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?
In your opinion, why is our industry a fundamental one?
Professional Answers Preview
"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 up nearly everything we have so without this type of mining, many of the products we know and love simply would not exist."
"I believe the biggest reason why mining is necessary is because minerals and metals can rarely be substituted for anything. They are vital to our every day lives. If mining stopped, we would not have alternate resources for some of the most important things we use every day."
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 for what they do.
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?
Professional Answers Preview
"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 very strong year. How do you feel the outlook will be for this industry in the years to come?"
"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 very strong year for the metals and mining industry."
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 could start an insightful and helpful conversation
At Alcoa we put safety first when it comes to our employees and the handling of our products. How important is safety to you?
Professional Answers Preview
"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."
"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."
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 safety in the workplace.
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?
Professional Answers Preview
"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."
"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."
It is incredibly important to research the company prior to 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.
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?
Every step counts for a successful project so at Alcoa we prefer to hire those who come highly trained. Do you have any post-secondary education related to project management or environmental affairs?
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?
Our Alcoa interview questions and answers are created from the industry we believe they most well-represent.
For a full list of industries we base our company interviews off of; click here.
About Alcoa
Alcoa Inc. (Alcoa) is engaged in the production and management of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum, and alumina combined. The Company?s products are used worldwide in aircraft, automobiles, commercial transportation, packaging, building and construction, oil and gas, defense, and industrial applications. Alcoa is a global company operating in 31 countries. Based upon the country where the point of sale occurred, the United States (U.S.) and Europe generated 52% and 27%, respectively, of Alcoa?s sales during the year ended December 31, 2009. In addition, Alcoa has investments and operating activities in Australia, Brazil, China, Iceland, Guinea, Russia, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Alcoa?s operations consist of four worldwide segments: Alumina, Primary Metals, Flat-Rolled Products, and Engineered Products and Solutions. In August 2010, the Company acquired Traco, a maker of windows and doors for the commercial building and construction market.