10 Common Interview Questions
What common questions do staffing agencies ask during interviews? THRIVAS staffing agency lists ten of the most common questions asked during an interview along with tips and example answers. Make sure to be prepared for your next interview.
1. Can you tell me a about yourself?
Staffing agencies are not hoping to find out if you have 3 cats, or if your favorite TV show is NCIS. Recruiters are hoping you will tell them something that will relate you to the job you are interviewing for (something about your work ethics, creativity, accomplishments, etc.).
2. What interests you about this job opening?
If you are not prepared for this question there is a good chance we will think you are not interested. Find something. Anything. And know it before you go to the interview. Also keep in mind, “it allows me to use my skills and experience in new ways” sounds way better to hiring managers than “it’s close to my home” or “it pays better than my last job”.
3. What do you know about our company?
Research, research, research. It is important that you have an answer for this interview question and it will impress your recruiter if you have worked to find that information. Visit the staffing agency’s social media pages to see what they are promoting and sharing (Google+, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn). Research their website. You will be able to find bits of information that will help you stand out among other applicants.
4. Why are you no longer with your last job?
My boss was crazy. The hours were too long. I got fired. Not enough pay. Employment agencies have heard it all, and often. This is a great question that, when answered correctly, may set you apart. An example of an acceptable answer would be to list your accomplishments and then say something like, “Having successfully done that, I’m ready for another challenge”.
5. Why should we hire you for this job?
Tom answers the interview question without thinking much and says, “Because I need this job”. Sara responds, “Because I am a good fit for this job”. David answers, “Because I have what it takes to solve problems and do a great job”. Based on these three answers, David would get the job even though Tom needed it and Sara was a good fit for it. The more details you give the better your answer will be.
6. What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
Every candidate is a hard worker. If you are a hard worker, give examples. “My strength is my work ethics. I am consistently the first one in and the last one out of the office. I was promoted to team lead because my production was the highest in the office. As far as weaknesses, I feel that my management skills could be stronger, and I am constantly working to improve them.”
7. What is your greatest achievement?
Hitting a home run in your little league game won’t cut it. Keep it recent. Don’t just describe what you did, but how you did it and what the results were. “One of my greatest career achievements was when I increased, Company ABC’s customer satisfaction rating from 73% to 97% in just 6 months. I was awarded employee of the month and promoted to team lead.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Don’t raise any red flags when answering this question. It is hard for recruiters to make an offer to someone who says they want to be an investment banker but is interviewing for an IT job. Your career goals should be in line with the job you are interviewing for. If there are any indications you are more interested in another job or career, hiring managers will pass on making you an offer. They do not want to recruit all over again in 3 months when you leave for that dream job.
9. What salary range are you looking for?
The question for candidates has always been, to answer or not to answer. With staffing agencies, it is best to answer. Staffing agency clients have already informed the agency of what they are willing to pay and they do not negotiate. An agency does not want to submit you to a job that pays $15 per hour when you are seeking $20 because it would not work out for you, their client or them. It is always best to be upfront with your staffing agency so they are able to match you with the most appropriate position.
10. What questions do you have for me?
This is generally the last question of the interview and your time to close it on a great note. The recruiter will not consider someone for a position if they do not feel they are truly interested. This is your time to make sure they know you are interested. Yes, you can ask questions that may not have already been answered, but never ask questions like “How much time off do you get” or “Do you offer benefits”. More important than asking questions, make sure they know you are interested, even if that means saying it, “I am very interested in this position”.
