Administration can be a highly rewarding, but challenging profession. During an administration job interview, you’ll be competing against other highly qualified candidates. Therefore, it is crucial you make a strong impression.
Above all else, preparation is key. Preparing for common interview questions will help increase your confidence.
So, what are some common administration interview questions, and how do you answer them?
What attracted you to this position? or Why do you want to work here?
Interviewers want to know that you are genuinely interested in their organisation. Answering this question requires some preparation. Research the company you are applying for by looking at its website and social media. What is its mission, vision and culture? Try to align any information you find with your own experience and values.
What do you enjoy most about administrative work?
Interviewers want to see that you are passionate about the industry and your career. This question also helps them understand your strengths and interests.
How do you manage multiple projects at once?
In an administration role, you will be required to manage multiple projects at once, often with tight deadlines. Therefore, interviewers want to assess your time-management and organisational skills.
Can you describe a time when you had to take on a large project with a tight deadline?
Interviewers ask this question to gauge your time management skills and how you cope when under pressure. To answer this question, provide an example of a successful project you previously worked on with a tight deadline.
What tools and resources do you use to organise your tasks and schedule? Or what tools help you stay organised?
In an administration role, you will likely be required to use various digital software and platforms. Interviewers ask this question to determine your proficiency in technology.
What type of tasks were you responsible for in your previous role?
Interviewers ask this question to gain a sense of your skills and experience and whether they align with the requirements for the role. To prepare for this question, study the job description carefully and identify any of the skills or tasks listed that you performed in previous roles.
What type of office environment do you like working in most? Or What is your ideal working environment?
Interviewers ask this question to understand your working style and preferences. This can help to determine if you would be a good fit for their organisation.
What changes have you implemented that led to improvements in your last role?
Interviewers want to see that you can bring positive changes to their workplace. By providing examples of improvements you made in your previous workplace, you can show the interviewer how you could improve their organisation.
What is your greatest weakness?
Interviewers ask this question as they want to see if you are aware of your weaknesses and what you are doing to address them.
When answering this question, choose a weakness that does not prevent you from undertaking the role. Outline any strategies you are undertaking to overcome it.
For example, you could say you are a perfectionist and struggle to move on from tasks. You could say you are working to overcome this by setting a deadline for when particular tasks must be completed.
While administration interviews can be challenging, thorough preparation and self-reflection will give you the best chance of success.
Are you looking for a career in administration? Public Service Resumes can help. We offer various services, including interview coaching for administration professionals.
Article References
Indeed (16 August 2024) ‘Administration Interview Questions and Example Answers‘, Indeed, accessed 18 February 2025.
Indeed (8 February 2025) ‘Top 15 Administrative Assistant Interview Questions‘, Indeed, accessed 18 February 2025.