List of 31 Apple Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. Customer Service Questions
- 8. Diligence Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Diversity Questions
- 11. Experience Questions
- 12. Gallup Questions
- 13. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 14. Leadership Questions
- 15. Problem Solving Questions
- 16. Stress Questions
- 17. Teamwork Questions
- 18. Time Management Questions
- 19. Tough Questions
Accomplishment
1.
Apple likes to hire those who take pride in their work. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.
How to Answer
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!
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
1st 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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Experienced
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Accomplishment
2.
How did you bring value to your last position?
How to Answer
Think about the strengths and skills that made you an asset in your most recent position. Maybe you influenced changes that saved the company money. Perhaps you were the top-grossing salesperson 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
1st 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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Experienced
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Adaptability
3.
Change is par for the course with Apple. When have you had to adapt to change?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my current role there is a lot of staff 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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Experienced
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Ask The Interviewer
4.
What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the Apple website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely watching a video on their website!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working for Apple?
- What is Apple's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in tech over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Career Goals
5.
At Apple, we seek to hire those who want a long-term fit. What is your long-range career objective?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Career Goals
6.
Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
How to Answer
Career progression can be a sensitive 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Compatibility
7.
Apple puts emphasis on hiring people who fit into our workplace culture. How would you describe your personality?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Competency
8.
Do you have experience in managing online sales?
How to Answer
For Apple, online sales and marketing efforts are incredibly important. Talk to the interviewer about your experience and understanding when it comes to digital marketing efforts. If there has been a time that your efforts have made a significant impact on your employer, this is a great opportunity to tell a brief story highlighting your success.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Customer Service
9.
Have you ever needed Apple customer support? If so, describe your experience.
How to Answer
Apple is known for its unmatched level of customer support. They even have their own acronym!
APPLE:
- Approach customers with a personalized, warm welcome.
- Probe politely to understand the customer's needs (ask closed and open-ended questions).
- Present a solution for the customer to take home today.
- Listen for and resolve any issues or concerns.
- End with a fond farewell and an invitation to return.
The interviewer would like to know what your experience has been with their company. Of course, your response should remain positive. If you did not have a great customer service experience with Apple, you can be honest but be sure to end on a positive note.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Customer Service
10.
At Apple we always think of the customer first. What are the top 3 ways that we can ensure consumer satisfaction?
How to Answer
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; the interviewer wants to know how you will ensure that customer satisfaction is a priority.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Diligence
11.
Sales performance is of utmost importance to Apple. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Diligence
12.
How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?
How to Answer
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. Talk to the interviewer about how you would respond in this situation. Showcase your ability to set professional boundaries, when needed.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Direct
13.
Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know your thoughts on being paid based on your work performance, versus being compensated solely on your years of experience. As the workforce landscape changes, more employees are requesting compensation based on delivered results. Think about how you would rather be compensated; tenure vs. results. Share your thoughts with the interviewer and support your answer with an example, if possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Direct
14.
Apple has some of the most loyal customers in the world. How would you define a loyal customer?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Direct
15.
What are Apple's primary values, and how do they align with your core values?
How to Answer
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 its 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Direct
16.
How have Apple products influenced your life?
How to Answer
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 its 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Diversity
17.
Apple celebrates diversity. In which ways do you honor those different from you?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Experience
18.
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?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Gallup
19.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
How to Answer
This question isn't a trick question and, there indeed is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer would like to see how far you dig for your response. Your reply will show them just how insightful you can be! This question is a famous Apple interview question so be prepared to have some fun with it.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Gallup
20.
What does greatness, and success, mean to you?
How to Answer
This question is a discovery-based inquiry, genuinely focused on how you think versus what you do. Go with your initial instinct when it comes to how you define success and greatness. There is no right or wrong answer, but do give a reply that is insightful and well thought out.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Job Satisfaction
21.
Apple wants to know how to motivate you. What work situations excite and motivate you?
How to Answer
Steve Jobs is quoted to have said, '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.' 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Job Satisfaction
22.
We believe in an equal balance of work at Apple. How often do you take work home with you?
How to Answer
Apple is known for offering a solid work/life balance for its 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Job Satisfaction
23.
What would you gain from working at Apple?
How to Answer
There are many positive factors to working at Apple, including incredible training, one of the worlds' strongest brands on your resume, valuable perks, competitive wages, and product discounts. Talk to the interviewer about your reasons for wanting to work for Apple and be as specific as possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Leadership
24.
Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Problem Solving
25.
When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Apple looks for employees who have a history of taking the initiative when it comes to being successful. Think about a time when you were asked to take on a task or a role that you felt was over your experience level. Discuss how you dealt with the situation, and the outcome you were able to generate. Also, share what you learned from the experience.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Stress
26.
What part of your career brings you the most stress?
How to Answer
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).
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Teamwork
27.
At Apple, we greatly value teamwork. Tell me about a contribution you made to the last team you worked on.
How to Answer
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. Show how you went over and above to ensure that the team felt your contribution.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Time Management
28.
The environment is fast-paced and challenging at Apple. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
How to Answer
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. Discuss how you decided which projects or tasks need your attention the most. Assure the interviewer that you are diligent when it comes to assessing work priorities.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Tough
29.
As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Tough
30.
We encourage innovation at Apple. What does innovation mean to you?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021
Tough
31.
Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
When it comes to hiring decisions, a company will choose the person that they believe will help them to solve a problem or a pain point. By clearly discussing how you will solve the hiring company's biggest needs, you are positioning yourself as the top choice candidate. Think about your best skills and qualifications. Try to include a mix of hard skills and soft skills. Then, looking at the job description, for the role in question, you can quickly dissect what the hiring company is really looking for in a candidate.
Avoid using this question as an opportunity to recite everything on your resume. Your response should highlight the reasons why your achievements, skills, and characteristics are a match for the hiring company's most pressing needs. Sprinkle in some of your proudest achievements. Mentioning specific numbers, percentages, awards, and accolades is an excellent way to grab the hiring manager's attention. You can also tell a story! Psychology tells us that offering a compelling, relatable story makes us 22x more memorable.
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 1st, 2021