Recruiters ask a variety of interview questions to screen applicants. However, if you might have noticed, there are common questions that pop up here and there. Preparing for a job interview can be stressful, and awaiting the interview itself can be nerve-wracking as well.

Did you know that there are three best types of interview questions recruiters use? Yep, recruiters choose these questions because they think they give the most insight into how the person will do on the job. So, keep reading to learn more and ace your upcoming job interview!

 

1. Situational Questions

Situational questions ask how an applicant would act in a certain hypothetical situation. These questions may also be recognised as “if” or “what would you do” questions.

Sample question: If you were assigned a task you have not done before, what would you do?

Sample answer: I would first like to gather as much information as possible about the task at hand. I would not want to immediately say I do not know how to do this or that, because learning something new is a positive challenge. If the task turns out to be relatively simple, then I would do an internet research. If the task turns out to be overwhelming, then I would go to my manager and explain that while I have no prior experience, I would be willing to handle the task if a colleague with more expertise could guide me.

 

2. Behavioral Questions

Behavioral questions intend to assess how applicants behaved to past real-life events. These questions usually start with “Tell me about the time when you…”

You can use the STAR technique in answering behavioral questions.

• Situation: What was the situation you faced? Explain the context.
• Task: What was the project? Describe your role and objectives.
• Action: What action did you take? Discuss your skills and solutions.
• Result: What happened? Share the outcome of your actions and the things you learned.

Sample question: Tell me about the time when you had to work with someone difficult.

Sample answer: (S) For my final senior year project, I worked with an uncooperative group member. (T) We had to submit a position paper, and as the leader, I distributed the parts of the paper. The deadline was only days away and one member kept ignoring our messages and reminders to write his assigned part. (A) When I finally got a hold of the person, I took the initiative and talked to him personally. I found out that he was going through a challenging time and I assured him that he can reach out to me. (R) The person opened up, apologised, and once I offered to give him some guidance, he was able to finish his part immediately. I was glad I did not tell the professor right away about the situation in our group. With patience and empathy, I was able to address the problem.

 

3. Job-related Questions

Job-related questions inquire regarding prior experiences that are relevant to the job position. Compared with the first two types, job-related inquiries do not concern themselves with hypothetical or real-life circumstances.

Sample question: What interpersonal skills have you found most useful in human resources?

Sample answer: In my previous HR roles, I have realised how communication skills are of great value. In HR, I have met and worked with different people, and being able to communicate effectively and efficiently has allowed others to understand me properly. Because of this, I have rarely encountered misunderstandings and other mix-ups. The ability to work in teams is also significant. I have supported my colleagues and helped them with their training and needs because I am a team player.

 

Conclusion

Practising how to answer common questions is one of the many things you can do before your job interview. Remember to not over-prepare too as your answers might sound rehearsed and unnatural when the big day comes. If you feel anxious, you can read our article on how to deal with pre-interview nerves here.

Believe in yourself. You’ll ace your job interview!

Having interview jitters? Skip the first round of interviews by sending a video resume link! You can make one through Outwiths! Sign up here! 

 

Reference:

Human Resource Management (16th edition) by Gary Dessler

employee employer