research interview question template

Asking the Right User Research Questions (Template and Examples Included!)

Interviewing users is an art — whether you are running usability testing, focus groups, ethnographic research or whatnot. When you undertake an interview process, you'll want to invest time up front for planning it out. Often user research projects are days if not weeks of preparation, conversations, and capturing and processing information. To ensure that all this effort is put to good use, take the time to properly plan out your questions.

What is a User Interview?

Let's start with basics. What is a user interview? User interviews are often utilized as a way to examine the user experience, the usability of a product, or flesh out demographic or ethnographic data to build a deeper more comprehensive profile of the end user.

Often user interviews take place in person or on the phone. When possible, it's helpful to have two people present with the user, one to guide the interview and the other to take notes. Typical user interviews will cover topics such as:

• Background of the user
• Use of the product
• User's main objectives and motivations
• User's pain points, or
• many other items

Often, research teams will conduct several interviews in order to do a full research project. Developing an interview script in advance is a helpful way to standardize the interview process and really ensure you're covering all of the main questions during your time with the customer.

Example User Research Interview Questions

Chuck Liu, KISSmetric's lead user researcher, suggests these three questions:

• What are you trying to get done? Why?
• How do you currently do this?
• What could be better about how you do this?

Sarah Doody, a user experience designer, suggests the following questions:

Customer Intro Questions

• What does your typical weekday look like?
• When do you normally first use the Internet in a typical day?
• What are some of the apps and websites you use the most?
• Tell me about your role at your company?
• Any lifestyle questions that are related to your topic / product.

Topic Specific Questions

• What’s your relationship like with [topic … e.g. money, fitness, etc]
• How do you currently go about [problem / task]?
• How much time do you typically spend on [problem / task]?
• Tell me about the last time you tried to [problem / task]?
• What do you like about how you currently [problem / task]?
• What is the biggest pain point related to [problem / task]?
• Why do you keep doing [problem / task] … why is it important to you?
• What type of work arounds have you cerated to help you with this?
• What’s the hardest part about [problem / task]?
• What are you currently doing to make this [problem / task] easier?
• How does this [problem / task] impact other areas of your life / work?
• What other products or tools have you tried out?
• Have you paid for any of these other products or tools?
• How did you hear about these other products or tools?
• What do you like or dislike about these other products or tools?
• Are you looking for a solution or alternative for [problem / task]?

Product Opportunity Questions

• What do you think of this product? (meant to be asked at the homepage to gauge initial reaction)
• Why do you think someone would use this product?
• Can you see yourself ever using this product?
• Why do you think you can trust this product?
• How do you think this product is going to help you?
• Would you use this product today?
• What might keep people from using this product?
• What’s the most you would be willing to pay for this product?
• Does this remind of you any other products?

Product Reaction Questions

• What’s most appealing about this product?
• What’s the hardest part about using this product?
• Was there anything surprising or unexpected about this product?
• What could be done to improve this product?
• Was there anything missing from this product that you expected?
• Would you keep using this product after what you saw today?

Use Notejoy for your User Research Interviews

Sharing your user research interview notes through Notejoy is a great way to make notes accessible for everyone, and facilitate an internal discussion. Rather than waiting for the summary, Notejoy's fast and beautiful experience makes it easy for teams to quickly share and collaborate on notes together.

Share your research notebooks with the team

Share a Notejoy library as the single source of truth for your user feedback notes. Multiple people can edit at the same time, and it's also easy to manage who has permission to view and edit notes inside and outside of your organization.

Discuss your research with the entire team

Everyone in the team can participate with threaded discussions and comments. Call out the most interesting insights and ask questions with the entire team with the information in context.

Up to date, searchable, and accessible wherever you are

When you make changes to notes, it happens in real-time so everyone stays in sync. Materials in Notejoy are accessible through web, desktop, and even mobile devices so notes can be added, updated, or searched even when people are away from their desk.

Qualitative Research 101: Interviewing

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Undertaking Interviews

By: David Phair (PhD) and Kerryn Warren (PhD) | March 2022

Undertaking interviews is potentially the most important step in the qualitative research process. If you don’t collect useful, useable data in your interviews, you’ll struggle through the rest of your dissertation or thesis.  Having helped numerous students with their research over the years, we’ve noticed some common interviewing mistakes that first-time researchers make. In this post, we’ll discuss five costly interview-related mistakes and outline useful strategies to avoid making these.

Overview: 5 Interviewing Mistakes

• Not having a clear interview strategy /plan
• Not having good interview techniques /skills
• Not securing a suitable location and equipment
• Not having a basic risk management plan
• Not keeping your “ golden thread ” front of mind

1. Not having a clear interview strategy

The first common mistake that we’ll look at is that of starting the interviewing process without having first come up with a clear interview strategy or plan of action. While it’s natural to be keen to get started engaging with your interviewees, a lack of planning can result in a mess of data and inconsistency between interviews.

There are several design choices to decide on and plan for before you start interviewing anyone. Some of the most important questions you need to ask yourself before conducting interviews include:

• What are the guiding research aims and research questions of my study?
• Will I use a structured, semi-structured or unstructured interview approach?
• How will I record the interviews (audio or video)?
• Who will be interviewed and by whom ?
• What ethics and data law considerations do I need to adhere to?
• How will I analyze my data? 

Let’s take a quick look at some of these.

The core objective of the interviewing process is to generate useful data that will help you address your overall research aims. Therefore, your interviews need to be conducted in a way that directly links to your research aims, objectives and research questions (i.e. your “golden thread”). This means that you need to carefully consider the questions you’ll ask to ensure that they align with and feed into your golden thread. If any question doesn’t align with this, you may want to consider scrapping it.

Another important design choice is whether you’ll use an unstructured, semi-structured or structured interview approach . For semi-structured interviews, you will have a list of questions that you plan to ask and these questions will be open-ended in nature. You’ll also allow the discussion to digress from the core question set if something interesting comes up. This means that the type of information generated might differ a fair amount between interviews.

Contrasted to this, a structured approach to interviews is more rigid, where a specific set of closed questions is developed and asked for each interviewee in exactly the same order. Closed questions have a limited set of answers, that are often single-word answers. Therefore, you need to think about what you’re trying to achieve with your research project (i.e. your research aims) and decided on which approach would be best suited in your case.

It is also important to plan ahead with regards to who will be interviewed and how. You need to think about how you will approach the possible interviewees to get their cooperation, who will conduct the interviews, when to conduct the interviews and how to record the interviews. For each of these decisions, it’s also essential to make sure that all ethical considerations and data protection laws are taken into account.

Finally, you should think through how you plan to analyze the data (i.e., your qualitative analysis method) generated by the interviews. Different types of analysis rely on different types of data, so you need to ensure you’re asking the right types of questions and correctly guiding your respondents.

Simply put, you need to have a plan of action regarding the specifics of your interview approach before you start collecting data. If not, you’ll end up drifting in your approach from interview to interview, which will result in inconsistent, unusable data.

2. Not having good interview technique

While you’re generally not expected to become you to be an expert interviewer for a dissertation or thesis, it is important to practice good interview technique and develop basic interviewing skills .

Let’s go through some basics that will help the process along.

Firstly, before the interview , make sure you know your interview questions well and have a clear idea of what you want from the interview. Naturally, the specificity of your questions will depend on whether you’re taking a structured, semi-structured or unstructured approach, but you still need a consistent starting point . Ideally, you should develop an interview guide beforehand (more on this later) that details your core question and links these to the research aims, objectives and research questions.

Before you undertake any interviews, it’s a good idea to do a few mock interviews with friends or family members. This will help you get comfortable with the interviewer role, prepare for potentially unexpected answers and give you a good idea of how long the interview will take to conduct. In the interviewing process, you’re likely to encounter two kinds of challenging interviewees ; the two-word respondent and the respondent who meanders and babbles. Therefore, you should prepare yourself for both and come up with a plan to respond to each in a way that will allow the interview to continue productively.

To begin the formal interview , provide the person you are interviewing with an overview of your research. This will help to calm their nerves (and yours) and contextualize the interaction. Ultimately, you want the interviewee to feel comfortable and be willing to be open and honest with you, so it’s useful to start in a more casual, relaxed fashion and allow them to ask any questions they may have. From there, you can ease them into the rest of the questions.

As the interview progresses , avoid asking leading questions (i.e., questions that assume something about the interviewee or their response). Make sure that you speak clearly and slowly , using plain language and being ready to paraphrase questions if the person you are interviewing misunderstands. Be particularly careful with interviewing English second language speakers to ensure that you’re both on the same page.

Engage with the interviewee by listening to them carefully and acknowledging that you are listening to them by smiling or nodding. Show them that you’re interested in what they’re saying and thank them for their openness as appropriate. This will also encourage your interviewee to respond openly.

Need a helping hand?

3. Not securing a suitable location and quality equipment

Where you conduct your interviews and the equipment you use to record them both play an important role in how the process unfolds. Therefore, you need to think carefully about each of these variables before you start interviewing.

Poor location: A bad location can result in the quality of your interviews being compromised, interrupted, or cancelled. If you are conducting physical interviews, you’ll need a location that is quiet, safe, and welcoming . It’s very important that your location of choice is not prone to interruptions (the workplace office is generally problematic, for example) and has suitable facilities (such as water, a bathroom, and snacks).

If you are conducting online interviews , you need to consider a few other factors. Importantly, you need to make sure that both you and your respondent have access to a good, stable internet connection and electricity. Always check before the time that both of you know how to use the relevant software and it’s accessible (sometimes meeting platforms are blocked by workplace policies or firewalls). It’s also good to have alternatives in place (such as WhatsApp, Zoom, or Teams) to cater for these types of issues.

Poor equipment: Using poor-quality recording equipment or using equipment incorrectly means that you will have trouble transcribing, coding, and analyzing your interviews. This can be a major issue , as some of your interview data may go completely to waste if not recorded well. So, make sure that you use good-quality recording equipment and that you know how to use it correctly.

To avoid issues, you should always conduct test recordings before every interview to ensure that you can use the relevant equipment properly. It’s also a good idea to spot check each recording afterwards, just to make sure it was recorded as planned. If your equipment uses batteries, be sure to always carry a spare set.

4. Not having a basic risk management plan

Many possible issues can arise during the interview process. Not planning for these issues can mean that you are left with compromised data that might not be useful to you. Therefore, it’s important to map out some sort of risk management plan ahead of time, considering the potential risks, how you’ll minimize their probability and how you’ll manage them if they materialize.

Common potential issues related to the actual interview include cancellations (people pulling out), delays (such as getting stuck in traffic), language and accent differences (especially in the case of poor internet connections), issues with internet connections and power supply. Other issues can also occur in the interview itself. For example, the interviewee could drift off-topic, or you might encounter an interviewee who does not say much at all.

You can prepare for these potential issues by considering possible worst-case scenarios and preparing a response for each scenario. For instance, it is important to plan a backup date just in case your interviewee cannot make it to the first meeting you scheduled with them. It’s also a good idea to factor in a 30-minute gap between your interviews for the instances where someone might be late, or an interview runs overtime for other reasons. Make sure that you also plan backup questions that could be used to bring a respondent back on topic if they start rambling, or questions to encourage those who are saying too little.

In general, it’s best practice to plan to conduct more interviews than you think you need (this is called oversampling ). Doing so will allow you some room for error if there are interviews that don’t go as planned, or if some interviewees withdraw. If you need 10 interviews, it is a good idea to plan for 15. Likely, a few will cancel , delay, or not produce useful data.

5. Not keeping your golden thread front of mind

We touched on this a little earlier, but it is a key point that should be central to your entire research process. You don’t want to end up with pages and pages of data after conducting your interviews and realize that it is not useful to your research aims . Your research aims, objectives and research questions – i.e., your golden thread – should influence every design decision and should guide the interview process at all times. 

A useful way to avoid this mistake is by developing an interview guide before you begin interviewing your respondents. An interview guide is a document that contains all of your questions with notes on how each of the interview questions is linked to the research question(s) of your study. You can also include your research aims and objectives here for a more comprehensive linkage. 

You can easily create an interview guide by drawing up a table with one column containing your core interview questions . Then add another column with your research questions , another with expectations that you may have in light of the relevant literature and another with backup or follow-up questions . As mentioned, you can also bring in your research aims and objectives to help you connect them all together. If you’d like, you can download a copy of our free interview guide here .

Recap: Qualitative Interview Mistakes

In this post, we’ve discussed 5 common costly mistakes that are easy to make in the process of planning and conducting qualitative interviews.

To recap, these include:

If you have any questions about these interviewing mistakes, drop a comment below. Alternatively, if you’re interested in getting 1-on-1 help with your thesis or dissertation , check out our dissertation coaching service or book a free initial consultation with one of our friendly Grad Coaches.

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

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How to carry out great interviews in qualitative research.

11 min read An interview is one of the most versatile methods used in qualitative research. Here’s what you need to know about conducting great qualitative interviews.

What is a qualitative research interview?

Qualitative research interviews are a mainstay among q ualitative research techniques, and have been in use for decades either as a primary data collection method or as an adjunct to a wider research process. A qualitative research interview is a one-to-one data collection session between a researcher and a participant. Interviews may be carried out face-to-face, over the phone or via video call using a service like Skype or Zoom.

There are three main types of qualitative research interview – structured, unstructured or semi-structured.

• Structured interviews Structured interviews are based around a schedule of predetermined questions and talking points that the researcher has developed. At their most rigid, structured interviews may have a precise wording and question order, meaning that they can be replicated across many different interviewers and participants with relatively consistent results.
• Unstructured interviews Unstructured interviews have no predetermined format, although that doesn’t mean they’re ad hoc or unplanned. An unstructured interview may outwardly resemble a normal conversation, but the interviewer will in fact be working carefully to make sure the right topics are addressed during the interaction while putting the participant at ease with a natural manner.
• Semi-structured interviews Semi-structured interviews are the most common type of qualitative research interview, combining the informality and rapport of an unstructured interview with the consistency and replicability of a structured interview. The researcher will come prepared with questions and topics, but will not need to stick to precise wording. This blended approach can work well for in-depth interviews.

Free eBook: The qualitative research design handbook

What are the pros and cons of interviews in qualitative research?

As a qualitative research method interviewing is hard to beat, with applications in social research, market research, and even basic and clinical pharmacy. But like any aspect of the research process, it’s not without its limitations. Before choosing qualitative interviewing as your research method, it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons.

Pros of qualitative interviews:

• provide in-depth information and context
• can be used effectively when their are low numbers of participants
• provide an opportunity to discuss and explain questions
• useful for complex topics
• rich in data – in the case of in-person or video interviews , the researcher can observe body language and facial expression as well as the answers to questions

Cons of qualitative interviews:

• can be time-consuming to carry out
• costly when compared to some other research methods
• because of time and cost constraints, they often limit you to a small number of participants
• difficult to standardize your data across different researchers and participants unless the interviews are very tightly structured
• As the Open University of Hong Kong notes, qualitative interviews may take an emotional toll on interviewers

Qualitative interview guides

Semi-structured interviews are based on a qualitative interview guide, which acts as a road map for the researcher. While conducting interviews, the researcher can use the interview guide to help them stay focused on their research questions and make sure they cover all the topics they intend to.

An interview guide may include a list of questions written out in full, or it may be a set of bullet points grouped around particular topics. It can prompt the interviewer to dig deeper and ask probing questions during the interview if appropriate.

Consider writing out the project’s research question at the top of your interview guide, ahead of the interview questions. This may help you steer the interview in the right direction if it threatens to head off on a tangent.

Avoid bias in qualitative research interviews

According to Duke University , bias can create significant problems in your qualitative interview.

• Acquiescence bias is common to many qualitative methods, including focus groups. It occurs when the participant feels obliged to say what they think the researcher wants to hear. This can be especially problematic when there is a perceived power imbalance between participant and interviewer. To counteract this, Duke University’s experts recommend emphasizing the participant’s expertise in the subject being discussed, and the value of their contributions.
• Interviewer bias is when the interviewer’s own feelings about the topic come to light through hand gestures, facial expressions or turns of phrase. Duke’s recommendation is to stick to scripted phrases where this is an issue, and to make sure researchers become very familiar with the interview guide or script before conducting interviews, so that they can hone their delivery.

What kinds of questions should you ask in a qualitative interview?

The interview questions you ask need to be carefully considered both before and during the data collection process. As well as considering the topics you’ll cover, you will need to think carefully about the way you ask questions.

Open-ended interview questions – which cannot be answered with a ‘yes’ ‘no’ or ‘maybe’ – are recommended by many researchers as a way to pursue in depth information.

An example of an open-ended question is “What made you want to move to the East Coast?” This will prompt the participant to consider different factors and select at least one. Having thought about it carefully, they may give you more detailed information about their reasoning.

A closed-ended question , such as “Would you recommend your neighborhood to a friend?” can be answered without too much deliberation, and without giving much information about personal thoughts, opinions and feelings.

Follow-up questions can be used to delve deeper into the research topic and to get more detail from open-ended questions. Examples of follow-up questions include:

• What makes you say that?
• What do you mean by that?
• Can you tell me more about X?
• What did/does that mean to you?

As well as avoiding closed-ended questions, be wary of leading questions. As with other qualitative research techniques such as surveys or focus groups, these can introduce bias in your data. Leading questions presume a certain point of view shared by the interviewer and participant, and may even suggest a foregone conclusion.

An example of a leading question might be: “You moved to New York in 1990, didn’t you?” In answering the question, the participant is much more likely to agree than disagree. This may be down to acquiescence bias or a belief that the interviewer has checked the information and already knows the correct answer.

Other leading questions involve adjectival phrases or other wording that introduces negative or positive connotations about a particular topic. An example of this kind of leading question is: “Many employees dislike wearing masks to work. How do you feel about this?” It presumes a positive opinion and the participant may be swayed by it, or not want to contradict the interviewer.

Harvard University’s guidelines for qualitative interview research add that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask embarrassing questions – “if you don’t ask, they won’t tell.” Bear in mind though that too much probing around sensitive topics may cause the interview participant to withdraw. The Harvard guidelines recommend leaving sensitive questions til the later stages of the interview when a rapport has been established.

More tips for conducting qualitative interviews

Observing a participant’s body language can give you important data about their thoughts and feelings. It can also help you decide when to broach a topic, and whether to use a follow-up question or return to the subject later in the interview.

Be conscious that the participant may regard you as the expert, not themselves. In order to make sure they express their opinions openly, use active listening skills like verbal encouragement and paraphrasing and clarifying their meaning to show how much you value what they are saying.

Remember that part of the goal is to leave the interview participant feeling good about volunteering their time and their thought process to your research. Aim to make them feel empowered , respected and heard.

Unstructured interviews can demand a lot of a researcher, both cognitively and emotionally. Be sure to leave time in between in-depth interviews when scheduling your data collection to make sure you maintain the quality of your data, as well as your own well-being .

Recording and transcribing interviews

Historically, recording qualitative research interviews and then transcribing the conversation manually would have represented a significant part of the cost and time involved in research projects that collect qualitative data.

Fortunately, researchers now have access to digital recording tools, and even speech-to-text technology that can automatically transcribe interview data using AI and machine learning. This type of tool can also be used to capture qualitative data from qualitative research (focus groups,ect.) making this kind of social research or market research much less time consuming.

Data analysis

Qualitative interview data is unstructured, rich in content and difficult to analyze without the appropriate tools. Fortunately, machine learning and AI can once again make things faster and easier when you use qualitative methods like the research interview.

Text analysis tools and natural language processing software can ‘read’ your transcripts and voice data and identify patterns and trends across large volumes of text or speech. They can also perform khttps://www.qualtrics.com/experience-management/research/sentiment-analysis/

which assesses overall trends in opinion and provides an unbiased overall summary of how participants are feeling.

Another feature of text analysis tools is their ability to categorize information by topic, sorting it into groupings that help you organize your data according to the topic discussed.

All in all, interviews are a valuable technique for qualitative research in business, yielding rich and detailed unstructured data. Historically, they have only been limited by the human capacity to interpret and communicate results and conclusions, which demands considerable time and skill.

When you combine this data with AI tools that can interpret it quickly and automatically, it becomes easy to analyze and structure, dovetailing perfectly with your other business data. An additional benefit of natural language analysis tools is that they are free of subjective biases, and can replicate the same approach across as much data as you choose. By combining human research skills with machine analysis, qualitative research methods such as interviews are more valuable than ever to your business.

Related resources

Market intelligence 10 min read, marketing insights 11 min read, ethnographic research 11 min read, qualitative vs quantitative research 13 min read, qualitative research questions 11 min read, qualitative research design 12 min read, primary vs secondary research 14 min read, request demo.

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Sample Interview Questions for Research

Candidate’s research.

• What is innovative about your research?
• How is your work distinct from your supervisor’s/principal investigator’s? How intellectually independent are you?
• What influences have you been exposed to? Do you think you have enough breadth of experience?
• Who has influenced you the most?
• What has been your role so far in developing research ideas and carrying them forward?
• What do you think are your most significant research accomplishments?
• What do you consider to be your best paper/work and why? What did it change about the way people approach the field?
• What are your most important publications?
• What has been the impact of your research?
• What papers do you have coming through in the next year?
• If we gave you the position what might go wrong? How will you manage the risks?

General Research Questions

• What do you see yourself doing in ten years' time? What are your professional goals in the next five, and ten years?
• How will this job help you achieve your long-term career plans?
• What would you do on the first day of the job?
• What are the big issues in your research area?
• Who are the key researchers in your area? How does your work compare with theirs?
• Who are your main competitors? What are they doing? How will you compete with them?
• Why would someone come to work for you and not for your competitors?
• How does your work align with contemporary trends or funding priorities?
• How would you bridge the gap from your research to research users?
• The university is keen to serve the wider community and economy. Does your planned research have any potential in these areas?
• How do you feel about translating your research into innovation or spin-outs? Can you give an example of when you have been enterprising?
• Describe in layperson’s terms and in two minutes why your research project is interesting.

Candidate's Capabilities

• How have you managed your research project?
• How do you balance your time? If several challenges came up at the same time (grant deadline, pastoral care for a student, teaching commitments) how would you prioritize?
• If you were starting your project again today, what would you do differently?
• Describe a research problem you have faced. What did you learn?
• What has been the most productive period in your research career and why?
• Why do you think you are ready for this position?
• If you get this position how will you run your research project?
• Why do you think you are the right person for this position?
• What experience do you have of attracting funding?
• Where will you apply for grants? If your funding applications are unsuccessful, what alternatives do you have in mind? (looking for knowledge of the funding infrastructure)
• How would you convince a funding body that they should fund your research rather than one of the other hundreds of proposals they receive?
• Who are you currently funded by, and why do you think they were interested in funding your project?

 Candidate’s Proposed Research

• What will be your major focus as an independent researcher?
• In one sentence, what is the most important question you want to address?
• How does the work you propose follow on from what you are already doing?
• What will you focus on and what gives you a competitive edge in this area?
• What is the overall importance of this project? How do you see this work impacting the field?
• What will you do if your hypothesis is proved wrong? Can you see any of your research proposals failing?
• Why is the technique you have chosen more likely to succeed than other approaches?
• Have you already done anything to test the feasibility of your project?
• If you could only do one aspect of this project, which one do you think is key?
• If we gave you unlimited resources, what would you do with them?
• If we gave you X amount of money, what would you do with it?
• What resources will you need?
• How would you deal with the more limited resources or facilities compared to what you anticipate for the project?
• How do you plan to manage this project on a day-to-day level?

Candidate’s Role as Supervisor/Teacher

• Describe your teaching experience. How do you feel about teaching? What is your teaching philosophy?
• Do you have any experience in curriculum development?
• Have you supervised doctoral candidates, and how did you find this experience? How did you manage them?
• What advice would you give to a new researcher about supervising undergraduate or masters students?
• How would you go about interviewing a prospective postgraduate researcher?
• How would you induce a new doctoral candidate into their research project?
• How would you go about motivating a researcher who is going through a low point?
• How would you deal with a weak researcher?
• How would you deal with any conflict/disagreement within the research group? Do you have an example of when you have had to deal with a disagreement?
• Do you anticipate building a research group? How many people would you like for it to be optimal?

 Candidate’s ‘fit’ with the department

• Why do you want to come here?
• What will you bring to the institution?
• We are keen to develop collaborations between departments. What opportunities for multi-disciplinary work does your research offer?
• How would you fit with the existing activities in the department? Who do would you expect to collaborate with in the institution? Why do you want to collaborate with them?
• What committee work have you done and what challenges has it presented?
• In what ways, other than research and teaching, could you contribute to this department?

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A Guide to Qualitative Research Interview Questions

Table of Contents

Not everything can be answered by doing a survey or quantitative research. A qualitative research interview is more appropriate if your research aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the underlying factor and causes of something. This guide presents some examples of qualitative research questions for interviews to better grasp a topic.

What Is a Qualitative Research?

Qualitative research traditionally uses interviews , focus groups, personal diaries, and memories of events to record people’s perspectives of a phenomenon. People are asked to share their thoughts, feelings, opinions, and experiences with a research study.

Moreover, qualitative research can be used to analyze the lives of individuals, groups, and even populations. But more often, it is used to analyze behavior.

What Is a Qualitative Research Interview?

Qualitative research interviews are used to close a gap in what we know about a specific issue. It also explores issues from different perspectives to understand how people interpret a situation.

The process of conducting these interviews is less focused on quantifiable data and more focused on in-depth dialogue about the issue being researched. A qualitative research interview is typically conducted in person with one individual and can last between one and four hours.

Tips & Examples of Qualitative Research Questions for Interviews

The questions you ask during an interview can significantly affect the quality of the data the interviewer will gather. Careful consideration must be given to the questions asked during the interview and the wording used. You can maximize the quality of the interview data only by factoring in these specific aspects.

Qualitative research interview questions are structured in a way that helps the interviewer and participant understand the topic at hand. Here are some tips with examples to write good qualitative research interview questions.

Avoid Asking Leading Questions

If the overall goal of your qualitative research is to uncover new insights, you should avoid leading questions. Instead, take an open-ended approach that allows interviewees to reply in their own words.

Leading: Why do you prefer to use our service?

Open-ended: How do you feel about using our product?

Keep a Mixture of Behavioral & Attitudinal Questions

People frequently have beliefs that contradict the way they behave. Combining attitudinal and behavioral questions will help you learn what a person does and their thoughts on their actions.

To better grasp their beliefs and motives, ask them attitude-based questions. Behavioral questions are used to learn more about a participant’s behavior.

Attitudinal: How often do you go shopping?

Behavioral: How many times did you go shopping last week?

Avoid Asking Double-Barreled Questions

Interviewers sometimes want to ask several questions at once and end up asking double-barreled questions. These types of questions cover multiple topics at a time. Respondents can find it overwhelming as they try to answer both questions and often only answer a portion of them. Splitting your questions into two parts is preferable if you need to cover multiple topics.

Double-Barreled: How satisfied are you with our product quality and packaging?

Avoiding Double-barreled:

• How satisfied are you with our product quality?
• What do you think about our product packaging?

Ask Open-Ended Questions Instead of Closed Ones

Closed questions lend themselves to a one-time response. Instead, ask open questions which elicit a more expansive response .

Ask open-ended questions to learn about people’s interests, goals, and pain points. They provide the participant a chance to express themselves freely.

Closed Question: Do you like reading fictional books?

Open-Ended Question: What are your thoughts on fictional books?

Qualitative research is where you can find out what is happening in a person’s life, and they give you their thoughts and feelings. Rather than observing people, qualitative research is done with people themselves.

Qualitative research is helpful in various contexts, such as academic research, business intelligence, education, and advertising. This article provides you with some tips and examples of qualitative research questions for interviews .

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Common Researcher Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in research, what do you think sets research apart from other disciplines, what do you think is the most important skill for a researcher, what do you think is the most exciting thing about research, what do you think is the best thing about being a researcher, what do you think is the worst thing about being a researcher, what do you think is the most challenging thing about research, what do you think is the best thing about conducting research, what do you think is the worst thing about conducting research, what do you think is the most important thing to remember when conducting research, what do you think is the best way to approach research, what do you think is the worst way to approach research, what do you think is the most important thing to keep in mind when writing a research paper, what do you think is the best way to format a research paper, what do you think is the worst way to format a research paper, what do you think is the most important thing to consider when choosing a topic for a research paper, what do you think is the best way to go about finding sources for a research paper, what do you think is the worst way to go about finding sources for a research paper.

There are many reasons why someone might be inspired to pursue a career in research. For example, they may be inspired by the opportunity to make new discoveries that could improve the lives of people around the world. Or, they may be motivated by the challenge of solving complex problems and pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

It is important for interviewers to ask this question because it can help them to understand a candidate's motivation for pursuing a career in research. This can be helpful in assessing whether the candidate is likely to be successful in their role and whether they will be a good fit for the organisation.

Example: “ I have always been fascinated by the process of discovery and the role that research plays in advancing our understanding of the world around us. Pursuing a career in research allows me to contribute to this process and to make a difference in the world. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they may be trying to gauge your level of experience and expertise in research. Second, they may be trying to understand your research process and methods. Finally, they may be trying to assess your ability to communicate and collaborate with other researchers.

This question is important because it can help the interviewer understand your level of experience and expertise in research. Additionally, it can help them understand your research process and methods. Finally, it can help them assess your ability to communicate and collaborate with other researchers.

Example: “ There are a few key things that set research apart from other disciplines: 1. The scientific method: In order to be considered research, an investigation must follow the scientific method, which is a systematic process for gathering and testing evidence. This ensures that research is as objective and unbiased as possible. 2. Peer review: Another key element of research is peer review, which is the process by which experts in a field check each other's work to ensure its quality. This helps to ensure that only the best and most reliable research is published. 3. Replication: Research is also designed to be replicated, or repeated, in order to verify its findings. This helps to ensure that the results are not simply due to chance or error. ”

There are many important skills for researchers, but some skills are more important than others. The most important skill for researchers is the ability to think critically. Critical thinking is the ability to analyze data and information and make decisions based on that analysis. It is important because it allows researchers to understand complex problems and find solutions to those problems.

Example: “ There are many important skills for a researcher, but some of the most important include: -The ability to ask clear and concise research questions -The ability to design effective research studies -The ability to collect high-quality data -The ability to analyze data effectively -The ability to communicate research findings clearly and effectively ”

There are many possible reasons an interviewer might ask this question to a researcher. They may be trying to gauge the level of enthusiasm the researcher has for their work, or they may be trying to assess how well the researcher understands the implications of their research. Additionally, the interviewer may be trying to determine if the researcher is able to articulate the significance of their work in a way that is understandable and relatable to a lay audience. Ultimately, it is important for the interviewer to gain a better understanding of the researcher's motivations and perspective on their work in order to get a sense of how well they will be able to communicate their findings to the public.

Example: “ There are many exciting things about research, but one of the most exciting things is the opportunity to make new discoveries. Every day, researchers are uncovering new information about the world around us and the universe we live in. This constantly expanding body of knowledge provides us with a greater understanding of our place in the world and how we can improve our lives. ”

There could be several reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. They may be trying to gauge the researcher's level of commitment to their work, or they may be trying to identify what motivates the researcher to do their job. Additionally, the interviewer may be trying to assess the researcher's ability to reflect on their work and identify areas of improvement. Ultimately, it is important for the interviewer to understand what the researcher finds most rewarding about their work in order to determine whether or not the researcher is a good fit for the position.

Example: “ There are many great things about being a researcher. One of the best things is that researchers get to learn new things all the time. They also get to help other people learn new things by sharing their findings with them. Researchers also get to travel to different places to conduct their research, which can be very exciting. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the researcher's self-awareness and ability to reflect on their work. This is important because it shows that the researcher is able to identify areas for improvement and is committed to professional development.

Example: “ There are a few potential drawbacks to being a researcher. First, the job can be quite isolating. Researchers often work alone in their labs or offices, and they may not have much interaction with other people on a daily basis. This can be lonely and frustrating for some people. Second, research can be slow and tedious. It can take years to complete a study, and the results may not be immediately apparent. This can be frustrating for people who want to see quick results. Finally, research can be expensive. Funding for research projects is often limited, so researchers may have to make do with less money than they would like. This can make it difficult to conduct high-quality research. ”

There are many potential challenges that come with research, such as finding accurate and reliable sources, developing a hypothesis, conducting experiments or surveys, and analyzing data. The most challenging thing about research can vary depending on the project and the researcher's individual skills and experience. By asking this question, the interviewer is trying to understand what the researcher feels is the most difficult part of the research process and why they feel that way. This information can help the interviewer determine if the researcher is a good fit for the project and if they will be able to overcome any challenges they may face.

Example: “ There are many challenges that come with research, but I think the most challenging thing is trying to find accurate and reliable information. With so much information available online, it can be difficult to know what is true and what is not. This can make it challenging to find the right data and resources to use for your research. ”

There are many reasons why an interviewer might ask a researcher what they think is the best thing about conducting research. It is important to remember that research is a process of inquiry that is used to uncover new knowledge or to confirm existing knowledge. The best thing about conducting research is that it allows us to constantly learn new things and to deepen our understanding of the world around us.

Example: “ There are many great things about conducting research, but one of the best things is that it allows you to explore new ideas and discover new knowledge. It can be very exciting to be on the cutting edge of new discoveries, and research allows you to do just that. Additionally, research is a great way to learn more about a specific topic or subject that you are interested in. Conducting research can help you gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and how it works. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the researcher's ability to reflect on their work and identify areas for improvement. This is important because it shows that the researcher is constantly trying to improve their methods and is willing to listen to criticism.

Example: “ There are a few potential worst things about conducting research, depending on the individual researcher's perspective. One worst thing could be the amount of time and effort required to produce high-quality research results. This can be especially true in fields where data is difficult to collect or analyze, or where experiments are expensive or time-consuming to carry out. Another worst thing about conducting research could be the pressure to publish results in prestigious journals, which can lead to cut corners being taken in the research process. Additionally, some researchers may find the constant criticism and peer review process to be frustrating and demoralizing. ”

An interviewer would ask this question in order to gauge the respondent's understanding of the research process and their ability to identify key components of a successful research project. It is important for researchers to be able to identify the most important aspects of their work in order to ensure that they are able to effectively communicate their findings to others. Additionally, this question can help to reveal areas where the respondent may need further training or education in order to improve their research skills.

Example: “ There are a few things that are important to remember when conducting research: 1. Make sure you have a clear research question that you want to answer. This will help guide your research and keep you focused. 2. Do your background research and make sure you understand the topic area you are researching. This will help ensure that your research is accurate and complete. 3. Be sure to use reliable and credible sources for your research. This will help ensure that your findings are trustworthy. 4. Be organized and keep track of your data and findings. This will help you to see patterns and trends in your data, and make it easier to write up your results. 5. Be critical of your data and findings, and try to identify any potential biases or errors. This will help you to produce more accurate results. ”

The interviewer is likely looking for qualities that the researcher has that make them successful at their job. This might include qualities such as being able to effectively plan and execute research projects, being able to troubleshoot problems that arise, and being able to communicate findings to others. It is important for the interviewer to gauge the researcher's self-awareness and ability to reflect on their own work in order to get a sense of how they might approach future projects.

Example: “ There is no one answer to this question as different researchers will have different opinions on the best way to approach research. However, some general tips that may be useful include: developing a clear research question or hypothesis, reviewing the relevant literature, designing an appropriate study methodology, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the findings. It is also important to communicate the results of one's research in a clear and concise manner. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, they want to see if the researcher is familiar with different research approaches and can identify which ones are less effective. Second, the interviewer wants to gauge the researcher's critical thinking skills and ability to identify flaws in research methods. Finally, this question allows the interviewer to get a sense of the researcher's opinion on the best way to conduct research.

This question is important because it allows the interviewer to assess the researcher's knowledge of research methods, critical thinking skills, and opinion on the best way to conduct research. By understanding the researcher's thoughts on this topic, the interviewer can get a better sense of their thought process and whether they would be a good fit for the position.

Example: “ There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the worst way to approach research depends on the specific research question and context. However, some general approaches that could be considered bad ways to approach research include: 1. Not Defining the Research Question Clearly If the research question is not clearly defined from the outset, it can be difficult to know what direction to take the research in and what data to collect. This can lead to a lot of wasted time and effort, as well as potentially biased or irrelevant results. 2. Relying Too Much on Secondary Data While secondary data can be a valuable resource, it should not be relied upon too heavily. This is because secondary data may not be relevant to the specific research question or context, and it may also be out of date. In addition, secondary data cannot be controlled by the researcher, so it may not be possible to obtain the level of detail required for the research. 3. Collecting Data Without a Plan It is important to have a plan for how data will be collected before starting to collect it. This plan should specify what type of data will be collected, how it will be collected, and who will be responsible for collecting ”

The interviewer is likely trying to gauge the researcher's writing ability and whether they are able to produce a well-thought-out, comprehensive research paper. The most important thing to keep in mind when writing a research paper is to make sure that all of the information is accurate and that the sources are reliable. The paper should also be clear and concise so that the reader can easily follow the argument.

Example: “ There are a few things to keep in mind when writing a research paper that will help ensure your paper is well-received by your audience. First, make sure to choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to your audience. Second, take the time to thoroughly research your topic and provide well-supported arguments for your position. Third, be sure to edit and proofread your paper before submitting it for review. By following these simple tips, you can increase the chances that your research paper will be well-received by your intended audience. ”

The best way to format a research paper may vary depending on the discipline, but there are some general guidelines that can help a researcher ensure their paper is well-formatted and easy to read. Some important considerations for formatting a research paper include margins, font size and type, line spacing, and page numbers. Proper formatting can help make a research paper more accessible and easier to read, which can ultimately lead to more impactful research.

Example: “ There is no one correct answer to this question. Different researchers have different preferences for how to format a research paper. Some common elements that are typically included in a research paper are an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion. ”

There is no one answer to this question, as it depends on the specific field of research and the preferences of the journal or conference. However, some elements that could make a research paper poorly formatted include using an incorrect citation style, not following the required page layout, or using too many graphics and images. Poorly formatted papers can be difficult to read and may be less likely to be accepted for publication.

Example: “ There is no one "worst" way to format a research paper. However, there are several common formatting errors that can make a paper difficult to read and understand. These include: • Not using proper headings and subheadings to organize the paper. • Not using clear and concise sentences. • Not using proper grammar and punctuation. • Not citing sources properly. ”

There are many things to consider when choosing a topic for a research paper, but the most important thing is to choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to the researcher. The topic should also be something that the researcher is familiar with and has some knowledge about. Additionally, the topic should be something that is not too narrow or too broad, and it should be something that has been researched before.

Example: “ There are many things to consider when choosing a topic for a research paper. The most important thing is to choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to you. It is also important to choose a topic that is narrow enough to be covered in a single research paper. Additionally, it is important to consider the resources available to you when choosing a topic. Finally, it is also important to consider the audience you are writing for when choosing a topic. ”

One of the most important aspects of research is finding reliable sources. Without sources that can be verified and relied upon, the researcher's findings will not be credible. Therefore, it is important for the interviewer to ask how the researcher plans to find sources for their paper in order to ensure that the research is of high quality.

Example: “ There is no one answer to this question as it depends on the topic of the research paper and the type of sources required. However, some tips on finding sources for a research paper include using online search engines such as Google Scholar, looking through bibliographies of relevant books and articles, and searching for open access journals that cover the topic. Additionally, contacting experts in the field and asking for recommendations can be helpful. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the researcher's ability to find reliable sources of information. This is important because research papers are only as good as the sources they are based on. If a researcher cannot find reliable sources, then their paper will not be credible.

Example: “ There are a few ways that researchers can go about finding sources for their papers that are considered to be less than ideal. One way is to simply do a Google search on the topic and hope that relevant sources come up. This is often not very effective, as much of the information that comes up in a general search may not be relevant or reliable. Another way is to ask friends or colleagues for recommendations. This can be somewhat helpful, but it is often limited to the resources that those individuals are aware of. A better way to find sources is to use a database or search engine specifically designed for academic research. These tools will allow you to narrow your search to more reputable and relevant sources. ”

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Preparing Questions for a Qualitative Research Interview

Updated on: October 5, 2023

A qualitative research interview is an invaluable tool for researchers. Whether one’s studying social phenomena, exploring personal narratives, or investigating complex issues, interviews offer a means to gain unique insights. 

“The quality of the data collected in a qualitative research interview is highly dependent on the quality and appropriateness of the questions asked.”

But how do you prepare the right questions to ensure your interviews yield rich data? In this guide, we’ll explore the types of qualitative research interviews and provide tips for crafting effective questions.

Table of Contents

Types of Qualitative Research Interviews

Before diving into question preparation, it’s important to select the type of qualitative research interview that’s best suited for the study at hand.

There are three types of qualitative research interviews:

Structured Interviews 

Structured interviews involve asking the same set of pre-written questions to every participant. This approach ensures consistency, making it easier to compare data between participants or groups later.

When conducting structured interviews, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Pre-written Questions : All questions, including probes, should be meticulously written in advance.
• Detailed Questions : Questions should be detailed enough to be used verbatim during interviews.
• Consistent Sequence : The sequence of questions should be pre-decided and consistent across interviews.

Example of a Structured Interview Question

Question : Thinking back to your childhood days in Chelsea, can you remember what kind of local music was popular at the time?

• Why do you think it was so popular?
• Where was it played?
• Were there other popular genres?

Structured interviews are ideal when you need uniform data collection across all participants. They are common in large-scale studies or when comparing responses quantitatively.

Read more: Advantages & Disadvantages of Structured Interviews

Semi-structured Interviews 

The second type of qualitative interviews are semi-structured interviews. In these interviews, the  interview guide outlines the topics to be explored, but the actual questions are not pre-written.

This approach allows interviewers the freedom to phrase questions spontaneously and explore topics in more depth.

Example of a Semi-Structured Interview Question

Question : What problems did the participant face growing up in the community?

• Education-related.
• Related to their immediate family.
• Related to the community in general.

Semi-structured interviews strike a balance between flexibility and structure. They offer a framework within which interviewers can adapt questions to participants’ responses, making them suitable for in-depth exploration.

Unstructured Interviews 

In unstructured interviews, often referred to as  informal conversational interviews , are characterized by a lack of formal guidelines, predefined questions, or sequencing.

Questions emerge during the interview based on the conversation’s flow and the interviewee’s observations. Consequently, each unstructured interview is unique, and questions may evolve over time.

Unstructured interviews are highly exploratory and can lead to unexpected insights. They are particularly valuable when studying complex or novel phenomena where predefined questions may limit understanding.

Deciding What Information You Need

Once you’ve chosen the type of interview that suits your research study, the next step is to decide what information you need to collect.

Patton’s six types of questions offer a framework for shaping your inquiries:

• Behavior or Experience : Explore participants’ actions and experiences.
• Opinion or Belief : Probe participants’ beliefs, attitudes, and opinions.
• Feelings : Delve into the emotional aspects of participants’ experiences.
• Knowledge : Assess participants’ understanding and awareness of a topic.
• Sensory : Investigate how participants perceive and interact with their environment.
• Background or Demographic : Collect information about participants’ personal characteristics and histories.

Based on these categories, create a list of the specific information you aim to collect through the interview. This step ensures that your questions align with your research objectives.

Writing the Qualitative Research Interview Questions

After deciding the type of interview and nature of information you’d like to gather, the next step is to write the actual questions. 

Using Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions are the backbone of qualitative research interviews. They encourage participants to share their experiences and thoughts in-depth, providing rich, detailed data.

Avoid ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions, as they limit responses. Instead, use open-ended questions that grant participants the freedom to express themselves. Here are some examples – 

Examples of Open-Ended Questions

How do you feel about working at ABC Corp. during your initial years there?

• Encourages participants to share their emotions and experiences.

Can you describe the attitudes and approach to work of the other people working with you at the time?

• Invites participants to reflect on their colleagues’ behaviors and attitudes.

Tell me more about your relationship with your peers.

• Encourages participants to provide narrative insights into their relationships.

Read More: 100 Open-Ended Qualitative Interview Questions

Going from Unstructured to Structured Questions

Unstructured Questions allow the interviewee to guide the conversation, letting them focus on what they think is most important.

These questions make the interview longer, but also provide richer and deeper insight.

Examples of Unstructured Questions

• Tell me about your experience working at [xxx].
• What did it feel like to live in that neighborhood?
• What stood out to you as the defining characteristic of that neighborhood?

Examples of Structured Questions

• What are some ways people dealt with the health issues caused by excessive chemical industries in the neighborhood?
• As an employee at ABC Corp. during the time, did you observe any specific actions taken by the employers to address the issue?

Probing Questions

Probing questions are used to get more information about an answer or clarify something. They help interviewers dig deeper, clarify responses, and gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Examples of Probing Questions

Tell me more about that.

• Encourages participants to elaborate on their previous response.

And how did you feel about that?

• Invites participants to share their emotional reactions.

What do you mean when you say [xxx]?

• Seeks clarification on ambiguous or complex statements.

Probing questions enhance the depth and clarity of the data collected, however they should be used judiciously to avoid overwhelming participants.

A General Last Question

As your interview approaches its conclusion, it’s beneficial to have a general last question that allows the interviewee to share any additional thoughts or opinions they feel are relevant.

For instance, you might ask:

Thank you for all that valuable information. Is there anything else you’d like to add before we end?

This open-ended question provides participants with a final opportunity to express themselves fully, ensuring that no critical insights are left unshared.

Preparing questions for qualitative research interviews requires a thoughtful approach that considers the interview type, desired information, and the balance between structured and unstructured questioning.

Here’s a great guide from the Harvard University on the subject.

• Choosing the Right Setting for a Qualitative Research Interview
• 5 Ways Researchers can Transcribe from Audio to Text

Reader Interactions

hlabishi says

April 8, 2015 at 12:37 pm

I found the information valuable. It will assist me a lot with my research work.

Harpinder says

June 8, 2015 at 10:40 pm

I am going for my pilot study. Above information is really valuable for me. Thank you.

September 28, 2015 at 10:21 am

thank you for Patton’s 6 types of questions related to: 1. Behavior or experience. 2. Opinion or belief. 3. Feelings. 4. Knowledge. 5. Sensory. 6. Background or demographic. Really helpful

IBRAHIM A. ALIYU says

October 7, 2015 at 6:04 pm

Very interesting and good guides, thanks a lot

Dumisani says

July 31, 2017 at 7:55 am

Very informative. Thank you

Yongama says

June 5, 2018 at 11:57 pm

this is a good information and it helped me

Joshua Nonwo says

June 3, 2019 at 11:02 pm

vital information that really help me to do my research. thank you so much.

June 12, 2019 at 7:36 pm

Thanks a lot. Example of structured interview broadens My mind in formulating my structured research question. Indeed very helpful.

mwiine says

November 29, 2019 at 6:31 am

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Kayayoo isaac says

November 29, 2019 at 7:54 am

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leslie says

December 27, 2019 at 4:29 pm

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louisevbanz says

January 20, 2020 at 3:19 pm

I’d like put the writers of this in my references. May I ask who the writers are and what year was this published? Thank you very much.

Daniel says

June 1, 2020 at 6:21 pm

Thank you very much. Helpful information in my preparations for structured interviews for my research .

abby kamwana says

December 8, 2020 at 9:03 am

This is the information i was looking for thank you so much!.

Cosmas W.K. Mereku (Prof.) says

June 15, 2021 at 8:59 am

I am teaching 42 MPhil and 6 PhD postgraduate music students research methods this academic year. Your guide to qualitative research interview questions has been very useful. Because the students are in different disciplines (music education, music composition, ethnomusicology and performance), all the types of questions discussed have been very useful. Thank you very much.

Gerald Ibrahim b. says

June 16, 2021 at 12:45 pm

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Corazon T. Balulao says

March 1, 2022 at 7:47 am

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antoinette says

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November 21, 2023 at 5:55 am

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5 common mistakes to avoid in user research in Product Management

User research in product management is really important. But sometimes people make mistakes that can mess it up. Like not setting clear goals for the research, using the wrong methods, picking the wrong people to ask questions, not asking the right questions, and forgetting to look at the data properly. These mistakes can make the research not very useful. But if we avoid them, we can learn a lot about what users want and make better products that they’ll like more.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in User Research in Product Management

Here are the 5 Common Mistakes that can be Avoid in User Research in Product Management:

Mistake 1: Not defining a clear research goal

When we don’t have a clear research goal, it means we’re starting user research without knowing exactly what we want to find out. This mistake can waste time and effort because we might end up collecting information that doesn’t help us. Without a clear goal, we might ask the wrong questions or get data that doesn’t give us useful insights for our product. To avoid this, it’s important to take the time to decide what we want to learn from our research. This means figuring out the main questions we need answers to or setting specific goals for what we want to achieve. By doing this, we can make sure our research is focused and helpful for making decisions about our product.

Mistake 2: Not choosing the right research method

This mistake means using a research method that doesn’t fit what we’re trying to learn. This can lead to incomplete or wrong information, which makes it hard to make good decisions about our product. Different research methods, like talking to people, asking questions, or watching how they use things, have different strengths and weaknesses. If we pick the wrong one, we might waste time and money without getting useful data. To avoid this, we need to think about what we want to learn, the kind of information we need, and who we’re trying to learn from. By picking the best method for our goals, we can make sure we get the right information to help us improve our product.

Mistake 3: Not recruiting the right participants

This mistake happens when we choose the wrong people for our research. When we don’t recruit the right participants, we miss out on getting insights that truly represent our target users. This can lead to decisions about our product that don’t match what our users want or need. Whether it’s because we pick people who aren’t like our typical users or we forget to include important groups like older adults or students, it means we’re not getting the full picture. To avoid this, we need to think carefully about who we want to include in our research and make sure they’re a good match for our target audience. By recruiting the right participants, we can get the information we need to make our product better for the people who will use it.

Mistake 4: Not asking the right questions

This mistake happens when we don’t ask the questions that will give us the information we need. When we don’t ask the right questions, we miss out on getting important insights that could help us make better decisions about our product. This can lead to us making choices that don’t match what our users want or need. Whether it’s because our questions are too vague, or leading, or we forget to ask about important things, it means we’re not getting the whole story. To avoid this, we need to think carefully about what we want to know and make sure our questions will give us the answers we’re looking for. By asking the right questions, we can get the information we need to make our product better for our users.

Mistake 5: Not analyzing and synthesizing the data

This mistake happens when we gather data from our research but don’t take the time to carefully look at it and put it together to find important things. When we don’t analyze and synthesize the data, we miss out on understanding what it’s telling us about our users and our product. This can lead to us making decisions without all the information we need or missing chances to make our product better. Whether it’s because we’re busy, don’t know how to do it, or just forget, not analyzing and synthesizing the data means we’re not using it to help us improve our product. To avoid this, we need to take the time to carefully look at the data we’ve collected and think about what it means for our product. By doing this, we can make better decisions and create products that work well for our users.

Related Articles:

• Learn Product Management | Beginner to Advanced Tutorial

In conclusion, good user research is important for making products that people like. By avoiding common mistakes like not setting clear research goals, picking the right research methods, choosing the right people for our research, asking the right questions, and looking carefully at the data, we can make sure our products meet users’ needs. When we focus on what users want and keep improving our research, we can create products that work well and make users happy. So, by putting effort into user research, we can make better decisions and build successful products.

FAQs: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in User Research in Product Management

Why is user research important in product management.

User research helps us figure out what users need and want, making sure our products actually solve their problems and meet their expectations.

How often should we do user research?

It’s best to keep doing user research regularly, all through making the product. This way, we stay updated on what users want and need.

In what ways can we do user research?

We can talk to users, ask them questions, watch how they use things, and even have them try out our product and give feedback. All these ways help us understand what users want.

What do we do with the feedback from user research?

We carefully listen to what users say and use their feedback to improve our product. This helps us make something that users really like.

How can we make sure our user research works well?

To do good user research, we talk to lots of different users, ask questions that let them share their thoughts freely, and pay attention to what they actually do. And we keep learning and improving how we do research.

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20 Most Common Research Scientist Interview Questions and Answers

Common Research Scientist interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

You’re ready to take the next step in your career and apply for a research scientist position. But first, you have to make it through the interview process.

Knowing what questions to expect ahead of time can help ease some of the anxiety that comes with interviewing. To get you started, here are some common research scientist interview questions—and tips on how to answer them.

• What experience do you have in designing and conducting experiments?
• Describe a research project that you are particularly proud of and explain why.
• How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of your data?
• Explain how you use statistical analysis to interpret results from experiments.
• Are you familiar with any software programs used for data analysis?
• What strategies do you use to stay up-to-date on new developments in your field?
• How do you handle conflicting opinions or interpretations of data within a team?
• Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an experiment that wasn’t producing expected results.
• What is your experience with writing scientific papers and presenting findings at conferences?
• How do you approach developing hypotheses and testing them through experimentation?
• What techniques do you use to identify potential sources of bias in experimental design?
• Do you have any experience working with interdisciplinary teams?
• How do you manage competing deadlines and prioritize tasks?
• What methods do you use to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-experts?
• How do you evaluate the ethical implications of your research?
• What strategies do you use to develop innovative solutions to challenging problems?
• Have you ever encountered unexpected results during an experiment? How did you respond?
• Describe a time when you had to collaborate with other researchers to achieve a common goal.
• What would you do if you encountered a problem that was outside of your area of expertise?
• How do you keep track of all the different elements involved in a research project?

1. What experience do you have in designing and conducting experiments?

Research scientists are the people who design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions from the results. It’s important to have experience in this area to make sure that the research is conducted properly and that the results are accurate. This question is also a way for the interviewer to assess your knowledge of the scientific method and how it’s used in research.

How to Answer:

In your answer, you should discuss any experience that you have in designing and conducting experiments. You can talk about the types of experiments you’ve conducted, such as laboratory experiments, field experiments, or surveys. Be sure to mention how you used the scientific method in each experiment, from developing a hypothesis to analyzing data. If you don’t have much direct experience, you can still talk about what you’ve learned about designing and conducting experiments through coursework or research projects.

Example: “I have experience in designing and conducting experiments from my work as a research assistant at XYZ University. I’ve conducted laboratory experiments, field experiments, and surveys to test hypotheses about different topics. In each experiment, I followed the scientific method by formulating a hypothesis, developing an experimental design, collecting data, analyzing it, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, I’ve studied the principles of experimental design in courses such as statistics and psychology. This has given me a strong foundation for understanding how to properly design and conduct experiments.”

2. Describe a research project that you are particularly proud of and explain why.

Research scientists need to be able to think critically and creatively when it comes to problem solving. This question gives the interviewer an opportunity to get a sense of your problem-solving skills and how you approach research. It also gives them insight into the results of your work and the value you can bring to the position.

To answer this question, you should discuss your experience with designing and conducting experiments. Explain the types of experiments you have conducted in the past and how you went about creating a hypothesis and testing it. Talk about the tools and methods you used to analyze data and draw conclusions. Be sure to mention any successes or challenges you faced during the process and how you overcame them. Finally, explain what you learned from these experiences and how they will help you succeed in the role you are applying for.

Example: “I’m particularly proud of a research project I completed last year on the effects of climate change on coral reefs. To conduct this research, I designed experiments to measure the changes in temperature and pH levels in different reef environments. I used sophisticated data analysis tools to analyze the results and draw conclusions about how these changes were impacting the health of the coral. Through this project, I learned a lot about the importance of collecting accurate data and using it to make informed decisions. This experience has helped me develop my problem-solving skills and will be invaluable as I continue to pursue research projects in the future.”

3. How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of your data?

Research scientists must be able to trust the data they’re working with. Your interviewer will be looking for an understanding of the various methods and processes used to verify the accuracy and reliability of your data, and how you go about ensuring that you’re working with the best possible data to create meaningful results.

You should be prepared to discuss the methods you use to verify data accuracy and reliability. This could include double-checking your sources, running experiments multiple times to ensure consistent results, or using statistical tests to measure the validity of your findings. You should also emphasize any processes you have in place to monitor the quality of the data over time, such as regular reviews or audits. Finally, show that you understand the importance of data integrity by mentioning the potential consequences of inaccurate data.

Example: “I take data accuracy and reliability very seriously. I always double-check my sources to make sure they’re reputable and up-to-date, and I use statistical tests to measure the validity of my findings. I also have a process in place for regular audits and reviews of the data to make sure it remains accurate over time. Most importantly, I understand that inaccurate data can lead to faulty conclusions, which could negatively affect both our research results and reputation. That’s why I’m committed to ensuring that all data is as reliable and accurate as possible.”

4. Explain how you use statistical analysis to interpret results from experiments.

Research scientists are expected to be able to draw meaningful conclusions from the data they collect. This question is designed to determine if you know how to use statistical analysis to make sense of the results you collect. The interviewer wants to know that you can interpret the data and use it to make decisions and draw conclusions.

To answer this question, you should explain how you use statistical analysis to interpret the results from experiments. Talk about what type of statistical tests you use and when you use them. Also discuss any special techniques or software that you use for data analysis. Finally, talk about how you use the results of your analysis to make decisions and draw meaningful conclusions.

Example: “I use a variety of statistical tests and software to interpret the results from experiments. My most commonly used test is ANOVA, which I use to compare differences between two or more groups of data. I also use regression analysis to identify relationships between variables, as well as chi-square tests to determine if there are any significant associations between different factors. In addition, I am proficient in using SPSS for both descriptive and inferential statistics. With all this data, I’m able to draw meaningful conclusions about my findings and make informed decisions based on the results.”

5. Are you familiar with any software programs used for data analysis?

Research scientists rely heavily on data analysis to inform their research and draw conclusions. This means they must be familiar with a variety of software programs that can help them analyze the data they’ve collected. If the position requires a specific software program, the interviewer may ask this question to ensure that you’re familiar with it and can use it effectively.

Before the interview, research which software programs are commonly used for data analysis in your field. Make sure you’re familiar with these programs and can explain how to use them. During the interview, provide specific examples of when you have used a particular program or software suite. If possible, mention any experience you have using the specific software that the company uses. Finally, be sure to emphasize your ability to quickly learn new software if necessary.

Example: “I’m very familiar with software programs used for data analysis. I have extensive experience using SPSS and SAS, which are both common statistical software packages. In my current role as a research scientist at XYZ Research Institute, I often use R to analyze large datasets. I also have some experience with MATLAB, and am confident that I could quickly learn any new software programs necessary for the position.”

6. What strategies do you use to stay up-to-date on new developments in your field?

Research scientists need to stay on top of the latest developments in their field. You need to demonstrate that you can use a variety of methods to stay informed, such as reading scientific journals, attending conferences, and networking with other researchers. This shows that you have the initiative to stay current and can think critically about how to apply new developments to your work.

Talk about the strategies you use to stay informed. For example, do you read scientific journals? Do you attend conferences and seminars? Do you network with other researchers in your field? You can also talk about how you apply this knowledge to your work. Talk about how you use new developments to inform your research or develop new methods for conducting experiments.

Example: “I stay up-to-date on new developments in my field by reading scientific journals and attending conferences, seminars, and networking events. I also use online resources to keep abreast of the latest research and findings. For example, I’m a member of several professional organizations that share information about new discoveries and advancements in our field. With this knowledge, I’m able to apply current research to my own work and develop innovative methods for conducting experiments.”

7. How do you handle conflicting opinions or interpretations of data within a team?

Research scientists often work in teams, and it’s important to know how you’d handle differences in opinion or interpretation of data. The interviewer wants to know if you can be flexible and open to new ideas, or if you’re more likely to stick to your own views and interpretations. They’ll also want to know if you can work collaboratively with other researchers, and if you’re able to come up with creative solutions to complex problems.

To answer this question, you should explain how you’d approach a situation in which opinions or interpretations of data conflict. You could talk about the importance of open dialogue and collaboration between team members, and how you would facilitate such conversations. You can also discuss your ability to be flexible and consider different perspectives, as well as your willingness to work together with other researchers to come up with creative solutions that everyone is happy with.

Example: “I believe that when it comes to conflicting opinions or interpretations of data, the most important thing is to be open to dialogue and discussion. I understand that everyone has their own perspective and experiences with a particular problem, so I always try to create an environment where team members can express those views without fear of judgment. This helps us gain different insights into the issue at hand and encourages creative solutions. I’m also comfortable taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture to ensure we’re all on the same page—and if not, I’m confident in my ability to work collaboratively with other researchers to come up with a solution that works for everyone.”

8. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an experiment that wasn’t producing expected results.

Research scientists need to have the skills to troubleshoot experiments that don’t turn out as expected. This could mean analyzing data to identify possible sources of error, coming up with alternative hypotheses and testing strategies, or reaching out to colleagues for advice. This question will help the interviewer understand how you approach problem-solving, your resourcefulness in difficult situations, and your ability to think critically and come up with creative solutions.

To answer this question, you should provide a specific example of when you had to troubleshoot an experiment. Describe the steps you took to identify and address the problem, what resources you used (e.g., colleagues, literature, etc.), and how you ultimately solved the issue. If possible, describe the results of your efforts and any lessons learned that you can apply to future experiments.

Example: “I recently had to troubleshoot a project that wasn’t producing the expected results. I first identified the possible sources of error by analyzing the data and examining the experimental procedure. Then, I reached out to a colleague who had experience with similar experiments and asked for her advice. Based on her feedback, I adjusted the experimental parameters and re-ran the experiment. The results were much closer to the expected outcome, and I was able to identify several key factors that had been overlooked in the initial setup. This experience taught me the importance of asking for help when needed and being willing to adjust the parameters of an experiment if necessary.”

9. What is your experience with writing scientific papers and presenting findings at conferences?

Scientific research is an ongoing process of experimentation, data collection, and analysis. It is also a field that is highly collaborative and results-driven, which means that research scientists need to be able to communicate their findings in order to be successful. This question is designed to assess your ability to communicate your findings in both written and verbal formats.

Be sure to provide concrete examples of your experience in writing scientific papers and presenting findings at conferences. If you have published any papers, be sure to mention this as it shows that your work is highly regarded by the scientific community. Additionally, if you have ever presented your research at a conference or symposium, talk about what you learned from the experience and how it helped you grow as a researcher. Finally, highlight any awards or recognitions you may have received for your work.

Example: “I have extensive experience in writing scientific papers and presenting findings at conferences. I have published several papers in peer-reviewed journals, and I have presented findings at numerous conferences, symposiums, and other events. I have also received awards for my research, including a prize for best paper presented at a major international conference. Presenting my research to an audience is something I really enjoy, as it allows me to share my findings with a larger audience and receive feedback from other researchers and professionals in the field.”

10. How do you approach developing hypotheses and testing them through experimentation?

The scientific method is the basis of any scientific research and understanding how you approach it is key to know whether you’ll be successful in this role. The interviewer will want to know that you’re able to develop hypotheses, use the right tools to test them, and draw meaningful conclusions from the results. They’ll also want to make sure you have the critical thinking skills to work through complex problems and the creativity to come up with innovative solutions.

This question is designed to assess your ability to think critically, develop hypotheses and test them through experimentation. To answer this question, you should explain the steps you take when approaching a problem. For example, you could discuss how you brainstorm potential solutions, evaluate each solution’s feasibility, create an experiment plan, execute experiments, analyze data, draw conclusions from the results, and present those findings. You should also emphasize any experience you have with designing experiments, collecting data, and analyzing the results of your experiments.

Example: “When I approach developing hypotheses and testing them through experimentation, I start by brainstorming potential solutions and evaluating each solution’s feasibility. Then, I create an experiment plan and execute the experiments. After that, I analyze the data, draw conclusions from the results, and present those findings. I have extensive experience designing experiments, collecting data, and analyzing the results of my experiments. I am confident in my ability to use the scientific method to evaluate hypotheses and draw meaningful conclusions from the results.”

11. What techniques do you use to identify potential sources of bias in experimental design?

Researchers must have an understanding of the potential sources of bias that could affect their experiment, and the ability to identify them quickly. By asking this question, the interviewer wants to know that the candidate can identify potential sources of bias and has the experience to design experiments that will minimize the risk of bias.

To answer this question, you should discuss the techniques that you use to identify potential sources of bias in experimental design. Common techniques include conducting a literature review and using statistical tests such as ANOVA or chi-squared tests. You can also mention methods such as blinding, randomization, and replication. Additionally, you should explain how these techniques help minimize the risk of bias in your experiments.

Example: “I use several different techniques to identify potential sources of bias in experimental design. I always begin by conducting a thorough literature review to understand the existing research in the field and identify potential sources of bias. Additionally, I use statistical tests such as ANOVA or chi-squared tests to assess the effects of certain variables. I also make sure to use techniques such as blinding, randomization, and replication to minimize the risk of bias in my experiments. By using these techniques, I can ensure that my research is accurate and reliable.”

12. Do you have any experience working with interdisciplinary teams?

Research scientists often have to collaborate with other scientists and researchers in various fields. This means that being able to work with people from different backgrounds and share ideas and opinions is essential. By asking this question, the interviewer is looking to see if you have the interpersonal skills needed to work with a diverse group of people, as well as the ability to think critically and come up with creative solutions.

To answer this question, you should provide an example of a team project you worked on and how you contributed to its success. Talk about the different backgrounds of the people on the team and how you were able to collaborate with them to reach a successful outcome. You can also discuss any challenges you faced while working in a multidisciplinary setting, as well as what you learned from the experience.

Example: “I recently worked on a project with a team of researchers from different disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and physics. We were tasked with developing a new drug to treat a specific condition. Working with this interdisciplinary team was a great learning experience for me. I was able to gain insight into different scientific perspectives and approaches, which allowed us to come up with a more creative and effective solution. I also learned the importance of communication and collaboration in a multidisciplinary setting, and how to effectively work with people from different backgrounds to reach our goal.”

13. How do you manage competing deadlines and prioritize tasks?

Research scientists often have to juggle multiple projects at once and manage competing goals and deadlines. An interviewer will want to know that you can not only handle the workload, but also prioritize tasks and manage your time efficiently. They’ll also be looking for evidence that you can stay organized and on top of your projects to ensure that you can complete them on time.

To answer this question, you should provide examples of how you have managed competing deadlines and tasks in the past. Talk about your strategies for staying organized and prioritizing tasks, such as creating to-do lists or using project management tools. You can also explain how you keep track of deadlines and manage your time efficiently by breaking down large tasks into smaller ones and setting daily goals. Be sure to emphasize any successes you’ve had with managing multiple projects at once.

Example: “I have a lot of experience managing competing deadlines and tasks. I start by breaking down larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks and assigning each task a priority level. I use project management tools to help me stay organized and on track, and I set daily goals to make sure I’m always making progress. I also make sure to communicate regularly with my team and stakeholders to ensure that everyone is aware of the timeline and priorities. This has enabled me to successfully manage multiple projects at once and meet tight deadlines.”

14. What methods do you use to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-experts?

Being a research scientist isn’t just about doing experiments and collecting data. You’ll also need to be able to explain your findings to non-experts in a way that’s understandable, engaging, and actionable. This question helps interviewers see how you can take complex concepts and break them down into something accessible to a general audience. They’ll want to know that you can communicate your work in an effective and efficient way.

To answer this question, you should focus on the methods that have worked for you in the past. You can talk about how you use visuals (e.g., charts, graphs, diagrams) to explain complex concepts; how you break down information into smaller digestible pieces; and how you create stories or analogies to make abstract ideas easier to understand. You can also mention any public speaking engagements you’ve done as a research scientist, such as presenting at conferences or giving lectures.

Example: “I’ve found that visuals are one of the best ways to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-experts. I’ll often use charts and diagrams to illustrate my points, as well as create stories or analogies to make the information more accessible. I also like to break down complex topics into smaller, more digestible pieces to make it easier for people to understand. I’ve presented my research at numerous conferences and have had to adjust my approach based on the audience, so I’m comfortable communicating scientific concepts to a wide range of people.”

15. How do you evaluate the ethical implications of your research?

Working in a scientific field often means dealing with sensitive information or data that could be misused or misinterpreted. It’s important for interviewers to know that you’re aware of the ethical implications of your research and that you take the necessary steps to ensure that your data is secure and used responsibly.

Start by discussing the steps you take to evaluate the ethical implications of your research. This could include conducting a risk assessment, consulting with an ethics committee or advisor, and ensuring that all data is stored securely. Talk about any specific protocols or processes you have in place for evaluating the ethical implications of your research. Finally, mention any experiences you have had dealing with ethical issues related to research, such as working with vulnerable populations or handling confidential information.

Example: “I always take the necessary steps to evaluate the ethical implications of my research. I start by conducting a risk assessment to identify any potential issues and then consulting with an ethics committee or advisor to discuss the best course of action. I also take steps to ensure that all data is stored securely and that appropriate protocols are in place to protect the privacy of those involved in the research. In the past, I have had to work with vulnerable populations, so I am well-versed in the ethical considerations that come with such research and have experience implementing protocols to ensure that their privacy is respected.”

16. What strategies do you use to develop innovative solutions to challenging problems?

Research scientists are expected to think outside the box to create solutions to complex problems. This question gives the interviewer insight into how you approach difficult tasks and how you use data and research to develop solutions. It allows them to understand how you approach your work and how you think through problems.

To answer this question, you should explain the process you use to develop innovative solutions. This might include describing how you brainstorm ideas and weigh different options, how you research potential solutions and evaluate their effectiveness, or how you collaborate with colleagues to come up with creative solutions. You should also provide an example of a time when you used these strategies to solve a challenging problem.

Example: “I approach challenging problems by first doing research to understand the underlying cause of the issue. I then use brainstorming techniques to generate potential solutions and evaluate their feasibility. I also collaborate with other researchers and colleagues to get their input and ideas. For example, when I was faced with a difficult problem in developing a new drug delivery system, I first researched the current methods and technologies available. After brainstorming with the team and evaluating the potential solutions, we were able to develop a novel drug delivery system that was more efficient and cost-effective than existing methods.”

17. Have you ever encountered unexpected results during an experiment? How did you respond?

Research scientists are expected to be able to think on their feet when the data they collect doesn’t quite match the hypothesis they’re testing. This question is a chance for the interviewer to see if you’re able to adjust your approach on the fly and be open to new ideas and solutions.

Talk about a time when you encountered unexpected results during an experiment and how you responded. Be sure to explain the steps you took to investigate why your results were different than expected, such as running additional tests or consulting with colleagues. Show that you’re able to think critically and come up with creative solutions. Explain what you learned from this experience and how it has shaped your approach to future experiments.

Example: “In my most recent research project, I was studying the effects of a certain pesticide on a species of plant. I was expecting the plants to die off after exposure to the pesticide, but to my surprise, the plants actually began to thrive. I took this unexpected result as an opportunity to dig deeper and investigate why this might be. I ran additional tests and spoke with colleagues in related fields to gain more insight. Through this process, I discovered that the pesticide was actually providing the plants with much-needed nutrients, which explained why they were thriving. This experience taught me the importance of being open to unexpected results and using them as an opportunity to explore further and gain a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.”

18. Describe a time when you had to collaborate with other researchers to achieve a common goal.

Research is a team effort, and as a research scientist, you need to be able to work with others to achieve your goals. This question is designed to get an idea of how well you are able to collaborate with colleagues and how you handle challenges that may arise when working with a team.

You should be prepared to provide a specific example of a time when you had to collaborate with other researchers to achieve a common goal. Describe the project, your role in it, and how you worked with others to accomplish the task. Talk about any challenges that arose during the process and how you overcame them. Finally, discuss what you learned from the experience and how it has helped shape your approach to collaboration today.

Example: “I recently collaborated with a team of researchers to develop a new method of measuring the effects of climate change on coral reefs. My role was to help design and implement a data collection system that could accurately measure the changes in the coral reef over time. I worked closely with the other researchers to ensure that our data was accurate and that we were following the correct protocols. We encountered some challenges along the way, such as having to adjust our protocols and data collection methods as new information became available, but we were able to work together and come up with solutions. This experience taught me the importance of effective collaboration and how to work through challenges to achieve a common goal.”

19. What would you do if you encountered a problem that was outside of your area of expertise?

Research scientists are expected to be able to identify and solve problems that emerge in their work, and it’s important for the interviewer to know that the candidate can handle a situation if they come across something that is outside of their area of expertise. This question is designed to find out how the candidate would approach a difficult problem and how they would frame their research to come up with a solution.

The best way to answer this question is to explain the steps you would take to research and solve the problem. Start by talking about how you would identify the issue, then explain how you would use resources such as journals, books, or online databases to find out more information about it. Finally, discuss how you would apply your knowledge to come up with a solution. Be sure to emphasize that you are comfortable working outside of your comfort zone and that you enjoy learning new things.

Example: “If I encountered a problem that was outside of my area of expertise, I would first take the time to research the issue and gain an understanding of the underlying concepts. I would use resources such as academic journals, books, and online databases to build my knowledge base. I would also reach out to colleagues who might have experience with the issue or be familiar with relevant studies. Finally, I would use the information I gathered to develop a solution to the problem. I’m comfortable working outside of my comfort zone and I enjoy learning new things, so I’m confident that I could find a solution to any problem I may face.”

20. How do you keep track of all the different elements involved in a research project?

Research projects can be incredibly complex and require a great deal of organization and attention to detail. An interviewer will want to know how you keep track of all the different elements of a project and how you’re able to ensure that everything gets done in a timely and organized manner. This question can also be used to gauge how well you can handle multiple tasks and prioritize them efficiently.

To answer this question, you should explain the methods and tools that you use to stay organized. For example, you could mention using a project management system such as Trello or Asana, or keeping lists in a spreadsheet program like Excel or Google Sheets. You may also want to discuss how you break down projects into smaller tasks and prioritize them accordingly. Additionally, it’s important to emphasize your ability to be flexible and adjust plans when needed.

Example: “I’m very organized and I use a combination of tools to keep track of my research projects. I use a project management system like Asana to break down my projects into smaller tasks and prioritize them according to deadlines. I also keep a spreadsheet of all the elements involved in the project, including timelines, tasks, and any materials I need to collect. I find that having a visual representation of the project helps me stay on track and makes it easier to adjust my plans when needed.”

20 Director Of Facilities Interview Questions and Answers

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How to Answer the Interview Question: “What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?”

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How to Answer the Interview Question: “What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?” was originally published on WikiJob.

“What is your greatest accomplishment?” is one of the most challenging behavioral questions you can be asked during a job interview.

As children, we are often taught to practice humility; to not show off in social situations because it is considered rude. Consequently, as adults, we often feel awkward discussing our greatest achievements, even if we are asked about them directly. We subconsciously worry we are coming across as unlikeable or obnoxious.

Of course, in many situations, including at work, humility is a useful trait. But the entire purpose of a job interview is to convince your interviewer that you are the best person for the job. So, start embracing what makes you great.

This article will outline the purpose of behavioral interview questions and help you understand what your interviewer is really looking for when they ask about your major accomplishment. It will then explain how to prepare your answer and provide some sample answers to help you get started.

Why Interviewers Ask “What Accomplishments Are You Most Proud Of?”

Contrary to what your subconscious is trying to tell you, your interviewer isn’t attempting to trick you into revealing arrogance when they ask the ‘greatest achievement’ job interview question. They just want to know what it is that makes you stand out from the crowd.

How to Choose Your Major Accomplishments With the STAR Interview Method

As with all behavioral interview questions, it is crucial that you practice in advance.

TopInterview is a network of expert career coaches focused on demystifying the interview process and instilling confidence in job seekers across the US. Job seekers work one-on-one with professionals experienced in HR and recruiting practices to create custom interview strategies and get the practice they need to impress at their next interview.

The best way to describe your greatest achievement while only including relevant information is to use the STAR interview method. The acronym works as follows:

• S = Situation. In what context did your greatest accomplishment occur?
• T = Task. What challenges did you face or what goal did you want to achieve?
• A = Action. What action did you take? What skills did you use?
• R = Result. What was the result? What did you learn from the experience? Why is this your greatest accomplishment?

Ideally, you should talk about a workplace accomplishment. However, you could refer to school, volunteering or even your hobbies, so long as you demonstrate transferable skills and prove you are the best person for the job.

‘My greatest achievement’ examples could include:

• Giving a great presentation at work.
• Beating sales targets.
• Training for and completing a marathon.
• Organizing a successful charity event.
• Mentoring a coworker or fellow student.

Now you know how to structure your answer and the common pitfalls to avoid, here are some examples of accomplishments using the STAR technique to help you prepare your own.

Step 1. Think About Your Values and Best Qualities, and Try to Highlight Them

What does your greatest achievement say about what you value in life? How does this make you perfect for the job?

For example, you might have been named the top salesperson at your company last year. You consider this your greatest accomplishment because you value hard work and making people happy. You always come to work with a smile, you do your best to get to know your target customer and adapt your sales techniques to each customer’s needs, and you make it your personal goal to go above and beyond the targets set for you.

This tells your interviewer that:

• You are passionate about customer service and you aim to exceed the expectations of your customers and employer.
• You are a hard worker, a positive and adaptable person, and you have excellent communication skills.
• You are ambitious and thrive on quantifiable targets and results.

Consider working backwards to ensure you highlight your best qualities sufficiently.

Step 2. Research the Job and Company

Think about the skills and qualities valued by the company and tailor your answer to demonstrate some of these.

The best way to start your research is to review the job description , as it will list the skills necessary to fulfil the responsibilities of the job. You could also:

• Browse the company’s website, blog and LinkedIn profile for previous projects, achievements and client testimonials.
• Read news articles about the company.
• Read online employee reviews of the company.

Step 3. Be Honest

It is tempting to embellish the truth, or even lie, because you worry your greatest achievement is not good enough or you can’t think of anything that qualifies.

Remember, your interviewer isn’t expecting you to have eradicated world hunger. What qualifies as a ‘greatest achievement’ is subjective and personal to you.

So long as you can demonstrate skills and qualities that set you apart from other candidates, the interviewer will not mind which accomplishment you choose to discuss.

Step 4. Be Specific

Your answer should be clear and detailed. Avoid using vague language such as, “I oversaw a project.” Explain what the project entailed and what your role in it was.

Step 5. Ensure Your Accomplishment Is Recent and Relevant

Learning to use a word processor on your computer might have been impressive several decades ago when typewriters were the norm. Today, almost every job candidate is expected to know how to type on a computer.

Make sure your answer is relevant to today’s job market and the skills required of today’s candidates. Often this means using an example that happened relatively recently.

“Tell Me Your Proudest Accomplishment or Greatest Achievement” Sample Answers:

It is likely that the company received numerous, if not dozens of applications for the same job. Therefore, one of the purposes of the interview is to assess which candidates stand above the rest.

“What is your greatest accomplishment?” or “What is your greatest professional achievement?” is an example of a behavioral interview question, commonly used in interviews to assess skills and competencies through discussions about your past experiences.

Some other examples of behavioral questions include:

• “Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership.”
• “Tell me about a time you failed.”
• “Describe a time you solved a difficult problem.”

“What is your greatest achievement?” and its similar variations are designed to evaluate:

• What you value most in life, how this can benefit the company and whether you are a good fit for the company’s culture.
• How you view success and whether this coincides with the company’s commercial goals.
• Whether you possess desired soft skills such as communication, leadership potential, teamwork, adaptability, creativity and problem-solving.
• Whether you have ambition and a drive to succeed. For example, if you had to fight hard for your greatest achievement.

101 Interview Questions You’ll Never Fear Again

Learn the secrets to excelling at interview, direct from top interviewers and recruiters, in Why You? by James Reed, chairman of recruitment specialists REED.

Typical Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of any of these:

• Rambling – A long-winded answer will indicate to your interviewer that you are unprepared. Using the STAR interview method to ensure you are only mentioning the key points is an easy way to avoid this problem.
• Indecisiveness – Don’t give your interviewer a long list of possible achievements because you cannot decide which one to discuss. Prepare your answer in advance, so you don’t have to think up an accomplishment on the spot.
• Trying to be funny – For example: “ My greatest achievement was when I managed to get to work on time for once. Just kidding, my real greatest achievement is… ” There can be a time and a place for humour in a job interview, but it is not when the interviewer has asked you a serious question.
• Putting others down to make yourself look better – Do not fixate on others’ failures or use them to make your accomplishment seem more impressive, even if your accomplishment involves you correcting someone else’s mistake. For example: “ One time, a coworker completely messed up and deleted loads of files. He tried to recover them but he was never very good at his job so, needless to say, he was unsuccessful. In the end, I felt obligated to step in. Of course, I succeeded where he failed. ” Other people’s shortcomings may be incidental to your story, but focusing on them will make you appear unprofessional or suggest that you are insecure. Focus on your own qualities instead.

Examples of Bad Answers

“What’s my greatest achievement? I’m not sure.

“Maybe the time I stopped two coworkers arguing? Is that an accomplishment?

“One time I gave a great presentation at work… Or once, I raised £600 for a sponsored run, but I guess it wasn’t a great accomplishment because I gave up in the middle and had to return the money to my sponsors.”

Why this answer is bad:

• The candidate has vocally expressed indecisiveness, which is not an attractive trait in a potential employee.
• They rambled but failed to expand on any of their accomplishments or talk about their skills.
• They ask the interviewer for reassurance, indicating they have low confidence.
• They mentioned an accomplishment but then reduced its impact by expressing doubt about its worth.

“My greatest accomplishment is finally passing my driving test. I actually failed four times and passed on my fifth attempt.

“The first time I failed was because I was speeding. The other times weren’t my fault. I was so happy when I finally passed. I’m a great driver.”

• The situation is irrelevant in a work context.
• The answer does not specify any key skills or values which would make them a great job candidate.
• The candidate focuses on their failures rather than their successes.
• The candidate disparages others in an attempt to make their achievement appear more impressive.

What Is Your Greatest Achievement Sample Answer

Now you know how to structure your answer and the common pitfalls to avoid, here are some sample answers using the STAR technique to help you prepare your own.

“My Greatest Achievement” Example Answer 1

“My greatest accomplishment is when I took over a children’s reading group in my current position as a Library Assistant.

“Children between the ages of 7 and 12 can come to the library on a Saturday morning, we read a chapter of a book together and then we discuss it.”

“At the time, my official responsibility was to provide customer service at the front desk. However, one of our Library Supervisors retired and no replacement was hired. Due to the lack of staff, the library made the difficult decision to cut the weekly children’s reading group._”

“I was saddened to hear about the disappointment felt by the children and their parents. I volunteered to change my shifts so I worked on a Saturday morning and could run the reading group.

“I am now the leader of the group. I help choose the books we read, prepare questions for educational discussion and organize games and other activities.”

“We get around five to ten children per session. Their parents are so grateful we were able to continue the group and I enjoy interacting with children who love to read.”

Why this answer is good:

• This answer says great things about the candidate’s priorities: they value education, community and childhood development.
• The example is relevant to the workplace.
• The candidate showed initiative by taking over the group.
• They show great management skills and leadership potential through their ability to organize and run the group.
• They also show skills in communication, adaptability, teamwork and problem-solving.

“My Greatest Achievement” Example Answer 2

“My greatest accomplishment occurred in my previous position as HR Administrator.”

“I noticed team members often had difficulty locating specific files – which reduced productivity, particularly during busy periods.”

“So I took the initiative to implement a team filing system. I scanned every vital document, which I then saved to shared folders on our computer system.”

“At the end of the month, our time sheets indicated that the time spent looking for files had reduced by several hours.”

• The candidate has demonstrated skills such as resourcefulness, creativity, innovation, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving .
• Their project was successful, giving weight to the accomplishment.

Final Thoughts

You should now be able to prepare a well structured and detailed answer to the behavioral interview question, “What is your greatest accomplishment?”. Below is a summary of the key points covered in this article:

• Get comfortable with talking about yourself.
• Ensure your answer is structured well and only includes relevant information, by using the STAR interview method.
• Ensure your greatest accomplishment is work-related or demonstrates skills which can be directly applied in the workplace.
• Research the job and company and tailor your answer accordingly.
• Focus on your best qualities and what makes you stand out.
• Be concise, avoid rambling and don’t lie or embellish the truth.

Finally: practice. The best way to approach behavioral interview questions is to prepare in advance. This way you will know exactly what you are going to say when you are asked about your greatest accomplishment.

Download Interview guide PDF

Hr interview questions, download pdf.

To hire suitable candidates, every company conducts various rounds of interviews to measure the candidate’s technical and behavioral prowess. HR interviews are done to gauge the personality- strengths and weaknesses of a candidate to handle the role and then understand whether the candidate is suitable to do the job. Sometimes, the interviews are conducted to decide how well the candidate can fit into the company’s work culture. Generally, these rounds are done at the end of the recruitment process after the technical skills evaluation.

The HR interview rounds can make or break your opportunity to join your dream company. Hence it is best to keep some tips in mind to ace this interview.

• Do not fake! Be yourself. Bluffing during the HR interview should be avoided at all costs.
• Answer to the point and while answering, be honest and truthful.
• Wear comfortable but formal clothes. Keep accessories to a bare minimum.
• Reach the venue on time. If the interview is scheduled online, then log in at least 10-15 minutes earlier than the scheduled time and ensure that your connection set up is alright.
• Do not sound dull while answering. Be enthusiastic and interactive with the hiring managers. In case the interview is online, then remember to keep your video on.
• Lastly, have a smile on your face.

In this article, let us see what are the most commonly asked HR interview questions and understand why the questions are being asked and what would be the sample acceptable answers to those questions.

Traditional HR Questions

Behavioural hr interview questions.

• Opinion-based HR Interview Questions

Brainteasers HR Interview Questions

Salary related questions, multiple choice questions, 1. tell me about yourself..

This is the universal question asked at the very first of any interview. It sounds easy, right? But this is the most important question where the candidates fail to create an impression with the interviewer as most of the time they are not aware of what exactly needs to be said.

Some tips to answer this question:

• Do not ask the interviewer what he wants to know about you. You may be asking genuinely, but that just sounds rude.
• Do not speak what is already there in the resume. The interviewer wants to know what they have not seen on the resume. And do not speak about anything personal.
• Introduce yourself by including certain adjectives like problem-solving, innovation and tech-savvy, creative, quick learner, etc. that best describe you in your professional life to boost your chances.
• Cover what you have accomplished in your career and what work you have done in the past which can help you excel in the position that you are being interviewed for.
• You can also tell why you want the position and how the job is going to be perfect for you.
• Focus only on your strengths that are relatable to the work.

Sample answer could be:

I am an energetic person, an effective communicator, and a quick learner. I was also one of the top students in my batch while I was pursuing a B.E degree in the XYZ domain. I worked on various projects related to the software domain which provided me a great deal of technical exposure along with the importance of working in a team and the value of client satisfaction. I have worked on developing various enterprise-level web applications for helping companies solve problems like ensuring business continuity, market research analysis, etc. So, I believe I am a good fit for technology-centric roles in your company.

2. Why do you want to work for our company?

Another popular question asked by the interviewer to make sure that the candidate has understood the job requirements and help the interviewer understand the reason behind choosing their company for that job. You should answer in such a way that the interviewer gets convinced that you are a great fit for the role.

• Talk about the past projects that you had worked on that matches the requirements of the current role.
• Talk about your career aspirations that are associated with this job role.
• Have the knowledge in hand about the company’s vision, mission, and the work it has done in recent years that inspired you to join the organization.

Sample answer:

I feel that with my current skill sets and my experience in the XYZ domain, the job requirements this role presented are a perfect match for me. I could visualize myself in that role as it aligned with my career aspirations, skills, and expertise. Besides, I have researched your company and found that it has impressive and promising projections which made me excited to be a part of the amazing future. I would take pride in working under the great leadership of this company and I found this place to be a perfect fit for utilizing my expertise along with the promising aspect of personal growth.

3. What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?

HR asks this question to get to know more about your characteristics and your suitability for the job. It is also one of the standards and most commonly asked questions.

• Start by stating the strongest skills and qualities that can be of a great match to the job role.
• Be ready with the backup claim for each of the strengths that you mention. Hence, avoid speaking of the strengths that you do not possess.
• Do not tell any weakness that can potentially jeopardize your candidature.
• Do not mention more than 2 weaknesses and always mention how you are working on improving them.
• Do not tell cheesy, cliché answers like “I am a perfectionist which is both my strength and my weakness”.

I think one of my greatest strengths is that I am a great team player. I am also a self-motivated and quick learning individual. Whatever task that I set to do, I always give my best and complete it diligently well in advance. My weakness would be that I am learning to master people skills while meeting new individuals. I get nervous while talking to new people. I have been working on this for quite a long time and I can say with utmost confidence that I have come a long way.

4. Why are you looking for a change?

Yet another commonly asked question for experienced candidates, the interviewer wants to understand what made you look for different opportunities and identify if there are any red flags. Whatever is the reason for changing your job, do not talk negatively about the current employer. Do not divulge information about how bad the work environment was, how poor the salary was as these are of no concern to the interviewer. Keep the answer professional without sharing your woes.

The reason I am looking for change is that I feel like now is the time to expand my horizon. I have worked in my current company for quite a long time and while I am grateful for all the opportunities that were presented to me there, I want to go beyond my current role here, explore different avenues and take up challenging roles and I believe that your company will be the perfect place for me to push and grow myself as an individual.

There might be cases where you might have been laid off due to budget and management constraints. In these cases, you have to convey the below things to the recruiter:

• It happened due to an unforeseen event and it was not your fault.
• You still have a positive mindset about various opportunities that are available in the market.

Sample answer can be:

The client that I was working for was leaving the market and hence our company was forced to dissolve the department. Unfortunately, I had joined that position in that department very recently and hence my duration in this company was short. I do not have any regrets though as I was extremely happy due to the learning opportunities presented which will help me a lot in my further career endeavors.

5. Tell me about the gap in your resume.

This question comes up when the interviewer finds something interesting and out of ordinary in the resume. Some examples could be a job that could be unrelated to what you are seeking or a job that lasted only for some months or in some cases, the outright gap between two consequent jobs. Here, HR wants to make sure that the gaps are not due to any red flags.

After the completion of my bachelor’s degree, I started working continuously for 8 years without taking any break. This sort of impacted my productivity and also harmed my work-life balance. Hence, I decided to take a break of 6 months to clear my mind, make amends with my family, and also do solo travel to different places. I also gained some lessons during this break such as the importance of work-life balance, organizational ability, and a fresh new perspective on life.

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6. how would you rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10.

The main point while answering this question is to not convey that you are perfect. This would indicate that there is no scope for improvement and would showcase yourself as overconfident to the interviewer.

Also, remember to not undervalue yourself too. This would show that you don’t have any self-confidence.

I would like to rate myself an 8. 8 because I know that I am not perfect and there is always a scope for learning and improvement. Continuous learning is the most fundamental part of personal and professional growth.

7. What is your biggest achievement so far?

Make sure to discuss only your work-related achievement. Pick up the most recent achievement of yours and answer this question.

Tips to answer this:

Answer the question in a STAR format. STAR represents: S: Situation, T: Task, A: Action, and R: Result

I have achieved several milestones to date in my career as a software developer . The most recent one is of the time when we were working on a critical component of a product pertaining to customer payments. We were working round the clock for around 2 months and I was a core developer. I was made a lead to this component for completing the task in another 2 months. To meet the deadline, we ensured that we upskilled ourselves to learn all the aspects of the development of this module and also brought in a few more resources to complete it faster. Post the deployment, I trained our team to support the platform proficiently. Ultimately, we could complete the product well in advance of the deadline. When the product was launched, the higher management was super proud of us and our team was awarded for our outstanding performance in the quarterly town hall. It was a very proud moment for me.

8. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Now, this question is the trickiest and deadliest one among all. This can prove to be a trap and you might not even be aware of it. While the question might seem casual, the main purpose of this question is to find out how long you are planning to stay in the company if hired and how your vision fits the vision of the company.

• You might be tempted to answer honestly by saying things about your plans for higher studies, your plans to start a startup, your plans of becoming a hiring manager in the company or if you don’t have a plan then you are simply tempted to say you don’t have a plan at all. These are the things the interviewer doesn’t want to hear and hence avoid giving such answers.
• The recruiter is only interested in knowing how long you are planning to stay in the company and how satisfied you are with the current position you are going to be hired.

Over 5 years, I would love to utilize all the opportunities that this company provides me to learn by utilizing the internal and external training programs. My ultimate career goal is to become a Technology Architect and hence I would look forward to developing various products that represent the vision of this company and be a part of making a difference along with quickening my journey of becoming a Tech Architect.

9. Why should we hire you?

The recruiter asks this important question to understand how well you would fit into the position because every hire is a risk to the interviewer in case they turn out to be unfit. Your answer to this question can make or break your interview. Hence, prepare well for this question and make sure to convey to the interviewer why you are the perfect fit for the position.

Some tips to answer would be to include:

• How well you would perform the job and how you would be a great addition to the team.
• How you possess the right talent which makes you stand apart.
• Everything should boil down to how you can add great value to the organization.

I am a self-motivated and very open-minded person who can learn very fast. Looking at the job description and my experience in the field of web development, I am confident that I am very much suitable for this role. I enjoy solving problems and I am a great team player. I also believe that my values are aligned with this company’s values. I think this position will support my interest and also give me interesting and exciting opportunities to contribute to the growth of this organization. I am very much excited about this opportunity.

10. How do you deal with criticism?

The main intention to ask this question is to see what your attitude towards feedback is and how you react to it. The main point here is to let the interviewer know that you are always open to constructive feedback. You should not show yourself as a stubborn or ignorant person who is not capable of taking any input for your growth.

I am always enthusiastic about learning new things and during the process, I might tend to make mistakes. If someone provides me with constructive criticism, I am always open to it and I will work on correcting myself and learn from my mistakes. This would help me grow and move forward. If the feedback is negative, then I am mature enough to ignore the feedback and continue working on doing my job to the best of my capabilities without dampening my spirit.

1. What Are These Behavioural Questions

These questions are mostly of the format “Tell me about a time…” where you would be asked to share your experience based on certain scenarios which would help the interviewer judge how well you handled various work situations thereby reflecting your skills, capacity, and personality.

Always answer such types of questions using the STAR format to provide structured answers. STAR has the following questions to be answered in the same order:

• Situation: What was the situation/event?
• Task: What were the tasks involved in the above-mentioned situation?
• Action: What did you do to complete the goal?
• Result: What was the result of the actions? This is the most important part which conveys if you were successful or not.

Avoid bragging and exaggerating at all costs.

2. Tell me about a time when you were not satisfied with your performance?

Here, the interviewer gets to know the extent of ownership you take while performing any task. It also reflects how well you care about the job and the company.

When I initially joined my job right after college, there was a point where I was constantly becoming dependent on the team members to get work done. I did not like this as I wanted to carry out my responsibilities in an independent manner along with working in a team. I wasted no time and quickly learned the working dynamics of the project and received various assignments related to the project. The more assignments I worked on with minimal help, the more confident I became and the more sense of ownership is provided. I felt more independent and I was lauded multiple times for my dedication, my sense of ownership, and how quickly I was able to adapt to the project.

3. Tell me about a time when you were made to work under close supervision.

Here, the interviewer evaluates how well you work in a team and how well you can work independently.

In my previous job, I was working under the close supervision of my manager. It felt very overwhelming as the manager watched everything that I do throughout the day and I felt like he/she was virtually sitting by me at all times. I was uncomfortable with this because of the constant pressure involved. But then, I found out that the manager did not trust me enough to do my job alone as I was very new to it. So I worked on building her trust by working very diligently without any complaints in the projects and once I felt the manager was convinced of my abilities, I discussed with her to hand me a project which didn’t involve such close supervision. The manager gave me one such project reluctantly and I made sure I gave my best to it and the project was launched successfully which is how I gained her complete trust.

4. Can you tell me about a time where you were happy with your work and what was your reaction?

By asking this question, the interviewer wants to understand what success means to you and what feeling it brings out in you. By this, they can assess your concerns for the growth of the company along with your personal growth.

There was a time in my previous company where I was handling a project related to blogging that would potentially inspire a lot of people. So I worked on researching what topics would people get inspiration from and what would help them be better. I also conducted a survey which I shared with my friends, neighbors and relatives to get better insights about this. When we published the blog, the recognition that we got was tremendous. People loved how relatable the posts were and this turned out to be a significant reason behind the 90% sales of our products. I was very happy with my work as I did my part in contributing to company profits as well as providing a platform to people where they can get inspiration from.

5. Tell me about a time where you experienced difficulty at work while working on a project.

Now, this is a broad question as difficulty can be of any type. This question is asked to assess what are the things that you consider as difficult and how you go about solving that difficulty. While answering this:

• Focus on describing a problem that was related to your work using the STAR approach.
• Do not answer negatively or bad mouth any supervisor or any company.
• The interviewer should be made to understand the cause of the problem.
• Avoid bringing up personal problems in your life.
• Focus on the learnings of the problem rather than dwelling too much on the damage.

There was a time in my current company when I received a bug report from our client which stated that the databases were performing below the mark when a complex query was called excessively from the interface. The first thing I did was checking the logs to perform the root cause analysis. Doing this gave me a rough idea regarding where the bug started appearing. I reproduced the bug only on the production server and I tried replicating the same on my local system. While debugging, I found out that there was a bug in the Java code where some lines were commented out by the developers who had already left this company. I fixed this code quickly and did a round of performance testing on the application to ensure that this doesn’t occur again. The issue was fixed at the end of the day and we were able to get the server up and running with enhanced performance. We learnt an important lesson to perform regression testing after every phase of releases to ensure the old functionalities were working fine along with the newly developed ones.

6. Tell me about a time where you displayed leadership skills.

This question is asked to check how competent you are in a particular situation. You have to ensure that you are not sounding lazy or unprofessional.

I remember this event. Every year, my company used to organize a summer barbeque, and this year, the person who was supposed to organize had left for a new job. I used to volunteer for this before so I volunteered myself for organizing the barbeque this year. The annual barbeque was a potluck event with some fun activities planned throughout the day. I conducted a survey amongst the employees to see what kind of activities they were interested in. I made a list of those activities and created teams dedicated to conducting each of them. I also ensured that activities did not cross the budget allocated and took care of sending out regular reminders to track the progress of the team. I sent out posters and went through the office floors with a team of people to make sure people are aware of what exciting things we have planned for them and ensure that they arrive at the venue on time. The day of the event was an amazing one. As we had everything planned, the event went on smoothly and everyone had loads of fun. I received great appreciation from the higher management for my organizational skills and everyone said that they had a great time.

7. Was there any point in your career where you made any mistake? Tell me about it.

Now here is a tricky behavioral question and if you don’t answer this carefully, you would be digging your own grave. The interviewer wants to understand what kind of mistakes you made, how did you approach it and how well you would perform if you are hired for the job. Some tips to answer the question:

• Talk about a mistake you made which you were able to rectify and which didn’t cause any critical damage to your organization.
• Talk about what you learned while working on fixing the mistake.
• Avoid any mistake that represents any flaw in your personality.

I remember an instance when I joined my first company. I was asked to work on two projects simultaneously and I accepted it even though I knew I would not be able to handle it. I did not want to tell my manager that I cannot handle it as I did not want him to think less of me. I was not supposed to tell either of clients that I was working on another project which caused me double stress due to which I was not able to meet the deadlines for the assignments. I realized I should have clearly communicated this with my manager and then my manager understood the situation and allocated a new resource to work with me to complete the project delivery. I learned the importance of keeping my supervisors updated with any task and being open to them if I am facing any roadblocks.

8. How did you handle disagreements with your manager?

The interviewers want to know how well you deal when your ideas are disagreed by your manager/supervisor. Disagreements are part and parcel of working in a team. Hence, the recruiter wants to know if you are capable of handling such disagreements and how well you plan to develop the relationship with the manager.

• Explain what the disagreement was.
• How did you overcome that?
• What was your learning outcome?
• Do not speak ill or abuse your manager.
• You can not tell that you never had a disagreement before as it would just prove that you do not have a sense of leadership or you lack creativity.

This reminds me of an instance where I and my manager had a disagreement on why a certain feature has to be included in the product and he was against it. We had lots of discussions regarding the pros and cons of that feature. During this, I explained to him why adding that feature to our website would be the best thing to do and how it would make the lives of our users easier. I gave him various scenarios and good reasons why that feature would be a great idea. My manager was convinced as he felt the reasons were good enough and we got his green signal to work on it. In the end, when we unveiled this feature to our client, the clients were indeed very happy and praised us all as we went out of our way to add this feature. My manager was very happy with the result. I learned that effective and graceful communication is the ultimate key. Ideas should be respectfully conveyed to people when there are disagreements as we belong to a team and the collective vision of the team is to launch the project successfully. In case my manager’s idea was best for the project, then I would gracefully accept that too.

9. Tell me how you will handle it if suddenly the priorities of a project were changed?

Here, the interviewers want to know how the candidate will act in the situation when priorities are changed. This will also reflect the candidate’s ability to handle stress and solve problems.

• Make sure that you convey the right things to the interviewer.
• Give instances of how well you are capable of handling pressure and stress.
• Avoid boasting and no matter how frustrated you were during these situations, do not tell the interviewer.

I certainly understand that there might be valid reasons for a company to change the priority of a project. The vision of a project at one particular point of time would change at another time due to various conditions. If the priority of the task that I work on gets changed, I will put efforts into understanding why this happened and I will consider that it is in the best interest of the company and start to work on the new task of higher priority rather than crib about it. The ultimate goal is to achieve big things by putting in my best efforts.

Opinion based HR Interview Questions

1. consider the scenario - you win a million-dollar lottery. would you still be working.

Generally, these questions would be based on the cases or scenarios. This is to understand how you think and execute the plan in a given situation.

This question is a big trap! If you answer “yes” to this, then you will be considered a materialistic and money-minded person who could easily give up on the company if you are provided with a lot of money. And hence, you won’t be a valuable asset to the company.

I will be super thrilled if I win such a lottery as it would mean that I would be having a hefty saving for me and the future of my family. I won’t be quitting my job because I enjoy my work and I love learning new things continuously and I would still love to explore more domains. My only wish is to retire after completing a very fulfilling career.

2. What would you do if you were working under a bad boss?

Interviewers want to know how well a candidate can cope up with people with different beliefs and ideologies and hence it can get a little tricky to answer this. While answering this, you ensure that you are avoiding emphasis on the negative aspects of the situation.

Firstly, before jumping to the conclusion that my boss is bad, I will try my best to understand his personality and get to know what their problem is. If I find my boss to be aggressive, then I will make note of the things that would make him angry and will work on avoiding that. I will also try asking my colleagues how they have worked on dealing with him. If things get worse, I will contact HR to get a solution regarding this.

3. What do you think is an ideal work environment?

The main intention of this question is to understand if you will fit into the work environment that the company has already. Employers want to ensure that the employees are more productive and happy doing their work and retain them in the long run and hence they ask this kind of question to understand if the employees can fit into their culture.

Some tips to prepare for this question would be:

• Thoroughly research the company you are interviewing for and have a brief idea of the work culture, the hierarchy of the company, etc.
• Talk about the work culture that would focus on growth.
• Emphasize how a team-oriented workplace would be of interest to you.
• Ensure that whatever you talk about is aligned with the company’s vision.
• Avoid mentioning a workplace that gives a lot of vacations, flexible timings, more bonuses, and fun. We know it is ideal, but it doesn’t work that way.

According to me, an ideal work environment is one that revolves around a team where the focus is on learning, working, and growing together to take the team members and the company to new heights. It is where the skills and capabilities of team members are being leveraged to grow. While I was researching your company, I found that you pay more importance to teamwork and that was something which impressed me. I believe that I can work better in an encouraging environment.

4. What does motivation mean to you?

This again is a broad question that can be easily misinterpreted by the candidates. While answering this question, we have to make sure that we are honest and also our answer should be associated with the job that we are getting interviewed for. Try giving an example to make things more clear.

Learning new things and the feeling of satisfaction that comes while solving a problem drives me to do my best in my job. I love challenges as they push me to do more. I believe that learning should never end and the day we stop learning is the day we get stagnant and this thought always motivates me to learn something new. Looking at the job description, I know that this job will provide me the motivation to keep things going.

5. What is your dream company like?

This a tricky question where the interviewer again assesses your rightness for the job. While answering this, do not spill out your actual dream of working for 6 figure salary in a company with frequent access to vacation and flexible work hours. The interviewer is not interested in these things and will consider these as red flags as they make you seem materialistic.

Some tips to answer this:

• Be sincere in what you want in an ideal workspace.
• What you say should align with the work culture of the company.
• Avoid exaggeration and point out a specific employer as an example.

My dream company is a place that would provide me loads of opportunities to learn and grow and help me harness my abilities to contribute to the overall growth of the company. I value such a company that will recognize and appreciate performance and based on what I have researched about your company, I believe this place can offer me these opportunities.

6. What do you do to ensure that a certain number of tasks is completed effectively?

By asking this question, the interviewer understands how you will perform while multitasking. These days, every employer expects that a candidate should be able to work on multiple projects simultaneously which is where understanding how capable you are to multitask becomes important to them.

Some tips to answer the question:

• Describe a situation where you worked on multi-tasking and how you were able to meet up the deadlines.
• Do not talk about how much you hate multi-tasking.
• Do not talk vaguely or give generic answers.
• You can also give examples to back up your claim in STAR format.

Whenever I am assigned multiple tasks, the first thing I do is to calm myself down and build up a positive mindset that I can achieve the task. I then begin to organize them based on the priorities and come up with a plan to set deadlines for each of them and begin to work on the task. Whenever I feel like I am blocked or I am facing roadblocks, I let my supervisor know of this and I don’t hesitate to seek help from my colleagues. If I see that I am not able to meet the deadlines, then I will be informing my manager well in advance by detailing whatever I have done. Most of the time, my manager was kind enough to understand the cause of delays and I would receive an extension in the deadline and I ensure that my tasks are completed.

7. What would you prefer - being liked or being feared?

The answer should be given diplomatically here because no interviewer would want a candidate who likes to be feared.

Honestly, I prefer to be well respected in my organization. Fear does not command respect. I want to be in such a way that my team members will not hesitate to reach out to me for anything.

8. How long do you think you will be working for us if you are hired?

The recruiter wants to check for how long you will be staying in the current company. Do not be honest and share your plans of switching to a dream company or your plans of higher studies.

I am planning to be in this company for a very long time as long as I am being valued and respected for my work and as long as the management sees me as an asset.

9. If you were reborn as an animal, what animal would you want to be?

This might seem to be an odd question to answer to. Rest assured, the interviewer does not want to joke with you. Instead, they ask this question to get what kind of personality you are, what your thought process is, and how creative you are by describing yourself as an animal.

Some tips to answer this question would be:

• While answering, make sure your justification is aligned with the job role you are choosing.
• Do not choose animals with poor traits.
• Do not choose animals with the traits that are opposing the ones required for the job role.
• Lion: Always ready to fight, never backs from challenges, strong and rightly known as the king of the jungle.
• Dog: Known for loyalty and friendliness.
• Elephant: Hardworking animal capable of performing hardcore work.
• Cows: Known for love and loyalty.
• Dolphin: Known for selflessness and helpfulness.
• Butterfly: Has the ability to transform from one stage to another and always waiting to fly beautifully.
• Ant: Known for being a hard worker and for the ability to carry weights twice their weight.
• Owl: Wise creatures known for seeing bigger pictures.
• Dove: Known for peace and non-violence.
• Chameleon: Jells well in all environments. Also considered to be sneaky. - This animal can be avoided.
• Snake: Known for being tricky - This animal should be avoided.
• Tortoise: Known for being lethargic and sluggish. - This animal should be avoided.

I would like to be reborn as a lion. A lion is known for its love for challenges and its pride. It goes for what it wants and it can thrive in a battle (or challenge) which is why I want to be a lion.

10. Will you lie for the company under any circumstances?

To be honest, this question is not commonly asked anymore. However, just be prepared for this question. It is a tricky one to answer as you have the question of integrity and the company benefits in line. The best thing to do here is to be diplomatic.

I believe in the principle of honesty. So, my willingness to be a part of the lie would depend on the situation and the outcomes associated with it. If my lie will not jeopardize anyone and brings a positive result for the company and the employees, then I can be a part of it. However, I do not feel good about lying.

1. What do you think is better - being perfect and delivering late or being good and delivering on time?

Back up your opinion with certain examples and answer what according to you is right.

Here is one possible answer:

I believe that it is always better to be good and deliver on time. Time is money to the organization. If we are good and on time, then there is always room for improvement and enhancements. But if we deliver it late, then no amount of perfection can make up for the time lost.

2. Judy’s mother had 4 children. The eldest one was April, the second child was May and the third child was June. What was the name of the fourth child?

This is a very simple question. Yet some people find it confusing when they hear it for the first time or possibly due to the stress of interviews. Think twice before answering. Never say that you do not know. At least try solving.

The answer is Judy.

3. How many times in a day does the clock’s hand overlap?

While hearing this question for the first time, it might sound very simple but it could also be complex. Interviewers do not generally look for the correct answers. They would just want to see how well you are capable of analyzing a problem and what is your thought process to approach a problem.

• Take time to analyze the answer.
• Note down your thought process while answering.
• Show that you are actually in the process of solving a problem.
• Do not blurt out answers without thinking.
• Do not say I don’t know without even trying.

We know that we have 24 hours in a day. The hand first overlaps at 12:00, then at 1:05, 2:10, 3.15, 4:20, 5:25, 6:30, 7:35, 8:40, 9:45 and 10:50 two times in a day. There will be no overlap at 11:55 because the hour hand is moving towards 12 while the minute hand is at 11. This sums up the result to 22.

4. You have only two vessels of 3l and 5l volume and you are given an unending supply of water. Can you find out how to get 4l of water just by using these two vessels?

Take time to analyze the question. Do not think silently. Let the interviewer know of your thought process.

The answer to this question is:

First, fill the 3l vessel with water. Transfer all the water from the 3l vessel into the 5l vessel. Refill the 3l vessel again and pour it off into 5l vessel jug till it is full. In the 3l vessel, we now have 1-litre of water available. Empty the water from the 5l vessel completely. Pour the 1-litre water from 3l vessel to 5l vessel. Fill the 3l vessel with water and pour this into the 5l vessel. We now have 4l of water in the 5l vessel.

1. What to expect?

These kinds of questions are asked to find out if the interviewers can afford to hire you based on their budget and the range that they wish to offer. They want to ensure that your expectations and the range provided by the company are aligned and you are satisfied with it. It is very important to know and realize yourself worthwhile answering these questions especially when your expectations are more than what they are expecting to provide.

You do not want to come across as a money-minded person nor do you want to come across as a saint who is happy with being underpaid. Also, this is the part where your negotiation skills also come into play.

2. What is your current salary?

This question is asked to make sure that the money that you make in your current position falls within the budget that the interviewers want to provide you with.

• Try your best to avoid telling your current salary.
• Only in some cases where you are found to be the most perfect fit after excelling in all the rounds of the interview, the companies would be willing to offer you more hikes.
• Some companies have a specified range dedicated to a particular position.
• However, the job of the recruiter is to hire a candidate who can do more at less cost. Hence, disclosing your current income might land you in an unfavorable position.

Some tips to answer this would be:

• Research about the salary provided by the company to that particular job role either by checking on websites like Glassdoor, Indeed or by connecting with people working in that company on Linkedin.
• Avoid stating your current income.
• Ask the interviewer what is the range that he/she is providing for the role.
• Do not lie.

I am not allowed to disclose my current salary information as my employer considers it confidential information and I am bound to that agreement. However, if you share the range that you would be provided for this position, I can let you know if my salary is in that range. Or I can also give a salary range that is based on my research of the company and based on my skills.

3. What is your salary expectation?

You have to answer this question carefully as you do not want to get underpaid for the job role at the end of the day.

• Research about the salary range the company is providing for the position.
• Try to get a range from the interviewer and see if you are okay with it. If the interviewer still insists on you providing a number first then give a range that you are looking for.
• You should be ready for negotiation, hence consider a range where you are okay with even if salary gets negotiated.
• Do not simply blurt out a range. Explain why you deserve it.

I have been in the software development industry for around 6 years. I have worked on developing and launching so many projects and have come a long way from being a fresher. I have also demonstrated leadership capabilities which I think will also be an added asset for you along with my technical prowess. Considering all this and also based on my research, I think if my compensation falls in the range of ₹15,00,000- ₹20,00,000 then it won’t be a bad idea.

4. How much do you think you should be paid by looking at your qualifications?

By asking this question, the interviewer checks if the candidates are aware of their self-worth and indirectly want to know what money you are expecting. Do not be humble and modest while answering this question. You should sell yourself and prove that you are aware of what you are worth.

• Research about what is the current market trend for the skills and capabilities that you possess.
• Let the interviewer know that you have great skills by really selling yourself.
• Do not undermine or downplay your skills just to please the recruiter.
• Do not say a specific amount right away. Back it up with why you think you are worthy of that money.

We have seen what are the most commonly asked HR interview questions, why they are being asked, some tips to answer each question, and also possible sample answers to them. The list is quite comprehensive. Sometimes, an HR might also ask role-specific questions to know how well you have understood the job role. The questions asked during this round might seem to be a general casual discussion, but you have to be well prepared to answer this as the HR round is the most important round and the only step away from your dream job. The below image is the summary of all the tips that you can utilize to ace this interview.

Good Luck and go get your dream job!

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Illegal Interview Questions to Avoid

May 13, 2024

Reem Al-Tamimi

Content Writer

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Have you ever been in a situation where you’re about to interview a candidate, excited to delve into their experiences and skills, only to realize that some questions you pulled up online for the interview might not be suitable – in fact, they could even be illegal?

As a recruiter, your goal is to find the perfect candidate, but it’s crucial to navigate the interview process without crossing legal boundaries. These boundaries aren’t just about avoiding awkwardness; they protect your company’s reputation and shield you from potential legal repercussions. 

When interviewing candidates, knowing which questions are off-limits is just as important as knowing what to ask. Illegal interview questions typically pertain to a candidate’s personal attributes that are irrelevant to their job performance, such as age, marital status, religious beliefs, or national origin. 

Why does this matter? Such questions can lead to discrimination—intentional or not—and affect your company’s integrity and legal standing. It’s crucial to train interviewers to recognize and avoid these questions, thereby upholding a fair hiring process and maintaining a professional image.

So, let’s explore what questions you need to avoid to ask your candidates to steer clear of these pitfalls and conduct interviews that are both effective and lawful.

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Navigating the Minefield of Illegal Interview Questions

What transforms a routine interview question into an illegal job interview question? Essentially, any question that could be used to discriminate against a candidate falls into the category of questions that are illegal to ask in an interview. The legal framework governing these matters stems from anti-discrimination laws, primarily enforced by entities like the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These laws ensure that hiring practices do not unfairly prejudice candidates based on race, gender, religion, marital status, age, disabilities, or other protected characteristics.

The rationale behind these regulations is clear: interview questions should assess candidates’ suitability for a job based on their skills and qualifications, not personal attributes unrelated to job performance. When questions inadvertently or directly probe into a candidate’s personal life or identity in ways that could influence hiring decisions, they breach these legal standards, potentially opening up your organization to legal challenges and damaging litigation. By adhering strictly to job-related inquiries, employers can maintain fairness and uphold the integrity of their hiring process.

What Questions Are Illegal to Ask in an Interview?

Navigating the legal landscape of job interviews can be tricky. Here, we break down the most common categories of illegal interview questions, provide examples of what should not be asked, and offer legal alternatives that respect both the interviewee’s rights and the employer’s need for relevant information.

illegal Interview Questions: Personal and Family Status

Questions about personal and family status delve into the private life of a candidate, including their marital status, family planning, and living arrangements. These queries can indirectly discriminate against candidates based on their personal choices and family responsibilities, which are not relevant to their professional capabilities.

Age and Generational

Age-related questions are sensitive because they can be used to gauge a candidate’s age directly or indirectly, potentially leading to age discrimination. It’s particularly concerning for older candidates who may be perceived as less adaptable or tech-savvy, regardless of their actual skills and qualifications.

Religious Beliefs

Questions regarding a candidate’s religious beliefs are typically irrelevant to their job performance. Such inquiries can lead to discrimination based on religion, particularly if a candidate’s religious practices require accommodations that an employer is unwilling or unprepared to make.

Health and Physical Abilities

This category includes questions about a candidate’s health and physical capabilities that are not directly related to job requirements. Such questions can be discriminatory, particularly against those with disabilities or health conditions that do not affect their ability to perform essential job functions.

Mastering Legal Compliance in Interviews?

Avoiding illegal questions during an interview is crucial, not just to stay on the right side of the law but to ensure your hiring process is fair and unbiased. The first step? Education. It’s imperative that hiring managers and interviewers understand exactly what constitutes illegal interview questions. This understanding helps protect your company from potential lawsuits and maintains a positive employer brand.

How do you ensure your team is well-versed in these legal boundaries? Implement ongoing training sessions that include role-playing scenarios. These role-plays can simulate real-life interviewing situations, giving your team hands-on experience navigating tricky questions.

Additionally, regular updates to training materials can keep your team current as laws and regulations evolve. This approach not only fosters a respectful interviewing environment but also sharpens your team’s skills, ensuring they’re always prepared to conduct interviews that are both effective and legally compliant. Engaging in these practices isn’t just about compliance—it’s about commitment to fairness and professionalism in your hiring process.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How can our organization ensure that our interviewers don’t ask illegal interview questions?

To prevent illegal interview questions, start by providing comprehensive training for all interviewers on what questions are considered discriminatory and, therefore, off-limits. Regularly update this training to cover new legal developments and include practical exercises like role-playing to help interviewers practice lawful questioning techniques. Establishing clear guidelines and continuously reinforcing them can significantly reduce the risk of illegal inquiries.

What should a hiring manager do if they accidentally ask illegal interview questions?

If illegal interview questions are asked unintentionally, the hiring manager should acknowledge the mistake and steer the conversation back to job-related topics immediately. After the interview, reviewing what went wrong and reinforcing training can help prevent future incidents. It’s also advisable to consult with your HR department or legal counsel to understand any potential ramifications and steps for mitigation.

Are there tools or resources to help us craft legal interview questions?

Yes, many HR organizations offer resources and toolkits designed to help create legal and effective interview questions. These resources often include lists of acceptable and unacceptable questions, scenario-based examples, and sometimes templates for structured interviews. Consulting legal experts or using specialized HR software can also assist in maintaining compliance with employment laws during the interview process.

Explore our extensive collection of Templates, your toolkit for streamlined recruitment. With our customizable templates, you can quickly transform blank pages into polished HR documents. Simply browse, select your templates, add your personal touch, and download them at no cost.

No need to start from scratch. Browse through our ready-to-use Interview Questions :

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