30 Alcoa Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

In your opinion, why is our industry a fundamental one?

Employees who see value in their company, and industry, are going to be happier and stay longer. The interviewer is looking for your opinion on why the metals and mining industry is an important one. Show the interviewer that, if hired by Alcoa, you would have a sense of pride in what they do.

Rachelle's Answer

"I strongly believe that the metals and mining industry provides an excellent boost in the economy; especially in those regions and states where mining activity is concentrated. Minerals and metals are what make nearly everything we have so without this type of mining, many of the products we know and love would not exist."

Rachelle's Answer

"I believe the biggest reason why mining is necessary is that minerals and metals can rarely be substituted for anything. They are vital to our everyday lives. If mining stopped, we would not have other resources for some of the most important things we use every day."

Anonymous Answer

"As the world is making sustainable improvements to day-to-day objects and activities, there is a high need for aluminum to do so. Aluminum will be needed to help improve sustainability for years and years to come."

Rachelle's Answer

Wonderful! You show a clear understanding of why the aluminum industry is so important. Great response.

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2.

Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?

The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is imperative that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.

Patience is indeed a virtue but can be challenging to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you possess the ability to keep your cool in challenging conditions.

Rachelle's Answer

"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10 and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."

Rachelle's Answer

"I was once working with a group that could not quite get along, and it tested my patience a bit because it prevented us from staying on track and focusing on the goals. I went above and beyond in helping the group get along by scheduling lunches as a team and helping to mediate situations that needed it."

3.

Give me an example of a time when your communication style helped you to be a more effective leader.

Everyone has their style of communication. Whatever your style, show the interviewer that it is useful. Your response should demonstrate your ability to articulate constructive criticism, encourage your team, or relay policy changes in a way that makes them exciting!

Rachelle's Answer

"I gave my employee some negative feedback because he appeared to be slacking off on the job. Rather than telling him, I thought he was lazy; I said, 'I've noticed that it's been taking longer for you to turn in those reports. What's going on? Is there anything I can do?' I always start by asking questions instead of making accusations. He was very appreciative and told me how he was struggling with motivation. I asked him what would motivate him and we were able to find a solution that worked for both of us."

Rachelle's Answer

"I love to play to other's strengths. Everyone communicates differently, so I am sure always to send written as well as give verbal communication. Usually, that looks like a small, informal huddle outlining our topic or concern and I follow that up with a quick email detailing the discussion. This way the team hears and reads all expectations. Also, it allows for those who are vocal to share in a group setting as well as allows for the quieter few to ask their questions in the privacy of an email."

4.

Strong communication skills are important for any role with Alcoa. Rate your communication skills from 1-10.

On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Discuss with the interviewer why you chose that particular rating for yourself. Be sure to highlight that your exceptional communication skills will make you a success in this role with Alcoa!

Rachelle's Answer

"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My current supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything. I look forward to bringing my strong communication skills to Alcoa."

Rachelle's Answer

"I will rate myself an eight because I value communication but, just like most people, I have things to learn. Some ways that I ensure clear communication are by utilizing multiple methods of delivering messages, and I give ample time for questions before implementing changes."

Anonymous Answer

"I believe my communications skills are about a 7/10 as sometimes (and I'm going to be honest) I may go quiet about certain things. Communication is key, but there are some things I do not know, and I wish to learn."

Rachelle's Answer

Going quiet about certain things is much too vague of a statement for an interview. It would create more questions than answers. I have reworded for you below.

"My communication skills are around 7 out of 10. I am new to my career, so I realize that I have a lot to learn when it comes to communication in business. With that said, I am always respectful, will ask when I need clarification, and I am a strong researcher."

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5.

Considering your background is in an industry different from Alcoa, what skills and characteristics do you have that qualify you for this industry?

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 Alcoa, despite the industry background you may have. These are your transferable skills, and they can include sales abilities, customer service experience, and software capabilities.

Rachelle's Answer

"Although my background is not in the metals and mining 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."

Rachelle's Answer

"Here are some transferable skills that could qualify you to work in the metals and mining industry:

- Conflict Resolution
- Time Management
- Project Management
- Hiring and Onboarding
- Supervising Others
- Presentation Giving
- Advising"

Anonymous Answer

"I am an extremely hard worker and dedicated to everything I do. I am strong believer if your going to do something you have to do it properly, there is no point otherwise. In the mining industry, things must be done right, and it is most effective when employees are dedicated to what they do."

Rachelle's Answer

This may be a good time to bring in your attention to safety, and teamwork you have experienced in organized sports or volunteer experience from your past. I generally advise removing cliche statements like 'if you aren't going to do it right, don't to it at all' etc, etc. They rarely add value to an interview response. I have provided an example below.

"The skills and characteristics I possess that make me a great fit for this industry include a focus on safety and detail, clear communication with those I report to, my willingness to work hard, and to do the job right the first time. I am a recent graduate who is ready for this next step in my life, and I am ready to do so with pure dedication."

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6.

How do you define success?

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 with Alcoa.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"Success is a state of accomplishment, whether it is happiness within yourself, completing a difficult task, being resilient, or being promoted. Success comes in all different ways. If I were to get this job that would be a success to me, me being happy and enjoy the job would be a success to me, and then completing the apprenticeship would also be a success to me."

Rachelle's Answer

Very well said! This is a well thought out answer. Nicely done.

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7.

What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?

The interviewer would like to know more about the types of decisions you are accustomed to making in the workplace. The way you answer this questions will give them a good idea of your level of experience, seniority, and ability to handle the decision-making requirements in this possible position.

If the job you are interviewing for requires you to be decisive and quick on your feet, you will need to be able to provide examples of how you have done these things in the past. If you worked in tech support, you faced problems that you needed to find solutions for on a regular basis. If you worked as a sales rep, you might have been required to know how to negotiate and make decisions on prices and benefits you can give your customers.

You may have faced with decisions that became so routine you didn't think twice! Refer to these types of decisions and be sure to highlight how these types of decisions have prepared you for a role like this one.

Rachelle's Answer

"In my previous position I was quite often required to make decisions on staff scheduling as well as hiring and terminating. I feel that role prepared me quite well for a position like this one. I have well-honed decision-making skills and my intuition, when it comes to hiring, has been elevated."

Rachelle's Answer

"I regularly made decisions regarding pricing and discounts for customers. I had a standard set of criteria that I created, and I tried to let that guide me for consistency."

Anonymous Answer

"Most of the decisions I made were which jobs to do, when to make the most of the time we were given, and complete it all effectively and efficiently."

Rachelle's Answer

It may be more helpful to walk the interviewer through a typical day. How many jobs did you have going at one time? What time frames did you have to work within? Also, did these decisions come with any budgetary responsibilities?

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8.

Alcoa is committed to transparency, whether that means full disclosure to our board, the government, or audit committee. Do you consider yourself a transparent and honest individual?

Assure the interviewer that you are an honest individual who will respect the values and environment created at Alcoa. When a question like this is asked of you, it's a great idea to offer up your references as well.

Rachelle's Answer

"I consider myself honest, and quite a transparent individual. I believe it is always best to have your intentions and desires known. In turn, I appreciate my employer being honest with me. I have prepared some references for you, and I'm confident they will speak to my honest character as well."

Rachelle's Answer

"I am told quite often that I am an honest and trustworthy individual, and you will be able to hear that directly from my supervisor when you call for a reference. I hold honesty and trustworthiness as fundamental virtues."

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I do consider myself as an honest and transparent individual. I believe there is no reason to not be honest with others. I also greatly appreciate when those of higher authority than me are also completely honest with me."

Rachelle's Answer

This is a fantastic response! You show a willingness to accept feedback while also displaying a great amount of integrity. Very well done.

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9.

At Alcoa we take every step possible to be a leader in our industry. In your opinion, who are our competitors and what sets us apart from them?

It is incredibly important to research the company before your interview. You should learn who the company's competitors are. Discuss your findings with the interviewer and be sure to speak highly of Alcoa while answering this question.

Rachelle's Answer

"I have researched Alcoa and see that you truly are an industry leader in the metals and mining arena. From my research, I believe what sets you apart is your incredible dedication to safety, and to the environment."

Rachelle's Answer

"From my understanding, your biggest competitors are companies A, B, and C. I believe that Alcoa is different because you put safety above all else. Your public safety records are impressive, and I am excited at the possibility to join such a responsible company."

Anonymous Answer

"Alcoa stands out to me because they are not an original Australian company. I believe that being an international company allows more experience when accepting people and knowing different ways on how to work and safety procedures. What also sets you significantly apart from other mining companies is your dedication to the environment and safety, which are huge aspects for myself."

Rachelle's Answer

These are two excellent ways that Alcoa stands apart. Your answer shows insight and a substantial amount of company research, which the interviewer should appreciate.

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10.

How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?

We all like recognition in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?

Rachelle's Answer

"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."

Rachelle's Answer

"I do not like public recognition all that much as I prefer to do my job well, regardless of being recognized. When I have a major achievement, I would prefer a phone call from my supervisor saying a good job. Also, I like to be awarded additional responsibilities."

Anonymous Answer

"A simple recognition in person telling me I have done great and achieved great things is enough for me. However, I am one that loves surprises, haha."

Rachelle's Answer

Surprises are fun! Your answer gives a lighthearted element, which is nice.

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11.

At Alcoa we understand that our industry can be a volatile one. In your opinion, what is the outlook for the metals and mining industry in the next year?

The interviewer wants to see that you have a keen interest in the industry and that you are up to date on some of the challenges and wins that Alcoa may be facing. You do not need to give an incredibly long and drawn out answer but be sure to highlight a couple of interesting points.

Wrap up your response by asking the interviewer their personal opinion on the outlook for the industry. This question from you could start an insightful and helpful conversation

Rachelle's Answer

"I read in an article a short time ago that mining was one of 2016's best performing sectors despite a slow start to the year. Citi analysts are predicting another solid year. How do you feel the outlook will be for this industry in the years to come?"

Rachelle's Answer

"Although the prices for many commodities have declined over the years, I feel that we will be bouncing back again very soon. According to the Financial Post, 2018 is going to be a solid year for the metals and mining industry."

Anonymous Answer

"After a dramatic decrease in sales in 2016, I believe that there will be an increase for metals in the coming year due to the use of them for sustainability aspects."

Rachelle's Answer

It seems the outlook is good! Your answer is positive, straightforward, and your reasoning is well supported.

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12.

How often do you discuss work with your colleagues in order to think up new systems and styles of working?

Do you use your creative mind with your colleagues to discuss ideas and systems in the workplace? Talk to the interviewer about how you have used creative thinking in the workplace.

Rachelle's Answer

"I have a policy with my team that if they have an innovative and helpful idea they can bring it to me at any time. If my team members' idea or system is something that I think could work, we then create a plan together to present it to our head office. This policy has generated some compelling ideas in our office over the past three years including a work-share program and some health and safety initiatives."

Rachelle's Answer

"I think it is important to discuss work with colleagues in a collaborative nature to encourage all types of ideas to come forth. Often, when people put their heads together, they will create something better than something one individual could have done alone."

13.

How has your current job changed over the years?

The interviewer wants to know more about your career progression. Additional responsibilities, promotions, and changes in the title all indicate that you were competent and successful in your role.

Take some time to highlight any successes for the interviewer. This question gives you an opportunity to go more in-depth about how your role has evolved. If nothing has changed much over the past couple of years in your position, focus on what you have learned. Are you better at managing teams now that you have gone from supervising one to five people? Are you exceptionally good with problem-solving now that you've learned to troubleshoot IT related problems? Talk about how the changes in your job have taught you new skills and helped you develop the ones you already have.

Rachelle's Answer

"When I initially started my job four years ago I was a junior level operator. Today, I am responsible for leading a team of 8 operators. My role does not look the same at all, and I am thankful for the growth opportunity that my current company has offered me. In addition to the change in leadership responsibilities, I have also enjoyed two major promotions. I attribute this to hard work and dedication."

Rachelle's Answer

"Change is a constant for me in my current company. I am given new responsibilities quite regularly which include training new employees, hosting lunch and learns, and writing a new policy. The pace of growth is complementary to my career goals."

14.

Alcoa seeks to hire those who are up to date on the industry. Our industry is a competitive one with policy changing frequently. How do you keep up with industry trends and policy changes?

The interviewer is seeking for proof that you have a genuine interest in their particular industry. When you have a real interest in a topic, you will spend time dedicating yourself to grow your knowledge base.

Discuss with the interviewer a couple of ways that you keep yourself updated on industry trends and policy changes. It's also a great idea to ask the interviewer about the ways they keep prefer to stay on top of industry topics. You never know what other resources are out there and you may learn something new!

Rachelle's Answer

"There are many great resources dedicated to the metals and mining industry. At the moment, my favorite resource is miningmagazine.com. I visit their website frequently and also subscribe to their blog. What is your favorite resource for industry related news?"

Rachelle's Answer

"I subscribe to a variety of print, and online, publications such as Mines to Markets, Mining Global and Cobalt News. Could you share with me some of your favorite resources? I always like to learn about new industry resources."

Anonymous Answer

"I frequently check online about how each mining company as well as looking into their policies on their website. I am also signed up for Australian mining and Discover mining newsletters to keep up to date with all the trends and policy changes."

Rachelle's Answer

Wonderful! The resources that you use sound reputable, which is a significant part of answering this question. If Alcoa has resources available online, be sure to mention these as well, if you have found them helpful in the past.

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15.

At Alcoa we put safety first when it comes to our employees and the handling of our products. How important is safety to you?

Assure the interviewer that you are as concerned about safety as they are. In which ways do you put safety first? Talk about the importance of security in the workplace.

Rachelle's Answer

"One of the reasons why Alcoa stands out to me as a potential employer, is your dedication to workplace safety. I feel that safety should be the number one consideration in this industry. It determines employee engagement, company profitability, and ensures a strong industry reputation."

Rachelle's Answer

"Safety is of utmost importance to me! I take regular precautions in the workplace, and I continue to attend safety training while keeping my tickets and certifications valid."

16.