How to Answer 6 Common Interview Questions

For most of 2021, the job market has continued to grow. Due to the sudden shutdown within the job market and beyond in 2020, both employees and employers have been forced to adapt to new technologies and ways of doing business. But that hasn’t been much of a deterrent, because in 2021 both wages and new jobs rose.

If you find yourself in the “searching for employment” category, you will want to ensure that you are taking the steps to be ready for the interview questions, but how do you prepare? Inevitably, the interviewer will ask you questions about yourself, your experience, what you can contribute to their company, and more. Here is a breakdown of six classic interview questions that you can expect to discuss within any job interview.

Tell Me About yourself.

The classic interview question, the one everyone expects and prepares for. However, there are ways to ace this question, even if it seems simple. Don’t mention too many things that are unimportant to the position and stick to a concise and clear pitch that shows why you’re the right fit for the job. Maybe mention your current position and give some background on how your experience is relevant for the new role.

Why do you want to work for this company?

Companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job and have done their research, so come prepared with an answer about why you want the position. Start by identifying key factors that make you a great fit for the role, and what you like about the company. Research the company culture, benefits, and other talking points to show you have spent time considering this role and how you would contribute to the company.

What is your work style?

When an interviewer asks about your work style, they are probably trying to get an insight into how you would fit into the role they are hiring for. The question is broad, which gives you lots of opportunity and flexibility. How do you approach your work? How do you work as a team? How do you communicate and collaborate? These are all beneficial questions to ask yourself that can help an interviewer envision you working for the company.

What are your greatest strengths?

This question is almost guaranteed to be asked. With this interview question, the interviewer is opening the floor for you to talk about the things that make you great, and why they would make you a prime candidate for the role. However, think about the quality of the strengths (and which would suit the role) rather than the quantity. Don’t just list adjectives, pick one or two quality strengths you possess and illustrate them with specific examples and how they impact your work.

What are your greatest weaknesses?

While this may be a dreaded interview question, you should embrace it as a great opportunity to showcase your self-awareness and honesty. Find a way to balance your weaknesses and struggles with something you are working on to improve these things. Turning a weakness into a strength can also show how you overcome the areas where you might be struggling in order to bring something positive from it.

What are you looking for in a new position?

When this interview question is asked, it can be intimidating as the most basic answer is whatever the job has to offer. Ideally, you are looking for the same things the position has to offer but be specific on how exactly this position has the qualities you are looking for in a new job. Knowing what you are looking for upfront can help employers know what you are expecting, as well as ensure that you feel confident that the position has what you’re looking for if you receive a job offer.

Work for Big Marlin Group

Here at Big Marlin Group, we don’t just offer great interview advice - we are also currently hiring! These questions, and others, are things you can expect to be asked in your interview. As a work hard, play hard company, Big Marlin Group thrives off passionate work and personal growth. If this sounds like something that interests you, check out the positions we are currently seeking, and apply now.