Part 2: How to Tackle Interview Questions

4. Can you work well under pressure? This is a closed question to which you could just reply "Yes"! Even so use the opportunity to give an answer focusing on several clear-cut examples showing your ability to cope under pressure.

5. Where do you see yourself in five years time? Try not to sound overly ambitious by saying: "part of the management team or board of directors within this organisation". The interviewer will be pleased with your desire to progress but be more modest. You could express simply your desire to grow and advance within the company, possibly citing some areas of the business which currently interest you.

6. You don't seem to have achieved great results during your studies.Anytime that you have to deal with a weak element in your application, it is important to avoid being evasive or vague. Meet the question head on. For example "Yes, that is true. I know that I did not get the right balance between my extra-curricular activities and my academic work. Since then I have developed my time management skills and learned to say no to some activities. My results now show what I can achieve." If this is your second interview, you are likely to find some probing into the weaker areas which emerged at first interview.

The most important thing to remember is that you are looking for any opportunity to communicate your skills and abilities, supported by examples of what you have already achieved. Most employers are looking for graduates who are not only capable of, and committed to doing their job but who will fit the corporate culture.