So, you've manger to get an interview. The question is how do you prepare for it. The answer depends on what kind of job you applied for and what type of interview you will be going through i.e telephone or face to face, etc. The point is to stand out of the crowd and be outstanding.
There are some generic interview questions I would like to share with you. These are as follows
1) Why have you applied to ................?
The company want to know if you know anything about them and you are really interested in them not just for the job but you are enthusiastic about their products and/or services and willing to build a career.
Example Answer could be: I applied to .......... because of the massive opportunities in regards to development, great working environment, e.g reported as one of top 10 companies that invest in it's people, love the products/service and the way they are delivered to customer, excellent customer service, international company (if it's one) and opportunity to work with great minds from different backgrounds (if is a multinational and employs people from various culture). You can also include social responsibility, e.g. a company that support low- carbon print in regards of helping the environment.
2) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
The recruited just want to know about you skills and experience. Be honest but also cautious to go straight to the point and tell them or person interviewing how you skill, education and experience has prepared you for the job.
Example: I studied as a Mechanical Engineer and I have over 10 years of working experience. I am a determine person who willing to do whatever it takes to get to why I want to get to in life. I am passionate about whatever I do.
Within five years of starting my career I became a Chartered Engineer. I was promoted every 2 years and was consistently asked to manager department. And I still continue to work towards continuous professional development.
3) What skills can you bring to the company?
With this question, you need to understand the person specification and job spec. and see how that match you unique skill sets.
For example: During my time at university I have develop excellent communication skills, worked well within a team as well as used my initiative. If you have the technical skills and is required for the job, then say it e.g I have designed water pump using engineering software CATIA v5..........
4) What are the two things that are most important to you in your next job/career?
The recruiter wants to if you are really passionate about the job vacancy and if you would throw yourself into the job or not. Not say anything about money. Yes, we all know is essential but you need to let the recruiter that you want e.g career development..
Example answer: I would like to utilized my skills in total quality management to maintain and improve high quality products and services for ............ in order to meet and exceed customers' expectation(s). Moreover, I am also willing to learn (if you're a fresh graduate or entry level) and I would contribute to the manufacturing process of the firm as well as an excellent team player. I believe that my technical skills can be an asset in variety of ways, including production analysis and forecasting using computer program.
Other questions you could practice for are
What is your greatest weakness? Be honest but let the recruiter know that you are making effort to be a better person and finish on a positive note. Example, Everyone as a weakest or two. An area to improve on. I feel I need to learn to take things easy, that is take one step at a step instead of focusing on too many things at a time. I do this by prioritising my workload in order of importance.
Why should the company hire you? State why you are different from other candidate?
What skills do you require for this job?