Common interview questions in Kenya and how to answer them

Interview panels in Kenya, whether at a bank, a county government, an NGO or a start-up, tend to return to the same core questions. Each question tests something specific. Once you know what that is, you can prepare an answer built on real examples instead of memorised lines.

"Tell us about yourself"

What they are testing: whether you can summarise your professional story clearly, and whether it fits this job.

Answer in about 90 seconds: your current role or most recent studies, two highlights relevant to this job, and why you applied. Leave out your home town, family and hobbies unless they link to the role.

"I'm a procurement officer with four years at a mid-sized manufacturer in Athi River. I run tenders for raw materials and packaging, and last year I renegotiated two supply contracts that cut costs by about 8%. I applied because your role covers regional sourcing, which is where I want to grow."

"Why do you want to work here?"

What they are testing: whether you researched the organisation and whether you will stay.

Mention something specific: their products, customers, a recent expansion, their reputation in the sector or the people you would serve. Then connect it to your experience. "You are a reputable company" is not an answer.

"What are your strengths?"

Pick two strengths that the advert asks for and back each with a short example. A strength without evidence is just a claim.

"What is your greatest weakness?"

What they are testing: self-awareness and honesty.

Choose a real but manageable weakness, then explain what you are doing about it. Avoid disguised boasts such as "I work too hard".

"Public speaking used to make me nervous, which showed when I presented to senior management. I joined a Toastmasters club last year and now present our monthly figures myself."

"Why are you leaving your current job?"

Stay positive and forward-looking: growth, a bigger scope, a sector you want to move into, relocation. Never criticise your current employer or manager, even if the criticism is fair. Panels assume you would talk about them the same way.

If you were laid off or your contract ended, say so plainly. Restructuring and contract endings are common, and honesty reads well.

"Tell us about a time you..."

These behavioural questions ask for a real example: a conflict, a mistake, a deadline, a difficult customer. Use the STAR method, explained in our guide to competency-based interviews. Prepare five or six stories before the interview that you can adapt to different questions.

"Where do you see yourself in five years?"

Show ambition that fits the organisation. "Leading a small team in this department" is better than "running my own business" or "I don't know".

"What are your salary expectations?"

Have a researched range ready, and know your current gross pay, because many Kenyan panels will ask for it. See our salary negotiation guide for how to set and state a range.

"Do you have any questions for us?"

Always say yes. Prepare at least three questions. We list good ones in questions to ask at the end of an interview.

Practical points for the day

• Carry originals and copies of your certificates, your national ID and a printed CV. Many panels verify documents on the spot.
• Plan your route and arrive 15 minutes early. Nairobi traffic is not an excuse a panel will accept.
• Greet every panel member, not just the chair, and keep your phone off.
• Answer the question asked, then stop. Long answers lose panels.