How to Answer First Interview Questions
The door that leads to a better job, commonly known as an interview, can create a
turning point in one's life. Especially for people trying for their
first ever job, interviews are worthier than gold. For success in the
first interview, one has to remember three things. The first is to remain confident before and during the interview.
Confidence helps
overcome stress. The reverse happens in many cases and can be avoided only by practice.
The second is to not get scared about meeting an interview panel. Most people experience rising body temperature once they see a panel ready to fire questions. The third is stress related and tricky questions. These types of questions are meant to test the individual's original character. All these three can be overcome only by practice.
General questions that are asked in any interview include :
- Tell about yourself
- What are your strengths and weaknesses
- Can you work under pressure
- Are you comfortable with deadlines
Give appropriate information and only positive answers for these questions. Never list your weaknesses.
The questions that are meant only for first interview candidates are internship-centric and case-centric. Case-centric questions are based on a situation that the candidate needs to solve.
Sample first interview questions are listed below.
Why did you choose this field?
- Give a proper answer stating the recent growth and opportunities in this particular field.
Why did you not opt for further studies?
- This question is to know about our interest in the field and how long you can stay.
Where do you stand in your teachers' list? Why?
- Give a reasonable ranking and a proper reason to prove it, especially when it is a lie.
Tell us your plans about your career.
- Show them your interest in the company. Cite some future plans parallel to the company's mission statement.
Tell about a situation when you solved a serious problem.
- Give an example from college where you solved a real problem and it was helpful to all students. You can also cite a situation from your internship.
What is the most important lesson you have learnt until today?
- Positive points like commitment, confidence and patience learnt from my dad.
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
- The answer should match the company profile. A high position in this field, leading a team of at least 20 people.
Cite an incident that brought out your leadership qualities.
- Same as the problem solving question. Cite an incident from college or internship and make sure you end up focusing on the leadership quality.
Tell about any tough decisions you have made.
- Talk about real tough decisions.
Tell about our company's products.
- Speak from what you have researched.
How creative are you?
- If you are interested in sketching or any futuristic ideas, tell them here.
Do you read books?
- A recently famous book would be the best choice. Know a little about the book in advance.
Why should we hire you?
- Perfect place to showcase your abilities and to prove that you are the best fit for the job. Talk about your confidence, adaptability and quick learning capabilities.
Do you have any questions for us?
- Make sure you ask something. It can be about the ideal candidate for the position.
