32 3M Interview Questions & Answers
1. At 3M we put a lot of emphasis on clear communication between all parties, departments, and sectors of our business. Tell me about your communication style.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to be assured that your communication style is a close match to the communication preferences of 3M. When working for a conglomerate vs. a smaller, privately owned business your communication style automatically becomes more 'corporate' in nature. Briefly describe your communication style to the interviewer and be sure to include the ways in which you feel your communications styles align.
1st Answer Example
"My communication style leans more to the formal side. I like 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 concise, clean, and friendly. From the communication exchanges I have had with 3M so far, I believe our communication styles are a great fit."
2nd Answer Example
"Some other words to describe your communication style:
- Articulate
- Conversational
- Eloquent
- Formal
- Informal
- Succinct"
User-Submitted Answer
"I'm trying to be formal and of course friendly to the customer and colleges. It has to be the right communication style to the right receiver."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This question helps give the potential employer insight into your level of self-awareness and helps them determine how well you'd fit within a particular team or the organizational culture as a whole. Remember, communication isn't just about the information you send out, but also how you actively listen or take information in. As with many other interview questions, it's important to be able to provide an example of a time when you communicated well and how that helped your team succeed. You can also share the benefits or drawbacks of your particular style. This demonstrates that you've taken the time to consider how you communicate with others as well as your own preferences around being communicated with.
2. Because 3M is geographically widespread, we have to accommodate a variety of time zones. Do you have experience working with clients and co-workers in multiple time zones?
How to Answer
Working for a conglomerate corporation can bring some unique challenges as their global footprint may be vast. Be sure to express to the interviewer that you are able to successfully handle those challenges.
If you have experience working with clients and co-workers in multiple time zones: "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 the information that I need."
1st 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 the information that I need."
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have experience working with clients and co-workers in multiple time zones: "I do not have exposure to working around multiple time zones; however, this is something I could pick up on very quickly. With technology these days I am sure I could find some help with a handy phone or desktop application. Also, I am not opposed to working outside of business hours on the occasions where I would need to communicate with a client across the globe."
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?
How to Answer
For many conglomerate corporations who have interests across the globe, international travel is a very important part of what they do. You must disclose to the interviewer if you are unable to travel internationally.
If you are able to travel internationally: "There are no restrictions on my travel. I have a current passport as well as a valid NEXUS pass."
If you are unable to travel internationally: "I do have restrictions on international travel which I can fully disclose to you if I am still eligible for this role. I expect to have this restriction cleared in the near future."
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?"
User-Submitted Answer
"There is nothing that would restrict me from traveling globally."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you don't have any travel restrictions! You can also discuss whether or not you enjoy travel, any places your previous roles sent you to work, or places you've enjoyed visiting to demonstrate your capability to travel confidently and work with cultural sensitivity.
4. Have you ever been employed through a company merger or acquisition? If so, tell me about your experience.
How to Answer
When your work history includes employment with large companies and/or conglomerate corporations the chances are high that you have experienced a merger or acquisition of some sort. Perhaps you have been laid off through a process such as this? 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.
1st Answer 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been fortunate enough to have had very few disruptive changes in my previous places of employment. With that said, I do believe that some mergers and acquisitions can be beneficial to the company culture, if the transition is completed in a smooth and mindful manner."
5. 3M puts a lot of focus on our local and global impact so we seek to hire those with the same values. What do you know about our company values, and how do they align with your personal values?
How to Answer
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.
1st Answer Example
"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. I have researched the efforts that 3M puts in when it comes to charity. Your values and interest in your global impact are impressive. It's one of the reasons I am so attracted to your organization."
2nd Answer Example
"I have researched your company's efforts to give back and I really like that you consider your charitable efforts to be another method of determining the success of your organization. It's important to be an active part of the community, in any capacity."
6. We have a few strong competitors. In your opinion, what does 3M do to stand out from the rest?
How to Answer
Before your interview it is important that you not only research 3M, but also their competitors. What do you think that 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.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched 3M online and found a common theme when it came 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that 3M stands out from the rest through clear branding and marketing strategies that your target market can relate to. I look forward to joining an organization with such great focus."
7. 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?
How to Answer
Before your interview be sure to visit 3M career opportunities online. Take note of the range in opportunities. Perhaps there are opportunities in other locations? What kind of growth is available in the particular department you are interviewing with? Assure the interviewer that you desire a long term opportunity with 3M by discussing the career path you would like.
1st Answer Example
"I saw a few leadership opportunities posted on your company website that seemed very interesting. Ultimately, I would like to work my way into a management role that offered travel opportunities. 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."
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."
8. Typical "corporate culture" is something that we work to avoid here at 3M. Tell me about your ideal workplace culture.
How to Answer
Workplace culture is incredibly important since we spend so much of our time at work! Talk to the interviewer about what your ideal workplace culture looks like. Share with the interviewer the factors that would make you want to stay with 3M long term.
1st Answer Example
"I am seeking a role with an organization like 3M where employees matter. This means fair wages, regular opportunities for continued education, and strong internal growth opportunities."
2nd Answer Example
"I work best in more casual workplaces where autonomy is given and everyone is encouraged to act like a leader."
9. At 3M we seek to hire those who are confident in their skills and proactive. How do you plan to make an impact on our business in the first 90 days?
How to Answer
It is a great idea to map out a proactive progress plan before your interview so that you are prepared to discuss the ways in which you plan to make an impact on 3M, if hired. 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.
1st Answer Example
"I noticed in your job description that you mention a sales hunter mentality as being a must. My 90 day impact plan would be to aggressively tackle the cold call list that you mentioned has been neglected recently. These cold calls will result in an increase in sales appointments as my closing percentage is very strong."
2nd 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 right out of the gates."
User-Submitted Answer
"If hired, I would 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 right out of the gates. Can you tell me more about the boarding process?"
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
Great answer! It shows enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and the ability to ramp up productivity quickly. You can also share how you'd contribute quickly through job shadowing, asking insightful questions, or practicing in hands-on scenarios to develop a clear understanding of your workplace, team, and job duties.
10. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.
How to Answer
Talking about your greatest accomplishment will give the interviewer a strong idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!
1st Answer Example
"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I would have to say my greatest accomplishment was reducing departmental costs by 25% by thoroughly reviewing packing slips and comparing them to invoices and contract terms for accuracy."
User-Submitted Answer
"During Christmas a very long time ago, my greatest work accomplishment was when I was alone on duty/shift. And we had a prior 1 incident with help - of course, I could solve the problem for the whole Germany."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds like this was a big accomplishment. Consider expanding your response by telling the interviewer more about it. This would be a good opportunity to use the STAR method. Share a Situation that had a positive outcome by describing the specific Task you were supposed to accomplish. Tell about the Action you took to overcome a challenge and complete the task. Finally, share the Result and how you contributed to the successful outcome."¨
11. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
How to Answer
In addition to being able to handle change, can you also recognize when change is required and be confident enough to present that to your organization? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to make a suggestion for change in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Last year when I was managing dispatch for my company I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. I created a presentation and gave it to my manager who took it to upper management. The changes were implemented and I was very proud of the suggestion that I made."
2nd Answer Example
"Our company did not have a strong policy when it came to workplace harassment and bullying. I was able to work with the leadership team to create a new program which has been readily welcomed by our staff."
User-Submitted Answer
"When I suggested a change in my previous organization, I had several meetings with the company leadership, and I had to show a lot of numbers with possible outcomes to prove my case. However, in the end, the company decided to move forward with my suggestion."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a positive foundation to build on. Make this answer stronger by telling the interviewer what kind of change you recommended, why you recommended it, what you shared to support your case, who you shared that information with, and what the outcome was.
12. Tell me about the last time you undertook a project that demanded a lot of initiative.
How to Answer
This interview question allows you to demonstrate your ability to be a self-starter. Show the interviewer that you are a motivated individual by telling the interviewer about a specific time that you took the lead. Include details of your project timeline, who you led, or what you had to teach yourself in order for the project to be successful. Be sure to complete your answer by telling the interview what the outcome was.
1st 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 holidays. 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."
2nd Answer 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."
User-Submitted Answer
"My last project was to optimize documentation and workflows of the it- support of die ZA. I have to establish work guidelines and confluence guidelines."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This sounds like a good example to use in your response! You've shared what the project was. Now, take it a step further by telling the interview why and how this project required you to take initiative. Did you have to assemble a team, do proactive research, recommend solutions, or resolve issues independently?
13. Have you ever taken a role in a company that hasn't fit into your long-term career plans?
How to Answer
Most people have taken on a position that was not a fit for them in the end. It's best top openly discuss any positions that you have held that were not a fit. This will assist the interviewer in being able to properly place you within their organization. Be sure to end your answer on a positive note, discussing how you bounced back from the misstep.
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. Luckily I landed a wonderful job immediately after and grew with that company for the following 6 years."
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."
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I currently am. Apparently, we are also receiving calls from normal customers who have nothing to do with its support. However, the company needs additional support so we are doing the job anyway. Furthermore, we are can expand our knowledge."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
Your response shows your willingness to be a team player and work outside your normal role to support the company's objectives. You can make your answer more impactful by sharing how taking on these extra responsibilities can help you expand your knowledge or skill set.
14. What are your strengths?
How to Answer
Which personal strengths make you excellent at your job? Strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks.
In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role.
Some great strengths to mention are:
- Communicative
- Loyal
- Collaborative
- Tech Savvy
- Flexible in Schedule/Availability
- Persistent and Determined
- Eager for Knowledge/New Skills
1st Answer Example
"I think my strengths are in my perceptiveness and ability to be observant of the needs of others. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent performer in a client facing role."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe my greatest strengths are in my communication skills- both written and oral. I use these daily in email pitching, phone call pitches or customer follow-ups, and then in person site visits."
User-Submitted Answer
"My strengths are my medical student experience and my residents' experience on 2 different continents. With this knowledge in a combination with my IT knowledge and work experience think I am perfect for the position.
As a medical student, you have to retrain massive information very quickly and you need over-the-top conversation and people skills."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a good start! You can make this answer more impactful by telling the interviewer about the skills you honed as a medical student, resident, and IT professional that would benefit you in the role you're applying to. It's important to tie your strengths to the requirements of the role where possible.
15. At your current or former place of employment, how important was communication and dealing with others?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working in an environment where clear communication with others is key? Talk to the interviewer about your most recent workplace and how communication played a part.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous role, healthy communication was required in order to protect the safety of our employees. We transported dangerous goods and it was required by our management that we all take specific workshops on communication and documentation. Because of this, my communication skills are exceptionally strong."
2nd Answer Example
"There is not a strong level of communication in my current workplace. This is part of the reason why I am seeking new employment. I highly value clear communication. Do you encourage strong communication between employees here?"
User-Submitted Answer
"It was very important. For example, in my position, I have to articulate information in front of all stakeholders (CEO, PO's, engineers). We highly value clear communication."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a good start! You can make your response stronger by telling the interview what kind of information you shared with each level of stakeholder (senior management, POs, engineers). You can also provide examples of how you communicated or interacted with subordinates or colleagues each day. Did you communicate primarily face-to-face, via formal meetings, video conferences, etc? What was the outcome of your interaction with team members or others? For example, were tasks or projects completed on time? Did you avoid unnecessary rework or conflict? Did you develop a strong team bond and positive atmosphere?
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?
How to Answer
There are many ways that you can be a fit for a position, even though you do not come with direct industry experience. Think about the variety of skills that you have and how those can benefit another employer, despite the industry. These are your transferable skills and they can include sales abilities, customer service experience, and software skills.
1st Answer Example
"Although my background is not in your precise industry, I have worked with many clients who have been in your industry. 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."
2nd Answer Example
"I bring a lot of transferable skills to this position and industry. At the end of the day, my talents and skills revolve around helping people and making companies profitable."
17. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
How to Answer
Are you able to be productive in any environment? Are there particular types of environments that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the type of environment that is offered in this position prior to the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and found that I could be very productive when there was the "
2nd Answer Example
"I work well in a high pressure, demanding environment that requires you to work smart and make your mark."
18. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
How to Answer
Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members.
1st Answer 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."
2nd Answer 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."
User-Submitted Answer
"I encourage the ideas of my colleagues during a normal conversation during a break. I try that they will be open-minded for any new ideas. That we are first trying it and then we will see."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
With this question, the interviewer is trying to gain insight into how you encourage others to think creatively. The ability to encourage and support others is a valuable skill that employers value. You can strengthen your response by talking to the interviewer about how you promote creativity within your team. For example - Do you provide verbal praise and encouragement or send a follow-up email after a conversation to let them know you think they have a good idea? Do you ask for others' opinions? Do you encourage taking risks to support continued innovation?
19. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
How to Answer
It is always best to support your reply with a real life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job.
1st Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out spelling discrepancies in communication and will notice the small things. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."
2nd Answer Example
"My attention to detail was actually 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."
20. Tell me about your education.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how your education has prepared you for this job. A few highlights you can focus on are some of the relevant topics you learned about while attending your courses. How will they help you in this new role? What were some of the most interesting things you learned?
Some ideas for you:
- If you have experience working on group projects, share how you improved your listening and communication skills when working on a challenging project.
- If you learned a new type of software or how to work a type of equipment you will need to know in this new job, talk about what you know and how you will apply this new knowledge.
While attending post-secondary studies, you likely learned some core skills that would be transferable to any position. Think about what you learned in your highest levels of education and how that knowledge applies (or will apply) to your work. Some of these skills could include:
- Time Management
- Creative Thinking
- Proposal Writing
- Public Speaking
- Presentation Building
- Independent Learning
- Academic Research
- Self-Motivation
2nd 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."
User-Submitted Answer
"With my current employer, I had the challenge to create a new concept of IT support and optimize the workflows. It's a challenge especially when you are alone in the team. I faced the challenge with more hours and educated myself by using Youtube. Youtube helped me with my daily tools like Confluence or Jira."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
You've shared your self-education via YouTube that has helped you better utilize tools like Jira or Confluence. However, this question also focuses on your formal education. Take this opportunity to share your schooling, degrees, certifications, or other professional training or development you've undertaken that would help you excel in the role you're applying to.
21. We are asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have 5 years' experience vs 8 years' experience I can absolutely do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my 5 years working in this industry, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
22. On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you are a very honest person or do you have room for growth? This could be a tricky question as nobody is always 100% honest. Answer to the best of your ability and back your reply by speaking about your personal ethics.
1st Answer Example
"I would love to give myself a 10/10 for honesty but truthfully - nobody is 100% honest all of the time. I will give myself an 9 because I always do my best to be as honest as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"Nobody is perfect but I would like to say that I am a 10/10 when it comes to honesty and how much I value that attribute in myself, and others."
23. How do you define success?
How to Answer
What does success mean to you? Tell the interviewer how you see success and be sure to tie your answer into the success that you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."
2nd Answer Example
"I define success by what we achieve as a team. The project, as a whole, needs to deliver on expectations before I consider the job a success."
User-Submitted Answer
"My definition of success is to hit all goals for my position and to show that my team can perform well. Also, customer satisfaction should rise."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
You've provided a solid definition of success. Now, make your answer even stronger by pivoting to relate an achievement such as exceeding performance goals or improving customer service KPIs that showcases what you mean. This makes your answer more unique to you and more memorable.
24. When have you had to lead by example?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are aware of the need to always lead by example.
"All the time!" As a leader, your actions, decisions, and demeanour are always under some form of scrutiny. The most stressful workplace situations often surround change so it's a great idea to talk about a time when your organization went through a major change. Change can be very challenging for some people. Discuss how you accept change with a positive attitude.
Perhaps a new software system was being implemented. Maybe your company was being acquired. Perhaps a change occurred in your senior leadership. Talk about how easily your team could have leaned towards negativity by becoming unmotivated, or acting fearful of the change. Highlight that you have genuine excitement surrounding the possibilities that come with change and that this excitement rubs off on your team.
1st Answer Example
"All the time!"
2nd Answer Example
"I often lead by example when it comes to mandatory overtime. I work in an order-driven environment and sometimes we have to work late to get the job done. I don't let my peers see me get upset at last minute announcements."
25. As a manager, who has been your greatest influence? A person that has defined what type of leader you wish to be.
How to Answer
Have you had a strong mentor in your management career? Talk to the interviewer about what type of influences have shaped your management style.
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 University, we kept in touch and he has greatly influenced my coaching, teaching, and leadership style."
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."
User-Submitted Answer
"For me, my greatest influence was Professor Hawkins. Despite all odds, he was successful in life which is a general consent by many others. He always looked up at the stars and not down at his feet. For future generations, we will never have such a different human being among us."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
You have chosen an admirable person to reference. Consider improving your answer by telling the interviewer specifically how Professor Hawkins has influenced the way you manage people or processes. Do you keep a positive perspective? Does he influence the way you view problems, approach obstacles, or defy limitations?
26. How do you balance life and work?
How to Answer
It is important to keep a healthy work/life balance in order to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you are able to maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
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 it doesn't feel 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 work week begins."
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."
27. What was the most challenging aspect of your previous job? How did you overcome it?
How to Answer
Sometimes the greatest workplace challenge is a difficult task that puts you outside of your comfort zone. It could be something that requires skills you haven't mastered yet or qualities where you not the strongest. Explain to the interviewer why it was difficult but be sure to spend more time highlighting the actions you took to overcome the challenge.
1st Answer Example
"The most challenging aspect of my last job was troubleshooting some of the older technology we worked with. 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 by referring to old manuals and online forums. I ended up become one of the stronger users of this program, in our entire office! I quickly became the go-to person when anyone had questions on the technology."
2nd Answer Example
"The most challenging aspect of my previous position was to maintain a positive attitude at all times. The workplace culture was not a positive one but I tried to make it so through words of encouragement to my coworkers, trying to facilitate small events for our team to get to know each other a bit better, and also keeping a smile on my face throughout the day."
User-Submitted Answer
"In my current job, the most challenging aspect is mostly the customer who often hast absolutely no knowledge about computers at all. Often they are specialized in dental care and how to bill the patient.
I overcome the challenging questions to take simply my time and to explain everything to them on the level that the customers will understand the problem. However, I am not condescending to them."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This is an example that shows your ability to provide excellent customer service. Consider enhancing it further by providing a specific example of a time when you helped a very upset customer or a customer with a more difficult problem. This would be a good opportunity to use the STAR method. Describe the specific Task you were supposed to accomplish. Tell about the Action you took to overcome a challenge and complete the task. Finally, share the Result and how you contributed to the successful outcome."¨
28. What sources do you look to when solving complicated problems?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are able to think outside the box, or even ask for help, when you are stuck on a complicated problem. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
1st Answer Example
"When I am faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
2nd Answer Example
"Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry.
If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues or even patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need in order to find the best way to solve the problem."
29. How do you feel about performance incentives?
How to Answer
Performance incentives can be very motivating. Talk to the interviewer about your feelings re: performance incentives.
1st Answer 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 KPI's. The majority of people are very enthused about being rewarded for their successes."
2nd Answer Example
"I think performance incentives are important for driving people to get results. For me, personally, they give me some skin in the game and get my team engaged in making an impact towards the results."
30. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations are to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."
User-Submitted Answer
"My salary expectations should be in the range from 65T€ to 75T€."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
I appreciate your straightforward answer, but this question usually requires a bit more finesse. You can improve your answer by eliminating the annual salary numbers. Instead, assure the interviewer that you have a flexible salary range, but that you'd like to be compensated appropriately based on your experience and performance record. It may be more appropriate to provide a specific number when you're discussing the details of the position or when you receive an offer. You can also ask the interviewer to share what the range is for the role.
31. 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 react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?
How to Answer
Show your confidence to your interviewer by explaining your willingness to be part of the team and not being afraid to pick up the slack when needed, but make sure you don't allow someone to take advantage of you.
1st Answer Example
"I will always first choose to be a team player. If I had a co-worker call in sick, I would take over what I was capable of. The only time I would draw the line would be if I felt I was being taken advantage of."
2nd Answer Example
"If my coworker was purposefully being inefficient and expecting me to pick up the slack, I would likely not jump in. For the sake of the company, I am always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of me but not to the point where I am being taken advantage of."
User-Submitted Answer
"If my coworker had to call in sick I would sure pick up the slack. However, it should be not a habit and not to the point where I am being taken advantage of."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
Being willing to step in and help others in a crunch is a great characteristic to have! You can make your answer clearer by telling the interviewer how you would set and communicate your boundaries around impromptu over time.
32. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
How to Answer
If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: "I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"
1st Answer Example
"I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"
2nd Answer Example
"If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: "I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more that I can clarify for you I would be happy to do so."
User-Submitted Answer
"I think my performance was quite well and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Amanda Knight Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a great response when you feel that you've interviewed well. Giving interviewers the opportunity to ask any clarifying questions also solidifies your sincere interest in the role. However, if in actuality you feel that you did not perform as well as you'd like, this is also a good place to ask the interviewer for the chance to clarify a previous answer.