The Psychology Behind Common Interview Questions

It is important to know that some employers ask questions that seem very simple; however, the hidden meaning behind the questions may not be simple at all.

When Interviewers Ask You	What They Really Want to Know Is
Describe yourself. What is your background qualifies you for this job?	Can you take an incredible amount of information, organize it quickly in your head, and present it in a concise and articulate fashion?
What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?	Are my perceptions of your strengths and weaknesses the same as yours? How mature are you in dealing with your weaknesses? Can you identify methods for self improvement?
Where do you want to be in five years?	What motivates you and what do you want out of life? Is this job merely a stepping stone to something better?
Why this job? What this organization?	Have you done your homework? Are you analytical?
How would your peers describe you?	How do you see yourself? Are you a leader or a follower? (A quiet confidence is needed here – not arrogance or egotism)
What makes you think you will succeed in this organization?	Have you accurately identified the skills and expertise needed to succeed? Can you prove you have them?
Why should we hire you? What do you bring to this job?	How are your promotion and persuasion skills? Are you believable? If you can’t sell yourself, how will you be able to sell our products/company/ideas?

Adapted form the book “Money Jobs”.