Common Interview Questions

The same 35 questions come up in almost every interview, and each one is asked for a specific reason. Knowing the reason is what turns a rehearsed answer into a convincing one. Some questions come up in nearly every job interview. Knowing the logic behind each question — and preparing a structured answer — can transform a stressful moment into a showcase of your value. Browse our 35 detailed guides, organized by theme.

Introduction and background

• Can you introduce yourself? — structure a compelling introduction
• Tell me about your professional background — highlight your career path
• Why did you leave your last job? — answer with professionalism
• Can you explain the gaps in your CV? — address career breaks without underselling yourself

Strengths, weaknesses and achievements

• What are your main strengths? — choose and illustrate your assets
• What is your greatest weakness? — answer honestly and intelligently
• Tell me about a mistake and what you learned — turn a failure into a strength
• What are your main achievements in previous positions? — quantify and showcase your results
• Which experience has marked you the most? — choose a revealing example

Teamwork and collaboration

• Do you prefer working alone or in a team? — demonstrate your adaptability
• Give an example of a collaborative project — show your team spirit
• Have you managed a conflict in your team? — illustrate your interpersonal intelligence
• Tell me about a situation where you solved a complex problem — structure a STAR answer

Challenges, pressure and project management

• Tell me about a challenge you overcame — turn a difficulty into an asset
• How do you handle pressure and tight deadlines? — show your composure
• What would you do without the resources to complete a project? — express your resourcefulness

Motivations and aspirations

• What motivates you at work on a daily basis? — talk about what truly drives you
• What are you passionate about in your work? — show your commitment
• What motivates you about this position? — connect your motivations to the role
• What are the most important criteria for you in a position? — clarify your priorities
• What are your short and long-term goals? — project a coherent direction
• Where do you see yourself in five years? — give a vision without overpromising

The company and the role

• Why do you want to join our company? — show you've done your research
• What do you know about our company? — structure an impressive answer
• What do you think of our product/service? — express an informed perspective
• How can your skills benefit our company? — connect your strengths to their needs
• Why do you think you are a good candidate for this position? — argue your candidacy
• What do you look for in a company or work environment? — define your criteria without closing doors

Management and professional development

• How would you describe your management style? — identify and name your leadership approach
• What type of project would you like to manage here? — show your vision and ambition
• How do you keep up with trends in our sector? — prove your professional curiosity

Salary and original questions

• What are your salary expectations? — negotiate with confidence and method
• Describe yourself in 3 words — the art of personal synthesis
• If you were an animal, which would you be? — answer quirky questions with style