Nailing a job interview is all about preparation. When you walk into an interview with a deep understanding of the company and role, a clear sense of your top three strengths, and a collection of stories from your past experiences that highlight your skills, you’ll stand out from the competition. Being ready to answer common interview questions confidently is also crucial.

Here are 10 common interview questions you should be prepared to answer, along with tips and sample responses to help you shine.

1. What Can You Offer That Other Candidates Can’t?

Tip: Focus on your unique strengths.
Answer: Highlight specific skills and experiences that make you uniquely qualified for the role, emphasising how these strengths align with the job requirements.

2. Are You Applying For Other Jobs?

Tip: Be honest – most people apply to multiple positions.
Answer: Briefly mention if you are applying elsewhere, but make sure to express your strong interest in this specific role and company.

3. What Three Words Would Your Boss Use to Describe You?

Tip: Highlight your strengths.
Answer: Choose three positive words that reflect your strengths and provide examples that support each one.

4. Describe a Complex Problem You Solved at Work. What Was Your Approach?

Tip: Any relevant story will work.
Answer: Share an example where you systematically broke down the problem, involved others as needed, and followed through to a successful resolution.

5. Give an Example of a Time You Had to Think on Your Feet. How’d It Go?

Tip: Show adaptability and decisiveness.
Answer: Select an instance where you remained calm under pressure and made a quick, effective decision.

6. Share a Time You Saw a Problem and Took the Initiative to Correct It. What Made You Act?

Tip: Demonstrate your proactive nature.
Answer: Describe a situation where you identified a problem and took proactive steps to solve it, showcasing your initiative and problem-solving skills.

7. Describe a Time You Had to Make a Hard Ethical Decision.

Tip: Use a real or hypothetical example.
Answer: Share a story where you faced an ethical dilemma and explain how you chose the right course of action, emphasising your integrity.

8. What Have You Done in the Last Year to Learn?

Tip: Show your commitment to growth.
Answer: Discuss books you’ve read, workshops you’ve attended, or any other learning activities demonstrating your dedication to professional development.

9. How Do You Feel About Work-Life Balance?

Tip: Balance advocacy for balance with dedication.
Answer: Describe your interests and activities outside of work, while also emphasising your commitment to your professional responsibilities.

10. How Did You Hear About This Position?

Tip: Mention referrals or recruitment if applicable.
Answer: Explain how you found out about the job and why you were excited about the opportunity.

Excelling in an interview goes beyond having prepared answers; it’s about using each question to demonstrate why you’re the best fit for the job. Tailor your responses to align with the job description and the company’s values. Practice your answers to ensure they sound natural and genuine. With thorough preparation and thoughtful responses, you’ll be well on your way to acing any job interview.