How to answer common grad interview questions

Interviews can feel a bit daunting—especially when you're just starting out. 

It's completely normal to feel unsure about what to say or how to prepare. But the good news is: interviews are a skill, not a personality test. With a bit of practice, you can go in feeling steady, prepared, and ready to show them what you bring to the table.

1. Tell me about yourself

This might sound like small talk, but it’s often the real opener to the interview. It’s your chance to give a confident, relevant introduction that connects your background to the role.

Think of it like your elevator pitch. You're giving them a snapshot of:

• Where you're at now

• Something you’ve done that’s relevant

• What you’re looking for next

Example: "I'm a final-year Commerce student with a strong interest in data and marketing. I’ve been working part-time in customer service, and last semester I led a group project on consumer trends for a major brand. I’m now looking for a graduate opportunity where I can grow my skills in customer insights and strategy."

Keep it short, and steer it toward the role you’re applying for. Don’t just list your resume—show them where you’re heading.

2. Why do you want to work here?

This is your chance to show you’ve done your homework. You don’t need to recite the company’s mission word for word—just find something that genuinely interests you. Maybe it’s:

• A project they’ve worked on

• The clients or industries they focus on

• Their values or workplace culture

• Their reputation in the industry

Example: "I was drawn to your work in the renewable energy sector, especially your recent partnership with [X initiative]. I want to work somewhere that’s contributing to long-term, sustainable change, and that aligns with both my values and my degree."

Keep it personal and relevant to you—that’s what makes it memorable.

3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

This question is about self-awareness, not perfection. Choose a strength that’s useful for the role, and back it up with an example. When it comes to weaknesses, be honest—but show that you’re working on it.

Strength example: "I’m a strong communicator—I’ve worked in customer-facing roles for three years and I’ve been told I’m good at making people feel heard and understood."

Weakness example: "I can be hesitant to speak up in group settings, but I’ve been challenging myself to share at least one idea or question in each team meeting to build confidence."

Avoid clichés like “I care too much” or “I’m a perfectionist.” Instead, show that you know yourself and are open to growth.

4. Tell us about a time you worked in a team

This is a behavioural question—and it's where the STAR method comes in handy.

STAR stands for:

• Situation – Set the scene

• Task – What was the goal or problem?

• Action – What did you do?

• Result – What happened? What did you learn?

It’s a simple way to tell a clear, structured story. And yes—it works for almost every question that starts with “Tell me about a time when…”

Example:"During a group assignment last semester, we had to present a marketing strategy for a new product. One team member wasn’t contributing much, so I suggested we meet more regularly and split the work more clearly. I also offered to take notes and keep us on track. In the end, we worked well together and received a distinction."

Even if your example isn’t from a job, that’s okay. What matters is that it shows skills like teamwork, initiative or problem-solving.

Final Thoughts

Interviews can feel intense—but remember, they’re a two-way street. You’re not just trying to get picked—they’re also trying to show you what it would be like to work there.

So:

• Prepare your answers, but don’t script them

• Use STAR to structure real examples

• Practise out loud to build confidence

• Back yourself. You have more to offer than you think

  
  

And one last tip? Don’t forget you get to ask questions too. Interviews aren’t just about being tested—they’re your opportunity to find out if the role and the company feel like the right fit for you. Ask what success looks like in the role, what a typical day might involve, or how the team supports learning and development.

Because you’re not just looking for any job—you’re building the start of a career.