Going through a job interview can often feel overwhelming. Some of the questions asked are designed to test your wit, composure and ability to think on your feel.

At 1st Call Recruitment, we understand this process can be daunting. As seasoned interviewers, we interview tens of thousands of candidates each year and we’ve identified five questions that candidates frequently find challenging. Here’s how you can prepare to ace them.

1. Tell me about yourself.
This question can be a minefield for the unprepared. It is not an invitation for your life story but an opportunity to highlight your professional journey, emphasizing relevant achievements and skills. Practice a concise yet compelling story or overview your work history and point out any major successors. It’s important to ensure you’re getting the right information across.

For example, if you’re going for a sales-based role it important you mention your targets, sales results and any major wins, good salespeople know their stats, don’t make it up you will get caught out, but do remember to keep confidential information secure relating to previous employers.

2. What is your weakness?
This question demands self-awareness. Avoid cliches like ‘I am a perfectionist’ and instead discuss a genuine weakness and how you’re actively working to improve it. This demonstrates your ability to self-assess and grow.

For example, it could be that you’re not so great with excel as you don’t use this in your current job, however you’re a wiz at computers and pick packages up fast so if the role requires, you will have no issue in learning this fast and prepared to do a crash course, if need be, for the role

3. Describe a time you failed and how you handled it.
Interviewers want to determine your resilience and problem-solving skills. Choose a genuine example where you faced an issue, took responsibility, and learned from the experience. Highlight the positive outcomes or lessons learned that showcase your ability to turn it into growth opportunities.

For example,
The Situation: During a major project, a key client unexpectedly requested significant changes just days before the deadline.
Task: As the project lead, I had to implement these changes without compromising quality or missing the deadline.
Action: I quickly organized the team, delegated tasks based on strengths, and worked extended hours alongside them.
Result: We delivered the revised project on time. The client was impressed. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and proactive communication in overcoming challenges.

4. Why should we hire you? / Why do you want to work for us?
This question requires a deep understanding of the company’s needs and how your skills align with them. Do your research on the company you are interviewing with. 10 mins of research is better than none. Never go to an interview without research!!! Even for a job at the supermarket, a company’s website typically tells a lot about them, their value and what important to the business. Tailor your response by highlighting specific achievements or qualities that sets you apart from other candidates. Show enthusiasm for the role and a genuine interest in contributing to the organization’s success.

For example, I am excited about this role because from what I know so far about your company, that its focus on exceptional customer service aligns with my experience and passion. In my previous job, I implemented a new system that reduced response times by 40% and increased customer satisfaction. I believe my strong communication skills and dedication to resolving issues quickly could be really beneficial to your team. I’m excited about the opportunity.

5. Where do you see yourself in Two to five years’ time?
This question if to see what your career ambitions and long-term goals are. Align your response with the role and the company. Emphasize your commitment to growth and how you envision leveraging your skills and experiences to contribute significantly.

For example, in the next few years, I’d like to have taken on more responsibilities and further developed my administrative skills. If the opportunity was available, id love to progress to a more senior administrative role or grow within a new business so I can mentor new team members and help in other departments.


In summary, preparing for a successful interview is super important regardless of the role!
• Research and practice: familiarize yourself with common interview questions and practice answers. Rehearse your answers.
• Highlight your achievements: prepare specific example that demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
• Stay calm and confident: maintain a positive attitude and engage actively with the interviewer. Remember tough questions are opportunities to demonstrate your strengths and suitability for the role.
• Ask questions: demonstrate your interest and curiosity about the company and role by preparing thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.

If you ever feel uncertain about how to prepare for your interview, always ask your recruitment consultant for help and always practice similar questions to these before any interview. You can even practice with a friend and get them to ask you these questions. Don’t be nervous just be yourself and always remember, clean tidy attire, be on time and always thank them for their time to meet you.