28 Cambridge Consultants Limited Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Cambridge Consultants Limited interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. As a consultant here at Cambridge Consultants Limited, helping our clients set growth strategies through both short-term and long-term goals is important. Give an example of a time that you set both short and long-term goals for a growth strategy.
How to Answer
An effective growth strategy has a long-term plan, but the success of the long-term plan is reliant on short-term, tiered goals that help build towards the long-term goals of the plan. In your answer, explain that you know the importance of goal setting and the fact that short-term goals are important in the process. Then, discuss a time where you developed and met goals when helping an organization move toward strategic success.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, I helped a healthcare organization on the west coast develop a growth plan that entailed building one new hospital and three new clinic locations over the course of five years. As the liaison for the entire plan, I knew that goal was aggressive, yet very achievable, if the right short term goals were set. In working with high level leadership and then with specific department leaders, goals and timelines were set for obtaining funding, building permits, staffing plans and ribbon cutting from the start. Even to this day, I stay in contact with the leaders on a consultative basis to ensure that any hiccups in the short-term goals help meet the long-term goals. In the end, the success of a long-term goal is always reliant on many smaller short-term goals."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"During my time in manufacturing, I've quickly learned the importance of both short-term and long-term goals in achieving growth goals over time. Hitting short-term goals leads to success in the long-term and I utilize both long and short-term goals when developing growth strategies. This is best shown with my current organization when we developed a fiscal growth strategy to increase overall revenue by 25% over the course of three years. We looked in many directions to help this, but our main focuses were in increased production and reduced waste. By casting such a wide net here, short term goals for each aspect of the project were vital to the end result of increasing by revenue by over 35% in that time frame. What a success!"
2. Talk about a time that you applied a new technology or new information to your work as an engineer?
How to Answer
During your career as an engineer up to this point, you've likely had to learn and work with new technology or information that has improved the way that you perform your work. Ideally with this question, your interviewer is looking to see that you are flexible in working with new technologies and/or processes as you consults across different businesses and industries. Prior to your interview, think of an example of a time that showed your ability to be open to new ways of doing things through advancements in technology and talk about why this ability is important in a consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Having been an engineer for over 20 years, today's digital age has certainly altered the way that we work on a day to day basis and I've loved every minute of being on the forefront of these changes. In my current role, I am utilizing nanotechnology that wasn't available even five years ago to create UV resistant and waterproof glass that just wasn't able to be produced before. I'd love to help bring innovation to the clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited in this consultant role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a manufacturing engineer by trade, I've worked with many of the recent advancements in robotic technology to help boost production output and quality. Last year, I helped implement a new production line for light bulbs that utilized a fully automated assembly process where machine tenders were operating all processes from a touch screen. The project required a lot of research and education for my engineering team and we all welcomed that with open arms."
3. We value accountability at Cambridge Consultants Limited. If a customer sent a formal complaint about an interaction with you, how would you handle it?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are a person of integrity who will take responsibility for any shortcomings in the workplace. Briefly explain to the interviewer that you will handle Cambridge Consultants Limited customers with great care.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that Cambridge Consultants Limited has put a lot of work into building these long-term client relationships. If one of your clients complained about my communication with them, I would take full responsibility for my actions and issue an apology. I would also be open to feedback to avoid future incidences. Rest assured, in my 15 years of employment, I have not had any clients complain to my employer about my work ethic or delivery of service."
2nd Answer Example
"Constructive feedback is difficult to swallow at times, but it's helpful for me to remember that everyone receives constructive feedback from time to time. I will always do what is required of me to renew a client relationship."
4. Talk about a time that you successfully educated another individual or group in your area of expertise. What made your educational experience effective?
How to Answer
The role that you are interviewing for with Cambridge Consultants Limited will likely involve providing education to clients in your area of expertise. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable and effective in providing education by having you talk about a time that you have done so. In the example that you provide, try to point out some key items to making business education successful like developing a plan/goals, respecting differing viewpoints/opinions, making it hands on and making it fun.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Probably the aspect that I love the most about my current job is being the lead for training new hires into our department. Because of my years of experience and my innate ability to effectively orientate new employees, my director asked me to take this duty about four years ago. My approach with any new hire is to customize their training based on their knowledge and experience so the training is effective for them. What works for one person may not work for another and I always need to be fluid with this. I also prioritize the need to make orientation and training a hands on experience for the new hire because classroom learning can only take a person so far in the learning process."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last seven years working in the corporate tax field. While in this job, I worked very independently for a private organization, so I've been out of the training and education side for a while now. During my first job out of college as a CPA though, I was very adept at providing education to the clients that I worked with on a daily basis. What I learned in that experience was the importance of putting material out there in a manner that the person being trained understood. As well, talking to clients and understanding my client's wants and needs were very important for me to be able to best educate them. I really believe that these skills would enable me to hit the ground running with Cambridge Consultants Limited and your clients would benefit greatly."
5. Talk about a time you had to work with a very difficult person. What was the situation and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
At some point in any person's career, they have to work with a colleague or customer who is extremely difficult. Rather than looking to hear the fine details as to why this person was difficult, your interviewer will be looking to gain insight into how you personally handled the situation and others like it to ensure that a sound relationship was fostered even when you faced difficult circumstances. In your answer, some key things to focus on are your ability to be tolerant, understanding and a great communicator in these situations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I have a customer that flies off the handle very easily if things don't happen just right and I learned this from my first interactions with him. In seeing this happen from the start, I have always maintained a calm demeanor when he was upset and showed empathy by asking questions about his expectations and how to fix situations for him. To this day, I expect difficulty from him when we work together and the years we've had a working relationship together have better prepared me for more clients like him in the future."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, a close colleague of mine had a very abrupt turnaround in her attitude and performance on the job. She was very curt and abrasive in conversations when she was normally very talkative and friendly on the job. After noticing some concerns in her work, I approached her with an open mind and asked her what was going on to cause these things to change. I showed concern and approached her as a friend and this approach prompted her to tell me about some issues happening in her personal life. By taking this approach, rather than getting upset or even made with her, I showed her that I cared and valued her as a person and my approach helped her open up and turn her life at work back around to the positive side."
6. Customer service is our top priority at Cambridge Consultants Limited. What is your customer service philosophy?
How to Answer
Because Cambridge Consultants Limited puts so much effort into their customer service reputation, the interviewer needs to be confident that your customer service values align with theirs. Be sure to research the Cambridge Consultants Limited website and take note of any keywords they use when it comes to their customers. Match your language with theirs.
1st Answer Example
"I noticed on your website that you put a lot of value into your customers by actively listening to their needs. You also survey them regularly while staying on top of industry trends so that you can provide them with innovative new services. To me, customer service goes beyond friendliness and efficiency. You need to understand your customer's business needs and have the ability to analyze their future needs so that you can respond appropriately to their business landscape changes."
2nd Answer Example
"As overused as this phrase may be, 'Service with a smile' has always been my customer service philosophy. Very few people can resist a great smile and a friendly interaction! Friendliness warms customers up, makes them more inclined to work with you, and also diffuses a conflict quickly."
7. How do you get back on track when a schedule falls behind so you don't miss important milestone deadline
How to Answer
In the world of project management, it is rare that a project goes from the planning stages through to implementation without a hiccup or two along the way. As the manager of the project, you are ultimately responsible for keeping the project on task and your interviewer is looking to hear how you will do that for the clients at Cambridge Consultants Limited. One important thing to consider highlighting is your ability to monitor and track progress regularly so the train doesn't get too derailed off the tracks. As well, you can talk about your ability to think on your feet, problem solve and coach others to bring tasks back up to date.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
Answer Example
"As an experience professional in project management, I pride myself on my ability to consistently monitor the progress of the project and spot where we may be falling behind on items. At those times, I work closely with the person or individuals assigned to that task to ensure that the job gets back on track. At times, this has involved me intervening and taking care of things that I can or reaching out to other resources for help. Milestones and deadlines are the key to the successful completion of a project and one missed item can create a bad domino effect that pushes a project back. For me, not letting that first fallen domino touch the next is the key to staying on track."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
8. Would you say that you are a goal oriented person on the job? Why would you say that?
How to Answer
Success in business consulting is most often measured in the achievement of goals for clients and for this question, your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear that you are driven by goals and that you have the ability to set them as well. In your answer, give your interviewer the sense that you are goal oriented by giving an example or two of a time where you set and worked towards a goal as part of a team effort. Explain your part in the achievement of the goals and your ability to stay focused on the end result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, one of the first things that you'll learn about me is that I am very driven to succeed in all that I do on the job. For me, personal drive definitely centers around goals and my desire to achieve them. I have the focus to set goals myself and to work towards goals that are set by my organization, my leaders or my customers and I would bring this ability with each client that I work with here at Cambridge Consultants Limited."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would definitely say that I am goal oriented in the work that I do on a daily basis. In project management, I work off of both time related goals and production related goals and these really drive my daily tasks and my delegation of responsibilities to other team members. If given the opportunity to come work for Cambridge Consultants Limited, my clients would greatly benefit from my ability to both set and achieve goals with them."
9. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
10. In looking to make the move to an Engineering Consultant here at Cambridge Consultants Limited, how would you approach clients, and potential equal colleagues, as the expert in your field?
How to Answer
For this question, your interview is really looking how you will effectively transition to a role as a consultant in the engineering field, working with clients across many different industries. Prior to your interview, prepare and be ready to talk about how you plan to make this transition to the consulting role. Be sure to highlight the ways that your education, skills and experiences will translate smoothly to working with leaders and engineers in different industries. Also be sure to talk about your personal approach you will take in the consultant role so that clients are assured that you are the expert that they are paying for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For the past few years, I've really been looking to transition to the consulting field because of my broad area of expertise across many areas of electrical and mechanical engineering. When I was part of a company merger a couple of years ago, my manager commented on my ability to work with new staff and lead them into our new processes and procedures. My personable and knowledgeable approach went over well with my colleagues and is definitely an approach I would bring to clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my experience, I've worked in the manufacturing industry for many years and think my experience here will be a great asset to your clients. I am trained in Six Sigma and Lean principles and would be able to bring these strategies to help benefit engineering practices of your clients. If hired for this position, you'll quickly find that I have a passion for education and I feel that is a vital quality for being a successful consultant."
11. What factors would you consider when determining the feasibility of new engineering project as a consultant with Cambridge Consultants Limited?
How to Answer
As a Engineering Consultant with Cambridge Consultants Limited, you will be counted upon to determine the practicality of projects that clients are considering and your interviewer will be looking to hear that you take a concise and methodical approach in considering all aspects of the project for the client. You will be counted on to be the expert in this aspect for the clients at Cambridge Consultants Limited, so make sure to project your confidence in your answer to your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, I really wouldn't change anything about my current processes for evaluating projects from the start. For my process, I start by assuring that the need for the project is sound. Then, I establish a basic design of the project that take into account all measurements, resources, equipment and overall budget. At this point in time with clients, it would be important to ensure that they are able to take on all of those considerations of the project. With it being their resources, their labor and their budgets, I see this as the biggest aspect that I would be hired for as their consultant."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having went through formal training in project management skills five years ago, I've been able to take a much more high level approach to all of the project that I work on. As a consultant, this training would prove very beneficial in my approach of learning the business and operations of clients and the needs for the project I would be consulting on. Then, I'd be able to use my expertise in the field to be as cost effective and efficient as possible while delivering the best results possible."
12. In what ways would our clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited benefit from your knowledge and services?
How to Answer
This question is your chance to talk about the unique skills and knowledge that you would bring to Cambridge Consultants Limited and that is exactly what your interviewer is looking to hear. In your answer, keep your focus centered on how clients of the organization will benefit from the things that you bring to their table because Cambridge Consultants Limited is client focused in all that they do. To be effective with this answer, be sure to do your research on the clients at Cambridge Consultants Limited and think about how your experience will be beneficial for them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I have extensive experience in risk management in the healthcare industry. Having worked with some major players in the industry, your healthcare clients would benefit the most from the experience and solutions I could help provide them. Not to leave other industries out, I think my experience in the healthcare realm will also translate nicely to your clients in other areas of the private sector."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in accounting and tax law in a few different industries during my career to this point, I also have the unique experience of creating new organizational policies and procedures in my current role. In hearing more about this role, I think this experience would be very beneficial for your clients as I would be helping advise them in their practices and creating new policy would be crucial in that process."
13. For our clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited, we are brought in as consultant project managers that are working with unfamiliar teams of people. What leadership style would you bring to our clients that would be effective and efficient with our
How to Answer
Successful project managers are able to bring a leadership style to their teams that both inspires and motivates them to work cohesively and efficiently. In a consultant role with Cambridge Consultants Limited, the need to have an effective leadership style is compounded by the fact that you will be working with clients across many different businesses and industries. This elevates the need to have an effective leadership style. No matter how you answer this question, try to highlight your ability to inspire teams to work in a cohesive and efficient manner.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My leadership style in a team setting is a good mix between a democratic and a coaching style. I'm a believer that gaining consensus on team decisions helps boost morale and vision within a team and I love facilitating team meetings in that style. I want to make sure that all have their voices heard and have a chance to weigh in on important decisions. Then, when necessary, I use my experience and knowledge to help develop and coach members of the team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've had extensive leadership training. Through my years of experience as a project manager, I have developed the ability to cater my leadership style to the individuals and teams that I work with. I can be the pacesetter on a team that needs motivation and I can easily switch to the harmonizing leader when needed to build a team based atmosphere. My ability to be flexible with those that I work with has certainly contributed to my successes as a project manager and I'd love to bring this ability to the clients of Cambridge Consultants Limited"
14. If hired for this position at Cambridge Consultants Limited, what would be the ideal project for you to lead?
How to Answer
To fully understand the reasoning behind this question, your interviewer is looking to get a sense for what type of work you prefer to do, what your strong points are and where to best position you with clients if hired for the position. Prior to your interview, be sure that you research the clients of Cambridge Consultants Limited and the typical projects that are led with them. Make sure your desires align in some aspect of the business and speak openly and honestly about your most desirable project.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I'm fortunate enough to come consult with Cambridge Consultants Limited, my ideal project would be working with the leadership staff of a high profile employer on a corporate restructuring project that makes them more efficient and more profitable in a short amount of time. As you can see from my experience, I really thrive when working with high level leaders like CEO's and Presidents on what I would consider my greatest area of expertise."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Being passionate about manufacturing and technology, my ideal project would put me face to face working with a team of engineers and production staff to help implement the creation of a life changing product in the medical field. This area of manufacturing involves high cost materials and the need to produce items accurately and efficiently. My project management skills would thrive in this atmosphere."
15. At Cambridge Consultants Limited, we look to hire those who will be a long term fit. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but you need to assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for the position at Cambridge Consultants Limited.
1st Answer Example
"Ideally, 5 years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
2nd Answer Example
"5 years from now, I would like to supervise or manage a team of my own with Cambridge Consultants Limited. I feel like I am progressing in my career at a rate that will make this a possibility."
16. How do you stay organized and on track when working on a long-term project?
How to Answer
Working for Cambridge Consultants Limited in the role you are interviewing for will require an innate ability to manage projects from conception to final implementation. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to maintain organization to meet deadlines and customer expectations. Talk about your personal methods for organizing project work and give any examples that you have of your methods being successful. In the consulting and advisory industry, customer satisfaction and word of mouth are integral to success and growth of a business and effective project management is key in satisfaction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I really pride myself on my ability to multitask and my ability to stay organized in key in multitasking. For me personally, organization starts with using technology to my advantage and I do this through the use of my Outlook calendar and tasks functions. I take time each day to update my tasks and project work and use my ability to prioritize tasks to ensure that the right things are being worked on. In looking to bring these skills to long-term project work with your clients, staying organized and on task will be extremely important for the success of both Cambridge Consultants Limited and your clients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my work, the ability to stay organized and on track comes down to having a plan of attack for each project and keeping track of the plan as milestones are hit. If you are familiar with the program Trello, it really helps me organize all of the components of the projects that I work on and give me the ability to track who is doing what, what deadlines are coming and what milestones have been hit. But even with a great program like this, I always have the ability to re-prioritize due dates and new tasks as needed with any project."
17. At Cambridge Consultants Limited, you will have the opportunity to work with high level executives and leaders from the companies we contract with. What experience do you have in working with people at these levels?
How to Answer
As a business advisory and consulting firm, Cambridge Consultants Limited works with Managers, Directors, CEO's, CFO's, CAO's and leaders with other titles on all of our projects. Your role will likely involve working closely with these leaders. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable in working with the leadership team of the organization's clients by having you talk about your experience. Make sure that the examples you provide include some details on how you worked effectively to get the job done with the leaders you worked with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work directly under our Chief Financial Officer and sit on a couple of different committees that our Chief Executive Officer is on. Under the direction of my CFO, we have a great working relationship. I am comfortable approaching him at any moment with questions or to bring forward new ideas. He is aware of my strengths and respects my opinions on matters in my wheelhouse, so he never hesitates to come to me with important things. I think the keys to our strong relationship are the respect we show for each other and our open lines of communication."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with employees at all levels of the organizations that I've worked with. To me, working effectively with anyone requires a personal touch and a respectful approach. Whether I work with front line sales staff or members of the C-Suite, I take the time to get to know the person, their job and how I can best be of help to them in my role. This approach really helped me build a relationship with a Sales Executive that a few of my colleagues had struck out with in recent interactions."
18. Throughout your career, what types of roles and positions have you worked closely with and which roles are you most comfortable working with?
How to Answer
A consultant role with Cambridge Consultants Limited may require you working with CEO's, Presidents and high executive leaders of organizations and your interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you have experience working with this level of leadership and that you are comfortable in that relationship. If you have experience working with this level, draw on your experiences to talk about how you'll be effective in a consulting role with Cambridge Consultants Limited. If you don't have direct experience working with this level of leadership, pull from your personality and your relationship building skills to project to your interviewer that you'll be comfortable in the consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Since graduating from college, you can see that I've been employed with my current organization for almost 12 years. In my role, I've grown into the VP of Engineering role. In this role for almost three years now, I get to work closely with our CEO and CFO on upcoming projects. I have regular weekly touchpoints with each leader. I've learned that they look to me for expertise and we have a great working relationship because I speak openly and honestly in my areas of expertise. They continually tell me that they appreciate my no bull approach with them. I think the clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited will appreciate that about me as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've sat on different committees and led projects that involved our Senior Vice President and our Production Managers. I work really well with leaders at this level by speaking openly and honestly while asking a lot of clarifying questions. I regularly keep them updated on statuses of projects and communicating issues that may arise."
19. How did you maintain a good relationship with your most recent boss?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of maintaining a harmonious relationship with those who are considered your leaders.
If your relationship with your boss wasn't fantastic, what efforts did you take to make it better? Here are some suggestions:
- Try to understand what your boss values the most
- Keep your cool, even when you want to lose it
- Anticipate their needs and stay one step ahead
- Take leadership opportunities to show your worth
- Adapt to their preferences
Some basic ground rules for a stable working relationship with your boss are open communication, proactive listening, and not taking things personally. Discuss the ways that you cultivated a healthy relationship with your boss.
1st Answer Example
"My current boss is a very particular individual. Over the years I have taken the time to understand her preferences, her stress triggers, and what she enjoys seeing in my work. I find that if I stay one step ahead and maintain a positive attitude, we can work productively together."
2nd Answer Example
"I value having a strong working relationship with my boss. I want to learn what they do and take on as much work to help our team as possible. I scheduled regular update meetings with my boss and went the extra mile wherever I could."
20. What project management software are you familiar working with?
How to Answer
Effective project managers are able to readily utilize tools available to help in the planning, implementing and monitoring of a project and for this question, your interviewer is looking to gauge your ability to handle the available software that is out there and use it to your advantage. Project management software has improved vastly over time and now enables project managers and their teams to focus more effort on important aspects of a project. Talk about which programs you have work with and make sure your interviewer understands that you have the ability to pick up and use new systems with ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Prior to last year, I had been working on the online software system called Wrike. I really loved the ability to utilize the collaboration function within the system to involve members of the team in the editing of documents, review of materials and even the ability to start discussion threads within the system. Last year, we implemented a new system called Clarity PPM when my organization implemented this organization wide. At first upon the announcement, I was a little saddened to hear we'd be losing a great resource but I kept an open mind to the new system and its features and benefits. I've really mastered and come to love the reporting functions in this system that are saving me hours of work that I can spend on other areas of a project."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"After attending a few conferences and talking to colleagues in the project management field, we are really blessed with the great technology that we have to keep us on task and on track to hit deadlines with our big projects. Being very adept with computer skills and open to learning new things, my experience while in the corporate world and then moving into my own personal consulting business has been using Trello. While a great system altogether, I love its ability to connect teams that work together from across the country and its organization of a tasks board that all team members have access to."
21. At Cambridge Consultants Limited, our clients are looking for us to come in and provide sound leadership in their strategic planning and growth planning processes. What leadership style would you bring to our clients?
How to Answer
As a consultant at Cambridge Consultants Limited, an expectation from clients is for you to bring a sound leadership style to their team and a working knowledge of effective growth and strategic planning processes. While trying to avoid formal labels, talk about your leadership style as a consultant and explain why your style would most benefit clients. Try to focus on keywords that your leadership style brings, like collaboration and support.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Having worked with and led large teams in the development of formal growth plans for organization, I see my role as a consultant and my leadership with clients as being team-based and collaborative. My job is to lead transformational change within the organization because we will ultimately be trying something new with them and implementing change into the future. From my style of leadership comes improvement through a team based effort and I really think the clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited would benefit greatly from my style."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a consultant, I'd definitely employ a very democratic approach with your clients. They will be looking for me to provide the blueprint and the road map for success for them and then I would look to delegate and leave responsibility for implementing on them. My approach would be educational, resourceful and would preach teamwork among the entire project team. When I've utilized this approach in the past, it was very well received and helped lead to the success of several large projects."
22. What would you consider your strong suit in the digital transformation of organizations that you could bring to our clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited?
How to Answer
This question gives you the opportunity to showcase what you feel will be your best skills if hired for this position and your interviewer is ideally looking to hear what unique aspects you can bring to their clients. This question remains very open ended for you to talk about process items or industry specific items, so make sure that however you answer that you are able to speak knowledgeably and confidently. Again for this question, researching Cambridge Consultants Limited and their clients can pay off big for this question.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For your clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited, my ability to project a vision into a transformational strategy will greatly benefit everyone that I work with. The key to any digital transformation is buy-in from senior level leadership as they impact how the rest of the organization accepts change and becomes a steward for change. Implementing technological changes cause disruption and chaos and leading projects with a clear vision and strategy is a key to success."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Through the projects that I've worked on in technological transformations for business, I've always prioritized the final customer and their journey and how digitalization will impact them. Many times with organizations that I've worked with, the end customer or user gets lost in the thought process and I would be there for the clients of Cambridge Consultants Limited to ensure that their best needs are always taken care of."
23. What experience do you have working with artificial intelligence in the business world? Where have you seen it be successful?
How to Answer
Artificial intelligence is beginning to make its way into every industry across the globe and organizations that are hesitant to experiment with breaking technology in the field will fall behind their competition quickly. Talk openly about the experience you have working with artificial intelligence and expand on where you've seen it be successful. Make sure your interview walks away from your conversation knowing that you understand the importance of AI and where clients at Cambridge Consultants Limited can benefit from its use.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Having worked closely in the education field and implementing digital transformations in schools across the country, AI in the school setting is starting to take hold and the impacts of it are amazing. One such AI technology is personal tutors for students. In most setting, teachers can't provide 1:1 tutoring for students for longer than little bits of time. New AI in the education field can be customized to work with struggling students at their need level and at their pace."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Having specialized in digital transformation for HR departments spanning across many industries, the roll out of artificial intelligence in that field in recent years has been amazing. Last year, I helped a client implement a resume and application screening bot that saved recruiters a lot of time in pre-screening candidates and allowed them to focus their efforts on final candidates for high volume positions. I am very intrigued by AI applications and would love to help clients here at Cambridge Consultants Limited find AI solutions that improve their business."
24. A career move to a consultant with Cambridge Consultants Limited may find you working on new challenges that you haven't faced during your career. What's been the most challenging project you've led up to this point in your career?
How to Answer
No matter what challenge you choose to discuss during your answer to this question, keep in mind that your interviewer is mostly looking to hear how you handled yourself during a time when you were pushed to your limits. In your answer, discuss the importance of being resourceful and team oriented and talk about how these things helped lead to success in the project. Also, be sure that your interviewer walks away from the interview knowing that you are willing and able to tackle any challenge in front of you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Looking back at the 12 years of project management experience that I have, the most challenging project I led was about five years ago. The challenge started from the beginning when I was tasked with improving waste efficiency at one of my organizations warehouses. At the time, I was not very well versed in warehouse operations, so I took the time to research and talk to experts within my organization to start the brainstorming process. The high level leader that tasked me with the project didn't really do a great job of defining any end goals for me and those are really important in planning for a project. So I scheduled several follow up meetings with him to define more specific goals for the project. In the end, I assembled a great team of experts that ended up reducing costly waste by almost 80% in our operation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'd have to say that the most challenging project I have faced during my career was a project that assembled team members from different departments within a manufacturing plant operation. During the planning and kickoff process where we all met together, I got the sense that things would run smoothly and cohesively and was I ever wrong. As I monitored progress, I quickly noticed that we were getting off schedule on initial deadlines. In communicating out to team members, it became evident that internal communication at this plant was a struggle. As some team members told me in person that there was a lot of internal strife between some of the departments, I decided to call a project meeting to discuss my expectations for communications while also holding a team building exercise. I made it a priority to clear the air right away that bickering and childish behavior would not be tolerated and that we were all working toward a common goal that benefited everyone. Following that, the team building activity really helped make some eyes open up to who people were really working with. By taking the bull by the horns and putting people in an uncomfortable situation, a difficult situation turned into a team that accomplished a major task with ease and teamwork."
25. Tell me about a time when you used good judgement and logic to solve a problem.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear about a particular situation where you used good judgment to solve a work-related problem. Be sure to showcase your logic and reasoning abilities. Share a brief overview of the problem, discuss the pro/cons of each decision you could have made, and tell the interviewer why the solution you chose was the best.
1st Answer Example
"Just yesterday I had a customer who was upset because our sales associate would not refund a service that the customer had already used in full. She was outside of the 14 days return policy as well. I am the manager, so I stepped in to alleviate the situation. By showing the customer that I could meet her in the middle, she was able to calm down and reason with me. I did not refund her the full price; however, I offered her a $25 in service credit. I know this will cost my company mere dollars and, in the end, I had a happy customer again."
2nd Answer Example
"I had a customer who was unhappy with his purchase (the service in question cost over $20k). He then was unhappy with the way in which the arbitration process was heading, and although my team all said just to let him be and have him work with our Director of Operations to resolve the issue, I knew that I could lose a customer over a one time issue. I mediated the call, allowed him to air his grievances, and assured him that we would work together to solve the issue."
26. At Cambridge Consultants Limited we seek to hire those who think outside the box. When was the last time you made a suggestion for workplace improvement? What was the outcome?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you are an engaged employee; offering suggestions and providing more profound thought when it comes to processing improvement in the workplace. Give an example of a time when you suggested an improvement in the workplace. It can be big or small! Did anything significant come out of your suggestion?
1st Answer Example
"Last year I made a recommendation for our office to incorporate a recycling program. We were going through a lot of single-use coffee pods. It bothered me how wasteful it all seemed. I presented a spreadsheet to my supervisor comparing the single-use pods vs. investing in a built-in coffee machine. The savings over two years were significant, and my boss has now presented my idea to our head office. It feels nice to be heard in the workplace, so I continue to keep my eyes out for opportunities for process improvements."
2nd Answer Example
"I made some recommendations for change in our CRM system. The suggestions were surrounding how items received documentation and how outstanding tasks became highlighted. Our head office made the changes and a lot of people in our office commented on how much they liked the changes."
27. Many organizations overlook some areas of their business that can benefit from a digital transformation. What is an overlooked area where you've seen a digital transformation make a huge impact during your career?
How to Answer
Digital technology has the ability to impact any level of an organization, but oftentimes some levels get overlooked. For this question, your interviewer is looking to hear that you have the ability to look at these overlooked areas and find ways that a digital upgrade can impact them in a positive way. To be creative, don't leave any stone unturned in your answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, one unique thing that I accomplished was making our environmental services digital and online. This transformation had many moving pieces. One that I am proud of having a huge impact was automatic notification of supplies being low around restroom facilities. Not only did this save labor time of someone checking supplies, but it also kept both employees and customers extremely satisfied at our facilities."
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, I was working with a large distributor on revolutionizing their technology usage all across the board. The one area that their management overlooked was with their delivery and fleet of trucks. With changes made to routing tracking/efficiency and vehicle maintenance diagnostics, this organization was able to save tens of thousands of dollars just in the first year of implementation."
28. What interests you in joining the business consulting world here at Cambridge Consultants Limited?
How to Answer
Anytime the question regarding why you want to join the company is asked, it is very important to do your research on the organization and the position you are interviewing for so you can match your skills and desires to the job. In your answer here, be sure that you also speak to the potential move to a consultative type role if this will be the first time for you with a consulting organization. Be sure to highlight your qualities that make you an ideal fit for the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"At this point in my career, I feel like I have really maxed out my capabilities in my current role as the IT Director with my current organization. Over the past two or three years, I've found so much fulfillment in my work when I've been helping others and providing education to them that I've narrowed my job search down to the IT consulting field. The prospect of helping other IT departments grow and become more efficient under my consultation is an adventure that I would love to embark on here at Cambridge Consultants Limited!"
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 23rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As I've grown in my role in the Training & Education department with my current employer, I've gravitated toward leadership development and succession planning with my organization and I'd like to bring these skills to work here at Cambridge Consultants Limited as this position fits right in that mold. Using my experience and knowledge, you'll quickly find that I have a great ability to work alongside and train the top level executives with your clients in a manner that is professional and effective at the same time. My experiences in both healthcare and manufacturing sound like they'd fit well with your client base as well."