Questions most frequently asked in interviews.

When answering questions in English remember to slow down, be confident and speak in short, concise sentences.  Long sentences can get very complicated and are difficult to follow.  And remember important information can often be lost in long sentences. Look at the STAR and CAR techniques to help you with this. 

Questions are often divided into two categories – open and closed questions. 

Closed questions are fact based ones and should be easier for you to answer. 

• What projects did you complete during your academic course? 
• What were your main responsibilities during your last job?  
• What GMP procedures did you use everyday?

Open questions are the ones that everyone is terrified of, especially the all dreaded first question …..” Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?”.  But honestly, with some preparation this question can be easily answered.  Start by introducing yourself …

“My name is Anna Costa and I am a qualified engineer from Brazil. I have a degree in Engineering and I completed a Masters in NANO technology in 2013. I have 6 years of experience working in a large engineering company based in Sao Paulo.  I moved to Ireland last year to improve my English and to work in an International Company.  On the personal side, I am a committed, hard working person who has a reputation for identifying and solving problems quickly and effectively”.  

For other ‘open’ style questions make sure you have prepared examples in order to give the best answers possible.  Here is a list to get you started:

• Why did you apply for this job?
• What qualities will you bring to this position?
• Describe a time when you dealt with a difficult customer?
• What is your greatest achievement?
• What is your greatest disappointment and what did you learn from it?
• What would you say are your strengths / weaknesses?
• How did you handle an unexpected problem?
• Tell me about a time you dealt with conflict at work. 
• Could you give me an example where you demonstrated your ability to work as part of a team?
• How do you cope with stress?  How have you handled work during Covid-19?
• What do you do to relax in the evenings?  (never mention pubs, drinking, watching Netflix or socialising – these are usually perceived as negative).  *Employers love employees who are fit, play team sports and who are actively involved in some form of pastime.  
• Have you any questions for us? (Have a few prepared)

Finally remember an interview should be 50 / 50.  You talk for 50% and they talk for 50%.  And also while they are interviewing you, you are also interviewing them. The interview process should bring out the best in you, an opportunity to shine and to show them how skilled you are.   Make sure you would like to work for them as well and be part of their team. 

Best of luck to you all!