32 Bobcat Company Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Bobcat Company we work with some of the largest scale machinery in our industry. Tell me about the types of machinery you are most experienced with.
How to Answer
The types of machinery that you are experienced with may be listed on your resume. Either way, the interviewer would like to see you be more specific about your exposure to certain types of machinery. Make sure that you understand which types of machinery Bobcat Company works with. If you are not clear on that answer, it is okay to ask the interviewer for further details.
1st Answer Example
"The machinery I am most experienced with would be A, B, and C. I am an expert in these types of machinery which I understand you work with at Bobcat Company. Are there any other types of machinery you are looking for experience in?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have experience in a variety of machinery, and from my research, I understand that your company primarily uses machinery A, B, and C. Is this correct? I do bring about five years' experience in each."
2. We put a lot of effort into ensuring Bobcat Company uses only the best parts and materials available. What do you know about our cutting edge machinery?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants assurance that you have conducted substantial research on Bobcat Company before attending the interview. The more you know, the more it shows that you are excited about the position and engaged in this process. You should be able to find everything that you need from the company website. Feel free to ask the interviewer if there is anything they would like to add. The more information they can divulge to you, the better armed you are for the next interview!
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Bobcat Company and your machinery a great deal. I like that your best machinery is manufactured in the USA. This fact means high quality and more local employment opportunities. I also learned A, B, and C (use specific examples). Is there anything else you would like to share with me about your machinery?"
2nd Answer Example
"Your cutting edge machinery is absolutely world class, and it offers you the ability to deliver much faster to your clients. I look forward to learning more about your machinery and processes, as well."
3. How will the knowledge gained from your most recent position help you succeed in this role with Bobcat Company?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about the skills and knowledge you have gained in your current role and how those skills will help you to succeed in this position with Bobcat Company. It's a great idea to start with the core skills mentioned in the Bobcat Company job description and talk about how you currently exercise those skills.
1st Answer Example
"I see that you are looking for a candidate with strong leadership skills. Currently, I lead a team of 15 technicians with great results. Since taking a leadership role with my current company, our productivity has increased by 23%, and our employee turnover has decreased by 46%. I am excited to apply my leadership successes to this role with Bobcat Company"
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position, I am exposed to a lot of decision making when it comes to internal process. I believe that this has greatly increased my ability to make sound decisions based on profitability, customer satisfaction, and employee retention. I look forward to lending this knowledge to my role with Bobcat Company."
4. The health and safety of our employees is top priority at Bobcat Company. How would you react if your supervisor asked you to perform a task that you were not comfortable with?
How to Answer
This situational question will give the interviewer a firm idea of the morale you bring to the workplace. Safety is so important to Bobcat Company, so be sure to acknowledge that you understand the importance of workplace safety. Discuss how you would handle being asked to do something that makes you uncomfortable.
1st Answer Example
"If I were asked to perform a task that I was not comfortable with, I would have a sincere discussion with my supervisor about why I was not comfortable. I believe that open communication is a key part of safety. Under no circumstance would I perform a task I did not feel comfortable doing."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not waiver when it comes to safety in the workplace. If I were asked to perform a task that I was not comfortable with, I would discuss it immediately with the person who initiated the request. If things needed to be escalated to upper management, I would not hesitate to do so. Processes and policy are there for a reason, and there are no excuses for cutting corners in the workplace."
5. At Bobcat Company we measure productivity in a variety of ways. In your opinion, what are the most important performance metrics for this position?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you can identify the most critical parts of this role and understand how those relate to the overall success of Bobcat Company. Reading through their job description, you should be able to pull out the key responsibilities in this role. These key responsibilities are connected directly to the success of the organization. Discuss what you think the key performance metrics are and how you plan to meet them.
1st Answer Example
"From reading the job description and overall responsibilities of the role, I believe that the most important metrics to measure in this role are A, B, and C. In my current position I am measured by these specific metrics. I am a consistent performer in my current role and plan to bring the same enthusiasm to this position."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe the key metrics for this position are inventory turnover, receiving efficiency, and cost of carrying inventory. Is this correct? I have ten years' experience managing these exact metrics and am confident in my ability to improve these KPI's in the first 30 days after starting with Bobcat Company."
6. Our reputation is very important to us. In which ways do you feel Bobcat Company stands out from the crowd?
How to Answer
It is imperative that you research Bobcat Company and their business landscape before your interview. Take a good look at their competitors and make a note of any awards or recognition that Bobcat Company may have received. Be sure to compliment them on what they are doing right!
1st Answer Example
"Through some online research I see that your reviews are much stronger than those of your competitors. Your equipment is superior, and your reputation for prompt client service is unmatched. I am very excited to work for a company with such a great industry reputation."
2nd Answer Example
"When I think of the industry leader, I think of Bobcat Company. I believe that this is due to your strong reputation for honesty in the industry but also the fact that your branding is consistent. This company has created an honest dialogue with its customers, and they have come to trust your expertise."
7. Some of our competitors use social media to promote their brand. How do you feel about the social media presence at Bobcat Company? Do you feel this type of marketing is relevant to our industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer is wondering how deep you have researched Bobcat Company before your interview. Your answer will also reveal how tech savvy you are. Be sure to check out popular social media platforms and take note of the company's online presence. If you have a suggestion for the company, be sure to keep it lighthearted and complete your comment with a compliment on their current efforts. Share your thoughts on the use of social media in this industry and how you think it could help boost industry exposure.
1st Answer Example
"I think that the use of social media in this industry is unconventional, but a great idea. It's just one way to stand out from your competitors. I like that you have a few YouTube videos showing some of the Bobcat Company equipment in action. I think this idea could be expanded to Instagram and even Snapchat by showing the general public some unique features of the equipment at Bobcat Company. Social media can be a great teaching tool!"
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that social media marketing is relevant to any industry, at this time. Social proof is an important factor in consumer decision making, even in the heavy machinery industry."
8. Our motto at Bobcat Company is to work smarter, not harder. If you had a workplace motto, what would it be?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to have some insight into your workplace values and personal morale. Before your interview, conduct some research on Bobcat Company via their website, job postings, and online reviews. Take note of any common keywords they use when describing their workplace culture and company goals. Try to incorporate those keywords when you answer this question. This strategy will help the interviewer to see that you are an excellent fit for the position!
1st Answer Example
"I fully agree with your company motto. Efficiency and productivity go hand in hand. If I had a workplace motto, it would be a quote by Jim Rohn: 'Don't wish it were easier. Wish you were better.' I am a big advocate for continued education and constant achievement."
2nd Answer Example
"My workplace and personal motto are one in the same; 'Happiness is an attitude.' I believe that we choose how we feel in a day, for the most part. Thus, I choose to be happy, confident, and enthusiastic."
9. We have a variety of shifts at Bobcat Company. Do you have any restrictions on your availability?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what kind of flexibility you can offer Bobcat Company when it comes to your work schedule. If you have any restrictions on your calendar, this is an excellent time to address them. If there is a specific shift that you are looking for, be upfront about your preference.
1st Answer Example
"I am more than willing to be a flexible employee for Bobcat Company. Currently, I do not have many restrictions on my availability except for Tuesday evenings."
2nd Answer Example
"For my family and personal life, I do prefer to work the afternoon shift. This allows me to get my kids to school and then my husband picks them up after school. We try to stagger our hours to accommodate our children's needs."
10. Do you have experience working in a unionized environment? What are your thoughts on union based roles?
How to Answer
While Bobcat Company may have some or all, unionized employees, it's best to answer this question as diplomatic as possible. Avoid complaining and try to focus on the perks that might come from working in a unionized environment.
1st Answer Example
"Personally, I have not worked in a unionized environment; however, I have heard that unions are a great way to ensure continuity in the workplace. From what I understand, they offer security to employees which is always a bonus."
2nd Answer Example
"I currently work in a unionized environment. There are some kinks to be worked out, but overall, I am certainly open to working in another unionized environment. If executed properly, unions can be great!"
11. Tell me about a time that you have helped a co-worker accomplish an important goal.
How to Answer
Being goal-oriented and determined is essential. What do you do, outside of your own goals, to ensure that everyone on your team is successful? Assure the interviewer that you are always willing to keep the team, or company as a whole, in mind.
1st Answer Example
"As a Sales Manager my team is only as successful as the lowest producing employee. It is imperative that my entire team is motivated, engaged, and on point with their KPI's. Last month I hired a new employee who was struggling significantly with sales. I sat him down and realized that he didn't understand the product. We spent a few hours together over that next week learning the product. In the end, his sales increased by 64%, and he was significantly more confident. It helped the team morale as well."
2nd Answer Example
" I help my co-workers accomplish essential goals on a daily basis. I believe that this is the most critical part of teamwork - being willing to help others achieve their goals. Just las"
12. What was the biggest change you have had to deal with in your career?
How to Answer
You will likely face change in your career from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you can adapt to substantial changes in a professional manner.
1st Answer Example
"The biggest change that I have faced in my career so far would be when my previous company went through a major merger. We had to adapt to new processes and management which was quite challenging. In the end, it worked out well for the company, in a financial perspective, so the changes were well worth the challenges we faced initially."
2nd Answer Example
"The biggest change I have dealt with in my career is when my company closed their PA location, and I was asked to relocation to VA. It was a risk on my part, but I chose to follow the company to their new location. It paid off as I continued another five years of success there."
13. How do you prioritize multiple projects when they all seem equally important?
How to Answer
In answering this question, show the interviewer that you have a system in place that helps you to think through what needs to happen, and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you an asset to Bobcat Company!
1st Answer Example
"I love to keep running lists of everything that I need to do, big or small. Mostly because I love crossing things off of the to-do list, but also because it helps me keep track of everything. Lately, I've started utilizing a free project management software that I use to make those lists, categorize the tasks, and mark them as a priority."
2nd Answer Example
"Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice. There are many approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions:
1) Make a list. By thinking through and writing down each item that needs to be completed, you can see it on paper.
2) Mark what is urgent or important. Take into account deadlines and meetings.
3) Order each task based on effort and estimated value. Considering due dates and how long it will take to do each item (also considering how much time you have)."
14. What are your career aspirations beyond this job?
How to Answer
Everyone has some dream or aspirations on where their career could go. When you think about the future, what comes to mind? Openly share with the interviewer where you'd like to see your job take you. Be sure to include how you feel this particular company would fit in with those specific aspirations.
1st Answer Example
"I have some pretty lofty career aspirations, and after researching your organization and learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits with my future aspirations. I would love to see myself promoted based on my hard work and results, eventually managing my branch, then become a regional director."
2nd Answer Example
"I want to get into a company that I can stay with an grow long term. While change is good, I like the comforts of having something familiar or regular around me. I aspire to grow into a leadership position and teach newcomers the ins and outs of the business."
15. Why are you the best candidate for us?
How to Answer
Bragging about yourself in an interview can be tough to do, but this is your time to shine! Which characteristics and career accomplishments have made you a stand-out candidate? Perhaps you have received some academic awards or have been given individual accolades in your most recent position. There is nobody like you, and now you need to express that to the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for you because I have a consistent history of exceeding my targets and goals for the past three years. I have been promoted two times in the last year which is nearly unheard of in my current company. In addition to these successes, I have excellent cold calling skills which I will put to work immediately after being hired by your company."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe I'm the best candidate for Bobcat Company because of my decade of experience at your competitor. I have experience in the specific department in question, as a team leader, and I look forward to building on those leadership skills with your organization. I know I can make an immediate, and long-term, impact."
16. How would you describe your written communication skills?
How to Answer
Being a clear communicator, in written form, is a vital skill to master. Have you taken any courses in communication and writing? Are you confident in your written communication skills? Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a brief example or story.
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my written communication skills as very strong and would rate myself as a 9/10. I have always had a penchant for writing and have taken university courses related to communication, writing, and journalism."
2nd Answer Example
"My written communication skills are powerful. I often utilize written communications as a follow up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for associates to go back to, and reference, plus they might answer any questions that come up along the way."
17. How would you describe your relationship with your customers or clients?
How to Answer
Do you value your client and customer relationships? How do you nurture them to ensure that they are happy and continue to come back? Talk to the interviewer about your strategy for steady customer and client relationships.
1st Answer Example
"My customer and client relationships are open and honest. I believe that the more upfront and transparent you are with your clients, the more likely they are to return. I most definitely value my clients and am sure to nurture those relationships as much as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I have strong relationships with my clients and customers. I treat them with respect and am sure to utilize their feedback in ways that make myself, and the organization, better."
18. Looking at your resume, you've had a number of job changes. What would make me think that you will stay with our company?
How to Answer
Most hiring managers will consider more than two jobs in the past five years to be frequent movement. Take some time to explain your career progression to the interviewer. Be sure to avoid speaking poorly of any of your previous employers. This question is not the time to ramble on about how your former company did you wrong. Short and sweet is most appropriate here.
1st Answer Example
"Leaving Company X was due to a merger, and my role was eliminated. Company Y was a seasonal role, and I am now looking for a new position because my contract with Company Z is complete this March."
2nd Answer Example
"In my career, I have made progressive moves to advance in my field of expertise. I am looking for a company that I can grow with long-term, and contribute value to, for many years to come."
19. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem solving, the decisions do not always come easily. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results.
Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on.
Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader which means that my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast-thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a critical and busy day for us. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in just one hour."
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergency situations. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required, I will do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."
20. If you were given a choice, which work related task would you leave for last? Why?
How to Answer
Often we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last in the act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully move a particular responsibility for last because we feel that it makes the most sense. Help the interviewer to determine which personality type you are by answering this question.
1st Answer Example
"If given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time selling and hitting targets so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my business development tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."
2nd Answer Example
"I tend to leave the hardest assignments for last. It is not because I dread them, but because I can make a lot more people happy by completing their small requests first and getting them back to work."
21. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer a few things about yourself. You can begin with your recent education, family life, volunteer work, or talk about your travels. Bring up anything that is interesting and highlights your ability to be a responsible, reliable, and bright individual.
1st Answer Example
"A bit about me - I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. It was the best experience that I could have given myself as I was able to learn so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US just last month and have been actively looking for work the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."
2nd Answer Example
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. On the professional side, I recently graduated with my heavy machinery operators' license and am a journeyman mechanic."
22. With your experience, what contributions do you believe you will make to our department?
How to Answer
Do you plan to make an immediate impact on the organization if you are hired? Talk to the interviewer about the contribution that you are going to make should you be the successful candidate.
1st Answer Example
"After meeting with you, and getting to know your organization on a deeper level, I am confident that I will make a strong contribution to this years' sales goals. I understand that you have set ambitious goals for the company and I can get you there through my existing network and a strong portfolio."
2nd Answer Example
"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. My contributing goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly if hired."
23. On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you are a sincere person or do you have room for growth? This question could be tricky as nobody is always 100% honest. Answer to the best of your ability and back your reply by speaking about your ethics.
1st Answer Example
"I would love to give myself a 10/10 for honesty but truthfully - nobody is 100% honest all of the time. I will give myself an nine because I always do my best to be as honest as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I put a heavy focus on honesty and trustworthiness in the workplace, as well as in my personal life. Because I strive for complete honesty, I will rate myself as a 10/10. My values are solid."
24. How can we motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leaderboard, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition for me as well."
2nd Answer Example
"It does not take a lot to keep me motivated. If I work in a positive environment with a forward-thinking team, I am a very happy employee. If you see me going above and beyond, a quick thanks or small recognition of my hard work is good enough for me."
25. Tell me about a time when you improved communication between yourself and a co-worker or client.
How to Answer
Possessing the skills to improve communication in the workplace is a precious asset. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to enhance communication in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I have one particular client who was an exceptionally brief communicator. If I asked two questions, he would answer just one. I learned that he would not acknowledge anything for which he did not have a direct answer. I began to ask him questions in a different way. For example, I would say 'Do you have an answer for me on question X?' and he would say yes or no. We would then go from there. This solution was an effective method of communication for that particular client."
2nd Answer Example
"Recently, we were working with a client who continued to change the direction of our work. Our team was heading down one path and before we knew it, the client expected us to go another direction. We resolved to hold a weekly status touch base call to ensure two-way communication with our team and the client. When work was not done, we could explain why and if the client wanted changes made, we could catch them before wasting time and resources."
26. When have you effectively delegated tasks to your employees?
How to Answer
Delegating tasks to employees is always a requirement when you are in a management type of role. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to delegate.
1st Answer Example
"I find that to delegate tasks effectively you first need to understand each employee's strengths. I will always delegate to someone's strength so that they will organically know how to complete the task. Delegation eliminates a lot of resistance and promotes effective and productive work."
2nd Answer Example
"To date, my role hasn't included a whole lot of delegation of my tasks to others. However, I have been responsible for taking the workload and dictating who will take on which task, such as region, customer focus, or manufacturer. In either case, I believe it is important to recognize that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. I believe it's important to identify those, provide opportunities for growth, and thereby prepare them for their next role."
27. How do you handle situations that could cause you to be late or miss work?
How to Answer
Proper planning will get you far, but sometimes life happens, and you'll need a plan B. Think about some of the variables in your life that could affect your ability to arrive on time for work. Sick children, traffic, car breakdowns... the list goes on. It may not be possible for everything to work out so smoothly, getting your shift covered or still making it to work on time. Your interviewer is looking to see that you are proactive and that you can handle the stress of unexpected situations that can arise.
1st Answer Example
"I stay calm and composed when issues arise. Just last week, I was in a car accident while commuting to work. I called my boss immediately to let her know that I was going to be late. This call gave her time to move my work volume to other employees so that our clients were not left hanging for call-backs and quotes."
2nd Answer Example
"I hope never to be late! When I started working at a restaurant at sixteen years old, we were taught the adage of "if you're on time, you're late," so I've worked to implement that into my life. I always try to arrive 15 minutes early, but there are unforeseen circumstances that can arise. I handle surprises using common sense and keeping courtesy to others top of mind."
28. What types of activities keep you busy, outside of work?
How to Answer
Having hobbies and interests outside of work is a vital part of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Talk to the interviewer about the activities that interest you outside of the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I have a variety of hobbies that keep me busy outside of work hours. First, I have two children who are involved in basketball and gymnastics. I also play in a baseball beer league, I volunteer at our community church and like to read."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a very physically active person, with a passion for outdoor sports. I love to ski, snowboard, and skate. I play in an adult hockey beer league, as well."
29. What makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
1st Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creativity. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe I am a great problem solver because I am sure to gather as many facts as possible, I look at the problem and its potential solutions from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a creative decision, that might seem off the beaten path."
30. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job.
1st Answer Example
"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture which includes factors such as benefits, work-life balance, perks, and company culture."
2nd Answer Example
"Several factors are important to me when taking a job. Compensation is a driving component of that along with company mission, culture, benefits, and location."
31. What part of this 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. (IE: a bus driver should not find driving to be the most stressful part of the job).
1st Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are assisted properly."
2nd Answer Example
"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire for perfection in the workplace. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career, and the business."
32. How do you explain complicated concepts to those who may not understand?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of explaining complex ideas without being condescending to your co-workers or talking over their heads. Give the interviewer an example of how you break down information to make it more easily digestible for the average person.
Think of a presentation about a complex topic, as a proposal to solve a challenging problem. The solution may seem obvious to you, but everyone else in the room is scratching heads trying to figure out what you're talking about. When you can define key terms and phrases to make them more relevant to your audience, you have skill! Not everyone can do this.
Prepare an example that demonstrates your communication skills and your ability to convey complex information in easy to understand terms.
1st Answer Example
"I find that when there is a complicated concept to teach, visual aids are always the way to go. Did you know that 65% of people are visual learners and that presentations with visual components are 43% more persuasive? I took a course on creating effective info-graphics and will often implement those in my presentations."
2nd Answer Example
"Keep it simple silly! If you cannot explain a concept simply, then you do not understand it well enough. I recently rolled out a complex compensation plan with many anomalies. I took the approach to share a broad overview and provide detail for reference. I often try to make analogies or share complex information in the form of a story."