30 Aon Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. Creative Thinking Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Diversity Questions
- 12. Education Questions
- 13. Leadership Questions
- 14. Problem Solving Questions
- 15. Salary Questions
- 16. Teamwork Questions
Accomplishment
1. Tell me about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
An interviewer has to take everything into account to hire the right person for the job. Having the right skills or qualifications to match the job requirements is only one aspect of this. A great deal of it also falls under 'the right fit.' Any hiring manager has an idea of what they want their ideal team to look like. So much of it has to do with ensuring every candidate embodies their company culture and brand identity. The right hire can make the team, and the wrong hire can break it.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
How to Answer
You want your personality to shine. You also want to show appropriate respect to your interviewer. One way to do this is by showing you take this opportunity seriously and have done your homework on them, just as you expect they've likely done their homework on you. In essence, you are both deciding whether you will enter into a professional relationship. Explain why you find this job and career opportunity attractive.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I've been in this business for the past fifteen years, and I felt like my career was advancing and moving in the right direction for the first seven. But the company faced a series of setbacks and challenges, which resulted in cutbacks. From this point on, the growth opportunities slowed down. As we lost many of our workers, they continued to rely more heavily on me, increasing my responsibility and workload without promoting my development or skill set. It just made me feel unappreciated and taken for granted. So, that led me here because I am interested in working with a company with similar values to mine, where I am more of a part of the team rather than being the whole team."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Adaptability
2. Do you prefer to work on location in the office, or do you prefer to work remotely from your home?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
On their website, Aon describes their work process as their smart working model. They've "embraced a hybrid working culture where most colleagues work flexibly at home, in the office or at another remote location. We believe we can drive greater growth for our business and our colleagues by fostering a more inclusive and flexible culture, improving access to talent and enhancing colleague wellbeing. We have invested heavily in technology to enable a flexible, hybrid, and agile workplace, and we're continuing to develop new ways of working together."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
When answering this question, you'll want to be honest yet highlight your adaptability. There will undoubtedly be stages during your employment, such as during your onboarding, where it may be essential to be on location to build relationships with others on your team while learning more about the job and the company. Also, you'll want to exhibit not only how flexible you are, to showcase yourself as a team player, but also how curious you are to learn more about and embrace everything that is Aon.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I would prefer to be in the office during the onboarding process. I feel this would give me the chance to build relationships with my colleagues and learn the ropes from whatever mentors are assigned to me. After that, I would be flexible and look forward to determining what feels right from there on out."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Adaptability
3. Do you have any interest in travelling or relocating for work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Aon has offices and career growth opportunities across the globe. "To find out which early careers program is right for you, please choose your region: United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Brazil, and Mexico."
Explore how transferring fits into your career trajectory and how travelling for work fits into your life priorities.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
Be transparent about your needs. Aon prioritizes increasing focus on staff well-being and employee attraction and retention. So if travelling for work would put a strain on your personal life, well-being, or relationships, then be truthful about it from the onset. Saying no doesn't mean they won't hire you. It simply means they might find a better opportunity for you within the company.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I am very interested in considering any serious offer to grow within the company. If that means travelling or relocating, I am willing to do so."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Behavioral
4. What challenges do you anticipate when entering this role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is similar to asking what your strengths and weaknesses are. As they state on their website, "New employees approach their jobs with a bit of anxiety and apprehension, but mostly with enthusiasm. It is critical to turn that enthusiasm into engagement. Companies need to ensure that the onboarding process is not just good, but outstanding for each new employee."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Focus your answer on the growth opportunities you anticipate when onboarding. Focus on the career goals or personal challenges you have taken ownership of. Doing so will exhibit emotional intelligence, which is a strength. Think of it this way: you are giving your interviewer specifics on what they can do to set you up for success.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I imagine it will be a challenge to get to know the unique personalities of my teammates. I consider myself a pretty strong communicator and can adapt my communication style to others, but that's easier to do one at a time. Doing it with everyone at the company is a bit nerve-wracking, as it has to prove to everyone what you have to offer the team."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Behavioral
5. What sets you apart from other professionals?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Aon is trying to "find the right fit." In their recruiting efforts, they advertise that they offer "career opportunities to people who are ready to make their mark on the world. Aon has a place for you." They also list the qualities they are looking for in their candidates. Thoroughly research their entire website, not just their careers pages, and identify every quality they are looking for which you already embrace.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"We're looking for committed, energetic individuals ready to start their careers with purpose, supported by a professional culture that prizes learning and professional development. We're looking for collaborators, critical thinkers, problem solvers, team players, effective communicators, relationship builders and future leaders" who are "strategic, resilient, confident, curious, bold and creative, with varying experiences, backgrounds and strengths to ensure we continue to offer the most innovative solutions to our clients."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 12th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I can only speak for myself and what I believe makes me unique. But I would say that I learn fast and am eager to learn more, never satisfied with the status quo. I am always looking at things from every angle and frequently think outside the box, which helps me contribute in more innovative ways. This isn't restricted to my work, either. I am always actively listening and staying tuned into what my teammates are working on, and if I can ever lend a hand or offer a suggestion that could help them, I will. I am also happy-go-lucky, and I think my positive attitude is one of my strongest traits as an individual."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Career Goals
6. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The pitfall to this question is in how you choose to interpret it and whether you confuse it with questions concerning salary or benefits. Suggesting a company can incentivize you through tangible rewards or compensation would indicate a lack of loyalty. No recruiter is interested in hiring someone who is only in it for the money. Instead, respond to this question by examining what opportunities Aon can present to your career development, growth, and the advancement of your goals.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Here are some statements from their career pages which can help guide your answer: "Across Aon, we are united in our passion to create a culture of opportunity for our colleagues and clients, driven by collaboration and innovation. Going beyond fair and competitive pay and rewards, our firm offers colleagues a benefits program that supports balance and well-being. Colleagues are recognized and appreciated for their unique points of view and contributions and have numerous career development opportunities."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I appreciate it when my accomplishments are rewarded with greater opportunities to contribute on a larger scale. I look at myself as a banker of trust. The more trust I gain, the more I hope to cash that in for more responsibility. If I feel valued as a trusted resource and recognized as the clutch player I try to be, that's a rewarding and motivating experience."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Career Goals
7. Where would you like this position to take you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is curious if you have career goals and how this position at Aon would benefit your career. How you answer this question will tell them whether you have explored those possibilities. Questions such as this will help your interviewer distinguish someone who wants to specifically work for them from those who are cruising along looking for a job anywhere suited to their skills, with no real goals, drive, or ambition.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
Spend some time on their website researching the potential career trajectories within their company and how those align with your career goals and aspirations. Just as you should customize your cover letter and resume to the company you are applying to, customize your five-year career plan as well. Do this in advance, then demonstrate your company knowledge and the thought you put into this career opportunity, and you'll set yourself up as an ideal candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I speak fluent Spanish and would like to work my way to a senior or lead position in one of the Spain offices."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Career Goals
8. What career path are you interest in pursuing here at Aon?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is curious about how in-depth you've explored avenues you could pursue in your career path and how motivated and driven you are in furthering your career. How you answer this question will also potentially inform your interviewer how thoroughly you've prepared for this interview and whether you've explored their Aon Careers online questionnaire, which poses several multiple-choice questions to better place you within the company based on your working style, personality, and personal preferences. When you finish the questionnaire, it congratulates you and suggests a few career paths within Aon which you may be interested in.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Here is an explanation of the process from their careers page. Explore it, and go through it a few times before your interview. "You are presented with different situations that ask you to imagine you have just started a new role with Aon. You should indicate how you would respond to each situation by choosing one of the five options. There are no incorrect answers and this is for your own information to help you find out more about Aon. Your answers will help guide you into a solution line most suited to your work style, so please answer honestly for your own benefit. Your responses are not collected or stored anywhere. This is only for you! Here we go, day one, you're on the team! You're about to embark on a new journey working at Aon."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I took the online questionnaire and was surprised that it recommended data and analytics as my best choice of careers with the company. I built my career in sales but have always been more interested in data and analytics, and would be willing to consider exploring any career trajectory Aon would recommend within the company."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Career Goals
9. What motivates you in your career?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is interested in recruiting the right people and retaining those people. As they say on their site, "We believe our people are the heart of our firm." Therefore, the interviewer asks this question to determine your level of career satisfaction and why you find your work rewarding. It also is aimed at helping your interviewer determine whether their work environment and culture can contribute to your career satisfaction. As they state online, their colleagues are empowered to play a part in creating a collaborative and supportive workplace. "We are dedicated to providing a learning experience, enabling colleagues to deliver high-impact work, collaborate, and support each other while growing their careers and realizing their full potential."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
While focusing on employee retention, your interviewer has a vested interest in ensuring you are the right person for the job and a good fit for their environment. Identify the keywords on their site, especially in their recruitment efforts, and identify which apply to you. The keywords from the statements shared here are very team-oriented, such as collaborative, supportive, potential, empowered, creative, enabled, and dedicated.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I am motivated when I am learning something new and growing professionally and when I am entrusted with greater responsibilities in line with my career goals. I thrive when I am being coached and when being involved in our leadership teams. The greater of a positive impact I can have on our work and my career development, the more motivated I feel."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Career Goals
10. What are you looking for in an employer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In an interview, when you are asked several similarly phrased questions, it is an evaluation of your attention to detail. Your interviewer will also be evaluating the consistencies of your answers. Someone who proves to be inconsistent in their responses, or is inconsistent with the formatting of their cover letter or resume, may not have strong attention to detail and be inconsistent in their work performance. Such candidates may be passed over in favour of a more consistent candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"Our Colleague Experience: Achieving Full Potential. Our people are the heartbeat of our firm. Our passion for clients is what unites us, drives us and brings out the best in us. Across Aon, we create a culture of opportunity for our colleagues, driven by collaboration and innovation. Ultimately, Aon colleagues are more relevant, more connected, and more valued in ways that enable them to achieve their full professional potential."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I feel that what Aon promotes in their culture, about everyone on their teams being untied, and promoting a culture of opportunity through collaboration and innovation, is in line with what I am looking for in an employer right now."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Compatibility
11. If you had a personal purpose statement, what would it be?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is a test of how purpose-driven you are in your career and how aligned you are with their culture and brand identity. Aon repeatedly states that they are united with their people in all that they do. The theme of being united is a big part of their purpose statement, "to shape decisions for the better to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world." Examine your career, motivators and drivers, and determine how they might align with Aon's purpose, behaviours, and values.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Here are some more statements concerning their company purpose and values. "At Aon, our values are the foundation of all we do. We are: Committed as one firm to our purpose. United through trust as one inclusive, diverse team. Passionate about making our colleagues and clients successful. We are committed as one firm to our purpose, united through trust as one inclusive, diverse team and passionate about making our colleagues and our clients successful. Everyone is called upon to lead Aon United values and behaviours. We believe our people are the heart of our firm. Across Aon, we are united in our passion to create a culture of opportunity for our colleagues and clients, driven by collaboration and innovation. We innovate to better prepare organizations and communities around the world, as well as our own firm, to manage some of the greatest challenges facing society."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I would say that my professional purpose is to dedicate myself to the success of my teams and clients. My finest accomplishments would be defined as their success, which would be our collective success. If I have fully contributed and put 150% in, I could take pride in the team's greater success."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Compatibility
12. What do you think are the greatest commercial risks today?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a relatively straightforward question intended to gauge your experience and skill level and whether you've done your homework on Aon. How you answer could inform them of how proactive you are in staying up to date with the current trends and developments in your field.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Here is some text from their website that may help guide your answer: "Commercial Risk Solutions: Shifts in technology, economics and geopolitics are creating unprecedented volatility. We help clients identify, measure and manage their risk exposure." So showcase your professionalism by thoroughly preparing for your Aon interview while sharing some of the professional resources or publications your turn to stay current on the happenings in your field.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'd say the biggest risks are the ones we don't see coming. COVID-19 was such a risk. Sure, we knew there was the potential of a pandemic for the last few decades, but the changes a pandemic could make to the structure of our society operated wasn't fully realized. Also, the rapid shifts in technology, particularly concerning AI, and how that could even further shake up the geopolitical landscape is concerning."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Compatibility
13. What's your biggest priority when onboarding at a new job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question aims to reveal your approach to learning a new company's history, systems, and operations while focusing on building relationships with your leaders, new teammates, and clients. As their website states, "Paying deep attention to the onboarding of new talent is key to the future success of an individual in the company." So they want to ensure their investment in recruiting and retaining talent pays off.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Some enter a new company keeping their head down, exhibiting humility, and asking many questions with an eagerness to learn how things are done and why they are done the way they are. As the adage goes, "You have to learn the rules before you can break them." This personality differs from those who enter a new environment with less emotional maturity, feeling insecure and defensive. Those personalities will typically try to exert their dominance by trying to reinvent the wheel right off the bat, offering little regard for those who came before them nor understanding the pride those have for what they've built. Your interviewer is curious about which camp you may fall into.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"Well, I have strong communication skills and look forward to building lasting and sustainable relationships with those I work with. That comes first. But, my biggest priority is to get up to speed as swiftly as possible so that I can contribute as effectively as I hope to."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Competency
14. What are the four main solutions Aon offers to their clients?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question tests your Aon company knowledge and how thoroughly you prepared for the interview. Aon's solutions to global challenges fall into four main categories: commercial risk, health, reinsurance, and wealth. The end benefit they promise is in enabling their "clients to make better decisions." How you answer will inform your interviewer of how seriously you are taking this opportunity and offer insights into your work ethic and the standard you hold yourself to as a professional. Someone who goes above and beyond in everything they do is more likely to be a top performer and will be remembered after the interview as an ideal candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"Aon's experience, global reach and state-of-the-art analytics mean that we are better able to deliver the insights and advice that help today's companies protect and grow their organizations. Shifts in technology, economics and geopolitics are creating unprecedented volatility. We help clients identify, measure and manage their risk exposure. Health is declining, costs are rising and workers have vastly different needs. We help companies improve employee health and well-being while managing costs. Businesses, governments and communities need to become more resilient. Our expertise and insight help re/insurers navigate uncharted territories and create more relevant solutions. Global business is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. We help employers, fiduciaries and investment officers optimize results and provide a more secure future for their stakeholders."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"Aon's four main solutions are commercial risk solutions, health solutions, reinsurance solutions, and wealth solutions."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Creative Thinking
15. How do you go about enabling innovation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This company-centric question aims to determine how proactive you are in developing yourself as a professional. The interviewer also wants to know if you stay informed so you can be a trusted resource in your field and how readily you share your knowledge with your coworkers to support your team.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"Colleagues at every career stage have specific behaviours and key measures of success. As an individual contributor, you will enable innovation by: Proactively seeking out opportunities to develop expertise and stay current on industry growth trends. Sharing knowledge, best practices and resources by connecting with other colleagues across solution lines and geographies."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"The first aspect of enabling innovation is being as informed as possible about what is trending and developing and anticipating what is around the corner. I also strive to create open discussions with a diverse team and consider everyone's unique perspective offering. Then, I collect all the creative data to create new solutions."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Diligence
16. Tell me about the last time you acted with integrity.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Aon takes pride in creating and maintaining a culture of honesty, trust, and integrity. How you answer this question will tell your interviewer how your brand of integrity aligns with theirs. "At Aon, we live our values by acting with integrity, trusting one another and working as one inclusive team to: Consistently bring our best to clients, support our colleagues to achieve their full potential, innovate at a scale to further our mission." The takeaway from this statement is that integrity is integrated into everything they do and practised with consistency. They are saying they can be trusted to live up to their word to continue innovating and developing their colleagues in a supportive manner.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Aon is looking for candidates who have strength of character, are true to their word, and consistently act with integrity. Attest to your honesty. Talk about a situation in which you did the right thing and held yourself accountable for your actions.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I think integrity is more than just being true to your word; it means going above and beyond in living your values and being true to your character. For example, it is one thing to strive to hear every voice. That's great. But when you make sure others do as well, that's integrity. I recently worked with someone from a different background than me, and they were a bit timid in their approach. But I made sure their voice was heard, and their suggestions helped our department. Now, thanks to the confidence boost this gave them, their voice is louder, and their contributions are increasing."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Direct
17. Do you know where our company name, Aon, comes from?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Consider this a bonus question. Even if they don't ask this question in the interview, it equips you with a fun fact about the company that you can sneak into the conversation. The company was founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1982 by Patrick Ryan. The word Aon is actually a Gaelic word meaning "one."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"Yes, actually, Aon is Gaelic and means 'one.' I love this, as it is universal in Aon's purpose statement - we are united as one team. Brilliant. Fun fact, in Ireland, they don't refer to the language as Gaelic. They call it Irish."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Discovery
18. How do you like to spend your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This may feel like a casual question; however, it serves several purposes. It can reveal how well you balance your personal life with your professional life, offering insights into whether you are likely to burn out on the job or bring your personal problems to work. It could also potentially reveal how committed you are to your profession. For example, if you have expressed throughout your interview that you are committed to your career and then share that you are taking night classes at a school for massage therapy, then you've essentially informed your interviewer that you may not see much of a future at Aon. This happens more commonly than one would think, and your interviewer needs to take everything into consideration when trying to hire the right person for the job.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
When answering this question, you should try to make yourself unique and relatable at the same time. The more memorable you are as a candidate, the more likely you'll land another interviewer. Even if you are very career oriented and dedicated to your professional pursuits, share something outside your career that shows you have other interests and prioritize your emotional well-being through your activities.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I always have a project going on. I just finished building my garden and enjoy tending to my raised garden beds. I also love going for long bike rides and long walks. Aside from that, I spend a fair amount of time reading."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Discovery
19. What was the last gift you gave someone?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This fun question is designed to get you to relax while offering insights into your personality. Think about what you want your answer to say about you before sharing the first thing that comes to mind.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"The last gift I gave someone was advice about how to reach their goals by asking more questions."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Diversity
20. How important do you feel it is for a business to focus on building more inclusive and diverse teams?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to determine your cultural competence and whether your values are aligned with theirs. This question also helps them assess how well you would serve their clients. Aon needs to ensure anyone they hire will be 'united' in their commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion. "We are committed as one firm to our purpose, united through trust as one inclusive, diverse team and passionate about making our colleagues and our clients successful. Everyone is called upon to lead Aon United values and behaviors."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
When answering questions about diversity and inclusion, you should discuss professional experiences that showcase you are cultured. If you are well-travelled and have extensive experience immersed in varying cultures, this could be worth mentioning. Talk about what you've learned from being in such environments in the past and what you hope to gain from being in more diverse and inclusive environments in the future. Discuss the value that fostering diverse and inclusive work cultures can provide a company and why every company must champion it.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"When you think about how a varied workforce is more successful in innovation, positive brand representation, and higher customer satisfaction, I would say it is quintessential to the success of any business."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Education
21. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most positions at Aon require a "Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline or equivalent years of industry experience." You've landed your interview based on the qualifications you've listed on your resume, but this question offers an opportunity to go deeper and provide contextual detail about what your education has offered your career. If appropriate, you can expand your education to the relevant experience you gained throughout your career and what you learned that helped you develop and grow professionally.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I graduated from the top of my class in university, obtaining my master's degree, and landed an internship with XYZ Incorporated. The hands-on training and international real-world experience were quite the professional education. I decided to leave that company for some more career-driven opportunities and continued my real-world education through on-the-job experience, conventions, seminars, and endless reading."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Education
22. How do you stay informed in your industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Not only is it important to showcase how you stay current and informed, but it is of equal importance to share your familiarity with the informational sources Aon provides as a company. If you are competing to represent their company to their clients, you should be fully versed in what sources of information your company provides their clients. Such as Aon News, Aon Insights, The One Brief, and their featured update. "Better informed, better advised, better decisions."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I have a pretty customized Apple news feed and have every subscription plugged in. I am obsessed with it. I have a car, but I prefer public transportation; it frees up my hands and allows me more reading time. I also visit websites of industry leaders, such as Aon, to get the latest insights and news from their sources."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Leadership
23. When was the last time you led by example?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is curious about how aligned your ethics and leadership style is with their code of conduct. How you answer this question will offer your interviewer insights into your leadership potential, work style, and what you could potentially offer Aon's teams. They define leading by example as showing "respect toward colleagues and maintain open, honest and constructive two-way communication with them. This means encouraging colleagues to ask questions and make suggestions, and report concerns or potential violations of the Code, Aon policies or procedures. When allegations of wrongdoing are brought to their attention, managers have an obligation to notify the appropriate party and must assist in taking corrective or disciplinary action."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"The last time my integrity was put to the test was when I was working with my trainee, who I was training for a leadership position in our firm. For a month, we'd been working together to bring on an account that felt like a big deal, and I wanted to see it through to the end, even though my trainee repeatedly requested they handle the final details on their own. That was when I started asking questions. It felt like they were intentionally omitting information, and the more I asked, I started to realize there was a conflict of interest. I discovered this client had an immediate member of their family that was personally connected to the family of my trainee.
As soon as I learned this, I respectfully confront them, and asked if they were aware of this from the beginning. They confessed that they were aware of it, but felt it was a really great opportunity for the firm. When I asked them why they hadn't been honest about this from the start, they admitted that they weren't honest about it because they thought I would shoot their idea down if I knew. This presented an incredibly difficult decision for me. On one hand, I was invested in training this individual who I suddenly realized wasn't fit to lead according to our values. On the other hand, there was this client which presented a conflict of interest for me and my trainee. So, I informed my department manager of what had come to light. They handed the account over to another leader, and then we together reprimanded my trainee, who faced disciplinary measures, and was no longer a candidate for a leadership position within the firm. It was tough, disappointing, and personally a little embarrassing. But coming forward was the only option, as it was the right thing to do."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Problem Solving
24. How do you approach taking risks?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question aims to assess your approach to risk-taking. How you answer will potentially tell them whether you can be trusted with their assets and clients. Share your approach to taking calculated risks.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Aon advertises on their website, "Our clients can find stability, competitive advantage and sustainable success. Aon's expertise and global understanding keep clients better informed and better advised so they can make the right decisions for their business."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I approach risk-taking by collecting as much data as swiftly as possible. If the matter is urgent, you have to form a plan and act fast, thinking quickly on your feet. I am a believer in calculated risk. If you are resourceful and know where to turn for the information you need, then you can respond appropriately."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Problem Solving
25. How do you respond when things don't go according to plan?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer wants to determine how resourceful and adaptable you are when things don't go according to plan and whether you can be counted on to make the right decisions. Even more so, they are curious how you would help their clients make the right decisions in such a situation. "When the worst happens, we help our clients make the right decisions and get them back on their feet quickly. Thanks to our world-class insight and expertise, should the worse happen, we are able to help your organization get back on its feet and operating smoothly again."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
How quickly you respond to situations in an emergency is what you want to communicate here. Some feel overwhelmed in such situations and suffer from task paralysis. The longer you take to react, the more costly the consequences can be. Assure your interviewer that you are emotionally intelligent, can think quickly on your feet, and take action when necessary.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I respond calmly. If you keep a cool head at all times, you can respond swiftly and appropriately. If you become overwhelmed and stressed, task paralysis kicks in, and you lose precious time and the respect of your team. In my book, that's not an option."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Problem Solving
26. How do you ensure you meet your deadlines and fulfill your commitments?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is curious about how well you manage your time and projects and whether you plan for contingencies. As they say at Aon, expect the unexpected. They advertise that they help their clients make better decisions by helping them navigate new risks they often don't see coming. Describe how you anticipate and plan for the unexpected and respond to and recover when it arises, ensuring you consistently meet your deadlines and exceed expectations.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"New forms of volatility expose organizations to risks that impact their colleagues, their customers, their reputation and ultimately their bottom line. Risks that they often don't see coming. Aon is best placed to help clients navigate this new risk landscape, becoming a business partner that offers tailor-made services to help clients cope with the unexpected, protecting their assets and enabling them to continue growing their organizations. Whether it's protecting against diverse threats or responding to and recovering from their impact, we're here to help clients make better decisions."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I meet my deadlines by planning for contingencies and pushing my deadlines up. I never do the bare minimum. Instead, I always raise the bar when it comes to my work ethic and standard. If my deadline is in four weeks, that means three weeks. That way, when the unexpected happens, if I'm not on time, I am still ahead of schedule."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Problem Solving
27. How would you navigate an ethically gray area when trying to decide the right thing to do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Aon's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics defines the right thing to do as a sometimes difficult thing to navigate. They state that, in some circumstances, it can be extremely difficult to know what to do. Before answering this question, read their business code of conduct and see how your approach aligns with theirs.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
"When things are "gray," ask yourself: Are there any laws, regulations, policies or procedures that address this situation? What about the "spirit" of the law? Am I looking at this situation objectively, or am I so emotionally involved that I should get help making the decision? What are the motivations of the others involved How would I feel if my decision were featured on the front page of the newspaper? If made public, would my actions have the appearance of impropriety? A good guideline is to act, at all times, in a manner that you would be proud to explain to your clients, family and friends, and that would not have the appearance of impropriety or a conflict of interest."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I would navigate a morally grey situation by gaining outside perspectives, whether that means reviewing the code of conduct or seeking the outside advice of a supervisor or HR rep. When in doubt, err on the side of caution, and by caution, I mean doing what is right."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Salary
28. What kind of salary are you hoping for?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When discussing salary, you want to be transparent about your current and projected earnings while showcasing your professional worth. How well you communicate your professional worth will ultimately result in what you are offered. Volunteer anything and everything that speaks to your professional worth. For example, if your current employer has offered you an increase to stay onboard, that increases your professional worth. If you project a salary increase of 3% in the next year, with a bonus, that increases your professional worth as well.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
What You Need to Know
Aon offers what they call "Pay Transparency" on all of their job postings, which reflects a pay range, further detailing "the actual salary will vary based on applicant's education, experience, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. The salary may also be adjusted based on applicant's geographic location." They also detail their "competitive total rewards package, tremendous potential with a growing worldwide organization, and the opportunity to be the point of contact for clients that implement voluntary benefits.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I put my salary on my resume, but I didn't include my expected 6% increase annually. I was also offered a 3% increase to stay with my current employer. The benefits Aon offers are very generous and similar to what I currently receive, which is a perk."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Teamwork
29. Do you prefer to work as part of a team, or do you prefer working on your own?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is typically aimed at assessing your personality and whether you are an introvert or an extrovert. Typically, an introvert feels drained from too much social interaction and needs to recharge by being alone, and an extrovert feels recharged by more social interaction. How you answer will not only help them determine your fit for their company but may also help them place you in the appropriate role.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
How to Answer
When answering this question, you want to place yourself towards the center of the scale as an ambivert. Highlight your adaptability to perform alone or in a more collaborative role, depending on the needs of the team.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I prefer working more as part of a team, but I can rise to the occasion and accomplish solitary tasks when need be. Any way I can contribute to the effort, I will rise to the occasion."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023
Teamwork
30. For career advancement opportunities, do you prefer a competitive or collaborative environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At Aon, they attest that they "believe that no individual person or piece of Aon is stronger than the whole." So this question aims to reveal whether you are competitive in your goals and ambitions, looking for recognition and rewards for your singular accomplishments, or if you view yourself as an integral contributing member of the team, and view the success of the team as a joint success. "As a firm, Aon is committed to creating a work environment where every colleague feels safe and comfortable being their authentic self, experiences a sense of belonging, is empowered to reach their full professional potential and is valued for the unique perspectives and talents they bring."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 13th, 2023
Answer Example
"I would say that I am competitive with myself; I am always trying to meet or exceed my personal best. However, I don't appreciate a dog-eat-dog shark tank environment as I feel it hurts morale and creates a toxic workplace. Collaboration is key to learning and fostering innovation and is more in line with my idea of a supportive and career-enhancing environment."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 14th, 2023