10 Common Interview Questions and Answers for Fresh Graduates

For any individual the first job is very important. And as you transition from a student to a working professional, you might be finding a job interview very intimidating. As a fresher you might be thinking what questions could be asked in the interview. Since, the outcome of the final selection process is determined on how well you perform in interview, so let us see a few common interview questions asked to fresh graduates

1. Tell me about yourself.

This appears to be a clear and common interview question. You may believe that everything is included in your resume; however, you must inform the interviewer of any information that is not included in the resume. The interviewer would also want to see how well you communicate. You can, however, use a few examples to highlight your skills and abilities. You can also talk about you accomplishments and interest. But be careful not to reveal too much. Make sure you keep it short.

Example:

I thank you for the opportunity. I am from Bangalore and come from a nuclear family. My parents are both professors at ABC College, and my younger sister is about to take her 12th grade exam. In college, I was an active speaker, serving as the head of our campus's speaker's forum the previous year. We've had some elocution and debate practice and competition. During the speaker's forum, I realized the importance of excellent communication skills as well as the importance of listening skills. I also enjoy playing chess, which has taught me how to overcome challenges. I'm looking for my next professional challenge, and I believe I've found it with your firm. I also volunteer with an NGO that cleans beaches on weekends.

2. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

The interviewer is interested in what you can bring to the job. Never put yourself in the same category as other candidates. Don’t compare yourself with others. As a newcomer, you may think this is a difficult question, but you can use it to highlight your strong points in a positive way.

Example:

I have the necessary qualifications for this position, and my academic records will back it up. I interned with ABC advertising company last year as a member of the client management team, and I was able to understand the various aspects of client management, which helped me, maintain good client relationships. This role would also necessitate the presence of someone who is capable of managing relationships. I understand the importance of communication and make sure I keep my communication clear and effective.

3. Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer wants to know how interested you are in joining the organization by asking this question. With this question, he/she wants to know if you've done your research or if you've just arrived for the interview. You must plan ahead of time to answer this question. You would need to conduct research on the company's website. Learn about their mission and vision, and keep an eye on their social media pages for upcoming events and initiatives. Examine their policies; this will also help you determine if you fit in with the company culture.

Example:

This Company, founded in 2013, is one of the fastest growing advertising and marketing firms. In such a short period of time, you've already partnered with several well-known brands. I'm also following you on social media and have read about your new green clean initiative. Your CSR activities and environmentally friendly practices have inspired many young people, including myself. Also, I read that you provide complete learning and development support through in-house training programs, which is very motivating to perform better.

4. What do you do in your free time/ tell us about your hobbies?

You may think this question is unimportant. By asking about your hobbies, the interviewer may attempt to understand your personality traits. The interviewer is trying to ascertain whether you would be a good fit for the company. Even if your interests and hobbies have nothing to do with your job, they can be beneficial. Make certain that you do not lie. For example, you say you enjoy traveling but have never left your state. And the interviewer has the same interest, and he would be quick to notice that you haven't been out in a few years. Also, make sure you talk about one or two hobbies and elaborate about it.

Example:

I've been interested in learning new languages as I've been studying literature. I've signed up for an online Spanish language course. I've completed the second level and can now write in Spanish as well. Learning Spanish enabled me to connect with new people. I also enjoy playing badminton in my free time.

5. What motivates you to come to work every day?

The hiring manager is interested in knowing if you will be happy and satisfied with your new job. To answer this question, you must explain to the interviewer what you are looking for in a job. As a newcomer, you can discuss your internship or any volunteer work you have done to respond to this question.

Example:

During my internship with ABC Company, I had the opportunity to present my ideas and thoughts on upcoming projects." I used to look forward to our brainstorming sessions because they helped me think about an idea from a different perspective. I took a very proactive approach to my job. I used to feel energized and happy knowing that I had given my all to the task at hand. It could be anything from ordering snacks for our clients to scheduling meetings or preparing the presentation pitch.

6. What is your salary expectation?

You may not be able to quote any figures as a newcomer with no experience. You can look at the wage scales for various positions, though. It is best to give some room for negotiation rather than stating a definite amount. One method to react to this question is to say that you will accept the most recent industry standards.

Example:

As I am still in my early stages of my career, I am unable to provide a specific figure for my take-home pay. But I'm looking forward to working for this company because it will allow me to hone my skills and advance my career. I'd go with the beginner's market package at this point. Could you please tell me how much I can expect from your company?

7. How long do you intend to stay with us?

You could also be asked where you see yourself in five years. The hiring manager wants to know how long you intend to work for them with this question. Employers avoid hiring people who aren't going to stay long because they invest a lot of money in training and on boarding new employees. It is best to express your pleasure at being considered for the position in such a prestigious company, as well as your eagerness to continue working in a positive work environment.

Example:

As I begin my career, I want to lay a solid foundation, and there is no better organization than yours. I'd like to stay with the company as long as I can have a fulfilling career. This company also offers excellent training, and the mentors take a personalized approach to each of your recruits. I intend to hone my skills and give my all to any project that is assigned to me.

8. What are your strengths?

As a fresher, this is a very easy question to respond. You could talk about the strengths that would help you excel at work. It could follow with personal or unrelated skills. Be truthful and avoid giving flowery answer to this question.

Example:

I am an excellent communicator, which has enabled me to take on leadership roles in my college. My communication is concise and to the point. I ask questions that help me perform better because I have a clear understanding of what the outcome should be. I also keep a to-do list and have a habit of prioritizing my tasks, which helps me finish my work in the allotted time.

9. What are your weaknesses?

The interviewer wants to know how well you know yourself with this question. Do not claim that you have no flaws. That would be a lie, and you might come across as arrogant. You could discuss your weakness and then tell them what you learned from it. You also have the opportunity to tell them how you turned your weakness into your strength.

Example:

During my internship, I noticed that I had a difficult time managing my time. My task would be submitted too close to the deadline. I'm now keeping a to-do list to get this sorted out. In addition, I use a calendar to help me remember and complete my tasks on time. To help me prioritize, I began organizing my time into daily and weekly tasks, and this habit has greatly aided me in managing my time efficiently. I can now finish my tasks on time and, if necessary, rework them without missing the deadline.

10. Do you have any questions?

You would need to prepare for this question prior to the interview in order to answer it. The hiring manager would like to know if you are interested in learning more about the company. You can ask them about any policies you come across or if you want to learn more about your job role.

Example:

Thank you. Yes, I do. What are the daily job responsibilities for this position if hired?

Finally, thank the interviewer for their time and inform them that you are awaiting their decision.

We have seen a few common questions; remember, whether you are a new or experienced professional, you must prepare for any interview. Never show up for an interview unprepared. Learn more about the company. Check out their social media pages to stay up to date on their latest events and initiatives. If you have any friends who work in the same company, you could speak with them to learn more about the company's culture and environment. Remember that being well prepared will make you more confident, which will boost your morale and help you perform well in the interview.