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Typical interview questions for employees and freelancers

Prepare optimally with the most common questions asked in job interviews, whether you are applying for a permanent position or presenting your expertise as a self-employed professional.

An interview for a permanent position or a contract assignment?
What matters most

Interviews are more than just an exchange of facts, as they reflect the expectations associated with your future role. Those applying for a permanent position are often asked about teamwork skills, professional expertise, and career plans. For self‑employed professionals, the focus is usually on presenting their services convincingly, building trust, and demonstrating a strong fit with the project.
Questions for employees
Questions for the self‑employed & freelancers

Typical questions
for employees

In interviews for a permanent position, employers want to understand how well your skills and personality match the advertised role. The following questions help assess your suitability for the position.
Can you briefly introduce yourself?
This introductory question appears in almost every job interview. It is intended to give a first impression and allow you to highlight relevant aspects of your education or professional experience. Focus on the points that are particularly important for the role you are applying for, rather than outlining your entire career path.
Why did you decide to apply for this position?
This question shows how thoroughly you have engaged with the role and the company. Read the job description carefully and emphasize which aspects appeal to you most and why you believe you are the right fit for the position.
How do you handle stressful or conflict situations?
Employers want to know whether you remain effective under pressure. Describe your strategy—for example, setting priorities or seeking direct communication. A short, concrete example makes your answer more credible.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
This question comes up frequently. Be honest and choose examples that align with the role’s requirements. Link your strengths to the position – for example, teamwork if collaboration is essential. When discussing weaknesses, mention areas you are actively working on and show how you are improving.
A candidate in an interview

Additional questions for employees
in job interviews

There are a number of additional topics that may be addressed in interviews for a permanent position. These relate to your previous experience, your personality, and your expectations of the role. Prepare by having clear, honest, and well‑thought‑out answers ready.

  • What have your previous responsibilities looked like?
  • How do you respond to criticism?
  • How do you deal with problems?
  • Why do you want to change jobs?
  • What sets you apart from other applicants?
  • Where do you see yourself in three, five, or ten years?
  • What salary are you looking to earn?

Go through these questions in advance as part of your interview preparation. Be self‑critical and assess how convincingly you can present yourself.

Typical questions
for self‑employed professionals & freelancers

Clients want to ensure that you understand the requirements, work reliably, and can clearly present your services. The focus is less on long‑term career perspectives and more on your expertise, your way of working, and your ability to integrate quickly into projects. The following questions help assess your suitability for the project.

Why are you interested in this project?
This question shows whether you have a genuine interest in the assignment. Explain why the project appeals to you and how your experience aligns with it. Provide examples of similar projects where you successfully applied your qualifications. This demonstrates that you are not only available, but also add real value.
How do you manage to adapt quickly to new environments?
As a freelancer, you regularly need to adjust to new processes and teams. Explain how you approach this, for example, by quickly familiarizing yourself with systems, carefully analyzing workflows, or actively getting to know the company culture. A concrete example from your professional experience highlights your adaptability.
How would you describe your collaboration with others?
As a freelancer, you are part of the project while working independently. Clients want to know how you integrate into a team without compromising your autonomy. Emphasize your ability to work constructively with different personalities and to positively influence team dynamics. A brief example makes your statement more credible.
What makes you particularly qualified for this project?
For project assignments, it is crucial that your skills closely match the requirements. Clearly explain which competencies you bring and how you have successfully applied them in similar projects. Provide concrete examples to substantiate your expertise. Also make it clear that, as a freelancer, you are engaged because your knowledge or capacity is needed, show that you are ready to contribute immediately.

To conclude:
Your questions for the company

Do not underestimate this question. It often comes at the very end of the interview, whether for a permanent position or a project assignment. You should not respond with “No”. Use this opportunity to show your interest and to clarify any open points.

For example, you might ask how success is measured within the company, how the team is structured, or why the position or project is currently vacant. Questions about collaboration or the next steps in the process are also useful. They signal engagement and professionalism.

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