Questions you may be asked at a job interview

Choose the best answer for each question:

1. Why are you interested in this job?
Because I need the money.
I was told to apply for it.
I have thought a lot about what the job involves, and I am sure it will suit me and I will enjoy it.

2. Tell me what bits of the work appeal to you most?
I like the short hours.
I have been interested in e.g. retail, for a long time and am keen to train and work in this area.
My friend said it's the perfect job for me.

3. What makes you think you are suitable for this job?
I have most of the skills you are looking for and I am keen to learn and develop the others.
I live just down the road.
You can always rely on me to turn up.

4. What work experience did you do?
It was rubbish - I just ended up answering the phone all day.
I did [say what you did for your work experience placement] and learned that it was/was not the best kind of work for me.
I did not manage to get a placement as no employer would give me a chance.

5. What do you think are the most important things needed to be a good team member?
Working closely with others to achieve what the company wants.
Having a good social life outside work.
Always being seen to be the best!

6. Can you give me an example of how you have worked in a team?
I can't think of any right now.
I was good at PE at school.
I was part of the [football, orienteering, etc.] team in school.

7. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
I am rubbish at time keeping.
I tend to take my time over things to get them right.
I can stay up all night without feeling tired.

8. If you were asked to do several things at once how would you deal with this?
I would just start at the top and work through the whole list.
I would ask my supervisor to help me identify the most important ones to do first.
Probably panic!

9. What has been your biggest achievement?
I was involved in a community project with my school, and we helped to e.g. set up a new play area for local kids.
I have talked my mum into me having a new huge wide screen TV.
I can eat 10 bags of crisps in 2 minutes!

10. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to chill out with friends mainly watching TV.
I am interested in music/getting my band started/sport and spend lots of time doing this.
I don't think there is much to do around here - we just all hang out in town most nights.

11. What do you know about our company?
Sorry didn't have time to find out anything.
Not a lot, but I think you might make...
I asked my mum/dad/friends etc. about you and they say you are a good company to work for because you... [say something positive you have found out about the company]

12. Would you like to ask us any questions now?
No.
Don't think so.
Will I have a supervisor to ask for help when I need it?

13. What do you see yourself doing in two years time?
Running a company like this one.
Sitting on a beach having won the lottery.
Hopefully being trained in this job and perhaps taking on more responsibilities.