Got an interview coming up? Prepared answers to all the typical questions you’re expecting to hear? Superb – but It might be worth having a look at what the recruitment experts themselves are advising so you can make sure you DON’T answer these typical questions like this.

First up:

“Tell me about yourself”

Ah, the absolute classic question, the usual and often expected opening question to break the interview ice. Now with that being said, remember – that’s all it is.

Director of Content Development & Internal Recruiting for the Atrium Staffing, Michelle Mavi, told Recruiter: “As it’s a very broad and open question, candidates are prone to ramble, talking about their professional selves in very generic and general terms, and basically rehashing their resume.”

Next up:

“Why do you want this job?”

Bad candidates often fall victim to admitting they either don’t know too much about the role or that they are desperate for a job.

Head of Talent at AutoGravity, Annie Boneta recalls one potential candidate who answered the infamous question with: “After I graduated, I decided to backpack around Europe for a couple of months. I was into month five when my parents called me up and told me I needed to get a job, so that is why I decided to call you.”

And finally:

“Why do you want to work for us?”

Failure to prepare for this question is usually why this one is answered wrong, as well as when things like money, perks and bonuses are mentioned.

As Sung Hae Kim, VP of People Operations at Wizeline, states, sometimes candidates try to “flip the question” and ask the interviewer “I don’t know, you tell me why I should work for this company”.

Answering a question with another question? This immediately shows avoidance, and ultimately reveals that someone hasn’t prepared well enough.

Interviews can be a nervy affair but with the right preparation, you’ll be fine. So take this advice on board and remember – if you need advice with your interview prep, head to your nearest Cordant branch and we’d be happy to help you!