27 Agilent Technologies Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Agilent Technologies interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Tell me about a project you worked on that required you to utilize an approach that was unconventional or outside of the box.
The Goal
Adaptability and flexibility are important assets for Agilent, as their industry is one that is ever-changing. You'll want to display an ability to do whatever it takes to meet a team goal, even when that means changing up the way things are traditionally done.
1st Answer Example
"In 2020 our economy suffered, and a lot of businesses were struggling to keep their doors open. Our conventional sales strategy was to take investors out to meals in order to engage them and secure their support. With the pandemic requiring social distancing and most businesses in our industry going remote, we had to get creative. We found that we could send clients meals through delivery services like Uber Eats, and schedule virtual "lunches" with them in lieu of meeting at restaurants."
2nd Answer Example
"We had a client who wanted their data reports formatted in a completely different way than my team has always delivered them. This required us to utilize a different algorithm and platform for data analysis entirely. We had one SME on the team who stepped up to teach the rest of us how to manipulate the data correctly, and we were able to complete the customer's request in a timely manner."
2. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
How to Answer
This question challenges you to think about how you act as a leader in your daily life. Even if you're not leading a team, you can still demonstrate the qualities of a leader!
Give an example of how you coached a coworker who was having difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or maybe you offered some helpful hints. You can be a motivator and a positive communicator in any situation at work!
1st Answer Example
"I naturally take on a leader and mentorship type of role with my co-workers. In one instance, I had a new coworker who was having some troubles fitting in. I took her out for lunch and talked to her a bit about the workplace culture and semantics surrounding the various departments. I wanted her to stay and enjoy her employment with us, so I took the responsibility of ensuring she was settling in well. I believe there are always opportunities for leadership - you just have to keep your eyes open!"
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I do demonstrate leadership qualities every chance that I get! I believe that everyone can be a great leader if given the right environment and opportunity."
3. What makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face issues. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you have the ability to see opportunity when others can only focus on the problem. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
1st Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creative side. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I am very analytically minded. I will walk through each step to a problem so that I can properly calculate any available options."
4. Have you ever taken the fall for a situation, where it was really not your fault, in order to protect a coworker?
How to Answer
Taking the fall for a situation, to protect a co-worker, is a tricky situation. It can show teamwork, but it may not be the most honest thing to do. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on taking the fall for something you did not do.
1st Answer Example
"I do not believe in 'taking the fall' for people based on protecting them. Transparency is always a good idea, and if something went wrong, then it needs to be addressed to prevent it from happening again. When it comes to clients, I will apologize on behalf of the company for errors. In that case, I will do what it takes to protect the company's reputation."
2nd Answer Example
"I have taken the heat for a situation that was not my fault. Honestly, it wasn't anyone's fault, and I understand that sometimes the blame needs to land somewhere when corporate is looking for answers."
5. Working at Agilent Technologies can become stressful from time to time. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted."
2nd Answer Example
"Staying on deadline is very helpful for me, under stressful situations. I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
6. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time.
Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. It's all in how you maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion."
2nd Answer Example
"I do try my best to be a great team member, regardless of whether or not I agree with the leader. With that said, it's important to me that I see eye to eye with my leader."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Disagreement with others, for sure, due to different points of view. I tend to listen to others' approaches first, if I am still sure that my approach is best for our team objectives then I re-articulate with better evidence.
Though I keep an open mind that I might be wrong too."
Marcie's Feedback
7. Why do you want to work for Agilent Technologies?
How to Answer
This question can be tricky because it requires you to know enough about Agilent Technologies to be impressed by what they do, and what they have to offer.
Prepare for this question through due diligence! Review the company website first. If Agilent Technologies is more service or client focused, you can read reviews of customers and find out about their reputation. Sometimes you can even find articles or press releases to give you a brief on their latest accomplishments, innovations or company culture. Pinpoint the highlights.
Know the company vision so that you can quickly tell them that your values align. Sharing your knowledge on the latest company related news is a great indicator that you have a vested interest in them.
1st Answer Example
"I am impressed by your mission, and I love how much of an impact you make on the local community. Winning the community Humanitarian Award in 2016 was a remarkable achievement that stands out to me."
2nd Answer Example
"I want to work for Agilent Technologies because you offer the growth, development, and leadership opportunities I have been looking for. I see a long-term fit here which is important to me."
8. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is written on your resume. You are certainly not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids, or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate for Agilent Technologies!
Focus on special non-work related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when its possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)
1st Answer Example
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently completed a computer programming course that I have not had a chance to add to my resume yet. I enjoy continued education and will take multiple courses throughout the year."
9. At Agilent Technologies we seek to hire problem solvers. When were you able to resolve a workplace related problem?
How to Answer
Problem-solving and dispute resolution are critical skills to possess. Display to the interviewer that you are capable of problem-solving within the workplace and that you will do so with Agilent Technologies.
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position we had a consistent problem with employees showing up late for their shifts or calling in sick at the very last moment. Rather than the typical documenting and reprimanding style that management usually takes, I decided to track the results of an accountability reward system. For 180 days, my employees were rewarded for coming to work 10 minutes early. Also, for every month with zero sick days, a bonus was added. In the end, we awarded those with perfect attendance a $600 bonus. The bonus' cost us less money, in the end than the cost of lowered productivity due to absent employees. The program was a success, and upper management chose to keep it implemented for another six months. We will re-assess in December, but it seems to be working very well."
2nd Answer Example
"I often solve small problems in the workplace related to merchandising. I am often researching new merchandising techniques to push out some of the older merchandise, to make room for the new."
10. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that most setbacks are directly related to missing a particular detail along the way. When I suffer a setback, my initial instinct is to go back through my project and find the weak link. This way, I can learn from the situation."
11. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know more about your strengths when it comes to communication in the workplace. Discuss your preference with the interviewer, and support your answer.
1st Answer Example
"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression and body language. I will always choose a face to face conversation whenever possible."
2nd Answer Example
"Being a millennial, I have grown up always preferring written communication via email, or text message. With that said, I am a strong verbal communicator as well."
12. Workplace culture is important to us at Agilent Technologies. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
Are you pretty flexible in your ability to work in most environments? Have you experienced a position where the atmosphere wasn't conducive to your productivity? Be sure to know the type of environment that is offered by Agilent Technologies, before the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I can be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I cannot work in an environment that feels negative or toxic."
2nd Answer Example
Rather than focusing on the negative, try spinning your answer into a positive focus: "I do best in a supportive environment where there is room to grow, the ability to ask questions, and healthy co-worker relationships."
13. We value our customers at Agilent Technologies. How do you respond to customer or client complaints?
How to Answer
If you are interviewing for a customer or client facing role, you want to show off your ability to deal with conflict and nurture client relationships. Give an example of a time you successfully helped resolve a customer's issue.
1st Answer Example
"A customer called me very frustrated about a problem with one of our software products. I listened and told them I would be happy to help. I asked more questions to understand the problem and then suggested once I had a better idea of what might solve it. The customer was very relieved and grateful that I took the time to listen and make sense of the issue."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently completed a course on customer service and dispute resolution, so I am confident in my ability to handle client related issues. Active listening and genuine empathy is always the backbone of my approach with customers."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
I make an action plan keeping in mind achievable targets and avoid overpromising.
Return back to the customer before the promised time and present my plan or actions taken to defuse the situation.
Monitor the action plan progress and results, adjust or tweak as needed.
Most importantly I have to return to the customer discussing the results and their feedback. And how we are going to work to prevent such reoccurrence."
Marcie's Feedback
14. We have a strong team culture at Agilent. Why is culture important to you?
How to Answer
Culture is the backbone of a company. Without the set of shared values that everyone agrees to support, the cohesiveness of a team will be likely to be compromised. Agilent's culture is based on "innovation; trust, respect and teamwork; and uncompromising integrity. Added to these are speed, focus and accountability to meet customer needs and create a culture of performance that draws on the full range of people's skills and aspirations." You should utilize these aspects where applicable in your answer.
1st Answer Example
"Culture is important because without a shared set of goals to work towards, a team can feel disjointed. I have found that trust, respect and teamwork are aspects of culture that are most important to me on a team."
2nd Answer Example
"Culture is the backbone of a company. In my research of Agilent, I read that your culture is focused on "trust, respect and teamwork, integrity, speed, focus and accountability. I cannot think of a better set of guidelines for a team than these and I prioritize every one of these traits in my own career."
15. At Agilent Technologies, we seek to hire those with a strong understanding of the computer, IT, and electronics industry. Walk me through your background and highlight your most relevant experience.
How to Answer
Agilent is a company that hires experience-based roles, but also Student and Graduate roles. Whichever category you may fall into, you can answer this question by focusing on the "strong understanding" piece. The interviewer asks this question not as a way to weed out those without specific experience, but rather to gauge the strength of your understanding -- whether it has come from experience or from education.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked as a Field Service Engineer for 15 years. I started as a helpdesk tech and soon realized that I wanted to be more hands-on, fixing the issues rather than walking someone through that over the phone. I went to tech school and have been able to work my way up into Field Engineer work. My understanding of computers, IT, and electronics is very strong and the more time I spend in the industry, the more I learn."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. Throughout my rigorous education program, I was able to take numerous technical elective credits including Welding Engineering, Design and Machine Components, Structural Dynamics, and Circuit Analysis. These additional courses, along with other core courses, I have gained a strong understanding of all aspects of Mechanical Engineering. I am looking forward to putting the skills I have earned into practice."
16. Life happens which means there may be occasions where an employee is late or absent. How have you handled these situations in prior roles?
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer asks this to gauge your integrity, empathy, and ability to communicate. What you don't want to say here is that you have never been late, don't understand why anyone thinks it is ok to call out, and that you wouldn't be late or call out for any reason. Be realistic and even if you have never had to call out, acknowledge that there could be extenuating circumstances in anyone's life creating a need for tardiness or absence.
What NOT to Say
Don't ever mention texting or messaging as an acceptable way to communicate tardiness or absence. You should always expect to speak on the phone to your direct supervisor when these things occur.
1st Answer Example
"I had a flat tire one morning on my way into work, causing me to be late for work. I felt terrible but called my direct supervisor right away to let him know the situation and updated him along the way as I changed the tire and then went back to my house to change my clothes before arriving to work as soon as possible. I made up the hour I was late by staying an hour late that day to finish some tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not been late to work, but I know that extenuating circumstances are always a possibility. I plan as best I can to account for any delays, but if I were to experience an emergency of some sort that would require me to call out or be late, I would communicate via a phone call to my direct manager."
17. We value honesty at Agilent Technologies. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is one of those questions that gauges much more than one might think. This question is not only the interviewer's way of assessing your integrity, but also your discretion.
1st Answer Example
"Honesty is critical when it comes to anything related to policy, procedure, and standards. We must, however, ensure that we do not take a matter of opinion and tout "honesty" as a way to be hostile, controlling, or disrespectful of others. For example, we should have integrity when exercising a company's casual Friday policy by only wearing approved attire. Telling another associate, however, that their sweater is tacky and ugly and not up to dress code standards is unnecessary and rude, even if we may believe it to be an "honest" assessment."
2nd Answer Example
"I do think that it's best to be completely honest in as many situations as possible. I understand there are some times when telling the full truth will not help either party but, for the most part, I do agree that honesty is the best policy."
18. What motivates you? What type of management style do you prefer your leadership to possess?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Culture and cohesiveness are essential to consider when building a team. This question could indicate that the team Agilent is staffing has a new or a difficult manager, or it could simply indicate that they want to understand what you are passionate about and how to bring that passion out in the best way.
1st Answer Example
"I am motivated by recognition and acknowledgement of a job well done. Though I don't need constant feedback, I do prefer to have feedback when starting or ending a project. I like constructive criticism and being given ways to increase my value on the team."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very much self-driven and self-motivated. As long as I am being treated with respect and feel appreciated, I am able to do my best work. I prefer a leadership team that allows me to operate within my skillset and do my job as I've been trained. I don't need a great deal of additional praise or instruction past what is given upon the start of a project."
"People do not care how much you know, until they know how much you care."
19. What do you see as a business challenge you might initially face in this role? How will you face this challenge?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to level set expectations and ensure that you know that the job is not going to be all sunshine and roses. You'll want to show that you've done some thinking about the types of challenges you may face initially, while also displaying your confidence in being capable of meeting those challenges.
1st Answer Example
"This is always a really tough time of the year for our industry in sales and marketing. I imagine that one of the initial challenges I will face in this role is ensuring that I meet sales metrics and requirements initially in these slower months. I plan to face that challenge as I always have, by ensuring that I employ creative strategies to make deals and by utilizing my support system for guidance and recommendations."
2nd Answer Example
"As a PM coming into an established team, I can anticipate that a portion of the challenge I will face is gaining the trust of my team and creating buy-in and commitment for the goals I set for the team. I have been in this position as a PM before and experience has taught me that the best way to tackle this challenge is to get to know my team and their needs, lead with empathy and compassion, and show them that I care about them before asking them to care about what I know."
20. Do you consider yourself a role player or a leader?
The Goal
Sometimes there is a misconception that answering with anything other than "I'm a leader," will give a negative impression. This, however, is not the case. Companies and teams of any size need both leaders and role players. In answering this question, consider the role that you are applying for and determine what type of employee Agilent is seeking. Cater your answer towards that need, while staying true to your actual preference.
Additionally, if you are more of a leader, but determine that this role is more of a role player on the team, ask yourself if this is an environment you will be expected to follow.
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy leading people. I have been a Project Manager for the past 3 years and have really enjoyed being able to set goals and equip my team to meet those goals. I realize, however, that this role is an individual contributor role, and I am very comfortable being a role player on a team, with hopes of growing with the company and possibly achieving a management role down the line."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been a team lead on multiple development teams, but I do prefer supporting a team as an individual contributor. My strengths lie in coding and testing, not so much in organizing tasks for others to complete and coordinating business requirements. I am open to assisting with additional responsibilities as needed, but prefer to not have other employees reporting to me."
21. Do you have any questions for me?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, you should always have at least one. Remember that this interview is not only an opportunity for Agilent to determine if you are a good fit for their company, but also an opportunity to determine if Agilent is a fit for your expectations of a company.
You can also use this question as an opportunity to ensure that you have addressed any concerns that the interviewer might have regarding your ability or experience.
1st Answer Example
"What challenges do you expect this position to pose and what will be your success indicators in the initial 30, 60, 90 days?"
2nd Answer Example
"Hearing about my background and experience, do you have any reservations about my ability to perform the necessary duties of this role or my ability to fit into the culture you've cultivated at Agilent?"
22. Clear and professional communication is essential in our industry and something we prioritize at Agilent. Tell me about your communication style.
What You Need to Know
Whether it be a sales role or a technical role that you are applying to -- communication will be an essential part of your job at Agilent. When describing your communication style, reiterate your understanding of the importance of clear communication and assert your commitment to professionalism in both written and oral communication.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that Agilent has built a culture of openness where your teams can bounce ideas off of each other. My communication style fits well with this. I put a great deal of effort into keeping my communication style simple, engaging, and concise. I enjoy collaborating with my team and participating in positive brainstorming sessions."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some communication-related keywords that you can use when discussing your communication skills:
- Adaptable
- Balanced
- Clear
- Decisive
- Energetic
- Fresh
- Helpful
- Logical
- Mature
- Open
- Powerful
- Relaxed
- Sincere
- Tasteful
- Upbeat
-Professional
23. Tell me about a time when you offered a solution to a difficult problem your team was facing. What was the outcome?
How to Answer
This question will gauge your ability to problem solve as well as how you interact with leaders and colleagues. It is best to focus your answer to this question on solutions that your team adopted and implemented, but if you don't have examples of that in a professional role, tell your interviewer about a time where your solution was not chosen, rather than giving a non-job-related example.
1st Answer Example
"A PM came to my development team expressing that they needed a way to track the sales of a specific instrument over a 3-, 6-, and 9-month period and come up with a forecast of how it may do in the next year. I had previously developed an application using Python that I felt would work for this purpose. Once suggesting this tool to the team and making some simple changes to the programing, they were able to get the data they needed quickly and submitted me for a recognition for my creative problem-solving."
2nd Answer Example
"My team was contacted by a company who informed us that they had not received a very important piece of equipment in their order, that they would need asap. I recommended that we could overnight the package and offered to take it to the post office. Another team member remembered that our sister company, located closer to the customer, had been able to supply some equipment for us previously and recommended that we could call them. As the coordinator, I offered to call and arrange the delivery to the customer. They were able to get the part there same-day and my co-workers recommendation saved us time and money!"
24. We have a very high customer service standard at Agilent. If you could sum up your customer service style in 3 words, which would you choose?
How to Answer
Most companies rely heavily on their customer service reputation. Assure the interviewer that you will value their client base by providing the same excellent service they have come to expect from Agilent Technologies.
When using keywords to describe your customer service style try to avoid overused terms such as 'friendly'. If there are keywords you see frequently used by Agilent Technologies on their website, in their job postings, or in their job descriptions, you can draw on those as well.
1st Answer Example
"I have heard great things about the customer service provided by Agilent Technologies and I look forward to joining your esteemed team. If I could sum up my customer service style in 3 words, I would choose attentive, personalized, and energetic."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some traits that many hiring managers look for when determining your ability to provide great service to their clients:
- Ability to Handle The Unexpected
- Attentive
- Calming
- Communicative
- Confident
- Intuitive
- Knowledgeable
- Patient
- Persuasive
- Positive / Positive Language and Outlook
- Timely
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
25. We have multiple avenues for career growth. Where would you like to see your career with Agilent take you?
How to Answer
Prepare your answer to this question ahead of time and take time to really dig into the different trajectories you could grow your career with Agilent. Don't be afraid to express a willingness or desire to eventually grow into different spaces within the company, as this offering is one that they tout as a benefit of working for their company. On the flip side, if you are looking to grow within your same line of work, it is ok to express that too."
1st Answer Example
"I have been working within Network Engineering for many years but have realized that the nature of network infrastructure is changing, with many companies moving a great deal of their network to Cloud platforms. I am currently taking continuing education credits learning AWS and Azure and I am looking for a company engaged in some transformations from physical networks to Cloud."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been very happy with the trajectory of my career and the last 5 years that I have spent in EHS, specifically working within OSHA and EPA compliance and conducting hazard and risk analysis. I want to continue to grow my career leveraging these strengths, and have chosen to apply for Agilent as you are leaders in these areas,"
26. At Agilent, we look to be leaders and Subject Matter Experts (SME's) in the products and services we offer. What area could you pursue SME-level knowledge within?
How to Answer
The answer to this question will give your interview a good idea of two things:
1. The areas in which you are currently the strongest
2. Your desire and ability to continue learn and grow within your field.
You will want the interviewer's takeaway to be that you already have a great deal of understanding within your area of expertise, but also that you are always open and searching for ways to learn and grow.
1st Answer Example
"My area of expertise is within Logistics Compliance. My role for the past 10 years has required me to support many different compliance projects -- specifically within ISO Medical Device Compliance. I am very interested in continuing to learn and grow my understanding within all areas of Logistic Compliance that are pertinent to this role as I have always been committed to continued development,"
2nd Answer Example
"If I could sum up my knowledge into one area of expertise, I would say that I am a subject matter expert in Data Analysis, with most of my recent experience leveraging my knowledge of Java and Python development in order to work alongside Data Scientists and analyze bank data. Though I have not utilized these skills in the medical industry, I am very open and excited about the idea of learning how to utilize my coding expertise to manipulate data in the medical instrument space and provide useful Data to teams."
27. The Scientific Instrument production and sales industry is a competitive one. In your opinion, what makes Agilent stand out from our competitors?
How to Answer
You will want to ensure that you do ample research on Agilent before your interview. Though they mainly service the Life Sciences sector, their reach expands into multiple other industries. In answering this question, ensure your answer is relevant to the sector the role you are applying to services.
1st Answer Example
"Having worked for one of your largest competitors, Thermo-Fisher, I often heard about the multiple partnerships that Agilent has with large companies like AT&T and Cisco. These large partnerships made it very difficult for those of us in sales to enter into new sales agreements with these companies because for the most part, they have to use Agilent products. Those partnerships and the strong reputation the made those partnerships possible, make Agilent stand out."
2nd Answer Example
"Agilent's acquisition of BioTek is one thing that comes to mind that sets them apart from other competitors. Because Agilent was able to Acquire Biotek, all current Biotek customers will now continue ordering the same supplies, but through Agilent. The expansion of business in this market is impressive and important for a company to continue to thrive in the midst of economic uncertainty."