How to Answer Job Interview Questions

A job interview is a daunting thought even for the more confident and competent among us that have done extensive job interview preparation and research.

I don’t think it matters who you are, what background you come from, or what type of job you’re going for, whether it’s postal employment, general labouring, or a high flying executive position, a job interview is a nerve racking experience for all concerned.

Job interviews are just one of those things you’re probably going to have to face at some point or other in your life. If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re facing one soon. While I’m certainly not an expert about how to act in a job interview, I’ve been on so many that I feel I’ve become very comfortable with the art of how to answer job interview questions. In fact, whenever I see employment posters promoting new and exciting positions, I usually put in an application form just for the heck of it. In many cases, I don’t expect to get the job but I do come away with another interview experience under my belt.

If you’ve never been on a job interview and are wondering how to answer job interview questions, here’s some advice from me to you from an old hand. First of all, lie. Lie like crazy, don’t ever tell them anything that remotely resembles the truth. Also, talk really fast and a few octaves too high; that way they won’t really know what you’re saying but it’ll sound important. If you can, master a language your interviewers don’t know, and answer all their questions in that language. I’ve found that Swahili is a good language, as not many interviewers speak it and it generally sounds good. If you don’t have time to learn a new language, just make one up.

This method on how to answer job interview questions is sure to work. If your interviewers for some reason become agitated, its probably because they’re so excited about your potential. Generally, a proper response to agitation in your interviewers is to stand up and do an impression of some farm animals. I prefer roosters, but that’s just me.



If you actually follow any of the above job interview tips on how to answer job interview questions, that’ll be just a little less competition for me. In all seriousness, it isn’t as hard as you think to answer job interview questions and sound good. The most important thing to do is prepare ahead of time. Practice answering typical job interview questions to yourself several times before going in; job interviewers can tell if you are unprepared and it just doesn’t look good.

When you answer job interview questions, definitely be honest, and look your interviewers right in the eye. Good eye contact conveys confidence, which is something you definitely want to convey. Rely on your own natural conversation skills when you answer job interview questions rather than trying to sound a ‘certain way’. I certainly don’t mean use slang or swear words, but just talk like you would with someone you just met at a party. Your interviewers are just people, and will respond to you like any other people will.

I've listed below 7 of the most commonly raised questions I've been asked at interviews, but you will most likely get others thrown into the test too, but be prepared for these and you'll be off to a good start.

1. Why do you want this job in particular?
2. What do you know about our organization? (A little research here is imperative)
4. Do you describe yourself as a good team player? (Be prepared to expand)
5. What do you expect to be doing in 5/10 years time from now?
6. What are your weaknesses/strengths?
7. If you are already in employment, why are you leaving? (Try not to be negative here)

If you need some practice why not do what I do and apply for various jobs just to gain invaluable experience at job interviews. This way, you’ll be well prepared when that job you really want comes along. You could always start by looking for some vacancies at www employment com - Good luck!