How do I answer 'Tell me about yourself'?

Keep it to 2 minutes using the Present-Past-Future formula: describe your current role, highlight relevant past experience, and explain why you want this job. Focus on professional achievements, not personal details.

What is the STAR method for interviews?

STAR stands for Situation (set the scene), Task (your responsibility), Action (what you did), and Result (the outcome). Use this structure to answer behavioral questions like 'Tell me about a time when...'

How should I answer salary expectations in South Africa?

Research market rates on PayScale, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Give a range based on your experience and the job location. Say something like: 'Based on my research and experience, I'm looking at R35,000 to R42,000 per month, but I'm open to discussing the total package.'

What should I say when asked about my weaknesses?

Choose a real weakness that isn't critical to the job. Explain what you're doing to improve. Example: 'I used to struggle with delegating, but I've learned to trust my team by setting clear expectations and having regular check-ins.'

How do I answer 'Why did you leave your last job?'

Never badmouth previous employers. Focus on moving toward opportunities, not away from problems. Example: 'I learned a lot but reached a ceiling for growth. I'm looking for new challenges that this role offers with its focus on [specific aspect].'

What questions should I ask at the end of an interview?

Prepare 5+ questions. Good examples: 'What does success look like in this role after 6 months?', 'How would you describe the team culture?', 'What are the biggest challenges the team is facing?' Avoid asking about leave or benefits first.

Free Interview Prep

Interview Questions & Best Answers

Master the most common interview questions asked by South African employers. Learn what to say, what to avoid, and why they ask each question.

20+

Questions Covered

General Interview Questions

The classics you'll face in almost every interview

Behavioral Questions (STAR Method)

'Tell me about a time when...' questions

Situational Questions

'What would you do if...' scenarios

South Africa-Specific Questions

Questions unique to the SA job market

Closing Questions

How to end your interview strong

Master the STAR Method

The secret to answering behavioral interview questions

Situation

Set the scene. Where were you? What was the context?

Task

What was your responsibility? What needed to be done?

Action

What did YOU do? Be specific about your actions.

Result

What happened? Quantify if possible.

Interview Day Checklist

Before the Interview

Research the company thoroughly
Prepare 5+ questions to ask
Practice answers out loud
Plan your outfit (dress one level up)
Print extra CVs and references
Map the route, arrive 10-15 min early
Get a good night's sleep

During the Interview

Make eye contact and smile
Give a firm (not crushing) handshake
Listen fully before answering
Take a breath before responding
Use specific examples, not vague claims
Show enthusiasm for the role
Ask thoughtful questions at the end

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