1.Tell me about yourself…

A popular starting question, used partly to learn more about you, but largely to put you on the spot and watch how you react.

They've given you ultimate power over this situation, and you should make the most of it. They have not, however, inquired about your personal history.

Keep your response on topic and don't stray too far from it. You've come to interview for a certain role, and you should remember that. Keep in mind that the interviewer isn't merely chit-chatting.

Correct answer: It should last approximately two or three minutes and cover your schooling, interest in the topic, work history, and experience succinctly.

Incorrect answer:'Well, where do I begin?' is the incorrect response. I was born in the year...

2.What are your weaknesses…?

The first step in answering this question is admitting that you do have any (being a perfectionist does not count).

Everyone has flaws or areas in their lives where they can improve. And, in the long run, being honest with yourself here will save you a lot of time.

The best responses to this question focus on one of your flaws and provide concrete instances of how you're working to overcome it. This is a nice example of this style of response:

'I used to find it difficult to work on multiple projects at the same time, preferring to complete one task before moving on to the next.' However, since recently completing a time management course, I've learned how to better organise my schedule, making it easier to multitask when needed.'

Correct answer: Weakness + how you've addressed/are addressing it = (eventually) strength

Incorrect answer: 'Kryptonite'.

3.Why should you be considered for this position?

This is clearly intended to elicit a personal sales presentation.

Because there will very certainly be other contenders for the job, this is your chance to show why you want the job and why you would be a good match for the firm.

In essence, the organisation is employing for a specific reason (a brief summary of which can usually be found in the job description). You must establish yourself as the right person for the job.

Correct answer: ‘From what we’ve discussed so far, you’re looking to X (or, ‘having a problem with X’). In the past I have demonstrated X, Y and Z (experience and your main strengths), which have really helped my previous employer’.

Incorrect answer: ‘I just really need the money’.

4.How much do you expect to be paid?

Always keep this question in the back of your mind while you finish your interview preparations.

Take a look at the average income for someone in this business, in this location, and with similar talents to yourself to get a general notion.

However, keep in mind that this is simply the first interview. The job has not been offered to you. There's no point in trying to start negotiations at this point. Providing a broad pay range will usually suffice, but be prepared to back it up if necessary.

Correct answer: A broad (but realistic) answer e.g. ‘I‘m looking for a starting salary somewhere between £20,000 and £26,000’.

Incorrect answer: ‘I’m not sure. How much are you on?’.

5.In five years, where do you see yourself?

The ever-popular job interview question.

What the interviewer really wants to see is that you've given some thought to your future plans and that you've assessed your ambition. They also want to make sure this isn't merely a stopgap role.

Although you should personalise all of your responses to the organisation and position you've applied for, this is especially true for this question. Explain how you'd like your career to advance (e.g., 'I'd like to progress to a Senior Software Engineer' or 'I see myself as a team leader...') if you're applying for an entry-level employment.

Explain how you'd like to propel the organisation ahead if you're applying for a more senior job. Take a look at their corporate aims or business strategy.

Correct answer: Be passionate about the industry. Fit your career goals around the organisation’s objectives, demonstrate ambition and exploit your strengths.

Incorrect answer: ‘On the other side of this desk’

6.Do you have any questions?

Right answer: ‘Yes’. No exceptions.

Wrong answer: ‘No’