Every question tests something
Kenyan interview panels ask a fairly predictable set of questions. Each one is testing a specific quality. Once you see what is being tested, you can answer clearly without memorising a script.
The opening question
"Tell us about yourself" tests communication and relevance. Give a short professional summary, not your life story. Cover who you are, the thread through your work, one proof and why this role.
Motivation and preparation
"Why do you want to work here?" tests whether you prepared. Learn what the organisation does, how it is structured and something recent from its public work. Link it to your own goals. General praise earns little.
Self-assessment questions
"Why should we hire you?" and "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" test honesty and self-awareness.
- Name two or three strengths that match the role, with evidence.
- Choose a real weakness, not a disguised strength. Explain what you are doing about it.
- Never compare yourself with other candidates you have not met.
Behavioural questions
Questions about challenges, teamwork, pressure or difficult people test how you behave at work. Answer with a short true story: the situation, what you did and the result. Avoid stories where the other person is simply the villain.
Questions about your past
"Why did you leave?" and "Why is there a gap?" test honesty and risk. Be brief and factual, then move to what you want now. Never criticise a former employer.
Integrity questions
Public bodies and NGOs often ask what you would do if asked to act improperly. This relates to Chapter Six values. Give a clear, principled answer: decline, document and escalate through proper channels.
Your questions for them
Always prepare two or three questions. Ask about priorities in the role, how success is measured or the next steps. Save questions about leave and pay until they raise them.
When you are surprised
Pause. Ask for clarification if you need it. Then answer briefly and truthfully. Panels forgive a short honest answer far more readily than an evasive one.
Practise today
Pick five of these questions. For each, write down what it is really testing and two points you would make. Then say your answers aloud.
In the full lesson
- Around a dozen common questions, each with what it tests and how to approach it
- Example wording for a genuine weakness and how to frame it
- How to handle the five-year question and the salary question safely
- Good questions to ask the panel at the end