The Top 10 Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)

The STAR technique

Before we get into the questions, you need to know about the STAR technique. It’s the easiest way to answer any question that asks for an example. It basically helps you give employers a clear, structured story (and it avoids the dreaded interview waffle). Here’s how it works:

• Situation. Set the scene. Where were you, and what was going on?

• Task. What was your role or responsibility?

• Action. What did you specifically do? (Focus on your part, not the team's)

• Result. What happened? If you can make it measurable, even better. 

Here’s a quick example:

It takes a little bit of practice. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be a pro. 

The top 10 questions

1. Tell me about yourself

Think of this question as an ice breaker. Employers don’t just want to know if you can do the job; they want to get to know you. Keep it professional and brief. Here’s what you can cover:

• What you’re studying and where

• Any previous work experience or interesting projects you’ve done

• Any relevant hobbies or interests

• What people might say about you (choose two points, nothing obvious like "hardworking").

2. Why do you want to work for us?

Here’s where your company research will come in handy. This question is 100% where employers will check that you’ve done that. TIP: always look at their website, social media and news pages to see what they’re doing, who the company leaders are and any values they have.

3. Why do you want this role?

This is your chance to show your enthusiasm for a role. Employers want to know that you genuinely want the role and that it’s not just another job or something to do. TIP: Have a read of the job description and pick out two things that excite you.

4. What are your strengths?

This is basically an employer's way of asking what you can bring to the role. The best way to answer this question is to pick one or two strengths relevant to the role and back them up with real examples.

5. What is your biggest weakness?

Employers aren’t trying to catch you out; they just want to see how self-aware you are. Be real, pick something that isn't a huge part of the role (for example, if you’re applying for a journalism role, saying your attention to detail could use some work won’t land you the job), and show how you’re trying to improve.

6. Tell me about a time you worked in a team

Teamwork is a huge part of a lot of jobs. Employers want to see how well you collaborate with people. This is a great question to use the STAR technique. TIP: Talk about your part, not what the group did.

7. Tell me about a time you failed or made a mistake

Things go wrong sometimes, and employers want to know how you’ve handled that. Be honest, own it and explain how you made it right.

8. Where do you see yourself in five years?

We know it can be hard thinking about the future, but employers are looking for ambition and want to know how this role fits into your bigger picture. You don’t have to share an actual five-year plan, just show your passion.

9. Tell me about a goal you set and achieved

Employers love to see actual results. This question is a great way to show that. Pick something relevant to the role and quantify if you can (employers love numbers and metrics they can see).

10. Do you have any questions for us?

Having questions to ask an employer shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role (and prepared). Come to your interview with three or four questions. Here are some examples:

• What does success look like in this role in the first three months?

• What does a typical week look like?

• What does growth look like on this team?

Need a little more inspo?

Interviews can feel daunting, but in reality, they’re a conversation. You might not think it, but you already have so much to talk about and share. The more you prepare, the better you’ll feel when walking into an interview. Practice your answers, be honest and back your answers up.

Want to feel more prepared for your next interview? Grab our interview toolkit. It’s filled with everything you need to feel confident.