There’s lots of preparation that can be done before an interview, through not only researching the company, but by preparing for the questions they’re most likely going to ask you.
You may not physically be able to know every question that may arise, but there’s a lot of traditional interview questions which most employers tend to ask and preparing for them will be sure to give you some advantage.
So, from our experience, here are the top industry questions you’re most likely to be asked, with our advice on how you should answer them.
A question so simple which can easily catch you out. Being sat in that very seat suggests there’s a reason that you’re there and they want to know why. This is where you should discuss the research you’ve conducted in regards to the role, company and industry. Discuss the appealing opportunities you can see in a future with them, such as progression, training and experience.
Tip – If you're newer to the industry, you may also want to prepare for any technical questions by refreshing your memory of the technicalities associated to showcase your understanding of the role.
This is a test to see how they match up compared to your dream role by seeing if it’s in any way in line with their offering. The more research you do the better. Relate to how the company operates, with what you want to do. Make sure everything you say, positively reflects on the company. Mentioning benefits or opportunities the company does not offer is not the way to do this.
This isn’t when you state you wanted to be a Hollywood Actress when you're interviewing for a Software Engineer. This is when you discuss your earliest interests in the industry. The answers to this question can show alarm bells to an employer if you show a lack of commitment to the position. Showcase how you’re passionate about the role, what inspired you to take that path and what you’ve done to get there. Employers want to show how you’d be committed to a long-term position. Use this as a chance to talk about how the role suits your personal qualities, interests, and values.
This is a great opportunity to discuss the traits you’ve idealised from previous management and how you’ve gone on to learn and utilise those skills yourself, especially when going for a management position.
Tip– Never speak badly of a previous employer or superior. Not only does this not look very professional, but it also makes it seem as though this is the only reason you’re there and can make them question your ability to hold a professional relationship.
This another test to see if the role you’re about to take on meets your future ambitions. Make sure you discuss it in a way that always relates to the role on offer. For example, does the role harbour your current skillset and present the opportunity to progress? It can also be a test to see whether you meet their ambitions and plans, so this is when your research and knowledge of the business will again come in handy.
This is a good opportunity to discuss your approach to leadership and management and how you generally apply this in a team environment. The best way to do this is by providing an example of a time you excelled. If they give you a scenario, it's a test to see what methods you’d apply in a real-life situation. Have a strong focus on benefits, team spirit and recognition of good work and express the understanding of different work patterns. Not everyone works in the same way, so discuss how these methods of encouragement need to be adapted to different personality types.
This is when you should know what the best fit for the role is. What skills, experience, and traits do they want that person to have. Everything you’ve done in the past should be reverted to why that makes you exactly the perfect person for the job.
Tip – For questions like this, make sure you have read the job description. Pay close attention the day to day tasks to be expected and the core skills they desire.
What would do if it was your fault a project fell behind schedule?
Tell us about your proudest achievement.
Tell us about a time you managed a project successfully.
Give us an example of a time a project that didn’t go as planned.
What problems do you think this company faces?
How do you deal with strict deadlines, and what do you do if there's less time to be attentive?
How do you cope with administrative tasks which are less practical such as, reports and general paperwork?
You are designing a software system for one of the Jaguars. Who is your customer?
Tip – Make sure you know what’s going on in the industry and be aware of the issues they may currently be facing or could face in the future.
Use this time to show your enthusiasm for the role by wanting to find out more. But be cautious, this isn’t the time to show how you have been lazy preparing for the interview. Make sure you only ask questions which you couldn’t find the answer to yourself. A good question to ask would be, could you tell me more about the training I'll receive, or what progression opportunities do you have?
Although interviews may be daunting, see them as an opportunity to really sell yourself and do so with examples. You’ll find it’s much easier to talk about yourself through previous scenarios. Research the company, do as much preparation as you can and make it clear the commitment you have to the role. And most importantly, be yourself! The interview isn’t just a chance to go over the formalities, it’s also for them to see if you’d fit well within the team and meet their cultural requirements. And if you do find yourself unsuccessful, remember, it’s another experience to learn and develop, which puts you one step closer to finding the perfect opportunity.
If you need any further support, feel free to contact Rikin Suchak directly on 0115 786 0443 or email opportunities@source-talent.co.uk.
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