Amazon Fulfillment Associate Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Competency Questions
- 6. Customer Service Questions
- 7. Diligence Questions
- 8. Direct Questions
- 9. Diversity And Inclusion Questions
- 10. Experience Questions
- 11. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 12. Leadership Questions
- 13. Performance Questions
- 14. Personal Questions
- 15. Problem-Solving Questions
- 16. Salary Questions
- 17. Teamwork Questions
Adaptability
1. Amazon Fulfillment Associates work set shift patterns. These shifts include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Are there any restrictions to your availability that we should know?
How to Answer
Amazon job postings often state upfront that Fulfillment Associates are expected to work long shifts, evenings, weekends, and holidays. If you haven't had a chance to clarify this location's scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask. If you are expected to work 12-hour shifts, you should know that detail before blindly agreeing to the work schedule. Be sure that you can meet Amazon's expectations before committing.
Answer Example
"I am accustomed to working long shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. I am flexible for days or nights, weekdays or weekends, and the like. In my current role, we are offered overtime pay for statutory holidays, which I find a great incentive to get employees on board with working major holidays. Are there similar incentives offered for Amazon team members?"
Adaptability
2. Fulfillment Associates work under pressure on very tight deadlines. How well do you operate under pressure?
How to Answer
Operating well under pressure is a valued skill for any Fulfillment Associate. You might face challenges such as running behind on the line, malfunctioning equipment, or encountering a safety issue. Perhaps you are asked to take on a new task, and you only have five minutes to learn how to do it right. Demonstrate through a story-based example that you are confident and can react swiftly in a work environment that presents multiple pressures.
Answer Example
"When a high-pressure situation arises, I am mindful of reacting and responding in a calm, assured manner. I am a naturally confident person, which means that my co-workers often look to me when they need a problem resolved immediately. One instance of my fast thinking under pressure was when we had two fulfillment employees no-show on a seasonally busy day. I offered to stay on shift longer and convinced two other associates to do the same. We worked hard to make sure that we met all deliverables without skipping a beat! I look forward to bringing a level head and sharp problem-solving skills to Amazon and this fulfillment center."
Adaptability
3. Fulfillment Associates are required to wear a safety vest and comfortable closed-toed shoes. Hearing protection may also be provided to you. Are you prepared to work in an environment that presents potential physical risks?
How to Answer
Working in a warehouse environment can present various physical risks, and the interviewer wants to know that you are 100% comfortable with this fact. Show the interviewer that you are prepared to put safety first, starting with a willingness to wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). If you have worn PPE in previous roles, express that you are accustomed to this job requirement. If you have not worn PPE in previous roles, be sure to show the interviewer that you understand its importance and that you are more than willing to comply with Amazon's safety requirements.
Answer Example
"In my current position, I wear steel-toed boots, a reflective vest, eye protection, and hearing protection. I also work in the warehouse's refrigerated areas at times. Then, I wear a jacket proper for the elements. PPE protects me and others from being harmed on the job, and I will enthusiastically comply with any safety requirements."
Career Goals
4. What are your career aspirations beyond this Fulfillment Associate position?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear of your aspirations beyond this Fulfillment Associate position. Your opportunities for growth with Amazon are infinite! Consider which opportunities excite you the most when you explore growth opportunities within Amazon. Make sure that the aspirations you share are realistic. For instance, it might be realistic for you to be promoted from Fulfillment Associate to a supervisor in 1-3 years. However, saying that you want to be an Operations Manager in 6 months would not be a realistic timeframe. Show enthusiasm for the Fulfillment Associate opportunity and be ready to discuss where you'd like to see this position take you in the future.
Answer Example
"I firmly believe that this Fulfillment Associate role fits with my current interests and my future aspirations. While looking through Amazon's careers site, I noticed a job posting for a Warehouse Operations Manager within the Robotics Manufacturing team. I am enthusiastic about logistics and believe that Amazon is top of its class with fulfillment, distribution, and manufacturing. It would be an honor to contribute to Amazon's first-class supply chain management efforts. I am eager to support strategies that will help Amazon advance robotics and software that solve real-world problems in new and imaginative ways. I look forward to earning promotions based on my hard work and achievements, eventually branching out to other fulfillment-related departments."
Communication
5. How would you explain fulfillment to someone who did not know about distribution warehouse environments?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you understand the concept of fulfillment. Even if you are new to your career in fulfillment, you can do the research required to understand the purpose of fulfillment and how you will contribute to Amazon's goals as a Fulfillment Associate.
By clearly explaining the fulfillment and distribution process, you will show the interviewer that you have a solid understanding of the purpose of your role within an Amazon warehouse environment. The way you explain fulfillment will also highlight your communication skills and your ability to convey complex information in easy-to-understand terms.
Answer Example
"I took the time to study fulfillment before our meeting today since I will be responsible for important steps of Amazon's distribution process. From my understanding, the fulfillment process begins when a customer buys a product online. The product is on a warehouse shelf, and when the customer places their order through Amazon's website, the associates work fast to pick the product from the shelf, package it, and ship it. In the case of Amazon, the company handles the entire fulfillment process, including charging the customer's credit card, updating inventory levels on the website, sending automated shipping email alerts, delivering the product, and handling customer refunds."
Communication
6. Our Fulfillment Associates are required to read and follow written instructions from a scanner accurately. Please rate your English comprehension skills from 1-10 and support your rating with an example.
How to Answer
One of the requirements listed in Amazon's Fulfillment Associate job posting is the ability to read and follow prompts on the scanner and other tools you may be using on the job. The interviewer wants to know how you rate your comprehension skills and why you would give yourself that particular score.
Avoid giving yourself a 10 out of 10, as nobody is perfect, and you do not want to come across as someone unable to accept feedback. Alternately, avoid giving yourself too little credit. Rate yourself fairly and support your rating by giving a measurable example of your English comprehension skills.
Answer Example
"I will rate my English comprehension - reading, writing, and listening - a 7 out of 10. Although Spanish is my first language, I have a good command of the English language. My listening skills are strong, and I make sure that I fully understand a task before jumping in. In a recent performance review, my supervisor told me that she appreciated my methodical and careful work. I continually work to develop my English comprehension by reading books. I also learn by engaging in conversations with my co-workers who are fluent in English."
Compatibility
7. What type of manager do you best work with?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you will get along well with your future manager. There are many different management styles, and perhaps you work well alongside a variety of personalities. If you have some work experience, consider talking briefly about a favorite manager you have had in the past and why you worked so well together. If you want to get a better idea if this position is a good fit, consider asking the interviewer to describe the management style of the person you would be reporting to.
Answer Example
"I work well with managers who can set clear guidelines, are supportive, and then trust me to perform my best work. I am an independent person; however, I love a collaborative work environment. Could you share with me a little bit about the leadership style of the manager leading this fulfillment team?"
Compatibility
8. Amazon hires good team players, excellent communicators, and people who bring an enthusiastic, can-do attitude to the job. Describe how you emulate these qualities in your everyday life.
How to Answer
The work environment in an Amazon fulfillment center is demanding, busy, and fast-moving. The interviewer wants to know that you can maintain productivity in this environment while also keeping a great attitude. Assure the interviewer that you are the go-getter they need for this Fulfillment Associate position. It's a good idea to support your response with an example of your can-do attitude and clear communication. If you are new to your career, consider telling a brief story of a time when you showed enthusiasm during a school project or made a difference by being an excellent communicator during a team sport or other group effort.
Answer Example
"Working in a fast-paced environment is the challenge that I need. My friends and family often comment on my boundless energy, and I enjoy being on the move. Throughout high school, I was an active participant in numerous sports, including soccer and track-and-field. I also volunteered at the animal shelter every Saturday. My coaches and volunteer leaders often commented on my high energy levels. I believe my enthusiasm is contagious to others which makes me a valuable addition to any goal-focused team."
Competency
9. Our fulfillment center has both inbound and outbound departments. Do you understand the difference between these departments?
How to Answer
Although you may be new to a career in fulfillment and distribution, the interviewer will likely expect you to attend your interview with some basic industry knowledge. The more you know, the better you will perform in your interview. Within Amazon, the shift times vary between inbound and outbound team members. Inbound and outbound associates work in different locations of the warehouse and their shifts and break times are different. The outbound department works on shipping, where the inbound department focuses on receiving and stocking incoming products. Describe your knowledge of inbound and outbound by providing a simple explanation.
Answer Example
"I have researched Amazon's fulfillment and distribution flow, and from my understanding, the inbound department is responsible for receiving new stock and putting it away. Then, the outbound department takes care of customer shipments. I read online that each shift has its own hours and break times, among other differences. My understanding is surface level, and I look forward to learning more."
Competency
10. Being a Fulfillment Associate is a physically demanding job. Are you capable of standing and walking up to 12 hours per shift, lifting and moving products up to 50 pounds, and meeting other stringent physical demands?
How to Answer
As an Amazon Fulfillment Associate, you must be able to meet a few physical demands. As much as you desire this opportunity, it's important to be honest with yourself regarding any physical limitations that could cause potential damage to your health, if ignored.
The physical demands outlined in Amazon's Fulfillment Associate position include:
- Standing and walking during shifts up to 12 hours long.
- Operating heavy machinery such as forklifts.
- Ascending and descending stairs if the site you work in has multiple levels.
- Regularly pushing, pulling, squatting, bending, and reaching during long shifts.
- Lifting and moving items up to 22 kgs (~ 50 pounds).
Assure the interviewer that you are aware of the physical requirements of the position and explain that you are ready to perform these duties safely. If you have physical limitations or concerns, your first interview is the best opportunity to be forthright about those concerns.
Answer Example
"I am healthy and work out regularly to keep myself in top shape. I addressed the requirements of this role before applying and took an honest look at my ability to meet the physical demands Amazon lists in the job posting. I have full confidence that I can perform the duties of a Fulfillment Associate safely, ensuring the protection of myself and my team."
Customer Service
11. Fulfillment Associates work hard to pick and pack customer orders and ensure that Amazon meets the high expectations of our customers. What does excellent customer service mean to you?
How to Answer
Amazon is a customer-centric organization. In fact, customer-obsessed is one of the company's core values. Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos is often quoted saying that customer obsession is the key to Amazon's success. The interviewer wants to hear that you are ready to work hard and contribute to Amazon's customer satisfaction. Discuss what you believe it means to deliver excellent customer service and show the interviewer that you are ready to do what it takes to contribute to Amazon's customer focus.
Answer Example
"To me, excellent customer service means staying focused on how we can make a customer's life happier and easier. I appreciate that Amazon is customer-obsessed and that this point is even included in its core values. While researching Amazon and preparing for today's interview, I came across a statement that said, 'By working together on behalf of our customers, we are building the future one innovative product, service, and idea at a time.' I really liked that idea and think it aligns well with my customer service philosophy to always keep an eye out for opportunities to impress. For instance, I currently work part-time as a server for Restaurant ABC. I deliver excellent customer service by introducing myself to each table when I seat them. Having that small personal touch often makes all the difference for my customers. Once they know my name, and I know theirs, they feel more comfortable and ready to relax for a good time with their family and friends. Although as a Fulfillment Associate, I won't be face-to-face with the customers, I believe they will still feel the care that I took with their delivery."
Diligence
12. Fulfillment Associates operate machines such as forklifts, pump trucks, and power pallet trucks. How will you promote our safety, quality, and production standards while using these machines?
How to Answer
Safety is a top priority for Amazon, and the interviewer wants to know that you value workplace safety with not only your words but also your actions. There are many steps you can take to ensure safe work in a warehouse environment. Perhaps you have your forklift certification and are dedicated to maintaining valid certifications by attending regular training. Maybe you will contribute to workplace safety by learning and minding floor markings and other signage that indicate potential physical hazards. Offer the interviewer tangible and measurable ways you plan to keep yourself and your co-workers safe when hired as an Amazon Fulfillment Associate.
Answer Example
"I will enthusiastically contribute by keeping my head on a swivel during each shift, especially as I operate heavy machines such as a forklift, pallet, or pump truck. With my eyes open and my head up, I will pay attention to the activities around me at all times. I will also ensure that my certifications are always up to date and re-train in safety measures regularly. Another way that I can promote the safety of myself and my co-workers is to wear proper Personal Protective Equipment every day. I will come to work dressed with the appropriate PPE and set a good example to my co-workers."
Diligence
13. What efforts will you bring to this role to ensure a safe work environment for yourself and your fellow Fulfillment Associates?
How to Answer
As a Fulfillment Associate, you will be working in a high-risk fulfillment center environment, so safety compliance and awareness will be a significant part of your role. Amazon's safety regulations are focused on protecting and empowering its workers. To ensure your safety and those around you, the interviewer wants to see evidence that you value working safely and responsibly. Describe what you know about safety and take the time to outline the measurable actions you will take to ensure a safe work environment for yourself and your co-workers.
Answer Example
"In preparation for this role, I have studied warehouse safety and did some research on OSHA compliance as well. I understand that Amazon has a Hazard Communication Plan (HCP) for each distribution center. I will diligently learn and abide by this plan. I will also wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and show diligence by immediately cleaning up any slip and fall hazards. I will also report any workplace injuries to my supervisor immediately. As a Fulfillment Associate, I will wholeheartedly support Amazon's safety efforts and operate in a safe way that protects everyone's well-being and Amazon's business goals."
Direct
14. When would you be available to start?
How to Answer
Amazon often hires quickly when filling Fulfillment Associate positions. For this reason, before your interview, make sure you know what date you can start your new position. If you are unemployed, maybe you can start right away. If you are currently working, you should always show professionalism by offering notice to your current employer. No hiring manager is ever impressed when they hear 'I can quit my job today and start tomorrow!' Show that you are professional and reliable in all situations.
Answer Example
"As a professional courtesy, I would like to give my current employer two weeks' notice. I am happy to start with Amazon anytime after that!"
Direct
15. Fulfillment Associates work on a secure mezzanine as high as 9 to 12 meters or a 3 to 4 story building. Do you have any hesitations with heights?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you can handle the basic yet potentially dangerous or uncomfortable aspects of the Fulfillment Associate role. Every Amazon distribution center will be slightly different, depending on the size and levels of the warehouse. There is potential that you will be handling, sorting, receiving, or putting away products located high up in mezzanine levels. Your response can be straightforward. Show that you are capable of working with heights. If you need clarification regarding the requirements for the specific location you are interviewing with, it's a great idea to ask!
Answer Example
"I have never experienced a fear of heights and, although 9 to 12 meters is high, I am confident that I can handle working in any area of this fulfillment center with comfort, especially after thorough training."
Direct
16. Amazon Fulfillment Associates handle various products, including age-restricted items, foods with potential allergens, and chemicals. Are you comfortable working around products that present potential hazards?
How to Answer
As an Amazon Fulfillment Associate, you may find yourself in situations where you need to handle products in the warehouse that are potentially dangerous, pose risks, or are of a sensitive topic. The interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable with this fact. Your response can be straightforward. Show that you are willing to work safely and with maturity, regardless of the products you are handling.
Answer Example
"With the proper safety training, I am confident that I can handle any product in the Amazon fulfillment center with comfort. Regardless of the product being of an adult nature or presenting potential hazards such as a chemical or allergen, I will treat the product respectfully and with care."
Diversity And Inclusion
17. As a Fulfillment Associate, how will you support and embrace Amazon's diversity and inclusion efforts?
How to Answer
No matter your job function, it's vital that you come ready to embrace and support the diversity and inclusion efforts of Amazon. On its careers site, Amazon outlines its near-term and long-term strategies for increasing diversity, which include:
- Building an inclusive culture. To meet this desire, Amazon has more than a dozen affinity groups that are employee-created and led. These include Amazon People with Disabilities, Body Positive Peers, Asians@Amazon, Black Employee Network, Amazon Women in Engineering, and many more.
- Developing the pipeline and hiring the best talent. Amazon recognizes that there is a diversity issue in the tech industry. They are working hard to solve this issue by launching a career program focused on inspiring and teaching millions of underprivileged and underrepresented students about computer science. Amazon has also committed millions of dollars to STEM programs for diverse communities. To make an immediate change, they also partner with organizations and academic institutions such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and women's colleges to reach underrepresented communities.
- Obsessing over customer inclusion. From the introduction of 'frustration-free packaging' and voice technology, Amazon focuses on accessibility in shopping, making daily experiences simpler for people with disabilities.
- Racial justice and equity. Amazon supports numerous policies to protect the Black community. They are active supporters of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and donate millions to organizations working to bring about social justice and improve the lives of the Black and African American community.
- LGBTQIA+ rights. Amazon was an early supporter of marriage equality. They also provide gender transition benefits based on the Standards of Care published by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). The company is also involved at federal and state levels in legislation and the passage of various equality acts.
A company that embraces diversity and inclusion efforts as much as Amazon does will need to see evidence that these values are important to you. Show how you contribute to D&I endeavors and discuss what you will specifically do as an Amazonian to support these efforts.
Answer Example
"I fully support diversity and inclusion in the workplace and believe that there are incredible benefits to a workplace built on equality. First and foremost, equality and inclusion should always be considered fundamental human rights. When it comes to the benefits of embracing diversity and inclusion in this role, I can play an important part by being an ally to my co-workers. I will bring my own perspectives as a minority and help increase the diversity of Amazon's talent pool by referring my network to exciting job opportunities!"
Experience
18. As an Amazon Fulfillment Associate, you will be responsible for receiving and putting away inventory and helping us get customer orders ready. Do you have any experience with similar tasks?
How to Answer
Putting away inventory and preparing customer orders is a detailed job that requires care and attention. If you have practice completing similar tasks, take a couple of minutes to walk the interviewer through this experience while providing evidence that you are competent in this area. Evidence could include mentioning that your current supervisor often comments on how detailed and accurate your deliverables are. If you do not have work experience to rely on, consider discussing responsibilities from your education, sports, volunteer, or other extra-curricular activities.
Answer Example
"For the past 6 months, I have gained experience receiving and putting away inventory at Warehouse ABC. Although this warehouse operates differently than Amazon's fulfillment center, my training in scanning and receiving inventory remains valuable. In my current position, I use Shipedge, a cloud-based warehouse management system that allows me to manage product orders, return and exchange inventory, and view supply levels. I believe this experience will transfer well to Amazon's Fulfillment Associate position since the responsibilities require the use of scanners, receiving and putting away inventory, and packing up customer orders getting them ready for shipment."
Experience
19. Do you have experience using product scanners or other warehouse-related equipment?
How to Answer
Product scanners, also called barcode scanners, are optical scanners that can read barcodes. When you use a scanner to read a barcode, the data is sent to a computer system. In a warehouse environment, this system allows for accurate inventory counts and much more. If you have experience working in a warehouse or fulfillment center environment, you may have also worked around equipment such as automated picking tools, automated guided vehicles, sensors of all kinds, or even collaborative robots.
Talk to the interviewer about your experience using any warehouse-related equipment. If you are new to the workforce or the distribution industry as a whole, consider some of the technology you have used in the past. Then, express how this knowledge and experience will help you to accomplish your Fulfillment Associate tasks efficiently.
Answer Example
"For the past ten months, I have worked for Store XYZ, performing duties such as scanning items during customer checkout and helping with weekly inventory control counts. When our store gets a new product shipment, I am often required to help scan the incoming product, check for discrepancies, and receive the new product into our inventory control system. Although this environment is different from a fulfillment or distribution center, I am very comfortable with tasks that involve accurately receiving inventory and scanning items into the system. I am a tech-savvy individual and will diligently apply myself when learning the processes at Amazon."
Experience
20. As an Amazon Fulfillment Associate, you will spend much of your time relocating products using forklifts, pump trucks, and power pallet trucks. Do you have experience operating these or any other heavy machinery?
How to Answer
Before your interview, it's a good idea to be aware of the types of warehouse-related equipment you will be operating. Most of Amazon's Fulfillment Associate job postings share details of the role's expectations, and many of them mention forklifts, pump trucks, and power pallet trucks.
The types of machinery you are experienced with are likely listed on your resume; however, take a moment to outline for the interviewer your level of experience and comfortability with these pieces of equipment and any other machines you have operated in the past. If you are new to your career, you may not have experience working with heavy equipment or machinery, and that is okay! In this instance, show the interviewer that you are enthusiastic about learning and ready to grasp everything you can during your training period.
Answer Example
"I am new to my career and am excited to learn how to safely operate a forklift, pump truck, power pallet truck, and any other equipment required to complete my tasks carefully. I have already taken the initiative to watch various safety and operating tutorials related to forklifts and other warehouse-related machinery and found them very interesting. I am a diligent person and a good listener and feel confident that I will catch on quickly."
Experience
21. Do you have training in product loss prevention?
How to Answer
Companies face many types of product loss from employee skimming, organized theft, return fraud, and more. Amazon believes they can eliminate many risks by creating a culture where security is front of mind. For this reason, Amazon has a loss prevention team that works hard to protect products, information, and its people in each fulfillment site. Talk to the interviewer about any loss prevention or product loss training you have. Show that you have put in the effort to research Amazon's loss prevention efforts and discuss how you plan to support these efforts as a Fulfillment Associate.
Answer Example
"I appreciate that Amazon has highly-trained loss prevention teams and specialists. It is a significant job to manage Amazon's assets, including products, buildings, and people. As a Fulfillment Associate, I can support loss prevention efforts by encouraging and emulating honesty, integrity, and good choices in the workplace. I am new to my career and eager to gain the knowledge required to look for signs of employee theft and learn methods for minimizing inventory discrepancies. I look forward to building this knowledge so that I can diligently support Amazon in its loss protection efforts."
Job Satisfaction
22. If hired to join our Fulfillment team, we will train you in various processes and skills, such as operating a forklift and working safely in a distribution environment. Which area of training excites you the most?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you are enthusiastic about joining Amazon and are ready to learn new skills. By discussing what excites you the most, the interviewer will gain an idea of your greatest interests. Think about the tasks you will be accountable for as a Fulfillment Associate, and be ready to talk about the training you believe will excite you the most.
Answer Example
"Overall, my excitement is to work for an esteemed company like Amazon. The company is highly awarded, and I have heard wonderful things about the opportunities presented to Amazonians who work hard. I am confident that Amazon will deliver engaging training in numerous areas; however, I feel most excited to learn about forklift operation. I believe that operating heavy equipment safely and with accuracy is an essential skill to have, especially since I am pursuing a career in distribution."
Leadership
23. If a fellow Fulfillment Associate was not maintaining compliance or consistency, what action would you take to help them?
How to Answer
Even if you are not being hired into a formal leadership position, you should still lead by example. Amazon creates a collaborative work environment where there are many opportunities to grow into a leadership position over time. Show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead by example in the workplace. Walk the interviewer through the action you would take if you saw another associate working in a way that was not consistent or in compliance with Amazon's expectations.
Answer Example
"If I were to come across a co-worker who was not maintaining compliance standards, I would first try to gently coach them into making some changes or changing their behavior. I like to lead by example, so I hope that this associate would see how I carry myself in the workplace, take positive tips from observing how I operate, then apply better work habits. If it were an urgent situation, such as a safety hazard or an ethical issue, I would take the concern to the appropriate supervisor right away."
Performance
24. We ask our Fulfillment Associates to share safety tips with their co-workers. Please share with me your best work-related safety tip.
How to Answer
In Amazon's Fulfillment Associate job postings, the company spotlights the importance of safety in the workplace. Employees wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which might include a safety vest, hearing protection, and proper footwear. They also do daily stretches and share safety tips with co-workers!
The interviewer wants to know that you are mindful of safety. The best way for the interviewer to tap into your mindset is to ask what you would discuss if you had the opportunity to share a safety tip with your new co-workers.
Answer Example
"I understand the importance of respecting safety and encouraging my co-workers to do the same. Taking my regular breaks, rather than working through them, is very important because it allows me to focus and prevent exhaustion. I would also encourage a tidy and clean workspace. When we work without clutter, we significantly reduce the chance of slip and fall injuries. I believe that many workplace injuries are preventable, and I look forward to encouraging safety among the Amazon warehouse team."
Performance
25. Amazon Fulfillment Associates must maintain a high level of quality work and productivity to meet firm daily targets. How will you remain driven even on the most exhausting days?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you will remain productive and on-target in Amazon's fast-paced, ever-moving environment, even on days that become especially challenging. An Amazon warehouse is a bustling place that will present numerous roadblocks and potential frustrations. Discuss how you will approach maintaining high-quality work even on extra challenging days. Keep your response positive, and show that you are driven to succeed by expressing your willingness to work hard and problem solve.
Answer Example
"To stay productive and driven, even on the most exhausting days, I will be sure to remind myself of my professional goals and the fact that I am working for one of the world's best companies, upholding a standard of excellence. This approach will ensure that I remain positive and excited about my work, even if it's especially exhausting from time to time. I will mark my progress every day and celebrate the small wins, which I believe is an effective way to stay motivated and on target even when a day might be extra challenging."
Personal
26. Would your current employer be willing to provide a reference for you?
How to Answer
If you have some work experience, the interviewer might ask you to provide employment references. The best work references are people you have reported to directly; however, if those references are unavailable to you, the interviewer may also accept a person in leadership from a different department or a team member that you work closely with.
If you do not have any work-related references, you can ask a teacher, professor, coach, religious leader, or the parent of a friend. In this case, be sure that the personal reference can speak about your character, ethics, and personality. Before your interview, make sure you have your references prepared just in case the interviewer requests them. If you don't feel comfortable using your current employer as a reference, explain that you have other references better suited at this time. Those can be past supervisors.
Answer Example
"I am happy to provide you with a reference from my previous supervisor from Company XYZ. Since Company ABC still employs me, I cannot ask my current manager for a reference; however, my English professor agreed to be a character reference."
Problem-Solving
27. Amazon Fulfillment Associates are given essential targets and goals every shift. How do you prioritize tasks when they all seem equally important?
How to Answer
Working in an Amazon warehouse requires you to operate successfully in a busy environment while juggling numerous tasks and moving parts. Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice, and there are many approaches you can take to improve.
For instance, by thinking through and writing down your tasks, you can visualize and map out priorities. You could also try writing down all of your deliverables and ranking them by importance from 1-10.
Considering due dates and how long it will take you to complete each task, you can start to tackle your list.
When answering this question, show the interviewer that you have a system that helps you think through what needs to happen and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you a great hire!
Answer Example
"I prioritize based on urgency and time required to complete the task. I have a list of what needs to be done, by when, and how long I estimate that it will take me to reach the finish line. I am often working under great pressure, and I make sure that I don't get myself or my team into a sticky situation by failing to allow enough time for my daily deliverables."
Salary
28. What are your compensation expectations for this Fulfillment Associate position?
How to Answer
It can be intimidating to talk about compensation, and developing a solid set of expectations will make salary questions much more comfortable to approach. When the time comes to discuss your pay structure, you should know what you are asking for and why. Your overall compensation package includes far more than your salary or your hourly wage. It can also include factors such as:
- Overtime pay
- Monthly, quarterly, or annual bonus
- Recognition-based rewards
- Stock options
- Vacation pay
- Benefits packages such as health and dental
- Non-cash benefits
One of the best ways to approach compensation conversations is to have a clear idea of the following points:
- What you want to make
- What you need to make
- What your minimum threshold is
- What the market is telling you about your job title and industry in your region
Salary.com data tells us that the average annual pay for a Fulfillment Associate with Amazon (North America) is $34,314.00. Amazon also offers a range of medical, dental, vision, and other benefits not outlined in more detail on the company careers site. If you have some idea of the compensation range for this role but are not entirely sure of the full offering, consider turning the question into an opportunity for a conversation.
Answer Example
"I am very interested in learning more about the details of this Fulfillment Associate role and the compensation offering provided. I understand that similar positions in the area pay an annual salary of between $30K and $37K annually. I would expect an offer in the $35K range, considering I am a recently certified forklift operator with one year of experience in a logistics environment. I am also interested in discussing the overall compensation offering, such as medical benefits and vacation time. Could you share more details with me, please?"
Teamwork
29. Teamwork is a significant focus for Amazon. How will you ensure that you get along well with your supervisor and co-workers, even if you don't always agree?
How to Answer
Healthy teamwork is essential, especially in a work environment where everyone relies on the next person to make safe and responsible decisions. You can show maturity and workplace readiness by taking the initiative to build a healthy relationship with your direct supervisor and co-workers. It may not be realistic to expect that everyone gets along 100% of the time, especially when working in a fast-moving, high-stakes environment like a fulfillment center. What is most important, however, is your approach to challenging interpersonal situations. Show the interviewer that you value teamwork and express how you plan to be an active team player, even if you are not always in agreement with your manager or fellow team members.
Answer Example
"School has been all about collaboration and teamwork, so I have learned how to work well in a group setting even when I don't always agree with everyone in my group or on my team. I know that I have to rely on my coworkers to have a safe and productive day, and they need the same from me. We cannot achieve anything alone. I believe that we have to work collaboratively and to reach targets and exceed goals. To achieve this, I will put my ego aside and be sure that every decision I stand by is well thought out. I will also remain flexible with my priorities to avoid unnecessary stress and arguments."
Teamwork
30. Have you ever worked in an environment where other departments and functions work closely together?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of working in a cross-departmental and cross-functional environment. Cross-departmental collaboration means working together and communicating well with people that have tasks and goals different from yours. If you have work experience with a large company such as Amazon, you have likely been required to collaborate with people from other departments to reach a common goal. Your ability to work across teams and departments will be essential as an Amazon Fulfillment Associate. Discuss your experience working in a collaborative environment and share any wins or positive lessons you have learned along the way.
Answer Example
"Yes, I currently work in a 3PL warehouse with a heavy focus on collaboration across functions and departments. I work on the production team, and we collaborate with the quality assurance folks multiple times per shift. We have two primary goals: to ensure an amazing product is produced and deliver the best in customer service. I appreciate that we have clear goals, and we all understand how each department works to complement the other."