Apple likes to hire those who take pride in their work. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.

"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."

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!

"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."

"I designed a world-first intelligent security system for _______ gas stations, and then I built it, learning at every step. At the time this was a difficult challenge. I had only limited experience in programming, image processing, web services, video processing, serial data from pumps, database design, software licensing, and software security. But with focus and a lot of hard work, I built a product that could find the person holding the pump nozzle and redirect the camera to get a headshot, then do the same for the number plate. Because of this project, I now hold a patent."

How did you bring value to your last position?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I was the go-to person when you needed an intuitive answer to a new and complex problem. People respected that I listened to them and asked questions that enabled us to go back to first principles and think creatively. Best of all, they loved that I shared the success - that they became heroes. For example, when one of my colleagues designed the fairness and bias detection tool, user feedback was that it was too difficult to choose which technical fairness metric to use. He came to me and I designed a 3-step decision tree, with intuitive questions, that recommended a metric."

Change is par for the course with Apple. When have you had to adapt to change?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Change is life. Without change, we stagnate and die. For example, two years ago the CEO asked me to move from the product team and focus on mentoring the new sales team in APAC. Since I’d belonged to a head office team for the previous two years, I didn’t know most of the APAC sales team. So my first task was to meet with them regularly and get to know them, understand their challenges, and build their trust. Luckily I was partnered with the regional VP of sales. So I could focus on mentoring them on product knowledge and GTM strategies. This approach worked well for all except the Korean sales exec, where his geography worked on relationships rather than product and messaging. Within a year the APAC had won the top place for quarterly sales."

What questions do you have for me?

"I would like to ask if there is anything in my background on which you need clarification? Also, after discussing everything today, is there any particular reason why I would not be the best fit for this Market Leader role?"

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?

"Thank you for asking! A couple of questions come to mind. What do you see as the biggest challenge Apple will be facing in the next 12 months? Also, what is your employee turnover rate, and could you tell me a bit about the diversity and inclusion plan you have in place, at this specific location?"

"I'd like to know what a typical day looks like in this role. What are the most pressing issues that need to be addressed and managed first vs. the more in-depth projects that take more time? Who would this role be working most closely with? When would you like to have this position filled? What does this position pay?"

"What do you think are the top 3 challenges for this role? What’s your advice to me about how to achieve them?"

At Apple, we seek to hire those who want a long-term fit. What is your long-range career objective?

"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."

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.

"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 as 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."

"I have three simple objectives:1) solve interesting and challenging problems2) work with interesting and clever people3) be rewarded fairly"

Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

"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."

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.

"I love this question. Although I can't say that my career has entirely progressed as expected, I am happy with my current situation. Because of my entrepreneurial nature, I have spent my career being open to new opportunities and taking calculated risks. This approach has led me here today, interviewing for this exciting opportunity with Apple."

"There’s a saying “nothing ever goes to plan.” When I started my career, I planned to be a boring number cruncher. But fate had other ideas. Very early in my career, I was given the chance to manage a product under the mentorship of my manager. It was fun, like playing a complex game of Monopoly. So that part of my career went well for several years until I was put in a situation where I became self-employed. Now that wasn’t my plan at all, but it was such an amazing time in my career. It forced me to do sales and marketing, to take on projects that were outside my experience without a mentor to help me along. It made me self-sufficient. Then in 2009 I suddenly received an offer to move to Singapore. Once again I had never planned to leave Australia. But it opened my eyes to different cultural values and different opportunities. Without the unexpected, I wouldn’t be who I am today."

Apple puts emphasis on hiring people who fit into our workplace culture. How would you describe your personality?

"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."

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.

"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."

"While I’m not a perfectionist, I’m constantly trying to improve and change things. Sometimes it’s for the challenge, and sometimes it’s to help others. I’m not a business-as-usual person."

Do you have experience in managing online sales?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Not sales, but I do have experience in online marketing. For example, I jumped onto a side project at _______ to improve the Google AdWords strategy. There was a wealth of information on click-through rates, and then on qualified leads. It turned out that our AdWords rules weren’t targeted enough. For example, our ads were being shown when people searched for sexbots!"

Have you ever needed Apple customer support? If so, describe your experience.

"Thankfully, my Apple devices have always worked seamlessly. I like that you have various support methods and I hear that the wait time is quite short."

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.

"I have heard many excellent things about Apple customer service. Personally, I have had three amazing experiences and one average one which was a one-off. I had called a few times after receiving error codes that I was unable to figure out on my own. The wait time was short and the agent, knowledgeable and energetic."

"The plug from my charging cable broke off and embedded itself inside my iPad. So I went to the local Apple Store to drop it off for repairs. But rather than sending my iPad away, the CSO asked for permission to see if he could get the plug out. I’d tried without success, but I thought that it was worth a go. In less than 2 minutes he had the offending plug out! Then he sold me a new charging cable :-)"

At Apple we always think of the customer first. What are the top 3 ways that we can ensure consumer satisfaction?

"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."

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.

"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."

"The top 3 ways to ensure consumer satisfaction are to ensure quality, prompt service, go above and beyond for the customer, and provide alternate solutions for the problem."

"All three are about customer experience:1) design the product to be delightful2) keep a human face - friendly sales staff3) listen to the customer - show them respect when there is a problem, clearly communicate with them, then do what you promised to do"

Sales performance is of utmost importance to Apple. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?

"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 set daily, weekly, and monthly sales targets in this location?"

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.

"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."

"I want to improve how well non-US customers are served by the App Store. If we can do this well, customers will go on the App Store to purchase one app, but leave having purchased more, AND be excited about the unexpected purchases!"

How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Coming from an Australian cultural background, I prefer to be straightforward in my communication. So if a coworker is distracting me, I politely explain how I’m sorry but have another commitment that needs my immediate attention. If it appears that the coworker truly needs the connection, I will suggest we schedule a time to catch up and chat."

Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

"I feel that employees should be paid, and rewarded, based on their performance. A new employee will find motivation in being rewarded for performance, and it encourages healthy competition with tenured employees."

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.

"As a manager of people myself, I feel that both performance and experience should be weighed when deciding compensation, pay increases, and promotions. You want to ensure that you compensate your highest performers appropriately but that their growth is stable and manageable in the long term. Could you share with me how Apple rewards stellar employee performance?"

"In a perfect world, an employee with both work experience and performance would get the job. If I had to choose one over the other, I would choose performance. The reason is that work performance shows an employee's drive, focus, and commitment to his or her duties in a role. The employee takes their job seriously and cares about their contribution to a team."

"In the end, it’s the performance that matters. But sometimes experience is what helps you to achieve that performance. For example, my breadth of experience is what allows me to pull together disparate fields of science to solve a customer’s marketing challenge. How does Apple reward performance?"

Apple has some of the most loyal customers in the world. How would you define a loyal customer?

"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."

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.

"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 the 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."

"A loyal customer doesn’t just buy your product, it becomes part of their identity. That’s why Apple customers queue up overnight to get the latest iPhone!"

What are Apple's primary values, and how do they align with your core values?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I particularly align the values of* great products* simple, not complex* don’t settle for less than excellenceAs you’ve probably noticed I follow the value of “kaizen”, constant improvement and that aligns with great products and excellence values. It’s been said that if you can’t explain something simply, then you don’t understand it. When I started teaching, many years ago, I discovered that I would occasionally get asked a question and I knew the answer but I couldn’t explain why that was the answer. That forced me to clarify my ideas, and I discovered that as I clarified my ideas they became easier to implement and for others to use."

How have Apple products influenced your life?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I was an early adopter of smartphones, but I think they were called “smartphones” because you had to be really clever to figure out how to use them. The user experience was difficult and annoying. Then one day in 2007, my boss showed me his first-generation iPhone and it was so intuitive to use! I waited until the 2nd generation, which had 3G, and from then on I’ve been an iPhone user!"

Apple celebrates diversity. In which ways do you honor those different from you?

"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."

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.

"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."

"As someone from a very poor background, I am acutely aware that diversity is about more than just race and gender. As someone obsessed with innovation and improvement, I love talking to people with new perspectives, who can open my mind to new possibilities. Even when I disagree with someone, I learn from the experience. What matters, in the end, is respect for the person and the value they generate."

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?

"My training and education in advertising and marketing are self-led. I love to research new marketing techniques. I also have a strong understanding of Instagram and Facebook algorithms."

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.

"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."

"I was the marketing use case subject matter expert at _______. That included propensity modeling, AdWord optimization, next best action, next best offers lifetime customer value, churn modeling, etc. My favorite project was working with a large bank to add AI-driven behavioral economics to their marketing message. That project increased sales by more than 10%."

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

"If I could have one superpower, it would be to see into the future. This way, I could innovate technology solutions around what I knew would be happening down the road. I could solve the problems of the future."

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.

"I would choose the power teleport. This way, I could fly anywhere around the world in an instant. I would love to see what other cultures are doing, what people need, the resources they could share, and how we could collaborate to make the world a better place."

"I’d like the superpower of Tony Stark, to invent cool and wonderful gadgets, and then play with them :-)"

What does greatness, and success, mean to you?

"To me, greatness and success means achieving the goals that you set for yourself. I know the sense of accomplishment when I can make that work, and it makes me feel like I am on top of the world."

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.

"To me, success comes when you accomplish a goal, and that needs to be something specific that you have your eyes set on. I often encourage my team to set specific goals for themselves. Second, greatness ties into that because without believing that you are great, you will not likely succeed and meet your goals!"

"Regarding work, greatness is achieved when someone is successful in their career. A career spans many years and may include many companies. It includes job performance, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work well with others."

"To me, greatness is solving real-life problems elegantly, uniquely, and creatively. Success is when people use your solutions and come back for more."

Apple wants to know how to motivate you. What work situations excite and motivate you?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I am most motivated by a clear mandate to solve difficult and challenging business problems. I am at my best when allowed to think creatively and operate in greenfield situations. Being surrounded by clever and creative people with different skills and viewpoints also brings out the best in me."

We believe in an equal balance of work at Apple. How often do you take work home with you?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Ever since being self-employed, I have practiced flexible hours. Sometimes there is urgent work to do, something vital that a client needs. So I work extra hours to deliver. But that experience has also taught me the need for balance to maintain my energy levels and engagement. I need to exercise a few times a week, have quality time with my family, and have downtime reading a novel."

What would you gain from working at Apple?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I look forward to the experience of working in an environment that is famous for product design. In the short term, I look forward to strengthening my understanding of search marketing and of cultural differences in marketing."

Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

"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 by leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentorship, 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."

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.

"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."

"I see myself as a leader even during those times when I’m not a manager. At times in my career, I have been in a role that was about individual contribution, but even then I built up a network of people who I helped and advised and who sought me out for direction. At other times in my career, I have managed teams of people, and the leadership component of those roles has been about mentoring, coordinating, and encouraging the people placed in my trust."

When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I do this a lot and it’s what keeps me excited and growing!For example, I was called in to help with a banking customer that complained that Basel II regulations prevented them from using our software the way we suggested. My task was to get them engaged and using the software. Note that the task wasn’t to force them to do what we said. By the time I got involved, the customer relationship was tense. So I just asked a lot of questions. Some were open questions, while others were leading questions. Whenever I tried to press for details they dodged answering. That made me realise the problem was fear of the new, not any specific regulatory hurdles. Nevertheless, I couldn’t answer all of their questions on the spot. So I got them to agree to an agenda for the next meeting, which I would provide answers. Then I researched as much as I could and put in details and narratives that would address their fear, not just the facts. If I had been an expert I might have made the mistake of jumping to a technical solution. The next meeting made a breakthrough as it became more of a conversation and fewer accusations and complaints. It took a few more meetings, but eventually, we unblocked the project, and the bank won an industry award for the project!"

What part of your career brings you the most stress?

"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."

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).

"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."

"The thing that stresses me most is working with people who don’t have a sense of urgency or who care more about the process than the result. With such a mismatch of values, I find I have to be more consciously exercise patience."

At Apple, we greatly value teamwork. Tell me about a contribution you made to the last team you worked on.

"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."

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.

"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."

"The head of product marketing came to me with a problem. Due to the war in Ukraine, the latest product release was going to be light on new features, but we had already committed to a product webinar, including the Chief Product Officer. He asked whether I could present for several minutes about the Trusted AI product capabilities. There would be three other presenters, including the CPO. My first action was to check what the other presenters were going to cover, and what theme product marketing had planned for the webinar. Since there was some inconvenient messaging overlap, I negotiated with the other presenters to shape a coordinated message. Then I crafted my part of the message, focussing on “closing the loop” for “all users” since the trust capabilities weren’t actually new but hadn’t been rolled out to on-premises users until this release. This made for a strong wrap-up message, as I was the final presenter. The webinar created several new sales leads, and I like to think that was due to our teamwork."

The environment is fast-paced and challenging at Apple. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I start with what I have promised. Keeping promises is very important to me as trust takes a long time to build, but can be lost quickly. Next, I review which tasks can be delegated, which deadlines are flexible, and which projects create the most value."

"First, I will try to schedule the work with different deadlines or due dates. If there are a couple of due dates in a short time, I will assess the priorities of the projects and give a different level of priorities of the projects, like the part of work might be related to product release, safety will have high priorities. I will work on these projects first. If two things are in a similar level of priorities, will be a tough choice, I will consult with the team leader or team manager to see if I can get some help or which project has priority over the other."

As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?

"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."

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.

"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."

"I have a lot of experience as a leader, and I’m proud of it. But my weakness for this role is that I am coming into a new environment where I don’t know the people or the culture, and I’m not officially a manager. I’m going to need to build trust with my teammates and learn the best way to influence them as individuals."

We encourage innovation at Apple. What does innovation mean to you?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Innovation is doing something helpful and useful that has not been done before. Sometimes that’s something huge, like the introduction of voice assistants. Other times it’s more subtle, like a swipe instead of a button. I love “kaizen”, the Japanese concept of constant improvement."

Why should we hire you?

"I understand that you are looking for a marketing manager who can lead a remote team of graphic designers, copywriters, and ad sales professionals. In my current position, I lead a team of 15 remote employees and 12 in-house employees. It has been a great experience learning how to merge these two teams, ensuring that projects come together on time. This year, I was awarded manager of the year after being nominated by my peers and leadership team. If you choose to hire me, I will bring tenacity and dedication, leading your remote team to optimum performance and success."

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.

"One of the team recommended me for the role And I suspect that’s because I’ve built a reputation for thought leadership, simplifying the complex, and leading teams to greatness."

Apple Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Apple likes to hire those who take pride in their work. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.
2. How did you bring value to your last position?
3. Change is par for the course with Apple. When have you had to adapt to change?
4. What questions do you have for me?
5. At Apple, we seek to hire those who want a long-term fit. What is your long-range career objective?
6. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
7. Apple puts emphasis on hiring people who fit into our workplace culture. How would you describe your personality?
8. Do you have experience in managing online sales?
9. Have you ever needed Apple customer support? If so, describe your experience.
10. At Apple we always think of the customer first. What are the top 3 ways that we can ensure consumer satisfaction?
11. Sales performance is of utmost importance to Apple. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?
12. How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?
13. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
14. Apple has some of the most loyal customers in the world. How would you define a loyal customer?
15. What are Apple's primary values, and how do they align with your core values?
16. How have Apple products influenced your life?
17. Apple celebrates diversity. In which ways do you honor those different from you?
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?
19. If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
20. What does greatness, and success, mean to you?
21. Apple wants to know how to motivate you. What work situations excite and motivate you?
22. We believe in an equal balance of work at Apple. How often do you take work home with you?
23. What would you gain from working at Apple?
24. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?
25. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
26. What part of your career brings you the most stress?
27. At Apple, we greatly value teamwork. Tell me about a contribution you made to the last team you worked on.
28. The environment is fast-paced and challenging at Apple. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
29. As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?
30. We encourage innovation at Apple. What does innovation mean to you?
31. Why should we hire you?

Apple Interview Questions

1. Apple likes to hire those who take pride in their work. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.

2. How did you bring value to your last position?

3. Change is par for the course with Apple. When have you had to adapt to change?

4. What questions do you have for me?

5. At Apple, we seek to hire those who want a long-term fit. What is your long-range career objective?

6. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

7. Apple puts emphasis on hiring people who fit into our workplace culture. How would you describe your personality?

8. Do you have experience in managing online sales?

9. Have you ever needed Apple customer support? If so, describe your experience.

10. At Apple we always think of the customer first. What are the top 3 ways that we can ensure consumer satisfaction?

11. Sales performance is of utmost importance to Apple. How do you plan to contribute to our profitability?

12. How do you deal with distracting coworkers who stand in the way of your progress?

13. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

14. Apple has some of the most loyal customers in the world. How would you define a loyal customer?

15. What are Apple's primary values, and how do they align with your core values?

16. How have Apple products influenced your life?

17. Apple celebrates diversity. In which ways do you honor those different from you?

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?

19. If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

20. What does greatness, and success, mean to you?

21. Apple wants to know how to motivate you. What work situations excite and motivate you?

22. We believe in an equal balance of work at Apple. How often do you take work home with you?

23. What would you gain from working at Apple?

24. Do you see yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

25. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

26. What part of your career brings you the most stress?

27. At Apple, we greatly value teamwork. Tell me about a contribution you made to the last team you worked on.

28. The environment is fast-paced and challenging at Apple. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

29. As a manager, what is your greatest weakness?

30. We encourage innovation at Apple. What does innovation mean to you?

31. Why should we hire you?