25 Great Job Interview Questions

As a Career Consultant, I work with clients on all the tools and techniques that are needed to succeed in the job search—including interviewing skills. One thing I have noticed over the years is that candidates often get “trapped” in certain interview questions that are designed to make them say something negative or self-defeating (which generally leads to rejection).

Indeed, job seekers are not even aware of how negative many of their answers sound at interviews! So, I instruct all my clients to “never say anything negative or anything that could possibly be construed as negative!” Candidates can avoid being disqualified by stating all their answers in positive (or, at least, neutral) terms.

The following are some of the most commonly asked interview questions, along with suggested approaches for answers. It is important that job candidates practice these responses until they are able to handle all the questions effectively.

1. Tell us about yourself.
2. Why should we hire you?
3. Why did you leave your last job?
4. What accomplishment are you most proud of?
5. Why do you want to work in this field?
6. Describe a time you disagreed with a teammate or supervisor.
7. What are your strengths?
8. What are your goals?
9. Why do you want this job?
10. What are your interests?
11. Why did you choose your major?
12. Tell us about a time you failed.