All example answers given below are generic and need to be localised to fit your experience of your own industry/profession.
Standard question 1: What can you bring to Acme PLC?
Refer to the job description, stress experience in the sector and the role. Experience is generally a positive thing but must be balanced with flexibility and professional development (being personnel manager for Smith and sons for 10 years can look like a career cul-de-sac, this solid record needs to be tempered with evidence of recent development and changes in practice-especially if led by you). The answer should contain if possible both skills and positive character traits.
Example answer 1- (experience and skills) My experience working in this/our sector for x years and my knowledge of current thinking/legislation in that area. I feel I could also bring a fresh perspective to Acme PLC from my time with a competing company.
Example answer 2 - (soft skills and positive characteristics). I feel I am an enthusiastic and proactive employee with well developed people skills who could make a positive contribution in an organisation who are (paraphrase the mission statement or ethos of the target company here) at the cutting edge of widget technology.
SQ2: Why do you want to work for Acme PLC?
Refer to your company research notes for this answer. This is where to bring up "investor in people" type positives and personal/professional reasons for wanting the job. It may be the case you simply want to perform that role irrespective of the employer but it is important to give the impression (backed up with plausible reasons) that this company is where you see yourself working. Give two reasons. Example answer 1- I know that Acme PLC are "investors in people" and would like to develop my career within a company who encourage their staff to grow. Also frankly, I want to work for the market leader.
Example answer 2- I feel that as a smaller fast growing company in a very competitive sector there will be opportunities for learning and career development. Also as you know Acme PLC came top of their sector in the "best places to work" survey in the Times.
SQ3: How do you see your career progressing/where do you want to be (careerwise) in x years?
Your answer needs to be neither too ambitious nor too pedestrian. Indicate a wish to progress at a realistic pace, aim for the grade or level above the one you are applying for (if appropriate). If the position is an end in itself (eg creative such as graphic designer or skilled trade such as a welder) then stress the fact that you hope to improve and excel with the company's help to become the best you can be within that role.
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