Tell Me About Yourself?
This is the most common first interview question and the quality of response can speak volumes about a candidates’ suitability for a role. If you cannot speak confidently about a subject you are an expert upon (you!) then it will be very difficult to persuade an interviewer that you are skilled within your chosen field of work. Rehearse a short speech of no more than a couple of minutes at the most. Focus on your work attributes (e.g. “I’m a people person who thrives in a team environment”). If asked about your personal life, keep your answers relevant (e.g. “I play a number of team sports which further demonstrates my competitive nature”).

Why Did You Leave (Are You Leaving) Your Job?
The key here is being positive. If you're unemployed, state your reason for leaving in a positive context: "I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which unfortunately included me." If you are employed, don’t dwell on the downside of your current situation; focus on what you want in your next job: "After two years, I have made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my experience." Never give a negative answer to this question – it may make the interviewer question your future loyalty.

Why do you want to work here?
The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening. Researching the company and industry before your interview will ensure you stand out as an informed and well-prepared applicant. Many companies will discount any candidate that hasn’t taken the time to find out a bit more about the organisation. The best answers to this question are backed up by facts – for example “I read on your website that you have recently signed a contract with (partner) and I feel this will offer great scope and the chance to grow with the company”.

What are your key strengths?
This This is the perfect interview question, as it focuses on the positive and enables you to list the reasons why your skill set matches the position on offer. Pick two or three key strengths that are pertinent to the role and highlight how you match the requirements. Prepare specific examples that you can call upon to supplement your answers.

What are your weaknesses?
This is the most dreaded interview question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Always counteract a negative with a positive and only concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my presentation skills. As a member of the PMI I am often required to give speeches at my chapter, which I find very helpful in refining these skills."

What are your goals? (where do you see yourself on x years time?)
Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than committing yourself in the distant future. For example, "My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility