There is no way around it, job interviews are stressful.  Every job interview and interviewer is different, but there are some fairly standard questions you can anticipate. A little preparation can go a long way toward building your confidence. And remember, while you want to present a positive, upbeat image, truthful answers are always the best.

-So, why are your leaving your current job? – Never, ever criticize your current employer. Even if you hate the place, find a way to make a positive statement.  Mention the valuable experience you’ve gained, but emphasis your wish to broaden your skills and meet new challenges.

-What can you bring to this job opportunity? This is the “Why you?” question and some advance research about the job and the company can give you a winning edge.  How your skill set mesh with and enhances corporate goals? Employers are looking for candidates who bring assets to the job and the company.

-What are you looking for in a new job? And where do you see yourself in 5 years? Are you looking for a more challenging position?  Do you want to work in a team environment?  Do you seeking a position that has real growth opportunity?  Make sure you know the answer to this one before your interview.  As for the “where do you see yourself…” question, it is best to speak in general terms.  Something like “enhancing my current skills and gaining broader experience” is a safe direction.

- What is your greatest strength and greatest weakness? First, the positive part. Toot your own horn – tactfully, of course.  Look at your achievements, see how they match-up with the job and the corporation, and tie them all together. Now weaknesses part.  Employers want to know that you can evaluate your own performance and make changes for the better. State a problem area, then talk about the steps you’ve taken to overcome the difficulty.  Or put a negative spin a positive – the old “When I get involved in a project, I forget about the clock…” approach.

-What is your worst work-related mistake. No one likes to answer this one, but thinking about your answer in advance can make it easier.  Be honest.  Briefly describe the situation, how you handled it, and emphasis what you learned from the experience.  Above all, keep the incident in perspective.  Everyone makes mistakes, but showing how well you can rebound will make a great impression.

-What work-related achievements have given you the most satisfaction?  Your interviewer is trying to get a window into what makes you tick.  What was it that brought you a feeling of pride at your job?  Relate the experience, including the special skills you brought to the situation, and what insights and skills you gained.

What was your least favorite thing about your last job? Once again, never bag on your previous employer. Instead, use it to underscore why you are interested in this new job.  A different corporate environment. The chance to work more independently.  Or the opportunity to be part of a team.  Turn the negative question into a positive answer and show you’re ready for a new challenge.