Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can walk in with confidence. Whether you're applying for a role in chemicals, personal care, industrial solutions, coatings, or adhesives, you’ll likely face some common interview questions designed to assess your experience, skills, and cultural fit.

This guide will help you navigate those key questions and craft answers that leave a lasting impression.

1. "Tell me about yourself."

Why It’s Asked:

The interviewer wants to understand your background, how it aligns with the role, and what motivates you.

How to Answer:

This isn’t an invitation to share your entire life story. Instead, give a structured, concise response that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and career goals.

👉 Example Answer: "I’ve worked in the coatings industry for over five years, specialising in formulation chemistry. In my last role, I led a project that improved product durability while reducing VOC emissions, aligning with new regulatory standards. I’m now looking for a role where I can apply my expertise in sustainable solutions and contribute to innovative product development."

💡 Tip: Use the Present-Past-Future formula:

2. "Why do you want to work here?"

Why It’s Asked:

The interviewer wants to gauge your enthusiasm for the company and whether you've done your research.

How to Answer:

Reference specific aspects of the company—their products, values, innovations, or recent news—and connect them to your professional goals.

👉 Example Answer: "I’ve followed your company’s progress in developing bio-based adhesives, and I admire your commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Given my background in formulation chemistry, I’d love to contribute to these innovations and help bring more eco-friendly solutions to market."

💡 Tip: Avoid generic responses like "Because you’re a great company". Show that you’ve done your homework.

3. "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"

Why It’s Asked:

Employers want to see if your strengths align with the role and whether you have the self-awareness to acknowledge areas for improvement.

How to Answer:

👉 Example Answer (Strength): "One of my strengths is my ability to troubleshoot production issues. In my last role, I identified a formulation inconsistency that was affecting product performance and worked with the R&D team to resolve it, reducing defect rates by 20%."

👉 Example Answer (Weakness): "I used to struggle with public speaking, especially when presenting technical findings to non-specialist audiences. To improve, I started volunteering for more presentations and attending communication workshops, and I’ve seen significant progress in how I engage with stakeholders."

💡 Tip: Avoid clichés like “I’m a perfectionist”—interviewers have heard them all before.

4. "Describe a challenging project and how you handled it."

Why It’s Asked:

This question assesses your problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to work under pressure.

How to Answer:

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response.

👉 Example Answer: "In my previous role, a key supplier unexpectedly discontinued a crucial raw material (Situation). I was responsible for finding an alternative within a short timeframe (Task). I researched compatible substitutes, conducted rapid lab trials, and collaborated with procurement to secure a new supplier (Action). This allowed us to maintain production without delays and even improved the formulation’s stability (Result)."

💡 Tip: Focus on what you did, even if you were part of a team.

5. "How do you stay updated with industry trends?"

Why It’s Asked:

Employers want candidates who are proactive about keeping their skills and knowledge up to date.

How to Answer:

Mention specific industry publications, conferences, webinars, or professional groups you engage with.

👉 Example Answer: "I subscribe to 'Speciality Chemicals Magazine' and attend industry conferences like the European Coatings Show. I also participate in online forums where professionals discuss emerging trends in sustainable chemistry."

💡 Tip: Avoid vague answers like "I read a lot online." Show that you’re actively engaged in your field.

6. "Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult colleague."

Why It’s Asked:

This assesses your conflict resolution and collaboration skills.

How to Answer:

Choose an example where you handled the situation professionally and reached a positive outcome.

👉 Example Answer: "I once worked with a colleague who was resistant to adopting a new lab protocol that improved safety compliance. Rather than escalating the issue, I had a discussion to understand their concerns. I explained the benefits, provided supporting data, and suggested a trial period. Eventually, they saw the advantages, and the change was successfully implemented across the team."

💡 Tip: Avoid blaming the other person. Focus on how you resolved the issue constructively.

7. "Where do you see yourself in five years?"

Why It’s Asked:

Employers want to know if your career goals align with their company’s growth opportunities.

How to Answer:

Balance ambition with realism and show how this role fits into your long-term plans.

👉 Example Answer: "In five years, I see myself taking on more responsibility within R&D, possibly leading a formulation team working on next-generation adhesives. I’d love to continue developing innovative solutions and contributing to a company that prioritises sustainability and performance."

💡 Tip: Avoid answers like "I want to be in your position." Focus on personal growth within the company.

8. "Do you have any questions for us?"

Why It’s Asked:

This is your chance to show genuine interest and gather information about the role.

Good Questions to Ask:

✔ "Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with?" ✔ "What are the biggest challenges facing the department right now?" ✔ "How does the company support professional development?"

💡 Tip: Never say "No, I think you've covered everything." Always have at least one question prepared.

Final Tips for a Successful Interview

✔ Do Your Research – Know the company’s products, values, and recent developments. ✔ Practise Your Responses – Rehearse but don’t memorise; aim for a natural delivery. ✔ Be Yourself – Authenticity goes a long way in making a memorable impression.

By preparing thoughtful, well-structured answers to these common interview questions, you’ll set yourself up for success.

🎯 Looking for expert career guidance? Witan Search can help you navigate your next job move. Get in touch today!