You should be familiar with the context before you answer any interview questions. Employers frequently ask questions to find out about your personality, attitude and work ethic. Wise Careers has created the following infographic to explain the meaning of some of the most frequently asked interview questions. While you should treat this infographic with caution, it will give you an idea about what to expect during your next job application.
Interview questions should be avoided
Interview questions that raise red flags are those asking about commitment. These questions are commonly used by candidates who are only interested in making money and not really interested in the job. They might even boast about other offers and use them as leverage. As you don’t know if they will remain, it is not a good idea to hire such candidates.
Ghost applicant hiring managers and recruiters are an indication of their inability to communicate effectively and lack transparency. They might ask inappropriate questions of you or make inappropriate remarks. These comments are likely to cause you to be unprofessional and disrespectful if your interviewer has trained you to do so.
Common brain teaser question
These questions are intended to assess the ability of interview candidates to think clearly and respond to pressure. While some of the questions may seem obvious, employers seek candidates who can quickly review information to find a solution. These types of questions should be asked at an entry level interview for positions that require problem-solving skills and analytical skills. They are most commonly used in IT and management consulting positions. However, they can also serve as a tool for other types of jobs such as marketing or human resources.
Brain teaser questions are based on the same logic, although the questions might be slightly different. Common brain teaser topics include riddles or 'how many?' questions as well as numeracy questions.
Questions about common strengths or weaknesses
Answering common interview questions about strengths and weaknesses should be relevant to the job description. This will make you sound honest and not incompetent. These questions are designed to assess your attitude and skills in relation to the job you are applying for. Most employees who are successful in their job are willing to work on their weaknesses and learn new skills.
Keep in mind that interviewers will be trying to get to to know you. Therefore, it is important to answer questions honestly and confidently. It's best to be specific about one or more of your strengths when answering these questions. Quality over quantity is important. Instead of focusing on your strengths, show how they will be most useful for the job.
How to answer interview questions honestly
You must be open with your potential employer if you are going to get a job. Interviews can ask you questions about your hobbies, weaknesses, or strengths. The interviewer wants to know if you are capable of handling stress and taking on new tasks. It's important not to lie, but to reflect on the company culture.
Ideally, your answers to these questions should be centered around your strengths. First, you should highlight your best qualities and then explain how they are relevant for the position. Be realistic, however. Other candidates may do the exact same thing.