Preparing thoroughly for a job interview significantly increases your chances of receiving an offer.
This guide covers:
- Key things you need to know before a job interview;
- Common interview questions you can expect;
- Tips for answering these questions; and
- The right questions to ask the interviewer.
Whether you’re changing careers in 2025 or applying for your first job, these strategies can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
What You Need to Know Before a Job Interview in Canada
The Process
In Canada, the interview process typically begins with a phone call from a recruiter or HR professional. During this initial conversation, the recruiter will verify your experience and skills based on the resume you submitted, confirm if you’re still interested in the role, and may ask about your salary expectations.
This first call is a screening interview, where the focus is on eliminating candidates who aren’t a good fit, rather than making a final decision. During this call, ask the recruiter to outline the steps in the hiring process if they don’t explain them to you.
If you pass the screening, you may be invited to a second interview with the hiring manager or a panel, which will usually play a larger role in the hiring decision.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information
While it’s exciting to land an interview, it’s important to avoid discussing personal matters such as your age, family status, financial situation, or place of origin. Keeping your answers professional helps you avoid potential biases and helps you focus on your qualifications.
Stick to discussing your educational background, skills, and professional achievements, keeping your answers concise and to the point.
Preparing in Advance
Do your research on the company and the job role, and prepare talking points for common interview questions. While it’s helpful to have key points in mind, avoid memorizing answers word-for-word so that the conversation flows naturally.
Asking Questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll likely have an opportunity to ask the interviewer questions. This is a chance to show your enthusiasm for the role and your initiative.
Candidates who don’t ask questions may seem uninterested, which can leave a negative impression.
Handling Illegal Questions
In Canada, the Human Rights Act protects against discrimination based on factors like race, age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, and others. Any questions about these aspects are illegal.
If an interviewer asks inappropriate questions, politely decline to answer or ask how the question relates to the role. It’s also acceptable to redirect the conversation back to your qualifications and experience.
Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
1. Tell me about yourself.
Why they ask: The interviewer wants to know what motivates you to apply for the role, what value you can bring, and what sets you apart from other candidates.
How to answer: Prepare a concise, 1-minute answer that focuses on what attracted you to the company and position, and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for the role.
2. What interests you about this role?
Why they ask: They want to determine if you’re genuinely interested in the job, which can indicate your commitment and long-term potential.
How to answer: Highlight aspects of the job that excite you and align with your skills, using specific examples from the job description.
3. What is your greatest strength?
Why they ask: This question is about understanding your core strengths and how they align with the role.
How to answer: Choose a strength relevant to the position and provide an example of how you’ve demonstrated it in your work.
4. What is your greatest weakness?
Why they ask: Hiring managers want to assess your self-awareness and commitment to personal growth.
How to answer: Be honest about a weakness you’re working on, but choose something that won’t hinder your performance in the role. Share the steps you’re taking to improve.
5. Tell me about a work conflict you experienced and how it was resolved.
Why they ask: This question assesses your ability to handle conflict professionally.
How to answer: Share a concrete example of a conflict you resolved successfully, focusing on the steps you took and the positive outcome.
6. Why did you leave your last job? or Why are you looking to leave your current job?
Why they ask: They want to ensure you’re genuinely interested in the role and not likely to leave soon.
How to answer: Focus on positive reasons for seeking a new opportunity, such as career growth or a better fit. Avoid criticizing past employers.
7. Why should we hire you?
Why they ask: The interviewer wants to understand what makes you unique and how you will add value to the company.
How to answer: Highlight skills or qualities that haven’t been mentioned yet, connecting them directly to the job’s requirements.
8. What are your salary expectations?
Why they ask: They want to know if your salary expectations align with their budget for the position.
How to answer: If possible, avoid giving a specific number too early. Indicate flexibility by saying, “I’m open to negotiation, and I’m confident we can agree on a fair number if I’m the right fit for the role.” Research salary ranges for similar roles to ensure your expectations are realistic.
Questions You Can Ask the Interviewer
When you ask questions, steer clear of topics that you can easily find by reviewing the job description or the company website. Here are some thoughtful questions to ask:
- What are the immediate challenges in this role that I would need to address?
- Could you elaborate on the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
- How does this role fit within the larger team or department?
- What is the biggest challenge someone in this position would face?
- What type of onboarding or orientation does the company provide?
- How is success measured for this role?
- How would you describe the office culture?
- What opportunities are there for professional development?
By preparing in advance and asking insightful questions, you’ll leave a strong impression and improve your chances of landing the job.
