Research Common Interview Questions for Your Role
Most interviews for any given role ask a predictable set of questions. Knowing what those questions are and preparing genuine, specific answers in advance is one of the most high-leverage things you can do for your job search. Candidates who prepare consistently outperform those who wing it.
Most interviews for any given role ask a predictable set of questions. Knowing what those questions are and preparing genuine, specific answers in advance is one of the most high-leverage things you can do for your job search. Candidates who prepare consistently outperform those who wing it.
Step by Step
Search for common interview questions for your target role Search "[your job title] interview questions" on Google. Look at results from Glassdoor, Indeed, and LinkedIn. Write down the 10 questions that come up most often.
Add these universal questions to your list These come up in almost every interview regardless of role:
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in this role and company?
What is your greatest strength?
What is your greatest weakness?
Tell me about a time you faced a challenge at work and how you handled it.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Why are you leaving your current role? (or why were you laid off?)
What are your salary expectations?
Do you have any questions for us?
Write a brief answer plan for each question You do not need to script every word. Just note the key points you want to hit and the specific example you will use for behavioral questions.
Tips for success
For behavioral questions use the STAR format: Situation, Task, Action, Result. This keeps your answers structured and specific.
Prepare a clear, honest, and positive answer for "why were you laid off." Layoffs are extremely common and most interviewers understand. A simple, matter-of-fact answer is far better than a lengthy or emotional one.
Practice saying your answers out loud. Reading them and saying them feel very different.