How to answer the most common job interview questions

 How to answer job interview questions. (Photo/Courtesy)

In Kenya, hundreds of people move from one place to another, seeking jobs, especially fresh graduates. They apply for jobs and are called for interviews after few weeks. How you present yourself and answer the questions will determine if you will get the job or get dismissed right away. The following are some of the top common questions asked during interviews.

1. Tell us about yourself

This is usually a common but very tricky statement. Don’t tell your interviewer where or when you were born. They do not care since such information is included in your CV. Instead, tell the interviewer two or three accomplishments that will make you fit for the job. Most people fail in this crucial part.

2. Why did you leave your previous job?

If you had been previously employed, the new employer would want to know why you are leaving the job. Is it the salary or the environment? Be careful when answering this question. Do not dwell too much on the salary bit as this might put off your potential employer. Talk about looking to grow your career or expanding your knowledge and state how getting that job will help you grow.

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3. Why should we hire you?

The employer wants to know if you have what it takes to do the job. Are you competent enough? Do you have the right skills? Those are some of the qualities the employer wants to know. Reading the contents of the job requirements or the skills they are looking for will help in answering this question.

4. Why would you want to work with us?

The interviewer probably wants to know if you have an idea of what the company is all about and how you are going to help them. The interviewer should see/ hear a passionate person. Most people get employed not because they have the skills but because they are driven and passionate to do the work they are assigned.

5. What are your strengths?

What are the things you are good at? The employer might even decide to give you a way better job than you expected. So clearly define your strengths and talk of how they will add value to the company.

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6. What are your weaknesses?

What are some of the things that you have a hard time doing right? However, be sure to tell the new employer that you can do whatever it takes to work on them.

7. What is your salary expectation?

This is usually a very crucial question. When answering this question, you have to consider several things. What kind of work are you going to do or the amount of work? What was your previous salary? What are the benefits you will bring to the company? Do not ask for a huge amount of money that will scare off the employer, and neither should you ask for a pay that is way below you. Be moderate.