Why are you looking to leave your current position?

Normally, this question is asked at the start of an interview to see how good you are at thinking on your feet.

Don’t be overly negative about your current employer and avoid listing all the things you would like to change in your current role. This will send alarm bells to the hiring manager.

Instead, keep it short and focus on the positives.

Answer: “I don’t find my current role challenging enough. I am looking for a new position where I can learn more and progress my career”.

What are your main responsibilities in your current role?

When hiring managers ask you this question, they want to see if what you wrote in your CV is true and you can back it up with examples.

Before your interview, go through your main responsibilities on your CV. Think of different examples you can use to prove to the hiring manager you do have the relevant skills and experience for the job.

Answer: List a few of your main responsibilities that match the job ad and use examples to show the hiring manager why you would be right for the position.

What do you know about our company?

To nail this question, you need to do your research as the employer wants to see what your preparation skills are like.

When you do your research, go through the company’s website. Use different sources to demonstrate to the employer you have taken your time to look at their company as you do want the job.

Answer: A summary about the company, using any memorable dates such as when the company was founded. Include any examples of what you liked on their website and why you would like to join their organisation based on the research you have done.

What salary are you looking for?

This question can sometimes feel awkward. It is always best, to be honest, and give a realistic salary range for the role that you have applied for.

Answer: “I’m looking for a starting salary somewhere between £30,000 – £35,000”.

What are your greatest achievements?

A recruiter may ask you this question to see if you are telling the truth on your CV.

Make sure for each accomplishment you have listed on your CV you can back them up with examples.

Answer: Think of your most relevant achievements which relate to the role that you have applied for to emphasise your skills and experience. For example, if the job ad says they are looking for someone who can manage a team, think of a successful group project you were responsible for that achieved great results.

What are your goals for the future?

Hiring managers want to know that you have really thought about the role they have advertised, and you don’t just want the job as a stopgap.

Explain how the role would help you achieve your future goals.

Answer: Show your passion for the industry and how you would like to advance in the company.

Do you have any questions?

When the hiring manager asks you this question, never say no.

Asking questions will show the hiring manager that you are enthusiastic about the role and genuinely interested in the company.

Answer: Prepare some questions beforehand that you would like to ask. Remember an interview is not just for the recruiter to ask you questions but you should ask them questions to see if the job is the right fit for you too.