Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
Employers ask this because it is surprisingly hard to answer. Break it down into three stages: What you are doing now, and perhaps include something you’ve done well. What you’ve done in the past and how those skills might be relevant to what you’re applying for. Finally, what you hope for the future, maybe including why you’re interested in the job you’ve applied for.
How do you prioritise your work?
The employer is not asking you about organisation here, but more about communication and understanding what needs to be done. Try to give examples of times when you have had to decide whether something is urgent or important, and how you have made that decision.
What made you apply for this role?
Show that you've researched the role and company by discussing the skills and interests that led you to apply. Explain how your past experiences can make you successful at the job and try to include what your motivation for change was.
What are your goals?
This is your chance to show the recruiter that you're ambitious and want to work within the company for the foreseeable future. Talk enthusiastically about your realistic short and long-term targets, basing your answers on the employer, the industry and your skills and experiences.
What makes you a suitable candidate for us?
Pick three qualities desired by the employer which will be shown in the job specification. Whichever strengths you pick, you must be able to give examples of times within the working environment that these have been portrayed.
Do you have any questions?
Arriving without questions can give a bad impression. If the questions you had were answered during the interview, be sure to let them know! Try to avoid questions about salary, benefits, breaktimes or holidays!
What are your weaknesses?
The interviewer is trying to find out if you are self-aware, not just that, but can you be open and honest about what you might do wrong. Most importantly, they want to know if you have taken steps to build upon your weaknesses. Pick characteristics that you've taken steps to improve. Never say that you have no weaknesses or that you work too hard. These could portray you as arrogant or dishonest.
