Tips for answering interview questions

Employers will start assessing you the minute you walk in the door, so your presentation and attitude are very important. You should show you:

• can add value to a company
• appreciate being interviewed
• want to work for the company
• are willing to improve your skills
• have something to offer the company, such as a willingness to work, pride in the work you do and a spirit of co-operation.

General tips for answering questions

Most interviews have a lead-in time of introductions and settling in, questions from the interviewer/panel, and then a chance for the interviewee to ask questions.

• Speak clearly and vary the tone to show you are interested and enthusiastic.
• Give yourself time to think about each question. Pause before answering so that you can think about the best response, and make sure you're giving them the information they need.
• Listen to questions carefully and let the interviewer lead the conversation. If you do not understand a question, ask for it to be explained or repeated.
• Be diplomatic and discreet, particularly about previous employers or co-workers. Don't badmouth anybody.
• Speak from experience - give examples that can demonstrate what knowledge and skills you have, and what you have learned in the past.
• Be positive about the skills you have and what you have done. Don't give the employer a chance to downgrade your abilities by saying things such as "I only have..." or "I don't have direct experience in that area". Instead, tell the employer what you do have or can offer.Read more