Two Basic Interview Questions

Never go into an interview unprepared! Know your story, organize your thoughts, create a script for yourself, get comfortable with it, and practice aloud.

By following these steps, you can avoid any last-minute panic. Be yourself but be your Best Self!

Here are two basic questions that typically start off an interview:

 Question 1: Tell Me About Yourself

This is not about your whole life story. It’s not about me-me-me. After a brief introduction about yourself (brevity is golden here) make sure your statements relate to the job and the company. So, when an employer asks this question, take a minute to reframe it to: “What value could I bring to the company,” and respond with this is mind.

Question 2: Why are you Interested in this Job?

Before every job interview, you need to research the company. Find out everything you can. Check the company website, search google and LinkedIn. You need to clearly explain why you applied, and you want to show your interviewer that you are the right person for the job.

This question just begs you to talk about the connection of your skills and experience to the role.

Talk about your passion and how it relates to the position. Speak about your strengths and how you will leverage those strengths, abilities, and experience to add value to the company.

Smile, relax and let your personality shine: Part of what makes you unique is your personality. Do not be afraid to let it come out in your answers. And a smile is just icing on the cake. Research has shown that people who smile come across as more likable. And relax. An interview? Well, it’s really just a conversation.

Visit the Virtual Resource Room at Calgary Career Hub for relevant information on all topics related to job search. Make sure to check out the category on Interview Skills.