers sent you copies of the questions they plan to ask you during an interview? That would certainly make preparation much easier, but no such thing will ever happen, so it’s up to you to prepare yourself for questions you will likely be asked.
Here are seven questions that you could be asked in your next interview and some advice on how to answer them.
1. Tell Me About Yourself
This question seems like a softball, but there are lots of ways to whiff the answer. Make sure you limit yourself to talking about your career and try to keep it as concise as possible. Go from your start in the industry to your path to where you are today to your next goal.
2. Why Do You Want To Work For This Company?
This is a simple test to uncover whether you’ve researched the company before applying. Make sure to talk about why you want to join the organization and the value you will bring to the table when hired.
3. Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?
Be honest, but don’t be negative. Do not speak poorly about past employers or bosses. Instead, focus on the ways this new company is better aligned with what you are looking for.
4. What is Your Greatest Strength?Biggest Weakness?
Technically these are two questions, but they tend to go hand in hand. When it comes to strengths, focus on skills listed in the job description and make sure they are indeed some of your strengths. As far as weaknesses, avoid clichés like, “I am a perfectionist.” Focus on a real weakness but one that doesn’t relate directly to the job. Acknowledge it and talk about the ways you’re working to overcome it.
5. Have You Ever Had A Conflict With A Coworker? What Was the Outcome?
Do not be tempted to fib and pretend you’ve never had a conflict. Everyone has had at least one conflict with a coworker throughout their career. To answer this question effectively, talk about the way you handled that conflict. Describe an experience that ended on a positive note and show how you helped end the conflict and work toward a resolution.
6. Why Do You Like Working In[Your Specialty]?
Hiring managers are looking for people who have a true passion for what they do. Realistically, not every day will be fun or exciting, which is why true passion matters. When asked this question, don’t be afraid to show real enthusiasm for what you do.
7. Do You Have Any Questions For Me?
Go beyond the standard questions about salary, time off and typical days on the job. Make yourself stand out by asking thoughtful questions about the nature of the job to show you are a serious candidate who has really thought about working for this particular company.
Find Your Next Engineering Job Today
If you are an engineer seeking new opportunities to grow your career and you’re ready to work with a professional recruiter, the engineering recruiting experts at Selectek can help. Not only can we match you with opportunities that align with your skills and goals, but we can also help you prepare for interviews so you always put your best foot forward. Contact us today to learn more.