Can you pass this
Graduate Interview?
We'll take you through 8 common graduate interview questions. Play the video then select your answer and see our advice.
At the end find out if you got the job! And you can download our free interview workbook to help you prepare for your next graduate interview!
if a video does not start automatically, click play.
Why did you choose your degree subject?
Here's How to Answer
The Degree you decide on isn’t particularly important when answering this question. It’s more about how you came to your decision.
Did you have an overall career plan in mind or were you going for a subject that would give you a good foundation to pursue any career?
You can also discuss the aspects of your degree that have helped your career choice and how you will be able to put what you have learned into practice.
Have you completed your education?
Here's How to Answer
Rather than find out if you are going to leave the job to go back to university after six months, this question helps your interviewer determine which training opportunities they can offer you.
Try to discuss areas related to the job role that you are most interested in so they can see that you are generally keen to develop your skills for the benefit of the company
Can You Be Flexible?
Here's How to Answer
It’s way too early in your career to have formed any real specialism. So let your interviewer know that you are willing to put your skills into various areas where the business needs them to be utilised.
It is worth asking the interviewer to give an overview of the things you will be asked to do because if you are going to be making tea from 9 to 5 every day maybe it is not the right job for you...
How Resourceful Are You?
Here's How to Answer
Resourcefulness is an admirable quality for all employees but especially graduates.
They want to know that you will be able to use the tools at your disposal to deal with whatever is thrown at you so try to think of a problem-solving situation where you have had to be creative or inventive.
How Would Your Best Friend Describe You?
Here's How to Answer
This is a way to find out how you want other people to perceive you. Your interview will see through cliché answers such as trustworthy or loyal, so instead opt for something more evocative such as intelligent, passionate, enthusiastic, positive or creative.
You might want to ask your best friend beforehand what they would actually say
What's Your Biggest Weakness?
Here's How to Answer
This is often a question that everyone fears, but self-assessment is a key part of any job. Don’t use something that is a key part of the job you are going for.
As a graduate, your experience is probably your greatest weakness so let them know that - and say that you are hoping a job with their company will solve this situation.
What Would Getting This Job Mean To You?
Here's How to Answer
You want to come across as enthusiastic rather than desperate. Talk about how well you think your skills and experience match the job and that you are really impressed with what the company has to offer.
Tell the interviewer that you would love the opportunity to work with them and that you can promise them you will offer your full efforts in return for that chance
How Quickly Do You See Yourself Being Promoted?
Here's How to Answer
You need to balance your answer between your enthusiasm for developing your career and the need to develop your skills.
Tell your interview that you understand you have a lot to learn and are prepared to put in the effort and that you hope your goals and responsibilities can be reviewed at the end of your probation period and in your first annual review.
Give the impression that you will wait for your chance but not forever.
Would You Accept The Job Right Now?
Here's How to Answer
Even if you can shake hands there and then it is always a good idea to take 24 hours to sleep on the idea.
The job will still be there in the morning, and employers will understand that you will need to take a bit of time to think about the offer.
Sometimes saying yes right away could be seen as desperation by the employer and a sign of someone who jumps into decisions without thinking.
{ outcome heading }
That didn’t go very well really did it? I think it’s worth you having another read through your CV or speaking with your university to work out how best to use your skills to impress an interviewer.
We’d happily accept another application in future but you need to improve on some areas before we see you again.
{ outcome heading }
Well you’ve really impressed us with your answers, you seem to have a great understanding of the job and the skills you need to develop in order to get your career off to a great start.
Congratulations, you’ve got the job, we’re looking forward to working with you.
{ outcome heading }
Unfortunately, we’re not going to be able to offer you the position this time around. You gave a few good answers, but we think there are other graduates out there who are better suited to our company.
Don’t be disheartened through and feel free to apply again once you have a bit more experience.