REFINE YOUR RESPONSES

EMPLOYERS want to know what skills jobseekers hold, why they are interested in the role and their work priorities when interviewing applicants for their vacancies.

SEEK has analysed the questions most commonly compiled by employers using its Interview Builder tool, which helps them to create their own interview template.

Savvy jobseekers can use this knowledge to their advantage when preparing for job interviews by practising answers in case they are asked them at their next interview.

SEEK talent acquisition director Sarah Beck says employers want to ask candidates: “Which of your skills do you believe will be most valuable to our organisation?” to ensure they will benefit their organisation, rather than be highly skilled in many areas that are of no use to them. Beck says employers want the candidate to provide evidence of their experience relating to what is required for the job being offered.

Optus talent acquisition head Catherine Fitzgerald says the question: “What’s your understanding of the role and why are you interested?” is not a trick question, but rather an insight into motivation.

“(Employers) are looking for someone who can show they have thought about and prepared for this role, and that the company is at the top of their wish list,” she says.

The best answers will be able to define the role at a high level and identify potential opportunities as well as challenges it may bring.

Similarly, “Why are you interested in working at this organisation?” aims to uncover if the candidate is just looking for any job, or truly has a connection with the organisation’s brand.

“A standout candidate speaks with a compelling passion, energy and interest that shows they are personally aligned with (the employer’s) core purpose and values,” Beck says. Jobseekers can find resources such as an interview builder and job change quiz at Seek Career Advice.

THIS ARTICLE FIRST APPEARED ON SEEK INSIGHTS & RESOURCES