Deciding whether or not to hire a candidate is not an easy task. However, a set of comprehensive questions equips the employer as he or she endeavours to make the right choice for his company. Employer interview questions are mandatory for any organization to grow in size. They encourage candidates to open up and portray their true colours, thus determining their way in or out of the particular company. Employees must prepare for these interviews beforehand. Especially in the present scenario with escalating competition, an adamant employee has to sweat and strive his way through the doors of his new coveted position. At the same time, as the employer evaluates and questions the candidate, he or she should be careful as to not deter the potential employee away from the company. It is in the employer’s best interest to sell the company throughout the course of an interview. Very often, candidates tend to reject fantastic job offers because the interview failed to arouse much interest. Hence, it is crucial that the employer ensures a give-and-take outcome during the interview. Let’s take a quick look into some employer interview questions and the appropriate responses to them
Sample Employer Interview Questions
Tell us something about yourself?
The icebreaker to the frozen entity that is silence- a self introduction is the standard and best way to begin any conversation. In an interview, exchanging names and sharing a few personal details increases an employee’s level of comfort. The employer may ask you for your educational background, hobbies and work experience before going into the details of the interview.
Why does our company interest you?
Do not forget to thoroughly research the company you are applying to well in advance. Highlight some of the company’s achievements and tactfully juxtapose them with your motives behind choosing the company. He or she is bound to ask you why you are leaving your current job or what caused you to terminate your previous terms of employment. Avoid responses like “I hated the job” or “It was too boring.”
What have you achieved so far at your past companies?
For every accomplishment and every high-quality appraisal, flaunt it! Let the potential employer know how much of an asset you were to your previous companies and how much of an asset you will be to his or her organization. State how you have learnt from your past mistakes.
What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses as a person and employee?”
Don’t hold yourself back from revealing the fine line between your talents and shortcomings. It will only help your employer or manager decide how and where to utilize your abilities. Don’t hide your weaknesses for if you do, you might find yourself stuck with an assignment you hate or simply can’t complete! Specify the duties you were assigned in your previous job and your propensity to accomplishing them with utmost flair.
How stringent were the work procedures, policies and the deadlines of your previous organization?
Perhaps, the employer is trying to figure the environment you have been accustomed to.
At what extent can you handle work pressure? How do you deal with and perceive criticism?
Be honest. If you have lied, the employer will find out sooner or later and thus, regret his or her decision (if he or she ends up hiring you).
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
To gain a futuristic insight, this question is prevalent in interviews amongst majority of the organizations. An ideal candidate is expected to portray ambition and a strong desire to succeed.
What are your expectations in terms of compensation?
Yes, Salary! Finally! The part you’ve been anticipating the most! The interviewer will ask you about the salary you earn or used to earn in your present or previous job. Accordingly, a new salary will be decided upon. Be prepared to negotiate for your expected salary amount.
