Job interview trends and advice for young professionals

Recent data and expert advice highlight key trends and strategies for young professionals and interns navigating the job interview process. According to a survey by Catho, the most frequent question asked of Generation Z candidates is ‘Tell us about yourself’, appearing in 60.3% of interviews. Other common inquiries include questions regarding strengths and weaknesses (27.4%), handling pressure and deadlines (26.8%), interest in the company (25.9%), and career choice (25.3%).

Experts suggest that candidates should focus on demonstrating genuine interest and professional growth rather than just seeking employment. Wallace Gutemberg, an employability specialist at Espro, advises interns to ask questions about the qualities the company values in interns or the challenges of the first few months. He warns against asking about salary and benefits too early in the process, as it may suggest a purely financial motivation. For questions regarding strengths and weaknesses, specialists recommend using specific examples to provide evidence of skills rather than relying on simple adjectives.