Examples of behavioral interview questions
Other potential interview questions
With tips and sample answers
Tell me about yourself…
- High level description of skills and experience, "known for" statement, 60-90 seconds
- "I am an IT strategy project manager with over 15 years of experience in Big 4 Consulting, industry and start-up environments. Most recently, I was a Manager with Deloitte Digital, where I provided Digital Enablement, IT Strategy & Roadmap, and IT Governance consulting services. I have worked across several industries, but my niche is Media where I’ve successfully delivered projects for Fortune 100 clients such as (X, Y, and Z clients). I’m known for thriving under chaotic project environments with tight deadlines and changing scope. My peers depend on me to keep the team focused. I was excited about your Program Manager role, because I have deep experience in the Media sector and can make an immediate impact on your team."
Why did you leave Deloitte?
- Honesty may often be the best policy. Be short and sweet. Focus on the future, not the past.
- "I had a great experience at Deloitte – learned a lot and developed a network that will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, the project that I was assigned to ended and there was limited work available in my area of expertise. As a result, I was part of a team-wide reduction. I am excited for a new challenge."
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Strengths – most relevant to job, back up with CAR example
- "My top strength is leading and mentoring high performance teams. Last year, I led a team of four Senior Consultants on a high profile project with a demanding client. The four team members were hoping for an above average performance review at year-end. I worked with them individually to develop their goals, conduct bi-weekly check-in meetings, and help them network for special projects. As a result, they all received above average performance reviews and two out of four were promoted to Manager…."
- Weaknesses – real area in which you wish to develop further, but irrelevant to job – CAR example showing improvement
- "As a Manager, I’ve always been comfortable leading a large team, but when it came to delivering sales presentations, I would get anxious about presenting in public and defer to another team member. I quickly realized that if I wanted to continue to progress within the firm, I’d need to improve my public speaking skills. I worked with my Counselor to develop and execute a plan – first, I attended a Toastmasters series in my home office, then I rehearsed mock presentations for my counselor before finally requesting to lead an orals presentation for a key client. Because of my diligent training and rehearsing, I performed well at the orals presentation and we won the deal! I’ve since led over 10 other orals presentations and continue to become more comfortable, but there is still more work to do; I am confident I will continue to improve my public speaking skills with each new opportunity."
What are your career goals/where do you see yourself in 5/10 years?
- Keep it higher level, focused on what you want to be known for/contributing vs a specific role/path that may not be in line with what the hiring company has in mind.
- "At this point in my career, I don’t see myself moving from place to place. I am seeking a home in my next role where I can continue to grow within the company over the next 5-10 years (and beyond) leveraging the tools, knowledge and mentoring that I see your firm offers."
Why do you want to work here?
- Make it meaningful and personal; don’t just recite stats from website
- If possible, cite info from current/former employee, client, service provider
- "Your company has a reputation in the market as being at the forefront of managing technology disruptors. I spoke with a colleague at one of your clients who confirmed this reputation and his respect for your team’s tech savvy and knowledge. A friend of mine who works within your company mentioned the significant training and resources you dedicate to ensuring your staff are well-versed in tech trends. I’m excited to work for a company who leads from the front in this area."
Why should we hire you?
- Read the job description and understand their needs (what’s in it for them?")
- Closing line of your elevator speech
- Refer back to your strengths
- What makes you unique from other candidates?
- Tailor it!
- "I know you are seeking someone who is comfortable with change and innovation. In my technology role at Deloitte, I developed a reputation for understanding and adopting IT trends and disruptors, and I’m hoping I can focus on this full-time in my next role. I am comfortable and in fact thrive in changing, often chaotic, environments."
What are your salary expectations?
- Try not to be the first one to mention a number, if possible; ask if they will share the range with you
- Do your research so that you have an understanding of the market value for the role/company
- "I’ve done extensive research to understand what this role demands in the current market, and I’d like to be paid fairly for the role. Can you share your range to make sure we are aligned?"
- If they push for an exact number, consider "Based on my research, I would expect this position to pay between $xx-$xx. Is that within your range?"
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