I am sure most of you reading this article have been to different interview and have seen a considerable overlap in the questions you were asked by the interviewers. I have certainly experienced this. I gathered that there are websites and documents designed specifically for managers and interviewers to pull information and sample questions from in order to certify that they hire the right candidate.

I went through the process of researching all these websites as if I was looking for questions to conduct an interview. What I found was that there is an extensive variety of questions that interviewers can choose to ask potential employee. I found that although this is the case, the majority of interviewers opt to ask the candidates the same assortment of questions; despite the array of questions. It seems to me that the interviewers would choose the same range of questions because they are looking for similar qualities and proficiency for their companies.

The following websites list the most common interview questions asked today with brief advice to help you tackle those tough situations.
http://bhuvans.wordpress.com/2006/08/19/50-common-interview-qa/
http://www.wisebread.com/how-to-answer-23-of-the-most-common-interview-questions
http://www.executrade.com/content.php?Page=Answering-Questions

Here are 20 of the most common interview questions asked:

1. Tell me about yourself:
This is probably the most common of all interview questions. Keep your response short and natural. Try to keep it work-related unless the interviewer specifically asks otherwise.

2. Why did you leave your last job?
Keep your response positive despite the state of affairs. Do not speak of a problem with management. Do not to speak unpleasantly about previous supervisors, co-workers or organizations. Try to keep you answer general, like you are leaving because the company is closing. Aim to express that you are leaving for a positive reason, such as an opportunity, a chance to do something special.

3. What experience do you have in this field?
Keep your answer specific and relevant to the position you are applying for. If you do not have specific experience, endeavour to express qualities that are as closely related to the position as possible.

4. What do co-workers say about you?
Try to mention a specific statement or paraphrase what a co-worker has said about you.

5. What do you know about this organization?
Make sure to do some research on the organization prior to the interview. Find out what they have done and what their goals are. Research the key people of the organization.

6. What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year?
Mention activities that relate to the job.

7. Are you applying for other jobs?
While it is important to be honest, do not spend a lot of time in this area. Maintain the focus on the job you are interviewing for and how you will be an asset to their organization.

8. Why do you want to work for this organization?
Be sincere in your response. Your answer should be based on the research you have done on the organization. Tie-in your response to long-term career goals.

9. Do you know anyone who works for us?
It is common for organizations to have policies where relatives are not allowed to work at the same company. Be cautious even to mention a friend, and only mention them if they are well thought of within the organization.

10. What kind of salary do you need?
This is a very tricky question. Probably the best way to tackle it is to ask, “Can you tell me the range for this position?” In most cases, the interviewer will disclose the information as they were not expecting to be asked. If they do not mention the range, respond by saying that it would depend on the details of the job. Follow by giving a wide range.

11. Are you a team player?
The response that all interviewers like to hear is “Yes!” However, just saying that you are a team player will not always suffice. Be sure to list some examples in previous work environments that showcase your ability to work well with others, and that you are focused on the performance of the team rather than just yourself. Also, be careful not to boast.

12. How long would you expect to work for us if hired?
Do not get specific when answering this question. Simply state that you would like to be with the company for a significant amount of time. Keep it short and simple.

13. Have you ever had to fire anyone? How did you feel about that?
Do not make it seem that you enjoyed the experience of having to fire someone if you did. However, highlight that it was done for the good of the company. It will be a plus point in the interviewer’s eyes that you are concerned about protecting the organization, and that you had the ability to do the right thing.

14. What is your philosophy towards work?
Keep your answer positive and brief. As long as you identify that your priorities are getting the work done and that you will be a benefit to the company, your interviewer will be happy.
15. Have you ever been asked to leave a position?
If you have not, say no. If you have, be honest but brief. Evade stating negative details about the people or organization concerned.

16. Explain how you would be an asset to this organization.
This question gives you the perfect chance to bring to light your best qualities and relevant skills.

17. Why should we hire you?
Outline how your skills and approach match what the organization needs. Do not compare yourself with other candidate; limit your answer to attributes about yourself.

18. Tell me about a suggestion you have made.
Mention a suggestion you made that had a successful outcome.

19. You seem overqualified or too experienced for the position we have to offer.
Mention that strong companies need strong people, and that highly qualified candidates are at a premium in today’s society. Also point out that by hiring someone like yourself who has more experience, the company will receive a better and faster return on your investment; and that by hiring someone with more experience, the company can more likely reach its goals. Also be sure to accentuate that you are interested in a long-term affiliation.

20. If I spoke to your previous boss, what would he/she say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
This question implies that the interviewer is going to do a reference check, and is a very common question to be asked today. It is essential that your response is honest, as they can always check that your answer matches what your previous boss states. Do not be too negative, focus on any positive qualities your boss has stated or recognized that can be verified.