Just being a well-qualified candidate will not help you then grab the job opportunities measured only by your qualification. One has to be an expert in creating a good impression during interviewers. Now, to stand out from the crowd you need to be one step ahead of others and this can be done by knowing the most common Interview questions and giving their best answers.  Here are some of the most common interview questions that are often asked in an interview.

Tell me something about yourself: Among all the questions, usually the first common question that most of the interviewers ask is to let them know about yourself. Often people claim that they are hardworking, responsible, and loyal. You should always introduce yourself in terms of your unique selling proposition. But you should remember to be remarkable without being arrogant. A good response to this question will help you take control of the interview.

Why do you want to join our company?: If you have thoroughly gone through the company then you must be aware of the specific details such as products, mission, and history which all can be your reason to join the company. Here the interviewer wants to know how much you are aware of the company and its work procedures.

What are your strengths? : This common question is asked in an interview as the interviewer is permitting you to toot your own horn, thus no need to be very modest. You should reveal those strengths that the company would find valuable for them such as good communication skills and leadership qualities. You can also let them know your ability to handle complicated situations and stress. Be ready with examples that show you can use your strengths to your advantage.

What are your weaknesses? : Some people say that they don’t have any weaknesses but it is not believable. So, it is better to know that everyone has some areas that need improvement. Thus it is best to let the interviewer know about the weakness that could also be taken as a strength. For instance, you can say “I am not much aware of Photoshop software, but I am now taking online tutorials to improve my skills regarding Photoshop.” This shows you have identified a skill gap (weakness) and are working to gain that skill (strength). Carefully playing this question will help you impress the interviewer.

Why did you leave your last job? : Often employers want to know the reasons you left your previous job or want to make a switch at this point in your career. Here you need to be honest; hiding issues may hurt you in the future, but keep in mind not to give unnecessary details. Some good reasons include: seeking better exposure, seeking new challenges, and the desire to build new skills.

How do you handle stress? : Almost every job has some or other type of pressure which leads to stressful situations. Here the interviewers just want to know that under pressure will you be able to give the best performance or will wander here and there screaming! Demonstrate with examples that you can handle pressure positively. You can kill two birds with one stone by picking examples that will you help highlight additional skills like your problem-solving ability, ability to work in groups, etc.

How do you evaluate success? : You should give a very positive answer to this question. You can say that you evaluate success in distinct ways. Professionally you consider success as meeting team goals and company goals. At a personal, you can define success as something that impacts your community. Showing two different aspects will help show multiple dimensions of your career.

Why should we hire you? : Employer ask this question to know what separates you from other candidates for this position. Your have to sell yourself here. You have to establish a fit for the role and the group. Highlight skills and qualification you meet and are required for the position. Mention benefits they will gain by hiring you, like unique work experience and skills that other candidates may not possess.

What are your salary expectations? : This question may be better left answered in a wage manner. You want to show you are more excited about the work than the compensation. However you may be pressured to say a number. Before the interview, perform some research to find the market salary for the position at your level of experience. You can give a range that meets your expectations if you have to tell some numbers.

Do you have any questions for me? : Asking questions to your employer shows your interest in the position and the company but you should also keep in mind not to ask trivial questions. Before your interview, you should prepare some questions based on the research about the company. For instance, you can ask what is the company’s strength compared to its competitors.  What will your responsibilities be? What are the growth opportunities for someone who gets selected for this role?