What are the top interview questions in the UK? Your guide to confident answers

Interviews can be awkward at the best of times. Whether it’s a formal panel, a casual chat over Zoom, or a five-stage corporate labyrinth, most of us feel the pressure. That’s why knowing the most commonly asked interview questions, and how to answer them well , is one of the most powerful ways to walk in with confidence.

This guide breaks down the top interview questions asked across UK industries, explains what employers are really looking for, and offers structured ways to answer so you come across as polished, prepared, and still genuinely you.

Why you need to prepare for interview questions

In a competitive job market, employers aren’t just assessing your qualifications – they’re watching how you communicate under pressure. According to a report by The Guardian, preparation is one of the biggest differentiators between average and successful candidates: TheGuardian.com

It’s not about rehearsing robotic answers. It’s about understanding the question’s intent and responding with clarity and relevance. That’s exactly what LetterLab helps clients across the UK do every day.

The most common interview questions (and what they reveal)

Here are the UK’s most frequently asked questions, often seen across sectors from retail to law to IT:

• Tell me about yourself

• Why do you want this job?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Describe a challenge you’ve overcome

• Why should we hire you?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

  
  

These aren’t trick questions. They’re designed to reveal how self-aware, adaptable, and motivated you are – and whether you’ll be a cultural fit.

Want support crafting answers that reflect your real strengths? LetterLab offers one-to-one support that ensures your words hit the mark.

Types of interview questions you’re likely to face

There are four main categories:

1. Behavioural questions – These ask about past experiences and test how you handled them. Use the STAR method:

• Situation

• Task

• Action

• Result It’s a clear, concise way to tell your story. A good STAR response can show professionalism without sounding boastful.

  
  

More on STAR here: Wikipedia

2. Situational questions – Hypothetical scenarios that assess how you’d handle a challenge at work. These are common in graduate schemes and management roles.

3. Motivation and personality questions – “What motivates you?” or “What’s your ideal team environment?” reveal whether you understand your own working style.

4. Role-specific technical questions – More relevant in engineering, IT, and finance, these test job-based competencies.

If you’re unsure how to structure answers or which skills to emphasise, LetterLab can help you translate your experience into language that recruiters understand.

How to answer top interview questions (with examples)

Use these frameworks and prompts to guide your own responses.

Tell me about yourself Start with a snapshot of your experience, then highlight 2–3 strengths relevant to the role. End with why you’re excited about this particular opportunity.

Why do you want to work here? Show you’ve researched the company. Mention values, growth, or projects that align with your goals. Keep it specific.

What are your strengths? Choose strengths that relate to the job. Provide an example of how you’ve used each effectively.

What’s your biggest weakness? Be honest but strategic. Choose something you’re actively improving and explain how.

Describe a challenge and how you overcame it Frame your answer using the STAR structure. Focus on the outcome.

Why should we hire you? Summarise what makes you a great fit: experience, attitude, and value to the team.

For a full list of questions and answer prompts, here’s a helpful overview from Indeed: indeed.com

And a UK-specific angle from Prospects: prospects.ac.uk

How to prepare for your interview (step-by-step)

• Research the company using LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and their own site

• Re-read the job description and highlight keywords

• Practise 4–6 common questions aloud

• Use the STAR method for at least 3 behavioural answers

• Know your CV well – they will ask about it

• Prepare 2 smart questions to ask the interviewer

• Dress appropriately, even for remote interviews

• Confirm interview details the day before

• Follow up with a thank-you email or message

  
  

Not sure if your answers are strong enough? LetterLab offers tailored interview support packages that take the stress out of preparation.

Mistakes to avoid

• Talking too much or going off-topic

• Being vague about your role in team success

• Giving overly rehearsed or cliché answers

• Criticising former employers

• Forgetting to show enthusiasm for the job

  
  

You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be prepared, clear, and sincere.

Final thoughts

The best interview answers are honest, structured, and relevant to the role. You’re not just answering questions – you’re showing that you understand the job, the company, and how you can contribute.

If you want help writing strong answers, structuring your thoughts, or simply polishing your delivery, LetterLab is here to help. Whether you’re heading into your first job interview or making a big career pivot, our letter writing service ensures your preparation matches your potential.

Explore more at: LetterLab