33 3M Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our 3M interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Compatibility Questions
- 7. Diligence Questions
- 8. Diversity Questions
- 9. Education Questions
- 10. EQ Questions
- 11. Experience Questions
- 12. Leadership Questions
- 13. Performance Based Questions
- 14. Problem Solving Questions
- 15. Salary Questions
Accomplishment
1. Tell me about the last time you undertook a project that demanded a lot of initiative.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is using this question to assess how determined you are to progress your skills and career, and whether you take charge of your own development. This is a trait they promote within their employee culture, where there is an expectation to "Grow Through Challenging Work. At 3M, asking 'what if' is a way of life. Whether you're working in one of our labs, offices, manufacturing facilities or research centers, you will be learning, growing, and doing challenging, rewarding work that benefits you and 3M."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Answer Example
"We recently had a major inventory count requested of us by the corporate head office. At the time, our manager was away on holiday. No one quite knew where to start or who should take the lead. I took the initiative to lead my co-workers through the inventory project. I taught myself the tracking software in a short amount of time and created a schedule for the inventory counts so everyone knew what was expected of them. We completed the project three days ahead of schedule! It was a great success."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I was tasked with changing our health benefits provider. Completing this project successfully was crucial to our employees and our bottom line. I made a lot of calls and RFQs, and spent a lot of time hearing proposals to make the best choice before enrollment time."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
Accomplishment
2. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer's primary job is to get to know you as a candidate, from your personality to your level of experience. By asking about your greatest achievement, your interviewer can better gauge your fit for this position and their culture and team dynamic. Additionally, it reveals your personality, preferred motivation, and future coaching needs to the interviewer. Take advantage of this opportunity to promote yourself when addressing this question. Expressing your pride in your work and what you've accomplished in your career will help your interviewer with their job, and increase your chances of delivering a successful interview.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Spend time researching the company so you can better align yourself with them, framing yourself as their ideal candidate. For example, 3M describes their employees in the following statement: "Our employees are constantly working to find solutions for our customers in the electronics and energy, health care, industrial, and safety and graphics industries. No matter what your role at 3M, you'll be encouraged to get creative in your approach."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Entry Level Example
"The greatest accomplishment on my career journey so far has been graduating from college with honors while working full-time in a related field. I was valedictorian, top of my class, and working full time, often in a leadership position. This showed me that I am able to dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I would say my most recent greatest accomplishment was when I noticed some receiving discrepancies that were occurring between our manifests and stock ledgers. So I approached our leadership, asked a lot of questions regarding our current SOPs, recommended some changes that would save us money, and we implemented them. On paper, we reduced departmental costs by 25% by thoroughly reviewing packing slips and comparing them to invoices and contract terms for accuracy."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Adaptability
3. At 3M we have business partners and interests all over the world. Are you open to international travel? Is there anything that would restrict you from traveling for work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
3M not only has dozens of locations spanning the globe, but their interests are global as well. And, for some positions, international travel is a requirement. However, for others, it is voluntary. Regardless of how you approach answering this question, dependent on the position, your interviewer is curious about how adaptable you are, how invested you are in this opportunity, and how far you would go for your company and your team, which the company refers to as 3Mers. "3M's success is driven by our 93,000 3Mers in 87 countries who work across a network of business segments and areas. Our company's alignment not only enables us to better serve global customers and markets, but it provides 3Mers the opportunity to have many different careers at one company."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"There are no restrictions on my travel. I have a current passport as well as a valid NEXUS pass."
2nd Answer Example
"I am open to some international travel; however, for the sake of my family, I do not wish to travel more than 30% of the time. What percentage of travel is expected in this role?"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Adaptability
4. Tell me about a time when you experienced a disruption, major change, or restructure at work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for a company, in their pursuit to keep up with their competition, trends, innovation, or evolving technology to undergo modernizations, restructures, or rebrandings. When this happens, a company needs to rely on the support of their teams to help them move forward into their next chapter of organizational growth. This requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and an ability to learn, grow, and lead by example.
How you answer will help your interviewer assess whether you are a voice of consent who supports your company's vision, or a voice of dissent, as someone who is more resistant to change. Your interviewer will perceive those individuals who resist change as under-performers whose job security feels threatened when the limitiations of their performance are exposed, only being able to meet expectations within unchanging work conditions.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
On their careers site, 3M explains that many of their interviews will be behavior-based. "In behavioral-based interviews, you would be asked to give examples of times you have exhibited a certain skill or behavior. Questions in this type of interview would be framed as 'Tell me about a time when...." So, they recommend that you "come prepared to your interview! Do some research and be prepared to explain what interests you about the role and the team you'd be joining. When answering questions, be concise but detailed, and be sure to pause and think before you speak to ensure you are answering the question asked."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your experience. They are looking for an idea of your attitude when it comes to change in a corporate environment. Maintain a positive attitude and avoid speaking negatively about any previous employers.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Experienced Example
"I went through a merger in 2010 with Company ABC. The transition during their mass layoff was not handled as professionally as many would have liked; however, I believe that the leadership team did the best they could. I was lucky enough to stay on board with the company and my experience during the transition was certainly eye-opening. I learned a lot through the process."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
2nd Experienced Example
"I have been fortunate enough to have had very few disruptive changes in my previous places of employment. With that said, my current company went through a rebranding which, to remain consistent required a bit of a restructure with the structure of our chain of command. The messaging behind this was a bit unclear and confusing, however, and generated some unrest among our teams. So I asked for my manager's time to discuss this and asked for clarification so that I could be a unifying voice. They gladly shared all of the details of our new direction and where we were heading as a company. I then imparted this to the rest of the staff anytime anyone expressed a voice of dissent. Soon, we were back on track as a team and things proceeded in a smooth and mindful manner."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Adaptability
5. If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you approach the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is more about what your answer will reveal than it is about the question itself. On one hand, you want to show your interviewer that you are a team player who is always willing to come to the aid of the team and support your mutual goals as stakeholders in your unified success. You want to communicate that you wouldn't hesitate to pick up the slack when needed. But you also want to make sure you're not enabling an underperformer, nor undermining the efforts of your superiors. Ensuring you respect the chain of command and the vision of your leadership holds just as much value. Especially when they've entrusted you with assigned work, and trusted that other employee with their assigned projects.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Experienced Example
"My default is being a team player. But, not holding a leadership role, I may not always be clear on what course of action is best for the team. So, I'll always check with my manager to see if that is how they would like to handle the situation. They might want me to focus my efforts elsewhere. Not to mention, that teammate should be discussing these matters with a supervisor first, before asking me to take over their work. However, if they had done that, and a supervisor asked them to ask me, I would, of course, agree and do everything I could for the team."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Experienced Example
"If my coworker was purposefully being inefficient and expecting me to pick up the slack, I would likely not jump in, as that is a bigger issue that seems more appropriately handled by our leadership. For the sake of the company, I am always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of me."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Ask The Interviewer
6. Do you have any questions that I can answer?
How to Prep
The best way to showcase the work you put into learning about the company and preparing for your interview will reveal your work ethic, your respect for the interviewer and the interview process, and your level of experience and preparedness for the position. So, as you do your homework on everything pertaining to 3M, start writing down every question that pops into your mind. Some questions you'll answer on your own. Some will be answered naturally throughout the interview process. Others you can ask as they come up and save a few questions for the end.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
As 3M's recruiters advise, "If you don't understand a question, go ahead and ask for clarification. Be sure to come prepared with a list of questions for the interviewers as well. If you don't get a chance to get all your questions answered, make sure you know who to follow up with before ending the interview (either the recruiter or hiring manager). A good way to close an interview is to thank the interviewer for his or her time, confirm your continued interest and ask what you might expect for next steps and related timing. Of course, a follow-up thank you note is never a bad idea!"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am supercurious about the story of the post-it, and how it relates to the 15% culture at 3M. What department was that employee working in when they invented it? How did it come about, and what kind of inventive stuff are 3M employees in the varying departments and positions encouraged to do?"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Career Goals
7. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question serves to inform the interviewer of how adaptable you are to working in-office, remotely, or in a hybrid working environment. Their ideal client should be able to be productive in any environment, and have the self-awareness to know which particular types of environments they find distracting, and which provide optimal working conditions. Discuss your preferences with the interviewer, while communicating your ability to rise to any occasion. Also, enter your interview fully familiar with what type of environment is offered in the position you're interviewing for.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
3M describes the positions that are eligible for flexible work as "Work Your Way." They call it FlexAbility (Employee choice to work remotely, on-site, or hybrid). When and where do you do your best work? What could you do differently to achieve your goals at work and at home? At 3M, you can rework your schedule based on YOU. Here, 3Mers are empowered to come up with their own flexible work practice that maximizes professional and personal productivity."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Experienced Example
"Ideally, I prefer a flexible working environment. I am very self-aware and prefer certain work conditions for different goals. For example, when performing more solitary cerebral work, I like to have Mozart on in the background, have my cat nearby for the necessary microbreak, and have my app playing forest sounds in the background., All of these, with my coffee at hand, ensure optimal productivity. Whereas for more team-oriented projects, in-person or via Zoom works best for me. But having the flexibility and being trusted to be self-managed in my work is important to me."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"I work well in a high-pressure, demanding environment that requires you to work smart and make your mark."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
Career Goals
8. Have you ever taken a role in a company that hasn't fit into your long-term career plans?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In most interviews, an interviewer may ask several similarly phrased questions that have different meanings, which test your attention to detail. They may also embark on a line of questions that are after specific information. With this question, they are curious what work past might inform them about your future, and whether a candidate who accepted a position with a company knowing it wasn't the best fit would do so again. If you have accepted positions that weren't aligned with your goals and resulted in short-term employment, it's best to discuss the circumstances, what you learned from the experience, and how you are looking for a long-term opportunity at this stage in your career. You want the interviewer to imagine you working within their organization. So try to always end each answer on a positive note, and your pursuit for professional growth.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
3M places a lot of emphasis on their culture of mentorships. "At 3M, wisdom is shared. Just as we share and combine our technologies, we also share and combine our knowledge through mentorship and storytelling. We define mentoring as a unique relationship in which a mentor (a more experienced person) helps a mentee (a less experienced person) with their development in a particular area. From executive, regional and functional mentoring to cause-based and informal, 3M offers a mentorship opportunity appropriate virtually for every individual. We value your unique career journey and want each employee to learn and grown in a nurturing, challenging and respectful environment. We understand the important role that relationship-based development can play in helping employees navigate 3M culture, environment, opportunities and more."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"Yes, you will see that from March to May 2007 I held a role as Executive Business Development Manager with Company XYZ. This particular role was not what I was expecting and had little to do with management and more to do with cold calling onto C-suite level clients. This wasn't nurturing my plan to grow the management side of my career, so I resigned after just 2 months. It was a tough call, as I feared how it would look on my resume. But I realized it was better than throwing off my career plan and my trajectory toward my goals. Luckily I landed a wonderful job immediately after and grew with that company for the following 6 years."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"Fortunately, no. I have been very conscious of the changes and moves that I have made in my career so far. I would rather have a period of unemployment than choose the wrong employer or a position that wasn't the right fit."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Career Goals
9. Tell me about your ideal workplace culture.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is aimed at whether you identify their work culture as being ideally suited to what you are looking for in an employer, ensuring that this might be a mutually beneficial long-term fit, as opposed to a candidate who isn't sure this is a good fit, with no guarantee they'll stick around and is just looking for any placeholder job until something better comes along.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
3M brands their work culture a "15% Culture. For more than 70 years, 3M's unique 15% Culture has encouraged employees to set aside a portion of their work time to proactively cultivate and pursue innovative ideas that excite them. While coordinating with their manager to ensure day-to-day responsibilities are still executed, employees get the space to try something new and different, think creatively and challenge the status quo. Whether it's experimenting with a new technology, forming a special interest group around a fresh idea or finding a new way to run a process, our 15% Culture gives employees in all areas the license to innovate."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am interested in working within a culture, similar to 3M and their 15% culture atmosphere, where everyone's voice is heard, innovative ideas are encouraged, and special interests groups can gather, share, and collaborate. Also, fair wages, opportunities for continued education, and internal growth opportunities, with casual workplaces where autonomy is given and everyone is encouraged to act like a leader."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Career Goals
10. Being a multi-national organization, there are many opportunities for career growth here. If hired, where would you like to take your career with 3M?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is curious how prepared you are for this interview, and how invested you are in this opportunity. How you answer this question will help them with their recruiting selection process, narrowing in on their ideal candidate from the talent pool. So, before your interview, be sure to visit 3M's career opportunities online. Take note of the range of their opportunities, and those positions you could potentially grow into, perhaps even in other locations. This will help you customize your goals and career plan to them.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
As they advertise on their career site, they are inviting their target talent to "Be Part of a Leading Company. Here, you will be part of a global company that has been leading the way for more than 116 years because we move fast, embrace change and remain ethically sound. You will find inspired opportunities in industries including health care, industrial, electronics, transportation and consumer."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I saw a few leadership opportunities posted on your company website that seemed very interesting to me. I am also open to relocating, particularly to a handful of regions and countries, and would like to work my way into a management role that offers travel opportunities. Ultimately, however, I am very interested in working for 3M because of the multiple growth opportunities present here and I look forward to proving my capabilities to you."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"First, I would like to make a memorable impact in the initial role I would be hired to do. Once I feel that I've done that, I would be interested in working my way into a position within marketing and business branding with 3M, ideally within the next three years."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Communication
11. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion for changes in an organization where you were employed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
3M celebrates the creativity of their 3Mers. "3M has a legacy of innovating to solve problems, which has resulted in products that improve the quality of life for individuals." However, how one approaches making suggestions is just as important as the pursuit of innovation. For example, someone who comes in making suggestions without first learning why things are done the way they are would have poor communication skills and be missing the big picture. Whereas someone who asks lots of questions, and first determines whether their ideas have been explored before making such a suggestion, exemplifies emotional intelligence and strong communication skills. How you answer this question will help your interviewer better assess your emotional maturity and communication skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Experienced Example
"Last year, when I was filling in for a vacant dispatch management position for my company, I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. So, I talked with those who put the previous system in place, asked a lot of questions, and realized room for improvement was welcome. So, I created a presentation and delivered it to my manager who took it to upper management. They loved my initial structure, took it, improved it, and the changes were implemented. The final form wasn't what I started out with. In fact, it was better. But I was very proud of the suggestion that I made, the initiative it took, and the final outcome achieved."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Communication
12. What value do you place on communication and dealing with others at your current place of employment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How you answer stands to inform your interviewer of how collaborative and team-oriented you are, and to what extent you strive to align your goals with coworkers' goals to ensure your mutual goals are met. At 3M, they describe their teams as the "Best and Brightest. Here, you will discover an inclusive culture and will collaborate with other curious, creative minds who, throughout 3M's history, have helped introduce more than 55,000 products across a range of industries."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Answer Example
"I place great value on communication. It can make all the difference in delegating and ensuring the job is done right, right from the start. It is crucial to ensure the message sent is the message received. It is crucial to keep everyone safe. Half of the communication is listening. So everyone's voice needs to be heard. Without these, there is less chance of success when a team is working together, coordinating, and striving to achieve the same goals, together."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Communication
13. Tell me about your communication style.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to be assured that your communication style is a close match to the communication preferences of 3M. When answering any questions in your interview, you'll want the answers you deliver to be actionable and to showcase your work ethic. So, when communicating your answers to every question, display your knowledge of the company, and how much you have prepared for this interview. Briefly describe your communication style to the interviewer and be sure to include the ways in which you feel your communications styles align.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
As 3M recommends on their website, "In the time leading up to the interview: Get to know 3M as a company. 3M's Culture, 3M's YouTube, 3M's History, 3M's Core Technologies, 3M's News Center. Take time to make the connection between your past experiences and what the position requires. Study the description of the job that you applied for and be prepared to ask detailed questions about the responsibility and scope of the position. These could be questions about initiatives or projects, team culture or the scope of the role. Practice typical interview questions out loud. It really does help you feel more confident in the interview."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Entry Level Example
"I would say that my communication style is adaptive. I am an active listener. You never know how what you learn by just paying attention can help you in the future. Whether it is a supervisor sharing something with a teammate that wasn't directed towards you but is still useful information, or you find yourself in a confusing conflict situation with someone who is communicating emotionally rather than situationally. It is important to always adapt to the situation and the communication style of those around, and to be empathetic and listen. Similarly, I try to be concise and keep expectations simple to understand. If I had to sum up my communication style in a few words, I would say it is adaptive, concise, empathetic, and friendly. From the communication exchanges I have had with 3M so far, I believe our communication styles are a great fit."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Compatibility
14. In your opinion, what does 3M do to stand out from the rest?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Although they've asked you to express your opinion, this question is more than learning about your views, but how you go about expressing them, and whether your views would align with theirs. Anyone who works for their company would be serving as a representative who they can trust to communicate on their behalf, reflecting the voice and opinions of the company.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Before your interview, study the language they use and the branded voice of the company. Familiarize yourself with their value propositions, and their mission statements, such as, "Make a difference in the world. Here, we collaborate using science and technology to address global challenges, improve lives and help create a better world. 3M launches approximately 1,000 new products each year, and as of 2019, every new product will be required to have a Sustainability Value Commitment that demonstrates how it drives impact for the greater good."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Pro Tip
Before your interview, it is important that you not only research 3M, but also their competitors. What do you think 3M is doing better than any of their competitors? Be positive, compliment 3M on their efforts, and ensure that you do not bash the competitors at the same time.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Experienced Example
"Well, 3M's impact is everywhere. The Post-It changed the world. It is a household name, and you can find them everywhere. In fact, even digitally across computers and platforms and apps. Behind the scenes as well, 3M is making the world a better place every day. 3M's branding is impressive as well, and I admire the company's marketing strategies. There also seems to be a common theme when it comes to reviews, comments, and news articles. That common theme is surrounding the fairness that you offer your employees. You have strong benefits programs and offer multiple growth opportunities in all departments. This seems like a really positive place to work. I simply didn't see your competitors standing out in that area."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Compatibility
15. What do you know about our company values and how do they align with your personal values?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer's goal is not only to find a candidate they see as a good fit but to also take into consideration how well a candidate would be received by the teams they will be closely working with. How you answer this question should inform your interviewer whether working for a company with similar values as your own is a priority for you. It will also inform them of whether you are familiar with 3M's values, and the values shared by their employees.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
On their careers site, they describe what their 3Mers value:
"Think you'd fit in at 3M? We recognize a big part of your career search revolves around finding a company where you can make an impact and feel energized by the people and culture around you. At 3M, one of our top priorities is continuing to build on our strong foundation by continuously evolving and advancing our culture to make 3M an excellent place to work. We define culture as the way things get done. Here, you are part of a community of individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, all working to improve lives. 3Mers offer talent and expertise in a variety of different areas, but commonly showcase the following characteristics: Curiosity! Creativity. Collaboration. Passion for making an impact. The powerful combination of curiosity, passion and purpose-paired with 3M Science-has been in our DNA for more than 116 years."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
How to Prep
It is very important that you research 3M in great detail before your interview. Be prepared to discuss the global efforts currently underway and also research any local charity efforts that 3M supports. Discuss your own personal values and how they align with the values at 3M. 3M puts a lot of focus on our local and global impact, so they seek to hire those with the same values.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I was impressed with your environmental, sustainability, and community engagement goals. I love that you have volunteering opportunities as well. I have always spent time volunteering with local organizations. This includes the animal shelter, the children's hospital, and our local food bank. I believe that no matter how busy we are we always have time to give back. Your values and interest in your global impact are impressive. These shared values are one of the reasons I am so attracted to your organization."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I was initially attracted to how 3M celebrates curiosity, creativity, and passion for making an impact. I am also a very social and team-oriented individual and prefer to work in a collaborative environment. It takes a long time to find a company that feels like the right fit. 3M feels like the right fit and this feels like a great opportunity if I am being honest. I also appreciate the company's efforts to give back and I admire your charitable efforts. It's important to be an active part of the community, in any capacity."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Compatibility
16. Considering your background is in an industry different from ours, what skills and characteristics do you have that qualify you for this position in this industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is wondering how confident you are that this is the right position for you, and whether you have the experience level required to perform well in this job. As they say on their career site, "Job titles vary from company to company depending on the size and titles available in the organization, so having those responsibilities listed can help us figure out what your title equates to at 3M. And 3M managers may want to learn about you. Learn how your skills might be a fit at 3M." You can search for jobs on their website where they've posted hundreds of open positions. To adequately answer this question, you should not only have done your homework on the company and this position but also on your own experience, skills, and work history to identify all the ways you are the perfect candidate for them. It is all about relative and translatable experience and less about direct industry experience. Think about the variety of skills that you have and how those can benefit them. These are your transferable skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"I like to see myself not only as cross-functional when it comes to working with other departments in my company, but I also see myself as cross-industry-functional. Although my background is not in your precise industry, I have worked with many clients who worked with me and your industry in tandem, so I feel very familiar with the crossover. I consider myself a leader and a professional, and I work hard and do what I do well. So many of the core responsibilities are the same here, and I bring excellent transferable skills that qualify me for this position. These skills include my advanced abilities in Excel, my outstanding cold-calling abilities, as well as my proven background in team leadership. But, at the end of the day, my talents and skills revolve around helping people and making companies profitable."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Diligence
17. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When answering questions such as these, you want to be fully self-aware of how the interviewer might perceive you, and how aligned your answer to this question is, in regards to how your peers perceive you. So never stretch the truth or relay how you wished to be perceived. It is always best to support your reply with a real-life example. If you are having trouble initially calling to mind comments others have made about their experience working with you, revisit the comments of former performance reviews you have, and be filtered in what you present.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Experienced Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as keen. I have an eagle eye for discrepancies, whether in written communication and the smallest details. In fact, most of my coworkers ask me to look over their work, which I'll always gladly do. This was also a point of conversation in my last performance review. My manager was very pleased with the level of detail that I put into a large project recently. I put a lot of pride into my work and it shows in everything that I do."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Diversity
18. Do you have experience working with diverse clients and co-workers across multiple time zones?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working for a conglomerate corporation can bring some unique challenges, as their global footprint may be vast. Be sure to express your cultural competence, and your ability to communicate and collaborate with all members of your team, in the case of 3Mers they are the Best and the Brightest, and the value you place on what they have to offer your development, and the growth of the company. Because 3M is geographically widespread, they have to accommodate a variety of time zones as well.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
It is also important to familiarize yourself with their diversity statements as well. Such as the emphasis they place on "Collaboration: Employees at 3M love the inclusive culture and take advantage of the opportunity to collaborate often with other curious, creative minds. Many employees take advantage of our mentorship programs and Employee Resource Networks to meet and learn from people outside of their teams. 3M is an equal opportunity employer. 3M will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Answer Example
"In my current position, I collaborate with our offices in the U.S., Canada, Scotland, and Finland. It was a struggle at first to always remember what day and time others were working in; however, I now have a great desktop application that tracks this for me so I have quick reference to rely on for the information that I need. Also, I am very patient, especially anytime there is a language barrier. Everyone wants to feel understood. That's my aim. To understand and to anticipate need."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Education
19. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know how your educational experience has prepared you for this job. Go beyond the relevant coursework and topics you learned and how will they help you in this new role. Share some of the more interesting lessons you learned from your mentors, professors, and extracurricular experiences, such as any teamwork, time management, leadership, or other personal and professional growth.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Many of 3M's positions prioritize your skills and expertise. On their job postings, 3M lists the qualifications they are looking for, which often are listed as a degree or relevant experience, to differing degrees. They just want to ensure that you are ready and capable of doing the job and are set up for success in that role from day one.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am a big believer in post-secondary education. It adds a lot of value to those newer to the workplace. My post-secondary education was in Communication and Journalism. The courses in this program helped me to develop stronger business relationships through professional correspondence. I also learned persuasive writing skills which have proven to be incredibly helpful when working on client proposals, and in negotiations."
EQ
20. What does integrity mean to you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Questions such as these are primarily aimed at determining whether you would be able to adhere to, without any exceptions, their code of ethical conduct. You can find 3M's code of conduct easily online. Before your interview, familiarize yourself with this, and how it aligns with your current or previous employer's code of ethics or conduct. You basically want to show them your character, and that you can be trusted to be an asset to the company who protects the company's assets, including their reputation.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
3M's CEO Mike Roman said "Great and enduring companies are driven by purpose, and built on a foundation of trust-trust from our customers, employees, partners, shareholders and communities. At 3M, we cannot break that trust-ever."
Also, among the values, they state their employees have a "passion for making an impact. Our employees are not only career-driven but guided by a passion for helping people around the world. Whether it's through the products they are creating or our service programs like 3M Impact, our employees improve lives every day."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Experienced Example
"When I think of the word integrity, I think of it as the tensile strength of something. How durable is that integrity? It is what supports a building, or someone's character. So, to me, integrity means being strong and resolved. Being brave and willing to do the right thing, no matter the cost. I am a very moral-based, trustworthy, and honest individual. That's what integrity means to me. So when you ask me to adhere to an ethical code of conduct, I will be true to it, to my word, and to myself."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
EQ
21. How do you balance your personal life with your work life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer has a vested interest in hiring someone who thinks of this job at 3M as a long-term employment opportunity. So, they not only need to make sure you are satisfied with your choice of career, and whether you experienced job satisfaction at your last employer, they need to determine whether you would have job satisfaction in this position. But, being aware, in most circumstances, that if they were to ask this question directly, a candidate would likely just tell them what they thought they wanted to hear. So, this question is an indirect way of getting to that same truth. Someone who experiences career or job dissatisfaction burns out easily on the job, and in their personal life, throwing off their work-life balance. Whereas someone who looks forward to the work they do is ambitious, proactive, and takes every measure to ensure their continued success in both spheres. Talk to the interviewer about how you are able to maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
You'll be better equipped to answer this question by familiarizing yourself with the benefits 3M offers to their employees to contribute to their work-life balance. Offering these benefits is a way to ensure their employees' job satisfaction and contribute to their employee retention goals.
As they detail on their careers site, "3M offers many programs to help you live your best-both physically and financially. The 3M Healthy Living Program offers a variety of resources, rewards and incentives to help you live a more active and healthy life. Stress management coaching. Flexible work arrangements and programs that give employees the autonomy to customize when and where they work best. Fitness center discounts. Weight management program reimbursement. Confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Parenting resources, scholarship programs and personal growth resources. Tobacco cessation offerings. Resources to help you manage your medical care and make informed health care treatment choices."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
1st Experienced Example
"For starters, I have strong priorities, and I manage my time well. I set aside time to manage all of my priorities with work, with my personal life, and all other matters which need attending to. For me, that is a quality of life issue. Then, with fewer worries of my own making, I can enjoy my time at work or at home all the more."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, my work never feels like a chore. I am always sure that, when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the workweek begins."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"The perfect balance of work and life is difficult to achieve 100% of the time; however, I feel that in order to achieve a satisfactory balance, one must have hobbies outside of the workplace that they find fulfilling. These don't have to take up a lot of time, but they should help to energize you. For me, I like to go mountain biking on the weekends."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
EQ
22. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer needs to ensure whomever they hire will get along well with the teams they already have in place. So, this question is a test of your self-awareness and your emotional intelligence. Someone who is not aware of how others perceive them might not have the strongest interpersonal skills. However, this question gives you an opportunity to circle back around for a second chance at any previous questions you wish you'd answered differently or to provide more background and clarification where needed.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
On their careers site, 3M offers tips to help you prepare for your interview. Among the advice they offer, they suggest that on the day of the interview, "Arrive 10-15 minutes ahead of the interview time. You will need to sign in at many 3M facilities because they are secured buildings, so be sure to bring a government-issued picture ID. Dress to stand out and in something you feel confident in. If you are unsure of what the dress code is for the interview, it is okay to ask the recruiter or reach out to the manager. If you are unable to find out, a safe option is to always keep your attire business professional. It might seem old school but having nice crisp copies of your resume (and work samples if appropriate) to hand to the interviewer or interview panel is important. Be aware of your non-verbal communication. Your body language is just as important as your verbal communication. Be mindful of your behavior from the moment you arrive on site. 3M managers can tell when a candidate has done their homework and shows up prepared. There is no better way to show your true interest in a position than being prepared, and it will be appreciated when you are."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"At times I found myself a little confused by the question, but upon reflection, I feel like there are some answers which I would like to come back to and elaborate on. Interviews are hard when two people are trying to gain an understanding of one another to assess whether this is the right fit. So, now that we're further into the interview, I feel like it would serve both of us well if we could revisit two previous questions, if you don't mind?"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Experience
23. I see you stayed with your previous companies less than five years. Talk to me about that.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
For many employers, your number of years of experience is flexible, so long as you have the equivalent experience and can perform the position with confidence. Also, they are interested in improving their employee retention rates and want to make sure you don't plan on salary hopping or quitting the moment another opportunity comes along. So, share the twists and turns of your career journey, maintaining a focus on furthering your career goals and development.
Align yourself with their values, and where you hope to further your career with them. As they share on their careers site, "Choosing where to grow your career is an important part of your professional and personal life, so it's equally important you know that the company you choose supports and nurtures you in return. 3Mers love working here and on average, stay with the company for 10 years."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I learned a lot from my current job, and when we initially interviewed, I felt like it was going to be a long-term fit. But what they considered career growth was different from what I envisioned. I did get promoted into a leadership position, but the advancement opportunities beyond that were rather limited. I am very driven to continue to grow and learn and advance my skills. So, although I am grateful for everything I learned and the workplace relationships I built, I decided, on good terms, to further my career elsewhere. Also, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience, and now, once I leave, they'll have more opportunities to advance at a rate more suitable for them. To me, it's all about drive and the ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Experience
24. What are your strengths?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is important when answering this question to remain humble yet confident. You want to seem comfortable and experienced, eager to share your level of experience, and what you hope to grow into next. Yet, coming across as arrogant could be interpreted by your interviewer as off-putting. And, it is your goal to showcase that you are a good fit for 3M and this position. So, share a couple of your strengths, and how they've helped you in your career, and how this role would benefit from them.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Remember, when answering this question you want to align yourself with their ideal candidate, advertising why you feel you are the right fit for this job. As they advise on their careers site, it is "critical that you have thoroughly read the job description that you are applying for and reflect the keywords used in the job posting in your resume. It may be helpful to create a list or word cloud of skills, experience and knowledge the position is looking for and be sure and highlight the strongest matches on your resume and use the same words. Remember each company has their own "language" that can describe similar experience. Be sure you are speaking the same language as the job you are applying for."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 5th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I believe my greatest strengths are in my communication skills, both written and oral, and my perceptiveness and ability to be observant of the needs of others. I do well in any client-facing role, and put my skills to work daily in email pitching, phone call pitches or customer follow-ups, and in-person site visits."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Experience
25. How do you plan to make an impact on our business in the first 90 days?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Although it holds value to establish a proactive plan for making an impact and for tackling the work that lies ahead if you were hired by 3M, this question is about so much more that. Your interviewer is more curious about how you would approach your orientation, onboarding, learning all the standard operating procedures, all while earning trust and building relationships with your teams. This approach is favorable compared to those who come in, before asking any questions, trying to reinvent how everything is done, without having learned the rules behind the systems which those who came before you had built.
Be sure to display confidence in your abilities, but avoid trying to reinvent the wheel when it comes to the impact you wish to make. A great place to start would be to see if there appears to be a common need mentioned in the 3M job description/job posting. At 3M, they seek to hire those who are confident in their skills and proactive.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
3M's CEO Mike Roman said "Great and enduring companies are driven by purpose, and built on a foundation of trust-trust from our customers, employees, partners, shareholders and communities. At 3M, we cannot break that trust-ever."
Also, among the values, they state their employees have a "passion for making an impact. Our employees are not only career-driven but guided by a passion for helping people around the world. Whether it's through the products they are creating or our service programs like 3M Impact, our employees improve lives every day."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Experienced Example
"If hired, I plan to make an impact on your business quickly. I will do this by fully absorbing my training, taking any additional coursework if required, whether independently or on the job, and building healthy co-worker relationships right out of the gates. It's important to establish trust right off the bat, and that's what I intend to do by putting my all into everything I do."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"If hired, I plan to make an impact on your business quickly. I will do this by fully absorbing my training, taking any additional coursework if required, and building healthy co-worker relationships soon after starting."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
Leadership
26. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question focuses on your approach to teamwork and collaboration, as well as your leadership potential. How you answer will inform your interviewer whether you prioritize the goals of the team as a group, or an individual teammate's development for the greater good. Or do you prioritize your own personal ambitions and only coach your teammates when you stand to gain credit for it?
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
Remember, every answer to every question is an opportunity to align yourself with their values and to showcase the lengths you went to prepare for your interview. For example, when it comes to this question, in sharing their values on their careers site, 3M states that their employees and teams "Think Loud Together. Every team is unique, which requires unique ways of working together. Check out our solutions designed to help teams channel their unique skills toward successful outcomes, no matter how complex the project."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
1st Experienced Example
"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Experienced Example
"I am a motivating person and I encourage ideas in others by making them feel comfortable when it comes to speaking up and contributing ideas for the team. I also encourage my teammates to go the extra mile, cheering them on towards performing at a rate they didn't think was possible, simply by boosting their confidence when they come to the outer rim of their comfort zone."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Leadership
27. When have you had to lead by example?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is aimed at assessing the value you place on your own work, and how that compares to the work others are doing around you. How you answer should reveal how your work style or ethic impacts or influences the rest of your teams. Also, by determining what level your work standard is at, they'll have a clearer idea of what rising to the occasion and going above and beyond looks like to you.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
When answering this question, stay focused on the attitude you bring to work. Look back on how you have influenced those around you, and how that aligns with the culture and attitude they celebrate at 3M. They place a lot of emphasis, for example, on their team dynamics. "It's an amazing feeling when your team just clicks- everyone feels a shared drive toward success. Great teams need the energy that comes when every team member is giving the best of themselves towards a shared goal: doing the best work possible."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"A long time ago, I played a trick on myself to funnel the energy that fuels my stress triggers, shift my attitude and focus, and utilize that energy as adrenaline. So, I always set the pace at work, and keep my chin up with a cheerful disposition. So, by nature, I am often leading by example. Believing that we can all do what other says can't be done, and turning the odds in our favor."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Leadership
28. Who has been your greatest influence? A person that has defined what type of leader you wish to be.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
By learning more about your mentors or those leaders who you admire, they may be able to get a clearer sense of the leadership style you tend to emulate. So, when sharing the impact your mentors or those leaders you admire had on your development, present it in a context that aligns with what they are looking for in their ideal target talent. Familiarize yourself with the leadership style they promote in their company. You can often find clues to this through the value propositions they advertise in their recruiting efforts. Be sincere and be yourself. But advertise how you are aligned, and a well-suited fit for what they are looking for in a candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"The greatest influence in my career has been one of my professors from university. Mr. Smith was my professor in Business Ethics and I connected really well with his teaching style. Even after graduating the university, we kept in touch and he has greatly influenced my coaching, teaching, and leadership style. I'd say he was very influential, and provided me with many transformative experiences."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"The first CEO I reported to has been a tremendous influence on my career. That person helped shape my work ethic and passion for business early on, which has helped me become a better business partner along the way in my career. I wish to be someone who is fair, demanding and supportive. Someone who cares about the customers and cares about our people."
Written by Samantha Brown on June 8th, 2024
Performance Based
29. How do you define success?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How you answer this question should inform your interviewer of what accomplishment means to you. This should reveal what kinds of results they can expect of you, as well as how to motivate you to perform at your best. When answering this question, share what provides you with job satisfaction, and what you hope to accomplish in your daily activities, and on a larger scale. Or, as 3M's recruiters advise, "Tell the story of why you are applying and how you have shown development and career progression. The responsibilities that you have had in each position are key, so show how they have increased as you have become more successful in your career."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I define success not only by what I accomplish, but what we achieve as a team, taking pride in my part by helping drive the team's goals to the finish line. Any project, as a whole, needs to deliver on expectations. So, I define success by exceeding expectations, setting new records, and reaching the goals that are set out for us. On a personal level, these are the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, they're the targets which are set out for me, as well as the professional development that I seek."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Problem Solving
30. What was the most challenging aspect of your previous job? How did you overcome it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Sometimes the greatest workplace challenge is a difficult task that puts you outside of your comfort zone and yet furthers your own development. Share what made the challenge significant, while highlighting the actions you took to overcome the challenge. Share your approach to the situation and what you learned from that experience. As they say at 3M, "The best time to solve problems is before they start. Solving problems starts with taking a closer look. At 3M, we seek to observe, understand and solve. What we believe is simple: we are people committed to helping other people. Every day we help tackle problems, big and small, in pursuit of our vision to improve every life."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"The most challenging aspect of my last job was troubleshooting the compatibility of some of the older technology we worked with. It wasn't my position, in fact, there wasn't a title or position for this at all. Often, many of us wore many hats. And performing several different job functions was a challenge. We needed some serious upgrades, but they weren't in the budget. Learning how to work around this problem was quite a challenge, but I learned how to integrate them by referring to old manuals and online forums. But I thrived on challenges such as those, and I ended up becoming the go-to person when anyone had questions about the technology."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Problem Solving
31. What sources do you look to when solving complicated problems?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question centers around how resourceful you are, how quickly you think on your feet, and how you approach risk. The interviewer is curious whether you are able to think outside the box, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem. They are also curious whether the stress in such situations dictates your behavior or impacts your reaction time when acting fast is required.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
At 3M, they celebrate those employees who are curious, actively listening and learning, and strive to be a go-to resource of information. The more that a trusted employee knows, the more trusted they can be to make the right decisions when they don't have all the answers. At 3M, they celebrate "Curiosity: If you are a naturally curious person, and like to ask a lot of questions, you'll be in good company at 3M. In fact, our employees are so curious that we encourage them to devote 15% of their work time to passion projects that wouldn't fall under their normal job description. What we label 15% Culture is actually how the Post-it Note(R) and other great products were invented!"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I am proactive with this. I am always asking questions, tuning into useful information, and out of curiosity reading through resource materials, manuals, and company bulletins to stay up to date. I also have a keen sense of those who are the go-to people for valuable information at our office. When I am faced with a complicated problem, the answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, worst case, I'll ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Salary
32. How do you feel about performance incentives?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
3M is very much a meritocracy. They refer to themselves as a "pay for performance company: The more you contribute to 3M's success, the more success you create for yourself." So, your interviewer is curious to hear what you expect regarding pay or performance incentives, and whether you expect to be paid for your tenure or for your contributions.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
What You Need to Know
At 3M, they advertise that you should expect to be "Rewarded for your efforts. 3M rewards you for excellence. We offer a competitive base pay, and a wide range of benefits and discounts designed to help you live your best. Each sales representative's pay includes base pay and sales incentives, paid monthly or quarterly, depending on the business you represent. Management-level (and equivalent) employees are eligible to receive equity grants based on their level of responsibility and individual performance contribution."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I feel that performance incentives are a great idea. They keep an employee motivated to do a great job and ensure that they are on top of their KPIs. they're important for driving people to get results. They give you some skin in the game, make everyone a stakeholder, and get the teams engaged in making an impact towards the results. I think the majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024
Salary
33. What are your salary expectations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as a baseline, including your benefits and anything else that impacts your cost of living, and to compare them to what 3M has to offer. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At 3M, the advertise that their employees are "recognized for the meaningful contributions you make to 3M's business results. To ensure that our pay remains aligned with our desire to remain competitive, 3M regularly benchmarks pay and benefits with other companies that are comparable in size and scope. Your pay may include two components: base salary and variable pay. While base pay applies to all employees, variable pay is offered to eligible employees and may include annual incentives, sales incentives or other incentives." Visit their website and learn more about 3M's Total Rewards, their growth opportunities, their "plans and programs that are intended to attract, retain and motivate the high-performing employees we depend on for growth and success."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"The benefits package is very similar. Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000 and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunities for growth."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2024