Advice
The interviewer is trying to quickly gauge if you are qualified for this role, or not. If they have called you, chances are - you have something on your resume that they like. Most job postings will specify the amount of years experience that the employer is looking for but it's often a flexible number.
Let's say the interviewer is looking for five years experience in a specific field or skill, and you have only three years: "I have approximately three years' experience in your industry; however, I have exposure to many similar job duties from my five years in position XYZ. I am well equipped to exceed expectations in this role."
Let's say the interviewer is looking for five years experience in a specific field or skill, and you have 15 years. Avoid being labeled as overqualified by saying: "I have more than five years' experience in your direct field. My most recent position was similar to this role, and I was a top performer for the entire seven years of my employment there. I am eager to continue my path of success with your company."
Admin answer example
"I have been working in an administrative position for approximately four years. I also spent a great deal of time helping my dad with his bookkeeping business as a teen. I was exposed to organizing files, making appointments, and double checking the details of his work before he passed it back to his clients."
Basic answer example
"I have approximately three years' experience in your industry; however, I have exposure to many similar job duties from my five years in position XYZ. I am well equipped to exceed expectations in this role."
CNC Operator answer example
"I have been a CNC Operator for 4 years now. During University I completed a 1 year internship as a junior operator and have been with the same company ever since."
Dental Hygienist answer example
"The interviewer is trying to quickly gauge if you are qualified for this role, or not. If they have invited you for an interview, chances are - you have something on your resume that they like. Most job postings will specify the amount of years experience that the employer is looking for so, be prepared with that information.
Let's say the interviewer is looking for five years experience in a specific field or skill, and you have only three years: "I have approximately three years' experience in your direct field; however, I have exposure to many similar job duties from my five years in position XYZ. I am well equipped to exceed expectations in this role."
Home Health Aide answer example
"I have been a certified Home Health Aide for 8 years now. I started my career as an assistant and then worked my way into an independent role. Now, I feel that I am ready to be a team leader and take on more responsibility which is why your particular position interests me so much."
Housekeeper answer example
"The interviewer wants to hear how many total years of experience you have. Begin by sharing how many total years you have held the title of Housekeeper. Next, share how many years of cleaning experience you have in addition to this. You may have janitorial experience, residential experience, or commercial experience to add."
Internal Audit Manager answer example
"I have been an auditor for 3 years total and have completed all of the required education and certifications to qualify for a management role. I have proven leadership skills in my most recent role and am now ready to take those skills into a formal management type of position."
Language Interpreter answer example
"I have a total of 8 years' experience as an interpreter. I began in 2008 as a volunteer interpreter for my school's student exchange program. My formal work experience includes 5 dedicated years as a paid interpreter."
Manager answer example
"I have over ten years of experience in my field, with seven years in your specific industry. Although I have a lot of experience I am always learning new management techniques to that, I can better myself and improve the productivity of my team."
Marketing answer example
"I have six years of marketing experience, from freelance to inbound marketing coordinator, and now as a content manager. Before that, I worked in sales for a CPG company, so I understand the business from varying perspectives. I look forward to continuing to learn about how your organization operates."
Merchandiser answer example
"I have been on the search for perhaps a month or so. I am now just beginning to become more aggressive in my job search. How quickly are you looking to make a decision?"
Painter answer example
"I have been in the painting business for 10 years. I started as an apprentice and have been working independently as a painter for 7 years now."
Phlebotomist answer example
"I have 5 years experience drawing from geriatric patients. My current position is traveling to various senior centers to perform draws."
Plumber answer example
"Between my training, apprenticeship and work experience as a journeyman, I have 8 years' total experience as a plumber."
Retail answer example
"I have been in the sales field since I was in high school, so for half of my life. I have worked my way up through the ranks from a part-time sales associate in various departments to assistant manager, to department manager. I know that I have learned much of what I need to succeed in this role and I look forward to exceeding your expectations as I gain even more knowledge."
Sales answer example
"I have three years of sales experience in a traditional setting, and have been selling in some capacity since high school in a retail environment, and as a bartender while putting myself through University."
Swim Instructor answer example
"I started taking formal swimming lessons at the very young age of 3. I have been in lessons and then lifeguard training ever since. Also, I have experience as a competitive swimmer having training on the national team for 5 years."
Taxi Drivers answer example
"I have been a professional driver for 10 years. I started out as a bus driver in my town and have been working for a bus company in the city for 5 years now."