Best Answers to 21 Common Job Interview Questions (with examples)

So, you've landed a job interview for your dream job. Congratulations! 

Out of a sea of resumes, your skills and experience stood out. It earned you the chance to step into the interview room of your dream job. But as the interview date approaches, is the initial excitement turning into nervousness?

Rest assured, you're not alone. The truth is, even the most seasoned professionals feel those pre-interview jitters.

The best way to tackle this anxiety is through preparation. That's where we come in. In this article, we'll explore the 21 Common Interview Questions. We’ll also help you with sample answers. 

This article is designed to help you get ready for your next job interview, boost your confidence, and leave a lasting impression on your potential employer. As Arthur Ashe once wisely noted, "One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation."

• Types of interview questions
• How to answer job interview questions
• Common job interview questions and answers
• Behavioural interview questions
• Interview questions about your qualifications and motivation
• Job interview questions about personal traits and preferences
• How to handle difficult questions
• Questions to Ask the Interviewer
• Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid in Your Next Job Interview
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Types of interview questions

Behavioural questions or situational questions

Behavioural interview questions are also called situational interview questions. They help the interviewer gauge your skills in solving problems and making decisions. Your answers will help them understand how you deal with challenges at work. They will aid the employer in getting a sense of how you'll perform in their company if they hire you.

Common behavioural questions relate to communication, time management, teamwork, client-facing, and leadership skills.

Technical questions

Technical interview questions relate to jobs in the tech industry. It covers specialist roles in IT, engineering, and science. The questions help the employer determine if you have the hard skills necessary for the job. The questions may involve digital skills and software competency. Your answers will give the interviewer an idea of your technical expertise. They should show your ability to handle and solve technical problems.

Traditional questions

Traditional questions let you give an overview of yourself. They cover aspects such as educational background, work experience, career path and goals, strengths and weaknesses, and special interests. Through this Q&A, you can establish a rapport with your interviewer and vice versa. These questions are applicable to all kinds of roles across various industries, so you'll often encounter them in the first part of the interview. By being prepared to answer these questions confidently and thoroughly, you can set the tone for the rest of the interview and make a great impression on your interviewer.

Brain teaser questions

Some interviewers like to incorporate brain teaser questions in the interview. They even tailor them to the job you're vying for or the nature of the industry. These questions include riddles and puzzles that let you prove your logic and quick-thinking ability. They also show your out-of-the-box approaches. Slow down and understand the questions so you can answer them with confidence.

Inappropriate/illegal questions

During the hiring process, it's not uncommon for job seekers to come across inappropriate questions unrelated to the role they are applying for. While there may not be specific laws in Malaysia that address workplace discrimination, Article 8 of the Federal Constitution protects citizens against discrimination based on various factors such as religion, race, descent, place of birth, and gender.

No jobseeker should face discrimination during the hiring process, especially regarding their marital status, family plans, or permanent disability. If you encounter any such questions during an interview, it's perfectly acceptable to politely decline to answer or ask about the relevance of the question to the role. However, if you repeatedly face discriminatory questions or practices, it may be worth re-evaluating your decision to apply for the position altogether.

How to answer job interview questions

Answering job interview questions can be intimidating for both first-time and experienced job seekers. The strategies below increase your chances of providing the best answers.

STAR Method

Behavioural or situational interview questions are best answered through the STAR method. It follows a simple format that allows you to tell a story about how you handled specific situations or challenges at work. Remembering and practising this formula will help you give clear, direct answers and create a good impression of your communication skills.

Situation : Share a clear scenario as an example.

Task : Describe the duties and responsibilities you took on in that situation.

Action : Mention and explain the steps you took to address the problem.

Result : Highlight the outcomes of your actions or solutions.

CAR Method

A simplified variation of the STAR method, the Context, Action, Result (CAR) method combines “Situation” and “Task” into “Context”. It's also an effective way to answer behavioural interview questions, especially when you need to support your claims about any skill or competency.

Context : Describe a situation demonstrating the skill, knowledge, or competency the interviewer asks about. Make sure it's relevant to the question!

Action : Share the specific steps you took and explain why you thought they were the best and most effective for the situation.

Result : Mention and emphasise the result of your actions. Provide specific details. Include statistics or feedback from your supervisor or manager.

Addressing weaknesses and strengths

It's important to focus on your strengths during the job application process. But you must also be ready to talk about your weaknesses and spin them into something positive or insightful.

According to organisational psychologist Nicole Lipkin in a Forbes article, “focusing solely on your strengths can potentially create an imbalance in your work performance.” She adds that your willingness to embrace your weaknesses in the interest of self-improvement is a strength and will be valuable to your personal and professional life.

Remember that you shouldn't exaggerate your strengths or lie about your weaknesses. Also, recall the job description; the interviewer wants to know if you have the skills, experience, and mindset the role requires.

When discussing your strengths, your answers should show why you're the best person for the role. Tell them how you can meet the demands of the job and help the company achieve their goals. Relate this to your skills and strengths.

When asked about your weaknesses, be as honest as possible. Mention your areas of improvement but also express your willingness to learn from your mistakes and acquire new skills. Refrain from citing weaknesses that compromise your fit for the role.

Demonstrating cultural fit

Every company, team, or workplace has its own culture. While employers can upskill employees, there's not much they can do if employees don't fit the company culture.

Hiring managers want to know if your temperament, personality, style, and attitude align with the company. Some of the questions you will be asked are related to your core values, motivations, and the work environment you thrive in. Alternatively, more forward-looking employers will also want to know what you can add – or improve – to the current company culture.

Common interview questions

Job interviews often revolve around a set of commonly asked interview questions. These are basic interview questions, that are part of the interview process. They are designed to assess your qualifications, personality, and suitability for the position. Specific questions on the other hand may vary depending on the job and the hiring managers.

We'll break down these questions one by one, providing insights into why hiring managers ask them. In the process, we’ll offer you valuable tips on how to answer them. By the end of this article, you'll not only be familiar with these job interview questions but also equipped to respond to them effectively.

So, let's get started on your journey to interview success!

1. Tell me about yourself

Hiring managers ask this question to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the job role and the company culture. Think of it as an extension of your resumé. Beyond your qualifications and experiences listed on your resumé, they want to know who you are and what you are passionate about.

Tips to answer

Begin with a concise self-introduction that emphasises relevant strengths and achievements. Connect past experiences to the job description, showcasing your skills and enthusiasm for the role.

Example answer

"My name is Sarah, and I am a results-driven marketing professional with five years of experience in digital marketing. I am passionate about creating impactful campaigns that drive brand awareness and increase customer engagement.

In my last job, I successfully managed cross-functional teams. I implemented data-driven strategies that eventually led to a 20% increase in website traffic and a 15% boost in conversion rates. I'm known for my strong analytical skills, creativity, and ability to adapt to changing market trends. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and exploring new cuisines, which fuels my curiosity and inspires fresh ideas in my professional life."

2. Why do you want to work for us?

This question is another way of evaluating your intention to apply for the role. Hiring managers use this question to determine your level of interest and motivation. It is a way to know if you have understood the mission and goals of the current company.

Tips to answer

Start by learning about the company's mission, products, and recent successes. Next, get to know their place in the industry, values, and culture, and find what matches your professional goals and values.

Example answer

"I want to work for your company because of its impressive reputation in the industry and the innovative work you do. Your commitment to excellence aligns with my own values and aspirations. I have been following your company's success closely and have been inspired by the groundbreaking solutions and positive impact you have made.

Your collaborative and inclusive culture also appeals to me, as I believe in working in a supportive and diverse environment. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and expertise to your team, and to grow both professionally and personally within this esteemed organisation."

3. What are your strengths?

Interviewers ask this common interview question to see if your qualifications match the job requirements. This question helps them understand how well you know your own abilities and how confident you are about them. It also allows them to assess if your expertise would be an asset to the team.

Tips to answer

When preparing for this question, it's essential to review the job description carefully. Identify the key skills and qualities the prospective employer is seeking. Select strengths that closely match the job requirements to maintain a balance between confidence and humility. This is important since 76% of interviewers are likely to reject candidates who come across as arrogant. Be open to acknowledging areas for improvement and show a keenness to learn the company's processes.

Example answer

"One of my key strengths is my strong attention to detail. I have a meticulous approach to my work, which allows me to consistently deliver high-quality results. I also possess excellent problem-solving skills and thrive in challenging situations, as I am able to analyse complex issues and find innovative solutions. Furthermore, my strong communication skills enable me to effectively collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and clients. I am also highly organised and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously."

4. What are your weaknesses?

This question is frequently posed during the hiring process to evaluate your self-awareness and your capacity for improvement. It offers the hiring manager insights into how you perceive your weaknesses and the actions you've taken to address or overcome them.

Tips to answer

To address your weaknesses, choose a genuine weakness relevant to the job or the industry. Avoid mentioning flaws that are critical to the role, as this may raise concerns. Instead, identify weaknesses that have contributed to your strengths and focus on discussing the steps you have taken to address them. This approach demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

Example Answer

"One area I have been actively working on is my tendency to be overly critical of my work. While attention to detail is one of my strengths, at times, I find myself spending more time than necessary on tasks to ensure perfection. I am aware that striving for perfection can slow down progress and hinder efficiency.

To address this, I have been practising setting realistic goals and timelines, prioritising tasks effectively, and seeking feedback from colleagues to gain perspective on the quality of my work. By focusing on continuous improvement and balancing perfectionism with efficiency, I am steadily overcoming this weakness and becoming more productive and efficient in my work."

5. What are your long-term career goals?

This question is used to understand your career goals and how they align with the company's objectives. It helps the hiring manager assess your ambition, vision, and your commitment to personal growth within the organisation.

Tips to answer

When sharing your long-term career goals, focus on setting realistic objectives that are relevant to the specific position and industry. Ensure your goals align with the company's vision and emphasise your eagerness for continuous learning and professional development. This approach demonstrates your commitment to personal and organisational growth.

Example answer

"My long-term goals are to keep growing in my career and personal life. Professionally, I want to take on challenging roles, develop my skills, and make a meaningful impact in my company. I aim to become a leader in [specific field] and stay updated on industry trends through continuous learning.

Personally, I want to balance work and life, and build positive relationships with colleagues and mentors. Overall, I strive for success, fulfilment, and leaving a lasting mark in my chosen career path."

6. How do you handle feedback and criticism?

This question checks how you handle feedback and criticism. It helps the hiring manager see if you can take feedback well and are open to learning. It also lets them know if you're self-aware and can handle tough situations.

Tips to answer

When answering this question, emphasise your commitment to continuous improvement and learning from feedback. Show that you see feedback as a chance for personal growth, not as a criticism. Explain that you actively seek feedback from various sources, such as managers, peers, or customers. Additionally, provide an example of how you've effectively handled negative feedback in your last company.

Example answer

"To me, feedback and criticism are valuable opportunities for growth and improvement. When receiving feedback, I approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I actively listen to understand the perspective being shared and reflect upon it objectively.

I strive to stay calm and maintain a professional demeanour, avoiding any defensive reactions. I appreciate constructive criticism as it helps me identify areas for development. I take initiative to implement the feedback by devising an action plan and seeking guidance if needed."

Behavioural interview questions

Behavioural interview questions, also known as situational questions, assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Your responses provide insights into how you handle workplace challenges, helping the employer anticipate your performance in their company if you're hired. These questions commonly focus on communication, time management, teamwork, client interaction, and leadership skills.

7. Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge and how you handled it.

Hiring managers seek to understand your problem-solving abilities, resilience, and decision-making skills. They want to assess how you approach and overcome obstacles.

Likewise, this gives interviewers an idea of how you adapt to challenging situations.

Tips to answer

Answer this question by selecting an example that relates to the job you're applying for. Explain how you approached the challenging situation. Remember to concentrate on explaining how you resolved the problem rather than dwelling on the problem itself. Provide an explanation of the results or outcomes of your actions.

Example Answer

"Our team faced a challenge during a project due to a shortage of necessary resources, and time was running out. Recognising the need for quick action, I organised a team meeting to find solutions. We improvised with available resources, optimised our workflow, and maintained daily communication to address any issues promptly.

Through our collective efforts, we successfully completed the project on time, leaving the client satisfied. This experience underscored the significance of adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving when navigating challenging situations."

8. Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team.

This question will assess your collaboration skills, ability to communicate effectively, and your ability to be a team player. It enables the interviewer to understand how you interact with others, handle conflicts, and contribute to the success of the group.

Tips to answer

Recall a teamwork challenge you've encountered. Give context about the project, its objectives, your team roles, and interactions. Describe your personal contributions and leadership in the team's work. Highlight your collaboration and communication skills, and talk about how you collectively tackled the challenges, including the outcomes.

Example answer

"During a large-scale project in my previous position, I had the opportunity to work as part of a diverse cross-functional team. Our task was to develop and implement a new product within a tight deadline. Each team member brought different expertise and perspectives to the table. To ensure effective collaboration, I facilitated regular team meetings, encouraging open communication and active participation.

By promoting a supportive and inclusive environment, we fostered a strong sense of teamwork, allowing us to overcome challenges together and successfully launch the product on time. This experience reinforced the importance of teamwork, communication, and leveraging diverse talents to achieve shared goals."

9. Can you give an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer/colleague?

This question assesses your commitment to providing exceptional service, whether to clients or team members. Hiring managers want to know if you're willing to go the extra mile to meet their expectations.

Tips to answer

Recall an instance when you went above and beyond to assist either a customer or a colleague. Describe the issue and how it affected them. Share the actions you took to resolve the problem and the results. Additionally, discuss any valuable lessons you learned from the experience.

Example answer

"In my previous role, I faced a stressful situation involving a valued customer and a colleague. The customer had a complex technical problem requiring immediate attention, and my colleague was already swamped with work.

Recognizing the urgency and the need to support both, I proactively conducted research outside of regular work hours to find a creative solution. This not only resolved the customer's issue but also lightened my colleague's workload. This experience reinforced the importance of dedication and the positive outcomes of going the extra mile for both customers and colleagues."

10. Describe your approach to problem-solving.

This question assesses your critical thinking skills and how you approach complex situations. It helps the interviewer gauge your methodology, creativity, and analytical thinking.

Tips to answer

To answer this question, consider describing your systematic problem-solving approach. Share how you assess facts and employ data-driven insights to make informed decisions. Additionally, provide an example from your past experience to illustrate your problem-solving skills.

Example answer

"My approach to problem-solving is systematic and analytical. I begin by thoroughly understanding the problem, gathering relevant information, and identifying the root cause. I then brainstorm potential solutions, weighing their pros and cons.

Once I have a clear plan, I break it down into actionable steps and set realistic goals. Collaboration is essential, so I actively seek input from team members or stakeholders to gain different perspectives. Throughout the process, I remain adaptable and open to alternative solutions."

11. How do you manage your time and stay organised?

This question assesses your ability to handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and stay focused. It gauges your efficiency, productivity, and ability to prioritise tasks effectively.

Tips to answer

When answering this question, explain how you decide which tasks are most important and how you adapt when things change unexpectedly. Share an example of a time when you had to handle something urgent without neglecting other responsibilities the job requires.

Example Answer

"I find that staying organised is the key to avoiding stress. To achieve this, I use several strategies. First, I prioritise tasks by setting clear goals and deadlines. I create to-do lists and break large tasks into smaller steps.

I use calendars, digital tools, or project management software to track deadlines and schedule my activities. I also apply time-blocking techniques to allocate specific time slots for different tasks. Regularly reviewing and adjusting my plans helps me stay on track and ensures tasks are completed on time, while maintaining an organised approach."

12. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Employers want to know if you have a clear vision for your career and if the role you are applying for aligns with your long-term goals. Also, hiring managers want to know if the company can support your professional development during your tenure.

Tips to answer

Express your excitement for career advancement. Convey your readiness to tackle fresh challenges and more job responsibilities. Ensure your goals align with the company's success. Explain your intentions to gain new skills in the current job. Emphasise your desire to step into leadership roles, or pursue further education and certifications.

Example answer

"In five years, I envision myself in a senior leadership role in my current job. I aspire to leverage my skills and experience to drive strategic initiatives and make a significant impact to the sales team and within the organisation. I aspire to have expanded my expertise and knowledge, taking on greater job responsibilities and leading cross-functional teams. Ultimately, I strive to be an influential and respected figure in my field, making a meaningful contribution to the organisation's long-term goals."

Interview questions about your qualifications and motivation

These questions are aimed at understanding your background, skills, and the reasons behind your interest in the job. They help the hiring manager assess if you have the necessary qualifications for the role and if your motivations align with the company's mission and goals.

These interview questions allow you to showcase your expertise, relevant experience, and passion for the job. Try to answer questions like these well and demonstrate how you are the ideal candidate for the position.

13. Why are you the right person for this job?

This question will assess your understanding of the role, your qualifications, and how you can contribute to the organisation.

It allows hiring managers to evaluate your alignment with their needs.

Tips to answer

When facing this question, first, identify what qualifications, skills, and experiences are needed for the job. Then, explain how your own background matches the job description and why you're a good fit for the role. Finally, give examples from your past achievements or projects that demonstrate your abilities. This helps the hiring manager see how well you match the job's demands.

Example answer

"I think I'm the right person for this job because I have the experience, skills, and love for the work. I've spent [X number of years] working in [specific field], so I know a lot about [key areas]. I've done well in my past work, always doing a good job and finishing on time. I'm good at [skills relevant to the job] and can [specific abilities]. I know I can help your team. I'm ready to work hard, learn, and use what I know in this job. I believe I'm the right person for this job."

14. What motivated you to apply for this position?

Hiring managers aim to understand your level of interest in the role. They want to know why you are seeking the position in the first place.

Tips to answer

When responding to this question, start by comprehending the particular demands and duties of the job you're applying for. Then, emphasise how your skills, qualifications, and experiences make you a strong candidate for the role. Finally, explain how this position fits into your long-term career goals. This way, you show the interviewer that you not only understand the job but also see it as a valuable step in your career.

Example answer

"I wanted to apply for this job because what I know and what I've done match what you need. When I read about the job, I saw that it fits what I can do and what I want in my career. I'm really looking forward to using my [specific skills] in [specific industry/field] and working on [specific projects/initiatives]. I also like how your company is known for being great, always trying new things, and caring about [specific values]. I'm truly excited about the chance to do something important and help your company keep doing well. That's why I wanted to apply."

15. What do you know about our company?

This question will assess your level of interest, preparation, and understanding of their organisation. It helps hiring managers gauge whether you took the time to research the company, its values, mission, products/services, and industry position.

Tips to answer

To answer questions like these, explore the company's website, social media accounts, press releases, and news articles. This research should help you grasp their mission, vision, values, company culture, products/services, important clients, and position in the industry.

Furthermore, identify any noteworthy accomplishments, awards, or milestones the company has achieved. Your familiarity with these aspects will demonstrate to the interviewer that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in the company.

Example answer

“Before applying for this position, I extensively researched your company, [Company Name]. Your organisation is renowned for its expertise and innovation in [specific industry/sector]. I am impressed by your commitment to [specific values/mission]. Your recent accomplishments, such as [mention recent achievements], demonstrate industry leadership. My research confirms that my skills and experience align perfectly with your esteemed organisation's values and goals.”

16. How do you prioritise your work?

This question assesses your organisational skills, time management abilities, and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently.

Likewise, it enables interviewers to understand how you handle competing demands and manage deadlines.

Tips to answer

Demonstrate your time management skills by explaining how you efficiently allocate your time and resources. Describe your approach to task prioritisation, whether it involves using to-do lists or project management tools.

Discuss how you evaluate the urgency and importance of each task during stressful situations. Emphasise your character traits of being flexible to adapt to changing priorities and handling unexpected requests. This will showcase your strong organisational skills, work ethic and ability to stay on top of your workload.

Example answer

"To prioritise my work effectively, I employ a combination of organisation, goal-setting, and time management techniques. Firstly, I start by clearly understanding the objectives and deadlines of each task or project. I then assess the urgency, importance, and potential impact of each item. Next, I create a detailed schedule or to-do list, breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

By setting realistic deadlines and milestones, I can stay calm and allocate my time and resources accordingly. Additionally, I regularly review and reassess priorities. This method allows me to stay focused, organised, and consistently deliver results in a timely manner."

17. What does customer service mean to you?

Hiring managers ask this question to assess your knowledge, attitude, and approach towards providing excellent customer experiences. They also gauge whether your understanding of customer service aligns with the company's values.

Tips to answer

Express your understanding of customer service by explaining its significance to you. Showcase your empathy and customer-centric approach. Emphasise the proactive and adaptable nature of your problem-solving skills. This will help the interviewer understand your dedication to exceptional customer service.

Example answer

"Customer service is all about helping customers and making them happy. It means listening actively, understanding how they feel, and helping fix their problems. It means being nice and good at talking to people. You have to guess what the customer might need before they ask and always be ready to help. Good customer service is about doing your best to make sure the customer has a good time. It's about treating them well and doing more than what they expect so they'll want to come back."

18. How do you stay updated on industry trends?

The hiring manager wants to know how you stay up-to-date in your career. Answering this question demonstrates your dedication to professional growth.

Tips to answer

Highlight the variety of sources you use to stay informed. Emphasise your active participation in professional networks and associations connected to your field. Mention any pertinent courses, seminars, or certifications you've undertaken to enhance your skills. This demonstrates your commitment to staying updated and continually improving in your industry.

Example answer

“To stay updated on industry trends, I use multiple strategies. I read industry publications, blogs, and newsletters regularly to learn about the latest developments. I attend conferences, webinars, and networking events to connect with experts and understand emerging trends.

Additionally, I engage in professional communities and forums, participating in discussions and sharing knowledge. I also take online courses and certifications to continuously develop my skills and keep up with evolving practices and technologies in my field.”

19. Why should we hire you?

Hiring managers ask this question to understand how your skills, experience, and qualities match the position's requirements. Take this opportunity to demonstrate why you're the perfect candidate for the job.

Tips to answer

Mention your skill level and experiences that position you as a strong match for the role. Illustrate how your qualifications directly correspond to the criteria specified in the job description. Showcase your comprehension of the organisation's objectives and what they aim to accomplish. This not only highlights your suitability for the job but also your alignment with the company's goals.

Example answer

“You should hire me because I offer a unique combination of skills, experience, and a dedication to excellence. With a proven track record in [relevant field], I consistently achieve exceptional results and exhibit a strong work ethic. My [specific skills] and [relevant experience] make me well-prepared to contribute to your organisation's success.

Additionally, I excel in adapting to new challenges and collaborating with diverse teams, thriving in dynamic environments. I am highly motivated, dedicated, and eager to contribute my expertise to drive business growth. I am confident that my qualifications and commitment make me the ideal candidate for this position.”

Job interview questions about personal traits and preferences

Job interview questions about personal traits and preferences are used to understand your work style, preferred work environment, and how you interact with colleagues. These questions aim to assess your personality, values, and how you fit into the company's culture. Your answers help the hiring manager determine if your traits and preferences align with the job requirements and the team dynamics.

20. How do you prefer to work, alone or in a team?

Hiring managers ask this question to gauge your work style and assess how well it aligns with the job requirements and the company's culture. They want to understand whether you thrive in a collaborative team environment or if you're more independent in your work approach.

Tips to answer

When answering, emphasise flexibility, highlighting your adaptability to both solo and teamwork. Connect your preference to the job's needs and the value you bring. Share an example from your experience that demonstrates your ability to excel in both independent and collaborative work settings.

Example answer

"I appreciate both, working independently and as part of a team. In my last job, I found that collaboration often led to innovative solutions, while independent work allowed me to focus and deliver results efficiently. My adaptability to different work styles helps me contribute effectively to the team and also excel when working solo, depending on the task at hand."

21. Describe your approach to problem-solving.

This question assesses your critical thinking skills and how you approach complex situations. It helps the interviewer gauge your methodology, creativity, and analytical thinking.

Tips to answer

When addressing questions about your approach to problem-solving, explain your systematic method. Discuss your process of evaluating facts and utilising data-driven insights to make informed decisions. Supporting your response with an example from your past experience can demonstrate your practical problem-solving skills.

Example answer

"My approach to problem-solving is systematic and analytical. I begin by thoroughly understanding the problem, gathering relevant information, and identifying the root cause. I then brainstorm potential solutions, weighing their pros and cons.

Once I have a clear plan, I break it down into actionable steps and set realistic goals. Collaboration is essential, so I actively seek input from team members or stakeholders to gain different perspectives. Throughout the process, I remain adaptable and open to alternative solutions."

Handling difficult interview questions

You'll likely encounter other difficult questions besides the common interview questions mentioned above. These may be related to your previous employment, periods of unemployment, or your lack of qualifications.

Addressing gaps in employment

If you've already been working for several years, most employers would overlook short gaps of a few months in your employment history. However, if there are several gaps or long periods of unemployment, they may ask you about it.

When this happens, it's best to be upfront about it, especially if you have legitimate reasons for those employment gaps. Don't make lame excuses on the spot, as it will arouse suspicion or create an impression that you are irresponsible, unreliable, and can't be trusted.

Explaining job-hopping

Everyone wants to land better jobs and explore more rewarding career opportunities. But if your resume lists different companies within a short period of time, it might send the wrong message to your prospects. They might view you as a job-hopper -- you take on a role then realise it's not for you, so you look for a new job and the cycle goes on.

However, given the big changes that the world has seen in the last five years, many career experts have noticed that Malaysian employees don't job-hop for random reasons. For example, Malaysian Business Associations (FMBA), MTUC acting president Mohd Effendy Abdul Ghani cited job satisfaction as a major cause for job-hopping, stressing “unprofessional management, discrimination, low wages, internal politics, and lack of leave opportunities” as some of the reasons why employees leave.

Whether you left your previous companies to pursue career growth or as a response to job dissatisfaction, there's a way for you to explain job-hopping in a more positive light. The trick is to be honest to the interviewer and lead them to the pros you gained instead.

If you are asked why you left a job, you can tell them the truth in a tactful and professional way. Maybe you're looking for new challenges, or you want to explore other opportunities and industries that offer a more solid career advancement. You can also say that your personality, interests, or values no longer align with the company, but avoid bad mouthing your previous employers. Instead, focus on how you deem it exciting to find a company that you are better suited to.

Ensure your resume is optimised to showcase your skills and achievements instead of your recent roles. Highlight the skills, lessons, and values you learned while switching jobs and how they can also be beneficial to the company.

Discussing skills that are lacking

If your answer about your greatest weakness involves the lack of skills crucial to the role you're applying for, expect the interviewer to prod deeper. You may be asked why you chose to apply given your limited qualifications. Or, you may have to explain how you would address your lacking skills.

As with the greatest weakness question, answer this as truthfully as you can but also express openness to fill the gap in your skill set. Mention any plans or current efforts to upskill or reskill, as well as your willingness to undergo extra training hours from the company, if necessary.

For example, instead of saying that you're hoping to gain digital marketing skills once you get hired, you can express your intent to learn these crucial skills on your own.

“While I am currently lacking digital marketing skills, I am also working on getting up to date training and certification from short courses. I am confident that these will complement any training that I should undergo once I join the company.”

Questions to Ask the Interviewer

Asking thoughtful questions during an interview showcases your interest in the role and the company. It provides an opportunity to gather valuable insights about the company culture, expectations, and potential growth opportunities. 

Moreover, it demonstrates your preparedness, critical thinking skills, and engagement in the conversation.

Examples of questions to ask the hiring manager

1. Can you tell me more about the company's culture and values?
2. What would a typical day or week look like in this role?
3. What opportunities exist for professional growth and advancement within the company?
4. How does the company support work-life balance?
5. What is the hiring process in your company?
6. What is the dynamic of the existing team?

Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid in Your Next Job Interview

A job interview can be nerve-wracking, and it's easy to slip up and make common mistakes that might hurt your chances of getting hired. To increase your chances of success, it's important to steer clear of these common interview mistakes.

By doing so, you'll be able to present yourself in the best light and improve your prospects of landing the job.

Some common interview mistakes include:

• Arriving late to the job interview
• Being unprepared for the job interview
• Overemphasising salary expectations and benefits too early in the interview process
• Speaking negatively about current or previous employers or colleagues.
• Providing vague or irrelevant answers to job interview questions
• Failing to ask thoughtful questions to the hiring manager
• Showing a lack of knowledge about the industry or specific role
• Displaying unprofessional body language, such as slouching or avoiding eye contact
• Bringing up personal or sensitive topics during the job interview
• Using overly casual language or slang during the job interview
• Interrupting the hiring manager or not actively listening to their questions

Tips for a successful job interview

In addition to avoiding common interview mistakes, consider these tips to excel in job interviews:

Be authentic: Present your true self to the interviewer. Showcase your genuine personality, skills, and experiences to build a connection with the interviewer.

Highlight your accomplishments: Use specific examples to articulate your achievements and how they relate to the job you're applying for.

Demonstrate curiosity: Show enthusiasm for the role and the company by asking thoughtful questions.

Follow up after the interview: Send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer after the interview to express your appreciation for their time.

Conclusion

Showing up prepared for a job interview gives you the best chance to make a winning impression on your interviewer. It gives you the opportunity to convince your prospective employer that you're the right person for the job. It can also give you an edge over other candidates.

By practising your answers to these questions, you'll be sure to feel calm and confident in the interview. When you reflect on these questions and draft your answers, you'll know how to highlight your abilities. And you'll learn how to downplay your weaknesses. Make your skills and strengths shine throughout the interview. Explain how they'll be valuable to the company. Show your communication skills through clear and concise responses. Always answer with honesty and confidence, and you'll be acing the interview before you know it!

Get ready to ace your job interviews when you #SEEKBetter jobs today, starting with creating or updating your JobStreet profile! Download the JobStreet app for iOS or Android to search for jobs, send applications, and track updates on the go. Lastly, check out the Career Advice page as well for more tips on job searching, self-improvement, and career advancement!

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the most common interview questions?
   ⁠The most common interview questions ask you to tell something about yourself and why the employer should hire you. They ask about your strengths and weaknesses, challenges you overcame, leadership capacity, and career goals. Employers will also want to know about your salary expectations and any questions you may have about the role or the company. Apart from your self-awareness and positive mindset, employers also assess your communication skills in how you answer these questions clearly and succinctly, with examples that bring them to life.
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2. How do I prepare for an interview?
   ⁠Research as much as you can about the role and the company. Come up with your own answers to the top 10 most common interview questions. List down any questions you may have for the interviewer. Polish your resume and cover letter, and prepare copies to hand out during the interview itself.
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3. How do I answer the question, "What is your greatest weakness?"
   ⁠Be as honest as possible when talking about your greatest weakness, but make sure it doesn't diminish your chances of getting the job as well. Express your openness to improve or address this weakness by learning a new skill.
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4. How do I handle a difficult interviewer?
   ⁠A difficult interviewer may ask you illegal questions or downplay your answers. When either of these happens, keep calm and stay professional. Politely decline illegal questions or ask them how these questions are relevant to the job. Focus on your strengths and skills and how they make you a valuable addition to the team.
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5. How long should I wait before following up after an interview?
   ⁠Generally, the interviewer should give you a timeline for when you can expect to hear back from them. When that time has passed, or they don't contact you after a week, you can follow up with an email to prompt a response.
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6. What should I wear to an interview?
   ⁠Make sure that you are dressed appropriately and professionally. Depending on the company culture, this can be as relaxed as smart casual or as serious as full corporate or business attire.
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7. How do I address salary expectations in an interview?
   ⁠Research the average salary for similar positions in your area so you know the reasonable range to give when asked about your salary expectations. Also, consider your experience, skills, and qualifications when developing a ballpark figure. Remember to say that you're also willing to negotiate your compensation package.
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8. Is it appropriate to ask about benefits during an interview?
   ⁠The rule of thumb is to ask questions about benefits once you know you have a good chance of getting hired for the position. This is usually during the second or third interview. Handle this matter with tact and the right timing, and you'll be fine.
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9. Can I bring a portfolio to an interview?
   ⁠Yes, you can definitely bring a portfolio with your best work to an interview. You'll never know when an interviewer may ask for additional work samples.
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10. How can I stand out in an interview?
    ⁠Dress appropriately and show up to your interview on time. Carry yourself with confidence, and let your strengths and skills shine when you answer.