Are you Prepared for the 3 Most Important Interview Questions?

A recent article in leading US business magazine Forbes put forward the theory that there are only three true job interview questions. They spoke with executive recruiters who broadly agreed that the only questions are:

  • Can you do the job?
  • Will you like the job?
  • Can we work with you?

Every question you’ve ever been asked at an interview, however phrased, is a way of qualifying those three topics – namely Strengths, Motivation and Fit.

Armed with that knowledge, think about those three the next time you prepare for an interview. Are your answers going to help you? Have you got examples that underline your relevance in those areas?

If not it may help to start thinking about each one in isolation:

Strengths

Your CV can only go so far in describing your strengths and weaknesses so the rest is down to you at interview. Make sure you have specific examples of when you have performed a similar role and don’t be scared to say if something hasn’t worked so well, as long as you can show that you’ve learned from it. If you’re looking to make a step up then the interviewer will know this so concentrate on examples that show you are ready for that challenge.

Motivation

This is always a difficult one for the interviewer as most interviewees will come across as motivated…they want to get the job! If you want to show that there is substance in your motivation then you need clear examples to back up your answers.

For a start you need to know what really motivates you. Then you can show how that can be matched by the company and the role. You will be asked questions like ‘what makes you get up in the morning?’ or ‘how do we know that you will stay with us?’ and need to be ready for them. Show that you work hard because you enjoy your environment and the challenges that the role can bring.

Fit

At the senior level, something like 40% of the hires that don’t work out are usually down to cultural fit. Sometimes you won’t know a lot about the culture of the company interviewing you so it is important to ask questions during the interview that will give you some idea. Before your interview, make sure you search online for any mentions of the company. A great way to do this is to Google ‘I used to work at…’ and see what you get back.

Ensure that all the examples you have demonstrate your flexibility and the ability to adapt to any culture.

Remember, the company is hiring for a reason, so treat the interview as an opportunity to show that you can solve whatever issues they have. Show that you have the strengths to do the job, you are motivated by working for that organisation and there is a fit between your preferences and the organisation’s culture and values.

 

by
on
20/02/2012
article categories: Job Interviews
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  • Williams Abode

    At several interviews I have been asked what was my worst weakness.  I truthfully state that I get fixated on the task in hand to the exclusion of all else.  This has usually been seen as being ‘focused’ and a desirable quality. Of course, this is not a good answer if the job involves ‘high speed’ multi-tasking.
    It does pay to be honest at interview as the company cannot complain later about failings that were highlighted at interview – just try not to make the weakness too damaging to your chances of a job.

  • Ann

    To combat nerves at an interview, I try to remember the advice given on the radio by a producer talking about recruiting actors for a part i.e. not to be scared, as the interviewers are definitely on the side of those coming to the audition, willing them to do well since they are, after all, the answer to their search.

  • Sallyannsimpson12

    With Strengths, and citing examples, I have noticed that when trying to describe a situation you can end up giving too much detail and lose the interviewers interest–condensing matters can start to seem superficial and general, on the other hand.