Apple Interview
Questions

6. Apple has some of the most loyal customers in the world. How would you define a loyal customer? People are either iPhone or Android; PC or Mac. You will rarely find a techie who doesn't have a solid opinion one way or another. When Apple comes out with a new product, there are lineups and people camping outside overnight. Sometimes, customers line up for days. Now, that is customer loyalty! Discuss with the interviewer what customer loyalty means to you. Be sure to express your interest in fostering and guarding those fantastic client relationships that Apple has created over the years. Here is an answer example: "I know that when the iPhone X announcement came out, it became available to pre-order and sold out within minutes. Not many companies can say they sell out in pre-order phase. It's incredible to see how loyal customers are to the Apple brand. I would define loyalty like that as blind faith. Your customers know they will love your product. Often, they don't ask questions; they hand over their money because they are keenly aware of the quality and guarantee that comes with investing in an Apple product." Here is an answer example: "Apple products are known for being the best in the world. Your customers know that every release will be exciting and innovative. I would define a loyal customer by their willingness to pay a lot of money to have the latest and greatest technology, from a specific brand like Apple."7. We encourage innovation at Apple. What does innovation mean to you? Apple has 11 rules for their employees, related to innovation and success: - Let go of the old, make the most of the future. - Always tell the truth, we want to hear the bad news sooner than later. - The highest level of integrity is expected. When in doubt, ask. - Learn to be a good businessperson, not just a good salesperson. - Everyone sweeps the floor. - Be professional in your style, speech, and follow-up. - Listen to the customer; they almost always get it. - Create win/win relationships with our partners. - Look out for each other, sharing information is a good thing. - Don't take yourself too seriously. - Have fun; otherwise, it's not worth it. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have embodied some of these principles of innovation and success. Here is an answer example: "I agree with Apple's 11 rules of success and believe that innovation comes from letting go of the old, and making the most of the future. Also, when you have fun with what you do, you can be at your most innovative. In a nutshell, innovation - to me - means looking at things differently than expected." Here is an answer example: "To me, innovation means being someone who thrives on change and has a mission that matters. Innovation can mean creating a new and powerful idea, and it can also mean simplifying an existing one."8. What are Apple's primary values, and how do they align with your core values? The interviewer is checking to see how much research you have done on Apple, before your interview. Because Apple is a world-renowned company, it should be easy for you to find information on their core values. Here are some notes from Tim Cook, CEO of Apple: - We believe that we're on the face of the Earth to make great products. - We believe in the simple, not the complex. - We believe that we need to own and control the primary technologies behind the products we make. - We participate only in markets where we can make a significant contribution. - We believe in saying no to thousands of projects so that we can really focus on the few that are truly important and meaningful to us. - We believe in deep collaboration and cross-pollination of our groups, which allow us to innovate in a way that others cannot. - We don't settle for anything less than excellence in every group in the company, and we have the self-honesty to admit when we're wrong and the courage to change. Now, think about how these core values align with your professional mission. Keep your answer heartfelt and thoughtful. Here is an answer example: "I have read the core values and mission of Apple many times over. The one point that resonates deeply with me is that Apple believes in the simple, and not the complex. The simpler the product, the more people you will reach. Also, I appreciate that you do not settle for anything less than excellence. This mentality is one that brought me to graduating top of my class, and making the honor roll all through high school." Here is an answer example: "Apple's core values are all-encompassing. The points that truly hit home for me were your belief in deep collaboration and participating only where you can make a significant contribution. It's important to me that I work in an industry I bring a passion for, so I can be highly engaged in every step of my career. I too believe in deep collaboration with my coworkers and clients alike. It's amazing what we can achieve when we work together."9. What part of your career brings you the most stress? Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position (ex: a retail associate should not find talking to strangers to be the most stressful part of the job). Here is an answer example: "The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind for no good reason other than lack of hustle on my team's part. I like to be on time with our schedule to ensure that our clients receive proper assistance." Here is an answer example: "I find that the primary stressor in my current position is the fact that my team is not as reliable as I would like. For this reason, I am seeking a new opportunity, within a professional environment, with a team who values their jobs as much as I do."10. The environment is fast-paced and challenging at Apple. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due? Apple stores are usually brimming with customers, all who have unique needs. The interviewer would like to be sure that you can handle the pressure of being needed in more than one place at once. When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities. Here is an answer example: "First and foremost, I will prioritize projects that most closely align with the company's strategic goals and have the highest potential to affect the company's bottom line. Also, I often determine which projects require my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline." Here is an answer example: "Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I analyze each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact. From there, I make my decision on where to focus first."11. Apple celebrates diversity. In which ways do you honor those different from you? Diversity and inclusion are celebrated topics at Apple, and the interviewer would like to know that you share this mindset. Apple states that 'Humanity is plural, not singular. The best way the world works is everybody in. Nobody out.' Apple believes that: - Diverse teams make innovation possible. - Depending on the contributions of outstanding women leaders is essential. - Diversity is their future. - Every point of progress makes a significant impact. - Pay equity is simply the right thing to do. - LGBTQ rights are human rights. - The most powerful technology should be accessible to everyone. - A more diverse future begins with opportunities in education. - Technology for everyone should be made by everyone. - Their commitment to diversity extends to their suppliers. Share with the interviewer the ways that you celebrate diversity and inclusion. Here is an answer example: "As a visible minority myself, I make a conscious effort to include others in learning about my unique culture. Also, I am broad-minded with it comes to the needs and differences of others. Diversity to me is not simply a matter of culture but also of gender identity, age, and more. I am conscious of being sensitive to others in every action that I take in the workplace." Here is an answer example: "I appreciate the open and transparent effort that Apple makes when it comes to diversity and inclusion in the workplace and greatly appreciate the Diversity Network Associations (DNA) you have put in place. I embrace those different from me and utilize those differences as learning opportunities. I am sensitive to the needs of others and empathetic to the fact that everyone walks a different path, whether that be related to gender identity, sexual orientation, heritage, and more."12. How have Apple products influenced your life? The interviewer wants to know more than just what products you enjoy, but how they have directly impacted your life. Apple is known for making products that seriously change the way their customers do things. Perhaps Apple products have helped you to get fit, taught you how to make creative and beautiful designs, or have saved you hours of precious time. However, Apple products have influenced your life, be sure to express your excitement for them. Here is an answer example: "I have a multitude of Apple products including the latest iPhone and the newest Apple watch. The Apple watch truly has changed how I perform during my day. The reminders are helpful, and now I never miss an important message. I am eager to share these life-altering products with the customers that come to me for help." Here is an answer example: "Apple products have changed the way I do business. For instance, Apple products allow me to be much more efficient with my time by answering emails on the go, and downloading helpful apps to keep my passwords safe and notes organized."13. As a manager, what is your greatest weakness? When it comes to management roles, Apple looks for people who make 'Apple simplicity' look easy, even though it can be a very complicated concept. They look for managers with demonstrated leadership abilities in customer-facing sales settings. Apple also desires managers with a passion for technology and, more specifically, Apple products. Everyone has his/her weaknesses, and that is OK. Talk to the hiring manager about what you feel you could work on the most, and what you are doing about it. Avoid discussing a weakness that could be detrimental to you securing the position. Here is an answer example: "As a manager, I try to give people the benefit of the doubt and have been known to continue trying to nurture people when they are overdue for termination. I have taken a couple of management training classes focused on this area, and I'm also working with an industry mentor. My ability to be objective with underperforming employees is certainly strengthening." Here is an answer example: "I could improve my technical skills when it comes to Numbers and Keynote. I have all the basics covered, but when it comes to more complicated formulas or visualization of data, I don't have much experience. To remedy this, I have enrolled in a course for next month, and my goal is to come out of that experience as a more intermediate user."14. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team? Perhaps you have led a club at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor. Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be a face of the organization when challenges arise. Here is an answer example: "In my current position, I am the president of the social committee. I love that I have the opportunity to encourage employee engagement while being a positive influence on the workplace culture. I am a natural leader because I start with leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentor-ship, a bit of assistance in adjusting to their role, or just a listening ear when they've had a tough day. I am confident in my leadership abilities and look forward to joining your team in a leadership role." Here is an answer example: "I certainly do see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but also I believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic of the organization. I am open to new ideas and love to tackle a new project which, to me, embodies leadership."15. How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress? Even the most well-meaning coworkers can distract you from getting things done at work from time to time. The funny and entertaining coworkers who like to chat online and send YouTube videos are often the ones who can get in the way of your productivity if you let them. How do you respond? Show off your ability to set professional boundaries, when needed. Here is an answer example: "I typically just set a kind, but clear, boundary and tell my coworker that I need to focus on my work at hand. I will sometimes offer an alternate time for a catch-up, over lunch for example. It is important for the sake of workplace culture to set aside time to be social with coworkers, so I usually just let them know when I'll be available for a quick break in the day." Here is an answer example: "If I have a distracting co-worker, I will highlight the distraction right away while remaining kind. I feel it's always best to nip issues in the bud right away before they become out of control."16. At Apple we always think of the customer first. What are the top 3 ways that we can ensure consumer satisfaction? When it comes to Apple products and devices, the satisfaction of their customers is everything! These days, with reviews online, and the power of social media; how will you ensure that customer satisfaction is a priority when working at Apple? Here is an answer example: "I feel that consumer satisfaction comes first from offering value. The product must be surprisingly high quality, be easy to use, and solve an essential problem for the customer. The other ways I ensure consumer satisfaction is through easy access to answers, and fast fulfillment. With Apple, I will ensure that every customer receives a solid overview of how to best use their new device. I will offer solutions by way of new and exciting application suggestions and shortcuts on their new devices." Here is an answer example: "There are many ways to ensure consumer satisfaction; however, I feel that the 3 top ways to ensure customer satisfaction are through top-notch service, excellent follow-up, and consistently providing a product that solves a specific and important everyday need. Apple checks all of these boxes; whether it be with your great customer service training or the multiple resources online for customers looking for tutorials on how to use their Apple device, or troubleshoot a small issue."17. How did you bring value to your last position? This question is similar to 'Why are you the best candidate for us?' Think about the strengths and skills that made you an asset in your last position. Maybe you influenced changes that saved the company money. Perhaps you were the top grossing sales person on the floor. Think of your strengths in action! If you are reliable, talk about how consistent your work has been and how you are in constant support of your coworkers. If you have a strong work ethic, share how you accomplished a project in the midst of harsh obstacles. Here is an answer example: "There were several ways I was able to bring value to my last position. First, I successfully passed each sales goal in my department. Second, I was able to motivate other members of my team and share my sales techniques with them. Third, I introduced two new procedures to the sales manager that helped us eliminate employee idleness between sales calls." Here is an answer example: "I brought value to my last position through my high level of reliability, my positive attitude, and my above average organizational skills. Successful project management is a large part of my work history. The company I am currently with was lacking when it came to smooth project execution. I was able to improve their performance in that area greatly."18. Apple wants to know how to motivate you. What work situations excite and motivate you? 'My job is not to be easy on people. My job is to take these great people we have and to push them and make them even better.' Steve Jobs. Apple knows that it is crucial, for your success, that they keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Apple employees are happy employees, and the company does a lot to ensure that this statement remains true. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive in your new role. Here is an answer example: "I am most motivated, on the job, when tasks feel organized, and the vibe is positive. I value strong teamwork and good leadership. I appreciate that Apple Store Leaders and Managers are well trained. I will eagerly learn from them and grow in my career quickly because of it." Here is an answer example: "I am most motivated when a team is working as a whole, and when I feel organized. When a project or situation is well planned and researched, it motivates me to keep the momentum. Also, I feel most motivated when I am challenged to learn a new skill."19. Apple puts emphasis on hiring people who fit into our workplace culture. How would you describe your personality? Apple says, 'It's what we do together that sets us apart. We're perfectionists. Idealists. Inventors. Forever tinkering with products and processes, always on the lookout for better.' Apple knows that they demand plenty from their employees, but the rewards are also high. Show the interviewer that you can fit in with the Apple culture by describing your personality and work style. Here is an answer example: "I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I like to go the extra mile, and I am a bit of a perfectionist, especially when it comes to delivering far above what my customers expect. I believe my personality will work very well with the innovative and team-based culture here at Apple." Here is an answer example: "I have a personality of helpfulness, cheerfulness, and a willingness to try new things. I will jump into a situation and learn on the spot, and also enjoy taking on new challenges that include problem-solving and innovative thinking."20. We believe in an equal balance of work at Apple. How often do you take work home with you? Apple is known for offering a solid work/life balance for their employees. With that said, the majority of people in the workforce readily accept overtime hours or take work home with them on occasion. Talk to the interviewer about how frequently to take your work home. If you do take work home with you, make sure to express that it is due to overachieving and not procrastination or poor time management. Here is an answer example: "I make sure to utilize my work hours very efficiently, so the only time that I take my work home is when there is an extremely stringent deadline. I would say that, overall, I take my work home maybe twice per month. It's all about being diligent with your time, but I do understand that I may be required to stay late from time to time." Here is an answer example: "I try not to take my work home with me. Everyone needs downtime. However, if something needs to get done, I will get it done, even if it means staying past closing time with a client who needs help troubleshooting their device or getting a new one set up."21. Change is par for the course with Apple. When have you had to adapt to change? Apple products are constantly changing, being added, removed, and tweaked. Being able to adapt to an ever-changing environment and product cycle is a crucial skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have had to adjust to changes on the job. Discuss how you handled the shift in a positive manner. Here is an answer example: "In my current role there is a lot of turnover when it comes to our management team. I have had to adapt to 3 new managers in the past four years. It is not the ideal situation, but I can adjust for the good of the team." Here is an answer example: "In my previous role at a high-growth tech startup, the sales organization was restructured many times, from a new boss to new teams and territories. Some of the accounts I had been nurturing but had not yet converted were handed off to another sales rep who received the fruits of my labor. Of course, this can be very frustrating; however, by sitting down with management to understand the 'why' of the change, I was able to see the more significant objective. Ultimately, I pushed myself harder and increased my sales performance."22. Apple likes to hire those who take pride in their work. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment. Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a firm idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments! Here is an answer example: "The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This success showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication." Here is an answer example: "My greatest career accomplishment occurred in my most recent role. I was the fastest promoted in the organization's history. I was not only proud of myself but also received accolades from the VP of Sales in front of the entire company, which was an extraordinary moment. I look forward to breaking records and exceeding expectations with Apple as well."23. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected? Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future with Apple. Here is an answer example: "Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be for my level of education, experience, and ambition. I am happy to start in a Technical Specialist role and eventually work my way into a Market Leader position, overseeing several Apple stores." Here is an answer example: "I love this question, and I can't imagine many people can say that their career has progressed as expected, fully. If they see a career path exactly as expected, perhaps they haven't taken very many risks. Because of my entrepreneurial approach, I'm open to new opportunities and am willing to take calculated risks to enjoy greater success."24. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing? Apple looks for employees who have a history of taking the initiative when it comes to being successful. Have you ever had to take on a task or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Share what you learned, and a little bit about the outcome. Here is an answer example: "When my manager went on unexpected medical leave for three months last year, I was asked to step into her position in the interim. I knew the basics of her role but was certainly not trained on specifics. I was able to take it on successfully by leaning on my team, reading a lot of company manuals, and asking many questions. Once my manager returned, she was pleased with the progress that I made, and I received a promotion." Here is an answer example: "I am often asked to perform tasks outside of my wheelhouse. I believe that if we don't take on more than we feel prepared for, then we'll never learn. I've stretched in my current role to take on customer dispute resolution, which was difficult for me at first since I'm naturally conflict-averse. But with good training and encouragement from my supervisor, I've been able to help find solutions for our customers, even in uncomfortable situations."25. Sales performance is of utmost importance to Apple. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability? Talk to the interviewer about your sales targets, results, and contributions in the past. Be sure to highlight your biggest wins and talk about the ways you will bring the same performance to Apple if hired. This question is an excellent opportunity for you to inquire about sales goals and expectations. Here is an answer example: "I plan to contribute to your profitability through hard work, tenacity, and paying close attention to the needs of my customers. I have solid results in my most recent position and look forward to bringing these same successes to Apple. Could you share with me how you lay out daily, weekly, and monthly sales targets in this location?" Here is an answer example: "I have a solid sales blueprint that I would be happy to walk through with you today. In this plan, I have prepared a 30, 60, and 90-day plan that includes how I will set out to make an immediate impact here. May I share it with you? I am a sales achiever with a proven history of exceeding my goals every month for the past three years."26. At Apple, we greatly value teamwork. Tell me about a contribution you made to the last team you worked on. Apple employees are known for being productive and highly engaged. It is essential to show the interviewer that you are a team player, looking to work with the best of the best. Talk about a time when you were expected to achieve a goal in a team setting. How did you go over and above to ensure that the team felt your contribution? Here is an answer example: "Effective teamwork is an essential part of a company's success. Last month our company asked upper management to complete a full inventory audit. There were 4 of us total, and so we broke the audit requirements into shifts, after the close-out. In the end, there was one additional shift that nobody wanted to take. I volunteered to do that shift to show dedication to my job and my co-workers. The gesture was appreciated, and the audit completed on time." Here is an answer example: "The most recent team-based project I was a part of was while I was earning my business degree. I worked on a final project with four others, and I found myself stepping into a leadership role where I delegated tasks and helped the team maintain a good pace. In the end, we hit our deadline and received a top grade."27. The financial performance of Apple products relies significantly on our advertising and marketing efforts. Do you have any experience with advertising, marketing, or market research? Talk to the interviewer about any experience you have in advertising and marketing; whether that be on the job training or formal education. Discuss how you have seen robust marketing strategies directly affect the performance of a product. Here is an answer example: "I have always been fascinated by the direct correlation between marketing strategies and product performance. This fascination is why I took a Marketing and Communications degree. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and have additional training in advertising methods from my current employer. I have seen strong marketing campaigns take an underperforming product and make it the strongest performing product in as short as 90 days. I want to put my marketing knowledge towards a sales and marketing based role with Apple." Here is an answer example: "Although I do not have formal training and education in advertising and marketing, I love to research new marketing techniques. I also have a strong understanding of Instagram and Facebook algorithms."28. What would you gain from working at Apple? There are a million things to gain from working at Apple, including incredible training, a great brand on your resume, fun perks, competitive wages, and product discounts. Talk to the interviewer about your reasons for wanting to work for Apple, specifically. With all of the competitors out there - why them? Be as specific as possible. Here is an answer example: "I would like to join Apple because you have a reputation for teaching your employees how to work well within a billion-dollar business while being part of a fun, lively community. The training at Apple, particularly as a Technical Specialist, is of interest to me because I will learn how to properly troubleshoot customer issues and teach customers how to bring their creative ideas to life." Here is an answer example: "Apple has been on my radar for some time now. I have a few friends who work at the store level, in sales based roles, and they have the greatest things to say about working for Apple. Specifically, I believe that you value your team members and their professional growth when it comes to knowledge in the technology industry. These are important factors for me in my next opportunity."29. Do you have experience in managing online sales? For most industries, online sales and marketing have become incredibly important. Talk to the interviewer about your experience and understanding when it comes to social media and online marketing efforts. Has there ever been a time that your online sales efforts have made a significant impact on your employer? Discuss any related achievements with the interviewer. Here is an answer example: "Yes, absolutely - a couple of years ago I worked as a sales manager for a local computer store. Our sales were slower than usual, so I started an Instagram account for the store where we would feature particular refurbished products. We garnered quite a strong following, and we did see an increase in walk-in traffic over time. I am also well versed in managing web-based sales as my current employer has a strong e-commerce presence." Here is an answer example: "I fully respect the fact that online sales are a key connection between Apple and the fast-paced world of consumer sales. As such, those who drive online sales need to be tech-savvy, knowledgeable and incredibly responsive. Given my experience running both social media marketing and online sales initiatives in my current position, I feel confident I could step into the online sales team seamlessly and manage the process consistently with Apple's values and marketing goals."30. At Apple, we seek to hire those who want a long-term fit. What is your long-range career objective? Onboarding new employees is a time consuming and costly endeavor, so the interviewer wants to make sure that this role will be a long-term fit for you. Be open with the interviewer about your dreams within the Apple organization, on a long-term basis. Share what promotions you hope to eventually receive and discuss what you wish to learn from being a part of their organization. Here is an answer example: "I have some pretty lofty career goals. I want to make a big impact within the tech industry, to push technology and press for bigger, better ideas on a regular basis. After researching Apple and learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits beautifully with my future aspirations. The company shares the kind of growth mindset and ambitious passion for success that I value personally. I appreciate that your organization considers the people here to be those that revolutionize an entire industry. I would like to grow into a Store Manager position, then work my way into a Market Leader role." Here is an answer example: "This particular position, as Store Leader, is a goal that I have set my sights on for quite some time. I believe it is the next step in a long and fulfilling career with Apple. The industry leadership that your company offers, by way of your Apple Store Leader Program, as well the culture of ambition and reinvention, are key for me, and I feel confident I will gain skills in this role that will make me successful for years to come."