Here are a few common questions. Prepare yourself with your own answers. Better write down answers to some potential questions and if possible practice them aloud.
Tell me about an instance at work where you have encountered a major problem
This is a behavioral question focused on an event. Here the hiring manager wants to know how you solve a major problem.
You should select an instance that demonstrates your style of working with a tangible positive solution. The instance may show some business problems, key people who stood in your way, and or lack of resources. You should elaborate the steps you had taken to solve the problem.
Your response should underline the analysis you had made and the strategy you had evolved. It also should include your arguments and steps that display your ability to achieve the goal. You should break your response into phases.
How do you deal with workplace conflicts?
Conflicts are part of performing duties. You cannot perform your job well unless you deal with the conflict at its root level. You have to depend on constructive techniques to resolve the issue.
The conflicts you encounter come in different forms: Everyday interpersonal ones, strategy disagreements and resource constraints. You should be able to explain how you have tackled the issue at different levels. If you are a manager, pick a reflective example.
You should come out with a concrete example and show how you had successfully solved the problem.
Tell me about yourself
Tell me about yourself. It looks innocent. But it is a trap. The interviewer wants to know how you market yourself, but definitely he doesn't like you to recite your resume.
This question comes at the beginning of an interview and it is an opportunity for you to establish yourself professionally by giving an engaging executive summary. There is no time limit to showcase your skills, but it shouldn't go beyond a minute or so. It is an opportunity for you to turn it to your advantage.
Your effort should be to connect your skills, background, knowledge and interests, and the job you are seeking. Your aim should be to compel the interviewer to select you. If there is anything notable about your personal life that boosts your career, you can briefly refer to it. Preferably you shouldn't touch personal details unless you are specifically asked about them.
What is your work style?
The interviewer is interested in knowing how you understand and articulate your work. May be he is checking whether you are a perfect fit for the job that needs a well-organized person or a good leader to head a team.
This question has two sides: How you work and how you can perform well in what work environs. He is trying to know whether you are capable of focusing on one thing and get it done, or you have the ability to run a series of projects together.
Can you work better in well-structured environment or in chaos?
The strategy that works the best is to be specific in your response and support it with an example.
Why are you interested in this job or our company?
Here the interviewer knows that you are there to get a new opening. Your reasons to be there should draw the attention of the hiring manager.
Your response is not expected to be a routine affair. It should touch upon the opportunities you are looking for. You should elaborate on how you are a perfect fit for the job. Relate your career, culture, business interests, and personal ambitions to the job opportunity. Don't forget to speak about how successful you would be in the job if offered. Show how well you are aware of the affairs of the company and its setup.
Your response should illustrate how you could benefit the company.
