Interview Questions , Tips & Sample answers

Part - I
HR Questions
Question 1: Tell me about yourself and your background / Walk me through your resume

How to Answer:

• Use the “Present-Past-Future” formula to shape your answer.

• Take the recruiter back to the past and show him/her how your past shaped your present.

• End this answer with your future goals and aspirations you want to achieve.

Sample Answer:

“Hello, my name is ABC, and I graduated from Xyz University. I majored in B.Tech Computer Science. I’ve
always had a fascination with computers since I was a child, and my fascination with computers led me
to want to learn new programming languages. I am well-versed in C programming, Java, data structures,
and SQL.

Along with these technical skills, I have strong communication skills that I believe are essential for this
position. Our final year major project is a Surveillance Robot built with a Raspberry Pi microcontroller.
We were a group of four, and we used our coding skills to make the project a success.

I was a member of ISTE, or the Indian Society for Technical Education, a college club that organizes
technical and non-technical events for all branches, where I discovered that I have excellent leadership
skills. I’ve learned how to work well with others. I also have internship experience in this field and would
like to use my skills to help your company grow while also improving my own.”

Question 2: Why are you interested in this position?

How to Answer:

• Introduce yourself: Briefly mention your educational background and current career aspirations.

• Showcase your passion: Share experiences or activities that sparked your interest in the field
and highlight relevant skills you’ve acquired.

• Connect to the position: Explain how the current position aligns with your future goals and what
specific aspects excite you.

• Quantify your achievements: Use specific examples and data to demonstrate your impact and
potential value to the company.

• Demonstrate enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in the company’s mission and values,
showcasing how you can contribute.

• Tailor your answer: Ensure your response reflects the specific needs and culture of the company
you’re applying to.

Sample Answer:
“I am interested in this position because it aligns with my career goals and aspirations. As a recent
computer science graduate, I am eager to apply my skills in a practical setting. I admire your company’s
achievements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, and I believe that working here would
provide valuable experience and exposure to the latest technologies. My background in programming
languages and frameworks, along with my project experience, makes me confident that I can contribute
positively to your team.”

Question 3: What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?

How to Answer:

Strengths: Choose 2-3 strengths that align with the job description, focusing on skills and qualities
mentioned in the requirements. Use specific examples to quantify your strengths, backing them up with
achievements or experiences that demonstrate your contributions. Ensure your strengths are relevant
to the position, and avoid listing generic strengths. Instead of saying “I’m a perfectionist,” rephrase it as “I
have a strong attention to detail and deliver high-quality work.”

Weaknesses: Choose 1-2 weaknesses that you’re actively working on improving, avoiding major
weaknesses that could disqualify you. Focus on weaknesses that can be turned into strengths, showing
self-awareness and a willingness to learn. Explain how you’re addressing these weaknesses with
specific actions like training, courses, or seeking feedback. Frame your weaknesses positively; instead
of saying “I’m shy,” say “I’m working on becoming more comfortable speaking in public.”

Sample Answer for Strengths

“One of my biggest strengths is my communication skills. I can clearly express myself both verbally and
in writing, as demonstrated by my presentations and reports during college. Another strength is my
analytical ability, which I have used to solve problems and make data-driven decisions in various
projects.”

Sample Answer for Weaknesses

“One of my weaknesses is that I sometimes struggle with delegating tasks. I tend to take on too much
responsibility, but I am working on improving this by learning to trust others and using time management
tools to prioritize tasks better.”

Question 4: What are your salary expectations?

This is a common but tricky question that employers ask to gauge your suitability and expectations for
the role.

How to Answer:

• Research the average salary for the position and provide a broad range.

• Express flexibility and interest in the role beyond salary.

Sample Answer:

Thank you for asking me this question. I understand that salary is an important factor to consider when
hiring a new employee. Based on my research and my experience as a fresher in the field of computer
science, I would expect a salary range of Rs. 4 to 6 lakhs per annum for this role. However, I am flexible
and willing to negotiate depending on the overall compensation package, the scope of the role, and the
opportunities for learning and growth within the company. I am very interested in working for your
company and I believe that I have the skills and qualifications to excel in this position. Could you please
tell me what is the salary range that you have in mind for this role?

Question 5: Why do you want to work for this company?

This is a common question that interviewers ask to assess your interest, motivation, and fit for the
company and the role. To answer this question effectively, you should follow these steps:

How to Answer:

• Research the company’s mission, values, achievements, and culture.

• Demonstrate your skills and experience.

• Express passion for the specific position and the company.

Sample Answer:

“I am drawn to your company because of your commitment to innovation and excellence in the tech
industry. Your projects in artificial intelligence and machine learning align with my interests and skills. I
admire your company culture and values, and I believe that my background in computer science and my
passion for AI make me a great fit for your team.”

Question 6: What are your career goals?

This is a common question that interviewers ask to assess your interest, motivation, and fit for the
company and the role.

How to answer:

• Think about your short-term (1-3 years) and long-term (5-10 years) career goals.

• Ensure your goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

• Explain how your goals align with the position and company.

Sample Answer:

“Hi, I’m Rohan Kumar. Right now, I’m eager to get hands-on experience and use what I learned in my
BTech (CSE) program. I want to be a valuable part of a great team and improve my skills in backend
development and web application design. In the future, I see myself taking on more responsibilities and
growing into a higher role. I plan to keep learning by attending workshops and getting certifications to stay
updated on industry trends. Ultimately, I want to specialize as a full-stack developer and bring new ideas
to help Amazon succeed. I’m really excited about the chance to learn and contribute here at Amazon,
and I think it’s a great fit for my goals.”

Question 7: Do you have any questions for me?

This is a common question that interviewers ask at the end of a job interview to give you an opportunity
to ask any questions that you may have about the company, the role, or the hiring process.

How to answer:

• Have some questions prepared in advance to show your interest and enthusiasm.

• Avoid questions about salary, benefits, vacation, or social events in the initial stages.

Some examples of good questions to ask are:

• How would you describe the work culture and environment of the company?

• What are some of the current challenges or opportunities that the company or the department
is facing?

• How do you measure performance and provide feedback for this role?

• What are the next steps in the hiring process and when can I expect to hear from you?

Some examples of questions to avoid are:

• What is the salary and benefits package for this role?

• How soon can I take a vacation or a leave?

• How often do you have parties or social events?

• What are some of the problems or complaints that you have about the company or the
management?

• Do you have any reservations or concerns about hiring me?

These questions may give the impression that you are only interested in the money, the perks, or the fun
aspects of the job, and not in the actual work or the company’s mission. They may also make you seem
arrogant, negative, or insecure. It is better to save these questions for later stages of the hiring process,
or to avoid them altogether.

Question 8: Why should we hire you?

How to answer:

• Explain how your skills directly benefit the company and address specific needs.

• Use data and metrics to showcase your achievements.

• Express genuine interest in the company and the role, highlighting cultural fit.

• Deliver your answer with confidence and clarity.

Sample Answer:

“I believe that you should hire me because I have the skills, qualifications, and experience that you are
looking for in this role. I have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and have completed several online
courses and projects related to HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. I applied my skills in a real-world
setting as a web developer intern at ABC Tech Solutions, where I designed, developed, and maintained
various web applications. My coding skills and creativity allowed me to create user-friendly, responsive
websites that met clients’ specifications. Additionally, my communication and collaboration skills
helped me work effectively with my team members and supervisors. I received positive feedback from
both clients and mentors on my performance and deliverables.”
Question 9: Tell me about a time you worked effectively under pressure.

How to answer:

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a specific situation.

• Demonstrate your ability to handle stress and challenges.

Sample Answer:

“During a college project, we had to finish a big research paper quickly. It was a bit stressful because we
had a tight deadline. To handle it, I worked closely with my teammates, making sure each person did
what they were best at. Even with the time pressure, we kept talking about our progress and any
problems we faced. I organized our work and set goals to keep us on track. We managed to finish the
project on time, and it taught me how important it is to stay calm, work well with others, and solve
problems together as a team.”

Question 10: Describe your experience with teamwork and collaboration?

How to answer:

• Highlight specific experiences where you collaborated with a team.

• Explain your role and the outcome of the collaboration.

Sample Answer:

“In my internship, I collaborated with a team of designers and developers to redesign a company website.
I took the lead on the user interface, ensuring everyone’s feedback was incorporated, and the final
product resulted in a 20% increase in user engagement. Alternatively, during my university project, I
managed a diverse team of students from different backgrounds. We faced communication challenges
early on, but by implementing clear communication channels and regular meetings, we built trust and
delivered a successful presentation.”

Question 11: How do you stay organized and manage your time effectively?

How to answer:

• Describe the tools and methods you use to stay organized.

• Provide examples of how you prioritize tasks and manage your time.

Sample Answer:

“I keep things organized using digital tools like calendars and to-do lists. I prioritize tasks to focus on the
most important ones first. Regular progress checks and adapting my schedule as needed help me stay
on track. For group projects, I use collaboration platforms to coordinate tasks. This proactive approach
keeps my work efficient and ensures I meet deadlines effectively.”

Question 12: What are your technical skills and how do you stay updated?

How to answer:

• List your technical skills relevant to the job.

• Explain how you gained and applied these skills, using specific examples.

• Describe how you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
Sample Answer:

“I have a solid foundation in programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with front-
end frameworks like React and Angular. I also have experience with tools like Git, GitHub, and
WordPress. During my academic journey in Computer Science, I’ve gained a strong understanding of
web development methodologies, database management, and security best practices. To stay updated,
I regularly engage in online learning through platforms like Coursera and Udemy, explore tutorials, and
participate in forums like Stack Overflow. Networking on LinkedIn and attending webinars help me learn
from industry experts and stay current with new technologies.”

Question 13: How do you handle criticism or feedback?

How to Answer:

• Approach to feedback: Explain your mindset towards receiving feedback.

• Actions you take: Describe how you incorporate feedback into your work.

• Outcome: Highlight the benefits and improvements you’ve experienced from feedback.

Sample Answer:

“I see feedback as a chance to grow. When I get criticism, I listen, stay open-minded, and focus on
learning from it. I take proactive steps to improve, whether through more research or seeking guidance. I
actively ask for feedback, considering it a valuable tool for my development.”

Question 14: Will you be able to work overtime and even relocate if we ask you to?

How to Answer:

• Express willingness: Indicate your openness to overtime and relocation.

• Provide reasoning: Explain why you are willing to make these commitments.

• Outcome: Highlight the potential benefits for your career and the company.

Sample Answer:

“Yes. For the right opportunity, I am definitely willing to relocate. I believe that this position and company
is an opportunity to improve myself. I’m also willing to work overtime whenever such circumstances will
arrive as good things do not come easily in life, and I know I will have to sacrifice something for my
professional success. Staying overtime, or even working on Saturday at times, does not seem like a big
sacrifice to me, considering everything I can gain in your company.”

Question 15: Why are you the best fit for this job?

How to Answer this Question:

• Describe your qualifications: Explain how your skills and experience match the job
requirements.

• Provide examples: Share specific instances that highlight your suitability.

• Outcome: Emphasize your passion and commitment to the role.

Sample Answer 1:
“As I have just started my career in computer science, I don’t have many practical achievements to talk
about. This gives me the liberty to explore my potential by giving my best to this organization. It will be an
honor to work here and identify and develop my strengths. In college as well, I was very dedicated to my
academics and learned programming languages like Python and Javascript and did some projects. I also
got appreciated for it. Hence I think I am the best fit for this role of SDE-1 as I have ample knowledge in
theory and I am willing to learn.”

Part - II
Behavioural Questions
1. Describe your work ethic.

Motivation, hard work, and the ability to focus are among the qualities employers seek in employees.
You are being paid by them, so they want to ensure that the investment they are making in you is worth
it. Although this isn't a trick question, employers are looking to ensure that you represent hard work,
resilience, and optimism in your work.

Tips:

• Should sound like you are a hard-working, reliable, and consistent individual.

• Show consistency along with a strong work ethic.

• Maintain a steady pace and be predictable.

Sample Answer:

My work ethic can be described as reliable and consistent. It is easy for me to stay productive and
motivated at work because I enjoy my job. Additionally, I feel more energetic after a successful,
productive day at work. Fortunately, I have never had problems with motivation or work ethic, and I
consider it a strength. I try to show up every day with the same enthusiasm and mindset so that my team
can achieve consistent results.

2. Why do you want this job?

If you're applying for an IT job, you can take four steps to answer the question:

• Reflect on your professional aspirations.

• Use specific examples to illustrate your point.

• Describe how your examples and goals relate to the job description.

• Identify the organization's mission statement or key values before your interview and relate them
to your experience.

Sample Answer:

I find that a career in technology provides me with the opportunity to combine both my analytical skills
and my creative abilities, which makes me interested in the field. When I was earning my degree in IT, I
did an internship in cybersecurity at a large tech company. It was a unique opportunity for me to learn
from experienced IT security analysts and develop new methods of preventing data theft. Taking over
this position at your esteemed company will allow me to hone my professional skills, as well as leverage
some of the more valuable skills that I have acquired over the years, both professionally and personally,
which will allow me to grow more and further along with growing your organization.

3. Explain why your background and experience would be a good fit for this job.

Interviewers ask this question to determine whether or not you are a good fit for both the role and the
company. This is your chance to showcase your strengths, make a good impression, and put your best
foot forward.

Tips:

• Share some insights into the research you conducted for that particular job role and company.

• Describe your skill set and your learning process with confidence.

• Make sure your answer is honest and truthful, as any false information or story can cost you the
job.

• Plan ahead, but be careful not to sound too rehearsed.

Sample Answer:

Being a new employee, I have no practical experience, but I am eager to demonstrate my potential by
providing the best services possible. Having the opportunity to work with you and the organization will
be an honor. I have always been faithful and hardworking since I was a child. I was part of a dedicated
group of students who were always completing their assignments and tasks in a timely manner. Among
my strengths, I possess excellent programming skills in C, C++, C#, HTML, and Python, as well as
analytical, networking, and problem-solving abilities. Since I used Python in my last project, I can save
your team a lot of valuable time by avoiding the training periods. Also, I have extensive experience
working with a wide range of operating systems. Therefore, I believe I am the best candidate for this role
since I have ample theoretical knowledge as well as an eagerness to learn.

4. In the event of a disagreement with your colleagues, what do you do?

Working collaboratively and resolving conflict can increase productivity and create a more pleasant work
environment. This question is asked by interviewers to determine how you will handle disagreements at
work, which is inevitable. A positive ending is always good, so make sure you show how you turned it
around.

Tips:

• Put less focus on the problem and more focus on the process of finding a solution to it.

• Don't lose sight of the positive.

• Consider coworkers' perspectives.

Sample Answer:

During conflict situations, I actively make a conscious effort to adjust my attitude. In order to maintain a
constructive dialogue, I endeavor to listen to the other person's perspective without becoming defensive.
It keeps the situation calm, makes them feel heard, and then it becomes much easier to come to an
agreement or compromise.
5. How will you handle the situation if one of your team members refuses to do their part of the
work or is unable to do so?

People who refuse to do their part of a team's work can frustrate and demoralize the rest of the team.
However, it's important to remember that everyone is different and sometimes people have legitimate
reasons for not wanting to do something. If such a situation arises, it is best to understand the person's
perspective and show compassion for them in order to help.

Tips:

• Emphasize the importance of understanding why someone isn't contributing their fair share.

• Include I-statements as one of the best practices for confronting someone in a professional
environment.

• Refrain from blaming anyone and providing any support you may be able to provide.

Sample Answer-

I would first try to understand the reason behind their behavior. I will schedule a meeting with them to
discuss the situation and find out if there are any issues that are preventing them from completing their
tasks. I will also make sure to communicate the importance of the task and how it relates to the overall
project goals. If the issue is related to lack of knowledge or skill, I will provide training or resources to
help them improve. If the issue is related to lack of motivation, I will try to find ways to motivate them
and make them feel valued. If the issue persists, I will escalate the matter to my manager or supervisor
for further actions.

6. What is your approach to solving problems?

Companies often look for proactive, Solution-oriented candidates for many positions they are filling, and
focus more on your approach to solving problems than on the "right" answer. The question may also be
used to assess your command of a particular industry-specific technology or process.

Tips:

• Focus on the approach you use to solve problems.

• Mention breaking them down into steps in order to Solve them.

• Include tools and techniques you use to work through a problem.

Sample Answer:

Whenever I am faced with a problem, I follow these steps:

• Identify the factors that led to the problem.

• Come up with possible solutions.

• Assess these solutions' costs and viability.

• Put a plan into action.

• Evaluate the solution's effectiveness.

7. How long has it been since you last set yourself a personal goal? What steps did you take to
ensure your objectives were met?

Often, the interviewer will ask this question to gauge your level of initiative and ambition. Hiring managers
are probably trying to identify whether you are capable of achieving goals. Your planning abilities could
be a good way to showcase what you're capable of and help you stand out from other candidates.

Tips:

• Provide a description of the method you used to achieve your objectives.

• Concentrate your efforts on organizing your answer. STAR is a commonly used organizational
way of answering this question.

• Maintain a professional tone in all your responses.

Sample Answer-

I am constantly setting personal goals for myself to improve my skills and stay updated with new
technologies. My most recent goal was to improve my proficiency in a specific programming language.
To ensure that I met this goal, I set a deadline for myself, and I made a plan to learn and practice the
language regularly through online tutorials, reading the documentation, and working on small projects. I
also sought guidance from more experienced developers in the language and received feedback on my
progress. I made sure to track my progress and adapt my plan as necessary. As a result, I was able to
achieve my goal and improve my proficiency in the language.

For Practise

You can review the below link & try to answer the questions, These were the interview questions asked
by the top product based company’s

https://www.techinterviewhandbook.org/behavioral-interview-questions/