Final Round Interview Questions: 10 Questions With Explanation and Sample Answers

So, you have made it to the final round of interviews and are unsure what they will include.

Will you be expected to bring in new information?

Or will you be expected to answer similar questions?

If you are asking yourself these questions, here are ten common final round interview questions you can expect.

10 Common Final Round Interview Questions

Final Round Interviews typically bring you into contact with new people within the company, so you can partially expect a repeat of questions from your first interview, but with more serious, specific twists.

But you can also expect that the interviewer wants to hear you make your answers as concrete as possible to their company.

So, here are several examples:

1. Tell me more about yourself
2. What keeps You motivated?
3. What are you passionate about?
4. What did you like most about your last job and why?
5. What did you like least about your last job and why?
6. How would you want to grow in the company?
7. What are your salary expectations at this final stage?
8. How do you stay organized?
9. How do you respond to feedback?
10. What specifically interested you about this position?

To fully prepare for your final interview, you can see how to answer tough interview questions and critical thinking interview questions.

What Should I Say in a Final Round Interview?

Your final round interview should reflect how much attention you’ve been paying in previous interviews.

You will likely be answering similar questions, but you will be expected to bring in the knowledge about your role gained through earlier rounds of interviews.

1. What Skills Are Final Round Interviewers Looking for in a Candidate?

Interviewers actively look for applicants to demonstrate several crucial skills for success in a new workplace.

Efficiency

If you can work hard, that is great, but it is only part of what interviewers seek.

They want to see that you can be efficient and produce excellent performances without draining yourself or their resources.

Loyalty

Companies seek to hire people who can contribute to their operations for a long time and who will stay loyal.

Thus, you must demonstrate your wish to grow with the company.

Performance Record

Many final interviews will require you to explain your performance record.

Most companies do not expect a flawless performance record, but they expect to see that you can be responsible and have done considerable good work in your field.

Personability

An interview will likely look for personability because they want you to join in fostering a productive workspace.

If you cannot demonstrate personability and kindness, it will stand out badly and potentially count you out of the employee search.

Principled

In the final stage, interviews are looking to check that you are a good person because it matters as much as being a good employee.

If you are ethical, it helps keep the office cohesive and foster a productive work environment.

2. What Traits Are Final Round Interviewers Looking To Avoid in a Candidate?

Final round interviewers are paying attention to these traits too, and they will get you counted out.

Too Serious

If candidates are too serious, they may have difficulty developing relationships with co-workers or conflict resolution.

So, interviewers look for a light side and sense of humor to avoid this.

Lack of Confidence

Interviewers avoid overly humble candidates because it suggests a lack of confidence in their skills.

That could translate into problems later on, especially if they enter leadership positions.

Lack of Focus

Interviewers will reflect on how well-formulated your answers are.

If you get nervous and give answers that are too broad, you could come off as unfocused.

Sample Final Round Interview Questions and Answers

One of the most important steps you can take as an applicant is to prepare for your final round interview.

1. Tell Me More About Yourself

You will need to consider the following sample questions and answers.

Why This Question Is Asked

You may have been asked this question in earlier interviews, but the final round will usually be with the hiring manager or owner.

This question gives you a chance to create a compelling narrative of your journey to this job.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on traits and awards you think are unique about yourself and how they foster your passion for the industry. If you can, try to demonstrate a sense of polite humor here. It will warm the interviewer to you.  

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid cliches as much as you can.

Do not say things such as “I have always loved this …” because all candidates have.

Instead, you want to distinguish yourself as much as possible.

Example Answer

“I would be happy to. I have been working in the museum industry for over ten years now.

Before then, I finished my Masters with a focus on cultural preservation, and sleepless nights paid off when I made the Dean’s list.

I went straight from there to the position of collections assistant.

When I acquired prestigious funding for a special exhibition on Ancient Egypt, I was promoted to my current role.

Since I started as the assistant curator, I have helped acquire funding and organize over 30 successful exhibitions on topics from Ancient Egypt to 20th Century paintings.

In my free time, I enjoy visiting other museums, reading history, and exercising—so I can still help the museum staff lift some of the massive objects in our collection.”

2. What Keeps You Motivated?

Staying motivated is crucial in any line of work, but what kind of answers will an interviewer expect?

Why This Question Is Asked

Interviewers want to see that you can handle deadlines and rise to the occasion under pressure.

So, they ask you what your motivating factors are.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on what specific things will keep you motivated and make them concrete.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid abstract answers such as “passion,” etc.

These answers will show your interviewer you have not thought thoroughly enough about yourself or how you work.

Example Answer

“Deadlines are a great psychological factor for my motivation because I consider them a challenge and try to submit even earlier than the deadline.

Other similar factors for me are chances to teach others because they enhance my sense of purpose in working.”

3. What Are You Passionate About?

Passion is just as important as any skill.

Why This Question Is Asked

Interviewers want to know what inspired your ambitions and what you like about your anticipated work.

They also want to check that your passions and goals fit with their operations and other employees.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Stay focused on things you are generally passionate about.

Ideally, you pick something closely related to your application, but this is not the number one priority.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid trying to say what you think the interviewers want to hear.

They are not trying to trick you, so there is no correct answer.

Don’t answer dishonestly because they will be able to see that whatever you are saying is not sincere.

Example Answer

“My passion is working with kids who find academics difficult and who struggle with the way the school system tries to force them to learn.

This became my passion after I struggled through the system, and now I seek to help foster changes in education through teaching.”

4. What Did You Like Most About Your Last Job and Why?

Looking back at your most recent role is a great way to showcase your abilities and accomplishments.

Why This Question Is Asked

Interviewers ask this question because they want to know what you are looking for in their position.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on specific elements of your old job, such as colleagues, workspace, flexibility, and ways you could engage with the industry.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid small things, like free coffee/lunch, parking spaces, and perks. Instead, stay relevant and honest.

Example Answer

“The thing I liked about my last job was their prioritization of development for each employee.

Though I entered the position with three years of experience, in just two years their programs and opportunities for continuing education made me even more efficient in completing tasks.

Through this system, I was able to transfer skills to my co-workers.”

5. What Did You Like Least About Your Last Job and Why?

You’ll need to navigate a delicate balance when reflecting on what you disliked about your previous employment.

Why This Question Is Asked

The people evaluating you want to be sure you will not be a negative employee.

Thus, this question is to see if you can cope with problems.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Be honest and focus on genuine problems—but not criticisms—from your old job.

Use your examples to show how they helped you develop skills, how you solved challenges, or how they pushed you to further opportunities.  

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

We cannot emphasize this enough but do not be critical.

Doing so will demonstrate negativity to your employers and show that you are certainly not their candidate.

Example Answer

“While the work at my last job suited me incredibly well, and I enjoyed its introductory responsibility, the slowing of the company’s growth led to a stagnation in employee development.

I am seeking more responsibilities because I know I am ready for them.”

6. How Would You Want To Grow in the Company?

Long-term plans often get discussed during interviews.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question is a variant of an interview classic: “Where do you see yourself in five years?”

Interviewers posing these questions want to see that you have thought hard about how the company structure works and how opportunities for advancement come.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on specific positions and advancements you can make and center your answer on realistic goals.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid discussing unrealistic goals, such as promotion within a year, or saying that you want to be the face of the company.

Such answers will exaggerate your past achievements and potentially irritate your interviewer.

Example Answer

“I would like to grow within the company and help make the transition for new employees easier.

From there, my goal is to branch out into leading my team of like-minded people who will work to raise this company’s industry profile.”

7. Do You Have Other Interviews?

Honesty is the best policy during an interview.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question makes sure you are who you say you are and your motivations are genuine.

If you have other interviews, it means you are a desirable person in your field with impressive achievements under your belt.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Be honest. If you have other interviews, don’t be afraid to say where and when you have them.

Such transparency may even speed this company up in giving you an offer.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid being dishonest or hiding an interview as withholding information is not a positive step.

Example Answer

“Yes, I do. Later this week, I will be interviewing with Microsoft’s data analysis team, and next week with Netflix’s data engineering team.”

8. How Do You Stay Organized?

One of the most common final round interview questions touched on organizational skills.

Why This Question Is Asked

Employers want to know your habits so that you can stay accountable without them having to keep track of your work or efforts.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Address any doubts the interviewer may have because they are looking to see that you can complete tasks without needing further help organizing.

Ensure you are confident and descriptive about your organization system.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Don’t be too rigid. If you come off as too systematic, the interviewers may be worried that you are not flexible enough and that a slight mistake in your whole process will shatter your ability to function.

Example Answer

“My organization system is quite simple but it works for me.

When I begin the week, I write down the tasks that need completion.

I use Google Calendar to remind me of their deadlines so I can have a countdown and know how to efficiently divide my work and where I can organize time for meetings, or research.”

9. How Do You Respond to Feedback?

How you deal with positive and negative feedback could make or break your interview.

Why This Question Is Asked

The interviewer is trying to make sure you will respond appropriately to both positive and negative feedback in the future.

They want to know you will not immediately assume the worst intentions of fellow employees and go to HR, as this can be disruptive when only rooted in misunderstanding.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on how you process feedback and emphasize how you value clarity of communication.

You will demonstrate that you take negative feedback as constructive criticism and positive feedback as motivation.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid appearing closed-minded to criticism, as the interviewer is looking for the opposite.

Example Answer

“Whenever I receive feedback, I start by assuring I understood what was said.

After either asking questions or taking time to think to ensure I understand, I present a more coherent response.

With negative feedback, or what I perceive as negative feedback, I try to discuss it with my colleague privately, while I thank co-workers and supervisors for the positive feedback.

10. What Specifically Interested You About This Position?

This question is an excellent opportunity to show your vision.

Why This Question Is Asked

The hiring manager uses a question like this to determine the intent of the applicant.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

You can focus on one of two things (or both): the role and the company.

For instance, you could discuss the company’s reputation and industry profile and how you want to be a part of this continued excellence.

Or, you can explain how the role seems like a natural transition from your previous job.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Steer clear of salary, perks, and other similar benefits.

They will again make it look like you are not there for the job but for the assets that come with it.

Example Answer

“Apple’s mission statement aligns with my own. I have always believed in helping people and making their lives easier.

This role is the chance for me to engage in that mission meaningfully using the skills my past work has developed.”

Other Common Interview Questions You Could Be Asked

There is still a possibility your interviewer could break out other questions.

To prepare for other potential questions, keep reading.

1. How Do You Prioritize Your Work?

Being able to juggle work priorities is a core skill to have.

Why This Question Is Asked

Their goal is to see just how you achieve your work-life balance and how you plan to maintain it.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Explain how you organize your tasks.

Focus on how you prioritize different tasks, how you motivate yourself to complete them, or what you have to do to do so.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

It’s best to delve into things you do away from work.

Companies want to hire interesting people who can bond with new hires.

If it appears you live to be at the desk, it may tip the scales in favor of another candidate.

Example Answer

“I like to distinguish between things that are needed urgently and tasks that are important.

Usually, I will triage my tasks, meetings, and other assignments to ensure the most urgent is dealt with.

But, I also dedicate time to both short-term and long-term responsibilities so I can avoid “crunch time” and enjoy time away from the office to recharge and re-orient. “

2. What Are Your Salary Expectations?

One of the most sensitive interview questions revolves around salaries.

Why This Question Is Asked

It’s a question you have probably been anticipating.

Typically, it is asked in the final rounds when it’s most appropriate to bring up.

This question is posed to confirm you are making a fair request in line with the market standards for your work.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Research the typical salaries for your position and don’t give the interviewer a set number.

Tell them you want a fair salary, and use a range for it without going beyond a $5,000 gap in your estimates.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid giving the interview a set number or basing your answer on guesswork that doesn’t rely on researching average salaries.

Example Answer

“Of course, I expect to be compensated fairly for my efforts and experience, and based on what I know and what I have achieved in the past, I believe between $85 and $90,000 is fair.”

3. Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?

Another delicate question you’ll likely have to answer.

Why This Question Is Asked

The interviewer is checking to see that you did not get fired and there were no problems in your past employment.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Identify the opportunities this new position could afford you.

Without being critical of your former employer, stress you’re moving jobs because you could not grow the way you wanted to.

In other cases, some positions may be temporary, and you can just say that if that were the case.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Look to avoid blaming, being negative, or making yourself look like money is what you care about.

All of these will set you apart from others for the worse.

Example Answer

“Our new manager was hired, and it was clear the path the company and I wanted to go in was beginning to shift.

My role lost its direction, and I could no longer engage in the kind of work that fulfills me.”

4. Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?

You’ll need to bring a clear vision to your interview.

Why This Question Is Asked

The interviewers and company are trying to gauge your goals.

They want to know if your long-term plans are a match for your potential new employer.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Be transparent and honest about your career goals: what role would you like to fulfill, if you would like to lead a team, and if you would like to step into higher roles.

Find the connection between those goals and the company’s work too.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Don’t mention other companies or interviews at this point.

Since this question is about commitment, it’s liable to frustrate the interviewer.

Stay relevant to the position’s requirements.

Example Answer

“In five years, I see myself in a managerial role, creating two teams to adapt to the changing industry.

And this role seems like the perfect beginning to fulfilling that objective and honing the necessary leadership skills.”

5. If You Were an Animal What Would You Be?

Sometimes, unusual questions get asked.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question is meant to throw you off and see how creative you can get connecting something that seems unrelated to the position.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Pick an animal with skills or traits that relate to your own or to the position you are applying for.

That way, the choice will seem thoughtful and insightful.

What to Avoid When Answering This Question

It’s best not to pick an animal just because you love it or give an answer that doesn’t go beyond how much you think a critter is cute.

Example Answer

“I think I would have to say a beaver because of their work ethic, their adaptability, and their ability to work efficiently with others to create impressive structures.”

Additional Tips for Final Round Interviews

Interviews are not all questions—there are other aspects you will need to plan for.

How Do You Prepare for a Final Round Interview?

You should read through these questions and answer them for yourself.

After all, you’ve gotten yourself to the final round.

Now you just need to prove you are the fit for the CEO or hiring manager.

Think about what they’d want to hear and be ready for things like talking about weaknesses.

What Should You Wear to a Final Round Interview?

It is a safe bet that your interviewer expects you to dress to impress.

So, you will want to abide by your best business etiquette and dress in business formal dress.

Business attire goes as follows: men don suits complete with ties and vests, while women are likely to wear business suits with skirts.

How Should You Introduce Yourself in a Final Round Interview?

Relax and introduce yourself with confidence and friendliness.

Maintain eye contact with everyone, shake their hands, and greet them with a big smile.

Even though you may be face to face with the CEO or other company higher-ups, do not overthink how to introduce yourself in an interview.

At the end of the day, they are simply people; treat them as you would yourself.

What Questions Should You Ask at the End of a Final Round Interview?

The questions you choose to ask at the end of a final round interview should demonstrate your interest in the job.

They should show that you have engaged thoughtfully with the possibilities of your role with the company, such as:

• Can you comment on the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
• What does the career path for someone in this role look like?
• How would you measure my performance in this job?

Frequently Asked Questions

There are also other questions you may be wondering about beyond your interview, particularly about what a final interview itself is, such as:

Wrapping Up

There is a lot that hiring managers and interviewers will expect of you in the final round of interview.

But if you plan for these questions and answer them genuinely, you can expect a good shot at getting the job of your dreams after the interview.