Interviews can be nerve-wracking. Sweaty palms, a racing mind, and the dreaded silence after a tough question can leave even the most prepared candidate flustered. But here’s the good news: most interviewers rely on a set of familiar questions and with preparation, you can answer them with clarity and confidence.
This guide takes you through 10 of the most common interview questions, explains what employers are really looking for, and provides practical strategies to craft answers that make you stand out.
- Tell Me About Yourself
This classic opener sets the tone for the whole interview. Employers want a concise summary of your career journey, not your life story.
How to Answer:
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- Start with a snapshot of your professional background.
- Highlight key achievements and skills that relate directly to the role.
- End with why you’re excited about this opportunity.
Example: “I’ve spent the last three years in marketing, focusing on digital campaigns that increased brand reach and sales. What excites me about this role is the chance to use that experience in a fast-growing company where I can contribute fresh ideas.”
- Why Do You Want to Work Here?
Interviewers are looking for motivation, alignment, and enthusiasm.
How to Answer:
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- Research the company’s mission, values, and projects.
- Link their goals to your own aspirations, if they do.
- Show genuine enthusiasm, not a generic answer.
Example: “I admire the company’s commitment to sustainability and would love to contribute my project management skills to help expand these initiatives.”
- Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?
This question checks whether you’re ambitious yet realistic.
How to Answer:
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- Outline achievable goals that show growth.
- Connect your goals with the company’s direction.
- Be specific, avoid vague answers like “I just want to be successful.”
Example: “In five years, I see myself taking on a team leadership role, building on my technical expertise, and helping shape projects that drive innovation.”
- What Are Your Greatest Strengths?
Your chance to show why you’re a strong fit.
How to Answer:
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- Choose 2-3 strengths that align with the role.
- Back them up with examples and results.
- Be authentic, don’t just say what you think they want to hear.
Example: “One of my strengths is adaptability. In my previous role, I quickly learned new systems when the company transitioned software, which helped keep projects on track.”
- What Is Your Greatest Weakness?
A tricky one, interviewers want honesty and self-awareness.
How to Answer:
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- Pick a real weakness (not a disguised strength).
- Explain how you’re actively working to improve it.
- Show growth and accountability.
Example: “I used to struggle with delegating tasks, but I’ve been focusing on developing trust within my team and using project management tools to track progress.”
- How Do You Handle Stress and Pressure?
Employers want to see resilience and problem-solving skills.
How to Answer:
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- Share a specific example of a stressful situation.
- Explain the techniques you used (prioritisation, time management, communication).
- Emphasise the positive outcome.
Example: “During a tight deadline, I broke the project into manageable steps, delegated effectively, and we delivered ahead of schedule.”
- Why Should We Hire You?
This is your sales pitch.
How to Answer:
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- Summarise your top skills and experiences.
- Highlight what sets you apart.
- Link your strengths directly to the company’s needs.
Example: “You should hire me because I bring five years of proven sales growth, a strong network in the industry, and a passion for building lasting client relationships.”
- Describe a Challenge You’ve Faced and How You Overcame It
Tests your problem-solving and resilience.
How to Answer:
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- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
- Focus more on the actions and results than the problem.
- Highlight lessons learned.
Example: “When our supplier missed a shipment, I negotiated a temporary deal with a local provider. These kept operations running smoothly and strengthened our supply chain.”
- What Is Your Expected Salary?
A delicate balancing act between being realistic and flexible.
How to Answer:
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- Research salary ranges in advance.
- Provide a range rather than a single number.
- Express flexibility and openness to the overall package.
Example: “Based on my research and experience, I’d expect something in the range of £35,000 – £40,000, but I’d be happy to discuss the full package.”
- Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
A chance to demonstrate curiosity and engagement.
How to Answer:
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- Prepare thoughtful questions about culture, growth, or team dynamics.
- Avoid focusing on pay or benefits at the first stage.
👉 Example:
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- “How do you measure success in this role?”
- “What opportunities are there for professional development?”
Interviews aren’t just about answering questions, they’re about showing who you are, how you think, and why you’re the right fit. With preparation and practice, you can turn tough questions into opportunities to shine.
Write out answers, practise them aloud, and refine them until they feel natural, not rehearsed.
Your next interview is an opportunity, not an interrogation. With the right preparation, you’ll walk in confident and walk out with the edge.
