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Mastering Interview Questions: Key Tips for Student Success

Article Date | 30 January, 2025
Image: LSST Marketing/Adobe/Adobe Firefly
 

By James Platt, Careers Manager, LSST

 

The interview stage can often feel like the most daunting part of the job application process. However, with the right preparation and approach, you can confidently tackle any question and stand out as a top candidate. Below, I’ve outlined how to answer some of the most common and challenging interview questions, offering expert tips to help you showcase your skills and impress your potential employers.

 

1. Can you describe a difficult situation you faced and how you handled it?

This question is designed to assess your problem-solving abilities, resilience, and capacity to handle stress. Interviewers want to know how you approach challenges and manage difficult situations under pressure. When answering, select a specific example that demonstrates your critical thinking, adaptability, and teamwork skills. Break the situation down clearly by describing the challenge, your actions, and the positive outcome. Emphasise any innovative solutions you implemented and how they impacted the team or project. Reflect on the lessons you learned and how these experiences have prepared you for future challenges.

 

Example Answer:

“In my previous role, we experienced a significant decline in sales following the entry of a new competitor into the market. This caused a great deal of uncertainty and pressure within our team. I took the lead in forming a cross-functional team to assess the situation. We carried out in-depth market research and identified key areas where we could enhance our product offering. We then revamped our product features and rolled out a new marketing strategy targeting previously untapped customer segments. Additionally, we strengthened customer engagement through personalised communications and loyalty programmes. As a result, our sales increased by 20% within six months, and the team’s confidence was restored.”

 

2. What do you know about our company?

Being able to demonstrate your knowledge of the company is vital. It shows you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role. Mention specific details about the company’s history, values, projects, and achievements that resonate with you. Make sure to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the company’s goals, and express how you can contribute to their ongoing success. If possible, refer to recent news or developments, as this indicates you are actively engaged with the company’s current activities.

 

Example Answer:

“I know that your company is a leading force in the [industry] sector, with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability. I am particularly impressed by your recent project on [specific project], which exemplifies your commitment to [specific value]. I also admire how your company has achieved [specific achievement], such as [award or recognition]. Your approach to [aspect of the company’s business] deeply aligns with my professional values, and I am eager to contribute to the continued success of the organisation. Additionally, your dedication to [community service or corporate responsibility] highlights your holistic approach to business, which I greatly admire.”

 

3. Do you have any questions for us?

Always have questions prepared for the end of the interview. This is a vital opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and interest in the role, as well as to gain a deeper understanding of the company. Focus on questions about the company culture, team dynamics, career development, and the role’s expectations. By doing so, you will also show that you are considering how you can contribute to and grow within the company.

Example Questions:

“Could you tell me more about the team’s current projects and the company’s plans for growth over the next few years? What opportunities exist for professional development and advancement within the company? I’m also interested in learning more about the company culture—what do you most enjoy about working here, and how does the company foster collaboration and innovation? Lastly, how does the company support employees in maintaining a good work-life balance?”

 

Tailor Your Answers

By thoroughly preparing and tailoring your responses to the specifics of the company and role, you’ll ensure that you leave a positive and lasting impression on your interviewers. If you’re struggling to move past the interview stage, don’t hesitate to book a session with your local careers officer through Handshake, your all-in-one careers platform. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

 

By following these expert tips, you will be well-equipped to navigate common interview questions with confidence, setting yourself up for success in your job search.

If you’re struggling to get past the interview stage, book in with your local LSST Careers Officer via Handshake, your all-in-one careers platform!

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