Virtual interviews have become essential as more businesses switched to remote work setups. But no matter how much the hiring process has changed, key elements remain. And this includes the interview questions.
We’ve listed some of the more popular interview questions you could encounter from major companies like Google or Amazon. If you have a virtual interview coming up, knowing about these questions and how to answer them properly will help you succeed.
1. Tell me about yourself?
Unlike the famous internet meme where the interviewee answers the question with another question, your interviewer doesn’t want to hear you repeat what’s on your resume.
They want to know more about you and they prefer something that’s not written down on your CV. You already landed the interview because they’ve reviewed your CV, they don’t want a summary of it. Take this as a chance to stand out from the competition.
Provide an answer that highlights your strengths and that targets qualities that suit the job position. For example, if you’re a triathlete and you’ve finished the ironman triathlon multiple times, then let the interviewer know about it. It highlights your discipline, competitiveness, and perseverance.
When it comes to virtual interviews, it’s harder to read the body language and engage the other person. Make sure that you give the interviewer a chance to speak while you’re answering the question. A two-way conversation is always a positive point in interviews.
Relay your stories or accomplishments with enthusiasm and vigor that will engage the interviewer, never make it sound like you’re bragging. Remember to be humble and relatable.
2. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
The interviewer already knows about your strength from listening to your self-introduction and reading your resume. The next question would be what you need to work on.
This is an important question because it lets the interviewer know that you know yourself and that you are aware of your flaws. This gives the impression that you’re self-aware and you can identify areas that you need to improve on. Nobody is perfect after all.
However, you should be strategic when answering this question. Always choose a flaw that’s related to your professional skills but not something that would prevent you from doing the job that you applied for.
For example, if you’re applying for a leadership position, it’s not the best idea to mention that you’re easily agitated or that you’re scared of confrontations.
Make it a point to prepare at least three answers to this question.
3. What value can you bring to the company?
Highlight your skills, achievements, and values. Make sure to research the company values beforehand so that you can match your answer to their core values as well.
If you’re applying for a more senior role, then it’s best to highlight your experience, how you help other people do their jobs and manage work.
For a more entry-level role, then highlight your skills and expertise. Jot down your best assets and choose three of five out of the list.
4. Name a challenge that you had to overcome and how you overcame it?
This is a chance for you to provide an example that demonstrates your strengths and how right you are for the role.
Pick a situation where you can highlight your work ethic, discipline, skills, and how goal-oriented you can be.
5. Why do you want to work in this company?
Always do your research on the company you’re applying for. List down the characteristics that you admire about the company whether it be products, values, or principles.
Discuss how you blend right in with the company culture and how your skills and goals fit well with the company’s vision and mission.
Tell them what they have accomplished to inspire you to work with them and how your skills can contribute to their future.
Prepare in Advance
It’s more challenging to create rapport with virtual interviews compared to on-site interviews. You won’t be able to work with traditional methods like giving firm handshakes or working on those visual queues that could tell the interviewer what kind of person you are. However, there are many ways to impress your potential employer.
Review and rehearse these top questions and be sure to do your research ahead of time.
Go the extra mile by visiting their social media profiles and reviewing what their peers are saying about them.
Show your enthusiasm by asking thoughtful questions, this will make sure that even though the interview is virtual, you’re very engaged and invested. Always make eye contact with the camera too as this will tell them that you’re attentive and focused.
Prepare for Virtual Interviews
Preparation improves your chances of competing for a good job with a good compensation package. Although you’re not being interviewed in an office, approach it like you will be.
Go over the interview questions and prep your answers. Dress for success. And show up on time.
