Navigating High Resignation Numbers: Preparing for Your Next Interview

Between July 2021 and October 2021, the U.S. saw millions of Americans resign from their jobs, creating numerous new openings. Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or looking for a change, this guide will help you prepare for your next interview with ten common questions and effective answering techniques.

1. Tell me about yourself and describe your background briefly.

Interviewers love stories. Share a compelling narrative that includes a strong beginning, an engaging middle, and a closing that highlights why you are the best fit for the job. Focus on a relevant incident that sparked your interest in the profession, your educational background, and how these experiences make you a great candidate.

Example: “I come from a small town where opportunities were limited. I used online learning to stay updated, learned to code, and became a certified computer programmer. My first job as a front-end coder motivated me to master both front- and back-end languages, tools, and frameworks.”

2. How did you hear about this position?

Employers want to know how you found the role. If someone recommended you, mention their name and your relationship. If you found the job yourself, explain what attracted you to the role and align your values with the company’s mission. If recruited, share why the role appealed to you.

Example: “I found this position on LinkedIn. I’m passionate about the work you do in X, Y, and Z areas and believe my skills align well with the role, making it a great opportunity for my career.”

3. What type of work environment do you prefer?

Align your answer with the company’s culture. Mention your research and describe an experience that matches the company’s work environment.

Example: “I thrive in fast-paced environments that emphasize collaboration over competition. My last internship had a similar culture, and I enjoyed the balance.”

4. How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?

Employers want to know if you can handle stress. Share an instance when you remained calm under pressure and discuss how you manage stress.

Example: “I’ve learned to navigate stressful situations throughout my career. During a product launch, I stayed calm and developed strategies to solve problems, which helped my team succeed.”

5. Do you prefer working independently or on a team?

Highlight the benefits of both working independently and in a team, and explain how you adapt to each situation.

Example: “I enjoy a blend of both. I value collaboration for diverse opinions and feedback, but I also excel when I can focus on tasks independently.”

6. How do you stay organized when balancing multiple projects?

Employers want to know how you manage your time and tasks. Share a specific instance and describe your organizational techniques.

Example: “I use the timeboxing technique to allocate specific times for tasks on my calendar, which helps me stay on track and prioritize effectively.”

7. What did you do in the last year to improve your knowledge?

Discuss any professional or personal development activities you engaged in during the past year.

Example: “I took online courses to sharpen my skills and read industry journals to stay updated. I also pursued personal interests like learning to play the guitar, which improved my mental health and productivity.”

8. What are your salary expectations?

Research salary ranges for the position before the interview. Discuss a range rather than a specific number and leave room for negotiation.

Example: “Based on my skills and industry rates, I’m looking at a salary range of $___ to $___.”

9. Are you applying for other jobs?

Be honest about your job search and express why you are particularly interested in this role.

Example: “I’ve applied to a couple of other firms, but I’m most excited about this role because…”

10. Can you explain the gap year on your resume?

Explain why you took a gap year and focus on how it benefited your personal and professional development.

Example: “I took a wilderness course to sort out my life goals, which helped me develop leadership and communication skills. It also led me to pursue a degree in [field] to align with my passion for [subject].”

To make a winning impression, answer each question with confidence and enthusiasm. Practicing these responses will help you appear poised and in control, positioning you as the ideal candidate.