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The 5 most frequently asked questions during a job interview are asked why?

Author: | Posted on: 20-10-2020

In this blog, I'll give you the real reason why recruiters ask these standard questions. I also give you right away tips on how best to answer them.


Tell us something about yourself?
In my opinion, "Tell me something about yourself" is one of the most frequently asked questions in job interviews. It is an open question that gives you the opportunity to say anything you want, but therein lies the danger.
A recruiter is not interested in where you were born or how you met your partner, but is looking for clues as to whether you are right for the job. When you prepare a pitch for yourself in which you tell briefly and concisely about your studies, work experience, your passions and what kind of challenge you are looking for and tell this with a dose of your personality you will make a very good impression. Also feel free to tell what you like to do on the weekends for example, this sometimes gives rise to very nice job interviews.

Why are you applying for the position?
Because you are suitable for that position, of course! Right? Unfortunately, the person on the other side of the table needs a little more convincing. The recruiter is curious whether you know what you are applying for. So delve into the position and the company. Do you have an interview with a recruiter? Immerse yourself in the company where he or she works. Check the website, google the company, do you know someone who works there? Check his or her LinkedIn. But don't forget the LinkedIn company page view.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Always a tricky question. What you tell is a snapshot and can still change on all sides. Mention this. It is a question that is very useful to a recruiter. What matters is that this job matches your passions and ambitions. If you apply for a management position while you do not see yourself as a leader of a department or company, this is not a good match. On the other hand, if you do have leadership ambitions and you are applying for an employee position, it is important that there are training and advancement opportunities. For you, but also for the employer to be able to keep you interested and committed for the long term.

What are your weaknesses?
This question is asked very often. The good news is that no one is perfect. We all possess weaknesses. So why do we still ask a question like this during a job application? The reason is that recruiters are trying to find out if you are a good match and with a personal question like this, you get to know a lot about another person. For example when it is not a good match is if you apply as a planner, but as a weakness you indicate that you are chaotic. Then this is not a good match. When you answer the question stick to one or two less good qualities of yourself. Be honest and turn your weaknesses into positives. Just don't strike out in this. It is not a bad thing to make yourself vulnerable, that also shows strength. Can't think of any weaknesses? Then think to yourself what characteristic is holding you back? What would you like to improve/change?

Why do you think you are suitable for this position?
Don't be too modest! But be careful not to blow your hopes too high. When you have an interview with a recruiter for a particular position, he/she has already reviewed your resume. This question will be asked to see if you know what you have to offer. So highlight them! Also try to stand out, if you are dealing with several candidates for the same position you will also have the same kind of qualities. Be convincing, you always lie well in the group don't you? Don't mind going the extra mile or helping that colleague, do you? Make sure the examples you cite fit you and thereby show that you are the person they are looking for for the job.

Wondering what kind of questions we ask? Or would you like to practice your answers to the questions? If so, please contact one of our recruiters up!
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