Two Good Answers and One Bad

Job Interview Question: Tell me about yourself

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• I have a bad headache today.

• I have a 3.8 GPA.

• I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian.

Answer explanation

This question is designed to see what the applicant sees as relevant for the workplace and to learn about skills, personality traits, and personal and work experiences that make an applicant a good fit for the job.

Job Interview Question: What is your greatest strength?

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• I never quit until the job is done.

• I can beat anyone at word games.

• I love to get to the root of a problem and find a solution.

Answer explanation

This question is designed to identify personal traits that qualify the applicant for the job and to see how the applicant handles a question that requires some level of bragging.

Job Interview Question: What is your greatest weakness?

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• It used to be my lack of organization, but I’ve worked on that a lot.

• I don’t have any. I’m pretty much perfect.

• I’d probably say my weakness for small animals, which is what led me to want to be a vet.

Answer explanation

This question is designed to get the applicant to admit a flaw to help the employer gain insight into an applicant’s work habits and work ethic. It’s an opportunity to turn the question around into a positive, and the employer wants to see if the applicant can do that.

Job Interview Question: Tell me about a time you were on a team that succeeded.

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• I rode along in the bus with the debate team when they went to

  the championship and won.

• I ran the school website with a team of eight students and made sure it was always up-to-date.

• My team won top prize at the science fair this year, and we were each offered internships.

Answer explanation

This question lets the employer know if the applicant is a team player, has had achievements, and has leadership skills.

Job Interview Question: Why are you the best person for this job?

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• I’ve been interested in a career in this field since I first learned about it, and I have developed key skills to prepare for this job.

• I’ve researched the company, and I know you need someone with coding skills like I have.

• I’m not really sure what you’re looking for, so that’s a tough

  question to answer.

Answer explanation

This question indicates whether or not you’ve researched the company and thought about how you can contribute. It’s a way to see if you really want the job.

Job Interview Question: Do you have any questions?

Which statement would you NOT say in a job interview?

• What qualities are the most important for advancement in this company?

• How much does this job pay?

• What’s a typical day like in this job?

Answer explanation

This question indicates the applicant’s ability to prepare for an interview, interest level in the company, and understanding of the job being offered, the company, and its field.