Getting Ready for Work

Example responses to job application questions

You might have already thought about doing mock interviews to practise answering the questions. It is after all a crucial stage of any job application process.

But before you get an interview, you might be required to complete some short-answer questions on the application forms.

Common questions could include: “tell us why you want to work here”, “why should we hire you?” or “what makes you unique from other candidates?”.

Tips for answering application form questions

• Don’t just answer the question reflexively; give some thought to what the employer is trying to find out by asking.
• Use the job description and your research on the company to help you answer with relevant information.
• Use the STAR technique, or the “show don’t tell” approach, to answer where possible. Provide examples not just statements.
• Write original answers, don’t copy and paste from resumes or cover letters.
• Avoid plain YES or NO answers.
• Don’t leave fields empty.

Common questions you might be asked

Here are a few example questions and answers to help you out if you’re struggling with writer’s block. 

You can also Google specific questions, but don’t copy the answers – just use them as inspiration.

Why do you want to work here?

Employers want to know if you’ve given serious consideration to your application. You need to show that you’ve done your research and understand exactly what the job entails.

“Your company stood out when I was researching the leading IT Solutions companies. I am aware of your dedication to the development of innovative consumer products, and I believe that this role would be the perfect fit considering my strong IT background.”

Why do you think you are suitable for this role?

Explain how your skills, knowledge and experience match the job outline, while also explaining your motivation and goals.

“I have always wanted to work as graphic designer that embraces change and provides great user experience. My studies have helped me to develop key artistic and organisational skills, while the experience that I gained from working on the school magazine has been the ideal preparation for a job in this field. I would relish the opportunity to be part of the team that works on your upcoming projects to learn more about the processes involved.”

Can you briefly outline your relevant skills and experience?

Even if you haven’t got any direct experience, yet, you can still highlight any transferable skills that relate to the role. Turn your answer into a positive one by making it clear that you want the job in order to gain experience in the area.

“Although I haven’t had the opportunity to get work experience in a marketing company yet, I have already created high level concepts that have been used by the organisation where I volunteer, I was the copywriter on a number of marketing campaigns through the school magazine and have generated interest in my work through my website, which I designed myself.”

Can you give us an example of how you made a positive contribution to a team and what the outcome was?

Talk about a time that you were recently expected to achieve a goal in a team setting. Discuss how you went above and beyond to ensure that your contribution made a difference.

“I was elected as Captain by my soccer team and committed to winning a few games this season. Along with the coach I implemented a reward system and encouraged everyone to attend extra training systems and organised some workshops with other professionals.”

Tell us about your strengths.

Identify two or three of what you’d consider to be your best attributes, what do you often get good feedback for? For example, communication, teamwork, efficiency, work ethic, reliability, etc. Make sure you mention how they’d be an asset to the job you’re applying for.

What are your weaknesses?

You don’t want to undersell yourself or turn off employers, but you also don’t want to say nothing. This is an opportunity to show your self-awareness. Follow up with how you’d like some professional development in that area and mention how you’ve already been working towards it – a specific goal that you’re working towards perhaps?

For example, if you’re a bit shy, you could talk about ways that you’re taking on public speaking roles and putting yourself forward for leadership or performing roles at school to.

We all have to start somewhere

You don’t have to wait until you’re applying for a job to start practising how to answer application questions.

You could go online and find jobs similar to the ones you think you’d like to apply for, then go to the application page and copy the questions.

Write your answers and ask somebody else to read them and suggest ways you could improve.

If you’d like more tips, you might like to read the Getting a Job Guide.