10 Easy Rules to Answer Job Interview Questions and Get Hired

Good news! After a lengthy job search, a potential employer invited you for a job interview. You might think the hardest part is over — but what’s left is arguably the most important aspect of landing a job. Preparing to answer job interview questions correctly is the next big challenge.

You may think you know quite a bit about how to answer interview questions, but it’s not always as simple as you believe. In many cases there is no single correct answer, because it varies from one company to another. Before your interview, think about the questions you’re likely to be asked and develop compelling ways to answer them. Here are 10 rules to help.

Rule 1 — Have a great attitude

Your attitude matters for making a good impression. Your interviewers took time out of their busy schedule to give you a chance — don’t take it for granted. Throughout the interview, show a positive attitude that demonstrates your enthusiasm to work for the company, your interest in contributing to its future success, and your willingness to learn and progress.

Rule 2 — No standard answers

Standard answers to common questions are available online to every other candidate too. To stand out, tune your answers to the specific employer. Research the company and the position: the role itself (read between the lines of the job description), what they’re looking for in applicants, the company culture, the hiring manager, and some team members. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be.

Rule 3 — Listen twice, speak once

We have two ears and one mouth, and we should use them proportionally. Listen carefully and let the interviewer lead. Never interrupt. If you’re unsure what’s being asked, it’s fine to ask for clarification or to repeat the question in your own words. Pay attention to detail — some questions have no right or wrong answer; the interviewer is interested in how you think.

Rule 4 — Take your time to think

Don’t rush your response. Whether you know the answer or not, briefly compose your thoughts before answering. Taking the time to respond effectively is better than jumping the gun and saying something you regret.

Rule 5 — Show confidence, stay humble

You’re there to make yourself desirable for hiring, so show confidence in what you’ve done. Share examples of accomplishments related to the role. Be convincing, but don’t worry if you don’t know every answer — the employer isn’t looking for a perfect candidate, but someone who can succeed in the position. It’s all about balance.

Rule 6 — Speak positively

The words you use express your inner thoughts. Be conscious of every word. If asked about a weakness, switch to what you’re doing to improve. If you lack experience, explain how you plan to gain it. If asked about a past conflict, be diplomatic and don’t criticize former employers. Avoid negative terms — use “challenge” instead of “problem,” “different opinion” instead of “conflict.”

Rule 7 — Be consistent

The interview has a logical flow through which the interviewer assesses your fit. Stay focused on the job and match your abilities to the description. Interviewers sometimes ask the same question in different ways at different times — monitor your answers and link them together. Bring an extra copy of your résumé to refer to, and reuse the same examples consistently. Consistency shows that your thinking is clear, logical, focused, and honest.

Rule 8 — Avoid “empty” phrases

Claiming you have “leadership,” “problem-solving,” or “results-oriented” skills is of no value unless you back it with facts. Instead of empty phrases, describe experiences and achievements that demonstrate the skill. Prepare facts in advance for each skill the job requires. The more specific you are, the more the hiring manager will see you can do the job.

Rule 9 — Ask questions

At the end you’ll usually be asked if you have questions — a key opportunity to learn more and to show you care about your career. The interview is also your chance to assess whether the job is right for you. Prepare a list of questions in advance, and use this moment to share anything important you may have forgotten.

Rule 10 — Finish strong

End on a positive note. Remind the interviewer of your skills, show what you know about the company, and what you can bring. This can be a differentiator. Don’t forget to thank the interviewer and follow up with a personal thank-you note — and use it to clarify anything you wish you’d answered more thoroughly.

Some example questions to ask

• When do you plan to make a decision?
• What are the responsibilities of this position?
• What is a typical day for this position?
• Who would be my immediate superiors?
• What is the biggest challenge in this position?
• What are the most important qualities for this position?
• What are the common characteristics of employees who succeed in this position?
• If I joined your team, how long would it take for me to be productive?

Interviewing can be nerve-wracking, whether it’s your first or your fiftieth. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be.