Job Interview Questions and Answers - 10 Basic Inquiries

Job interview questions and answers is a topic that enters the mind of every wannabe executive, summer job hopeful, and nervous recent college graduate. If you learn how to avoid breaking under pressure and can muster up enough savvy to mask your worry - you'll find the process of answering the questions asked by a potential employer much easier. Below you will find ten common job interview questions and answers to consider when you've decided to enter the work world or make a career change:

1) Why Do You Want to Work Here?

Naturally, an employer wants to know why you are attracted to the position you are applying for and why you have chosen his or her company or business as your stomping grounds. Preparing for this interview question is rather easy because all you have to do is show your enthusiasm for the company. Pay attention to the services they offer or products sold. You familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of how their particular business operates and express your interest in the company's reputation.

2) How Will You Contribute to Our Company?

Employers seek out candidates that are knowledgeable when it comes to their company standards and they want to know what you can contribute. Company research will come in handy here. Your answer should reflect that you are aware of the company's position in the marketplace or recognize any upcoming challenges the company faces. A sample answer may include: "I am aware that your closest competition has modified their marketing campaign to reach a demographic of 20- to 30-year-olds. I can help your company rise to the challenge by..."

3) Are You a Team Player?

Employers want to know if a potential employee will fit into their company and can work well with others. While a typical response is to simply answer 'yes' to this question, an interviewer is looking for a bit more. They want to learn specific instances. A sample answer would include: "Yes - I am very much a team player, as I possess many experiences working with others that span previous jobs, school commitments, and athletics. For example, I was captain of the debate team and most recently, worked on a project...."

4) What Do You Think Are Qualities a Successful Manager Should Possess?

It is wise to concentrate on leadership and possessing a vision when answering this type of question. An employer would like to see how you feel about managing others and elevating the company's progress. A good answer is to pinpoint what you believe are the key qualities in a successful manager or employee, such as highlighting the importance of hiring someone with the ability to move others working under them to achieve success. Giving a brief example of how someone has shaped your life and how it has aided in your personal development is also a plus.

5) Where Do You See Yourself in 'X' Amount of Years?

Job interview questions and answers usually cause interviewees to panic and this is a common question that stumps potential employees. Keep cool and take a deep breath to relax. When answering this question - remember that an employer is looking for people that are serious about the company. They are typically interested in hiring people that are not using their business as a stepping stone. Answers should reflect a serious attitude about your career and highlight your level of ambition. Perhaps in ten years - you would like to see yourself as a supervisor or executive in the company...

6) How Would You Describe Yourself?

When choosing a description for yourself - stick with the assessments that apply to the position at hand. If you are interviewing for a place in an ad agency - perhaps you could state, " To date, my background has centered on preparing for a career in advertising with a focus on print design. My ambition and determination has led to a fulfilling experience as marketing director at ABC Company after being selected out of a pool of 500..."

7) At What Point Did You Decide to Pursue This Career Field?

Often, interviewers will attempt to separate serious candidates with a passion for the field from those simply looking for employment for other reasons. An interviewee applying for a position in programming computers may answer: "I knew my interest in tinkering with computers was much more than a hobby when I found myself spending more and more time rebuilding PCs for family and friends for no cost at all. I've literally read every computer-related book shelved at my local library..."

8) What Are Your Salary Requirements?

Some employers will give candidates a chance to voice their salary expectations. If you are not looking for a specific range, some interviewees have found success in landing a job and impressing employers by stating: "I am confident that I am the candidate that you seek. If you feel the same - then I am sure you will offer a salary that is fair and proportionate with the value I can offer to your company."

9) Have You Ever Encountered Conflict and How Did You Resolve It?

It is nearly impossible to avoid this question. If you answer 'no' - the interviewer will continue to ask additional questions in order to gain a response from you. The best way to answer this question is to focus on how you have reacted to conflict in the past and what you did to resolve it. An example includes: "Yes, I have met with conflict in my life - disagreements that have led to many debates in the workplace. However, I have learned that it is best to gain a full understanding of the other person's perspective and take the time to recognize their point of view. Seeking a solution that pleases both parties is my goal. For example..."

10) Why Should We Hire You?

One of the most common interview questions will concentrate on why you are the "one" for the position. Be honest, make a confident statement, and then back up your assertion with facts. Perhaps you could say, "You should hire me because I am the best candidate for this position. I am aware there are other applicants who may also possess the capability to take on the responsibilities of this position, yet I bring an additional quality that sets me aside from the rest. For example..."