Previously, we gave some suggested answers to these questions:
- What type of team do you enjoy working in?
- Tell me about yourself
- What do you want to get out of today’s meeting?
- Tell me about your last employer
Today, however, we’re going to discuss four personality-related questions.
We’ve provided some likely answers you can use to help you breeze through to the next stage.
And maybe even get a job offer.
So, let’s dive into the four personality questions on any employer’s list of personality questions to ask candidates.
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Further Reading
- 8 quick interview questions you should learn to answer skilfully
- Free resume builder
- Best article to read on resume builder
- How to find a job
Key Personality Questions
One of the best ways to approach this question is to understand that you must speak positively about your attitude.
Try to have a specific piece of feedback ready rather than generalizations.
Look for what the job advert listed as the essential/required criteria in the job description, then tie your answer to those qualities.
Suggested Answer
If you’ve had an appraisal with one of your previous bosses, pick out the positive comments and use them.
Keep it concise.
Always take note of such things in any appraisal, as the information always comes in handy later.
Example:
“My boss would say I’m a very hard-working, a problem-solver, and a team player.
In my last appraisal, they mentioned that I’m a good communicator and an essential part of the team.”
The keywords you mention should be those you see in the job adverts.
For example, keywords such as hard-working, a problem-solver, and a team player.
Other functional soft and hard skills you can boast about when answering this question if you possess them, might include:
- Client-facing skills
- Commercial acumen
- Conflict resolution training
- Awareness of current industry trends
- Emotional intelligence
- Legal and regulatory awareness
- Organisational skills
- People management skills
- Product and market knowledge
- Project management experience
2. What were your favorite subjects at school?
Here’s an excellent opportunity to talk about what you did in school.
But also how it influenced you moving forward.
This can help to give a more rounded view of yourself as a person.
Example:
“Literature was a big favorite of mine. I enjoy reading and broadening my mind and my horizons.”
3. Tell me about a responsibility that you enjoyed
Here is a question for which you should prepare one or two answers; you can then expand them according to the situation.
Example:
“The company hired a recruit, and I oversaw guiding him on two projects and advancing his skills.
He improved throughout the projects, and it was a great mentoring experience.”
4. Do you prefer to work on your own?
Here, the interviewer assesses whether you can work independently and in a team.
“I work well alone, but I also thrive when I’m part of a team.
Sometimes I had to do tasks on my own in a project.
It wasn’t a problem because I’m very self-motivated but enjoy working with others.
Overall, it’s ideal to find a balance.”
Answering personality questions correctly increases your chances of landing the job.
But giving the correct response requires thoughtfulness, preparation, and more preparation.
Prepare thoroughly and use our tried and tested interview tips to make a good impression on any hiring manager in the future.
Let your unique personality shine.
Meanwhile, discover how to use our incredible 30-60-90-day plan for success to blow away the next recruiter you meet!
What to do and not do when responding to personality questions
Dos
- Avoid talking just about the workplace or professional life. Instead, include details of your personal life that reflect your character and personality.
- Say something like, “I can’t recall ever having a job that was my least favorite. Sales aren’t the best, but it’s interesting, and there’s always much to learn.”
- Always be straight and honest and say what you feel. Keep it brief and on-topic.
Don’ts
- Don’t reply to the question with a one-word response because a hiring manager needs more information. So, if asked, “What’s your least favorite type of work?”─don’t just say “sales.”
- Don’t let your feelings on personal topics get in the way of responding to questions positively. If asked, “How much time do you spend with friends and family each week?” Be diplomatic if you don’t get on with your family!
- Don’t go over the top with your responses. If asked, “What’s the most thrilling thing about being an accountant?” ─ don’t say anything like, “I manipulate complicated equations all day.”
Everyone knows that accounting has a reputation for being boring but stable! Just be honest.
“I don’t believe anyone would refer to accounting as thrilling─but it is interesting and challenging.”
Further Reading
- For other interview tips, click Interview-tips
- How to write a resume like a guru
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