Top 20 Interview Questions and Answers in South Africa – 2025 Guide

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Preparing for Interviews is Important
• Top 20 Interview Questions & Sample Answers
  • 1. Tell us about yourself
  • 2. Why should we hire you?
  • 3. What are your strengths?
  • 4. What are your weaknesses?
  • 5. Why do you want to work here?
  • 6. What do you know about our company?
  • 7. Tell us about a challenge you faced at work and how you handled it
  • 8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • 9. How do you handle pressure or stress?
  • 10. Do you prefer working alone or in a team?
  • 11. What is your expected salary?
  • 12. Why did you leave your previous job?
  • 13. How do you prioritize your work?
  • 14. How do you handle criticism?
  • 15. Tell us about your greatest achievement
  • 16. Do you have any leadership experience?
  • 17. How do you stay motivated?
  • 18. What are your computer/technical skills?
  • 19. Do you have any questions for us?
  • 20. Why should we not hire you?
• Tips for a Successful Interview
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusion

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Introduction

Interviews can be stressful, especially for first-time job seekers. The key to success is preparation. By practicing common interview questions, you can enter the room with confidence and increase your chances of being hired.

This 2025 South African guide covers the top 20 interview questions you are most likely to face, along with sample answers to help you prepare.

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Why Preparing for Interviews is Important

• Employers want to see confidence and preparation.
• A well-prepared candidate stands out from others.
• Practicing answers helps reduce nervousness.
• Shows that you are serious and professional.

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Top 20 Interview Questions & Sample Answers

1. Tell us about yourself

👉 Keep it short: education, work experience, and one strength.
“I am a hardworking individual with Matric and two years of retail experience as a cashier. I enjoy working with customers and I am looking for opportunities to grow in retail management.”

2. Why should we hire you?

“I have the skills, reliability, and customer focus that match this role. I am committed to doing my best and contributing to your company’s success.”

3. What are your strengths?

👉 Example: teamwork, communication, computer literacy.

4. What are your weaknesses?

“I used to struggle with public speaking, but I am improving by practicing in meetings.”

5. Why do you want to work here?

“Your company is respected in the industry, and I believe my skills in customer service will add value here.”

6. What do you know about our company?

👉 Always research the company (history, services, values).

7. Tell us about a challenge you faced at work and how you handled it

“When stock deliveries were late, I worked with my team to rearrange shelves so customers could still find alternatives.”

8. Where do you see yourself in five years?

“I hope to be in a supervisory role, helping train new staff and contributing to the company’s growth.”

9. How do you handle pressure or stress?

“I stay calm, focus on priorities, and ask for help if needed.”

10. Do you prefer working alone or in a team?

“I can do both, but I enjoy teamwork because we achieve more together.”

11. What is your expected salary?

👉 Research market salaries and give a reasonable range.

12. Why did you leave your previous job?

“I wanted to grow and gain more experience in a larger company.”

13. How do you prioritize your work?

“I make a task list, focus on urgent jobs first, and manage my time well.”

14. How do you handle criticism?

“I see criticism as a chance to improve and learn.”

15. Tell us about your greatest achievement

👉 Example: completing a project, receiving an award, improving sales.

16. Do you have any leadership experience?

“Yes, I have led small teams in retail during busy holiday seasons.”

17. How do you stay motivated?

“I set goals, focus on customer satisfaction, and remind myself of my career growth.”

18. What are your computer/technical skills?

👉 Mention MS Office, Excel, POS systems, or forklift license.

19. Do you have any questions for us?

👉 Always ask one! Example: “What growth opportunities are available in this role?”

20. Why should we not hire you?

“I may not have advanced technical skills yet, but I am willing to learn quickly.”

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Tips for a Successful Interview

• Dress neatly and professionally.
• Arrive 15 minutes early.
• Bring a printed CV and certified documents.
• Maintain eye contact and speak clearly.
• Thank the interviewer at the end.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long do interviews last?
👉 Usually 20–45 minutes.

2. Should I bring my certificates?
👉 Yes, always bring certified copies.

3. Can I ask about salary in the interview?
👉 Yes, but usually only at the end or if asked.

4. What if I don’t know the answer to a question?
👉 Be honest and show willingness to learn.

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Conclusion

Interviews are your chance to prove you are the right candidate. By preparing for these 20 common questions, you’ll walk in with confidence and leave a lasting impression.

👉 Remember: stay calm, be professional, and let your strengths shine.

Interview Guide 2025 – Practice Today, Succeed Tomorrow.