Cigna Corp Internship Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. How can we motivate you during your internship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every employer should know how each staff member and interns are best motivated. Talk to the hiring manager about the variety of ways you are best motivated on the job. The interviewer wants to see what motivates you and if you will be a good fit with the company culture if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
There is no right or wrong answer here. You might be motivated by praise from your superiors, being recognized for a job well done, or being offered promotions or extra job duties based on your performance.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you are motivated by your paycheck or the number of days off you will receive. The hiring manager wants to hear how the company can encourage you in your role as an intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I like to know that my efforts are noticed. We have a leader board in my current position, and I like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Have you ever gone above and beyond for a customer? If so, please describe the situation.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager will ask situational questions to gain insight into your personality and your characteristics as an employee. Cigna prides itself on providing excellent customer service, and they want to see if you feel the same.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
It is best to say that you have gone above and beyond your regular duties for a customer. The hiring manager wants to hear that you are a compassionate person who will go out of your way to help others. Focus on a situation where you showcased your customer service skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Let the hiring manager know if you do not have customer service experience. Give an example of a time you went above and beyond to help a classmate, family, friend, or a stranger who needed assistance. You want to avoid not having an experience to share with the hiring manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I feel I often go above and beyond for customers. My most memorable experience happened about six months ago. I was working in a department store and had a customer pass out and have a seizure at my register. She had two young children in strollers with her, and I watched them in a break room for an hour until her husband could come to pick them up. It was the end of my shift, so I watched the children on my own time. The children's father was very grateful when he arrived and thanked me for keeping his children safe."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Cigna prides itself on providing excellent customer service. How do you provide excellent customer service?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies that provide excellent customer service greet customers with a smile, listen to their customers, know their customers' preferences, and go above and beyond to make them happy. The hiring manager asks this question to determine if your values align with theirs. They want to hear how you provide excellent customer service to see if you will be a good fit for their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Think of how you like to be treated as a customer. Then, think of how you provide excellent customer service, treating your customers how you want to be treated. Describe the actions you take to provide excellent customer service to all, showing the interviewer you will be an asset to their team if hired. If you have received an award or recognition for the customer service you provide, be sure to include that in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Some people think customer service is overrated and that the customer is not always right. You might feel that way, but you should avoid saying that during an interview. Since Cigna prides itself on providing excellent customer service, the interviewer will want to hire interns who feel the same way.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked in hospitality for three years, so I am very familiar with providing excellent customer service. I believe it starts with having a positive attitude and treating the customer with respect. When you listen to a customer's needs and provide a solution, they will be happy every time. If a customer is unhappy with something, I do my best to make sure their needs are taken care of and that they leave with a smile on their face."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Behavioral
4. How do you handle a dispute with a coworker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for employees or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The hiring manager knows this and wants to see how you handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in the workplace.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Give a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
You do not want to say that you avoid or ignore disagreements or get angry when a dispute arises in the workplace. The hiring manager does not want to hear that you lack conflict resolution and communication skills. You should also avoid speaking poorly of the person you had the dispute with or placing the blame solely on the other individual. You need to be responsible and recognize your part in the conflict.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have only had one dispute with a coworker in my career. I handled it by recognizing we had an issue and asking my coworker to speak in private. I calmly asked him why he thought we had a conflict and what we could do to resolve the issue. It turns out there was a misunderstanding in our respective duties, and my coworker thought I was trying to undermine his position. Once we cleared up who was responsible for each responsibility, we never had an issue again."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Communication
5. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question to see if you have strong oral and written communication skills. Your internship will entail participating and speaking in meetings and communicating with your team and the public. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Describe your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor or professor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your communication skills could use improvement. The hiring manager may pass you over for another candidate if you have poor communication skills. If you need to strengthen your communication skills, you might want to enroll in a leadership course, public speaking class, or read or watch a video on improving your communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have solid communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took one year of communications in college and have honed my verbal and written communication skills over the years. I have a performance review from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like to see it."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
6. What questions do you have for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Asking questions shows the interviewer you are interested in learning all you can about the company and the role you would be filling.
The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site! Review the Cigna Internship website and other online resources to ensure that your questions are not mundane or redundant.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, what the interviewer likes most about working for Cigna, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you for the internship position.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid asking questions about salary or benefits. The salary and benefits package is often listed on the job announcement or discussed with Human Resources when offered the position. If you ask about money or the benefits package, it makes the interviewer think you are most interested in the monetary aspect of the job. Of course, it is perfectly acceptable to talk about the salary or benefits if the interviewer asks about your salary expectations. However, you do not want to bring it up yourself.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the internship?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
7. Who is the CEO of our company?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Before any job interview, you must research the company you are interviewing with. You want to learn all you can to answer any questions the hiring manager will have. Review the company website, online employee reviews, and the internship website. The interviewer wants to hear that you have done your homework and know the CEO of Cigna.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Show the interviewer you have done in-depth research on their company. Focus on naming the CEO of Cigna and a little history about them. You can mention when they were appointed CEO, who they worked for before Cigna, and any achievements they have made since becoming CEO.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid being unable to name the CEO of Cigna. If you cannot name the current CEO, the interviewer will assume that you did not do your research and may not pay close attention to detail. It also shows the hiring manager that you may be applying to other companies and are not focused on a Cigna Internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"The CEO of your company is David Cordani, who was appointed President and CEO in 2009. I was fascinated to find out about Mr. Cordani's involvement with Wounded Veterans and his Family Foundation and that he is a published author. I have a Wounded Veteran in my family and appreciate those who support them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
8. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings and internship opportunities. The hiring manager wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of Cigna referred you, a recruiter reached out, or you heard about the position at a career fair. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on the recruiter's name, the Cigna Internship website, a career fair, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid forgetting where you heard about the position. If you cannot remember where you learned about the job opening, the interviewer will determine that you do not pay attention to detail and might be applying to many other internship positions.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about the internship program from one of your recruiters, Jacob Halloway. I attended a virtual career fair through the University of Arizona and met Jacob there. He was very patient and explained everything I needed to know about the internship program."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
9. What is Cigna's mission?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have done your research on Cigna before your interview. You should be prepared to answer any questions the hiring manager will have, such as the company's mission statement, its core values, the population they serve, the CEO of the company, or the year they were founded. It is recommended to do your homework before any interview and learn all you can about the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Cigna's mission is 'to improve the health, well-being, and peace of mind of those we serve by making health care simple, affordable, and predictable.' Focus on memorizing the mission so you can respond to this question with ease.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not knowing Cigna's mission before your interview. If you cannot respond to this question, the hiring manager will see that you did not do your research and question your ability to succeed with their organization. Even if you cannot memorize the whole mission, you can paraphrase in your own words while keeping the same meaning.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Cigna's mission is to improve the health, well-being, and peace of mind of those we serve by making health care simple, affordable, and predictable."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
10. What do you do to stay healthy?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question to see if you have a healthy lifestyle. Cigna's motto is 'we are your partner in health and wellness 24/7.' If they hire you for the internship, they want to see that you have the same values and believe in keeping yourself healthy while remaining drug and nicotine-free.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing how you lead a healthy lifestyle. Describe your exercise routine and how you make healthy food choices. Leading a healthy lifestyle also embodies what you do to relieve stress and how you take care of your mental health.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid telling the hiring manager that you do not exercise or eat healthy or that you smoke or use drugs. If you smoke or use drugs, that will be a definite deal-breaker. If you do not believe in leading a healthy lifestyle, the hiring manager may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I eat a plant-based diet and try to grow most of my fruits and vegetables or buy them from the farmer's market. I also exercise at least five days a week and enjoy running, bodyweight exercises, and Tai Chi. Whenever possible, I ride my bike instead of using my car. I have never smoked, drank alcohol, or used drugs and never plan to. I believe it is important to take care of my body as it is the only one I have."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
11. Do you use any form of tobacco?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question because Cigna has a strict policy against employees using any form of tobacco while employed with their company. This includes cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and electronic cigarettes. Some states allow Cigna to test for nicotine when doing the pre-employment drug test, so the hiring manager wants to find out if you use tobacco before moving forward in the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being completely honest. If you are not honest about your tobacco use, the hiring manager will find out that you use nicotine if your state allows testing for nicotine. If you do not use nicotine, you have nothing to worry about.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you smoke or chew tobacco, avoid telling the interviewer that you do not use tobacco in any form. You might think you can beat the nicotine test, but there is a component of nicotine that can stay in your system for up to seven days. If you take a nicotine test and do not pass, the hiring manager will not offer you the internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not use tobacco in any form. I think smoking is a dirty habit, and I have never been interested in trying it."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
12. Are you a junior or senior in college?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To be eligible for the Cigna Internship, you must be a junior or rising senior in college. The interviewer asks this question to ensure you meet Cigna's requirements.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Tell the interviewer if you are a junior or senior and at what college. Also, be sure to mention what you are majoring in. Cigna has multiple opportunities for students pursuing a degree in:
- Actuarial Science
- Business Administration
- Communications
- Computer Information Systems
- Data Science / Data Analytics
- Economics
- Finance
- Marketing
- Math
- Public Health / Health Management
- Risk Management
- Sales
- Statistics / Biostatistics
- Supply Chain Management
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
As with any interview question, you should avoid being dishonest and saying you are a junior or senior in college if you are not. If you have already graduated college, Cigna has other opportunities for graduate students.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently a junior at Walden University. I am working towards my Bachelor's Degree in Public Health."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
13. Our internship program is 10-12 weeks long. Are you able to commit to 10-12 weeks with us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question to ensure you understand the time commitment required for the internship position. After reading the Cigna Internship website, you probably already know this, but the hiring manager wants to be sure.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Let the hiring manager know that you are aware of the length of the internship and are prepared to commit to 10-12 weeks. They want to see that they will not invest time and money in a candidate who then decides to leave partway through.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you cannot commit to a 10-12 week internship, avoid telling the hiring manager that you can. You want to respect the company's time and investment it takes to hire and train interns.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I understand the time commitment, and I am prepared to spend 10-12 weeks on this internship with your company if you choose me."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
14. What degree are you pursuing?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager wants to see if you are pursuing a degree in one of the following mentioned on the Cigna Internship website. Cigna has multiple opportunities for students pursuing a degree in:
- Actuarial Science
- Business Administration
- Communications
- Computer Information Systems
- Data Science / Data Analytics
- Economics
- Finance
- Marketing
- Math
- Public Health / Health Management
- Risk Management
- Sales
- Statistics / Biostatistics
- Supply Chain Management
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on the degree you are pursuing and what you plan to do with your degree. The hiring manager wants to ensure you are seeking a degree in a field mentioned on Cigna's website so they can determine if you meet their qualifications for the internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you are not pursuing a degree mentioned on the Cigna Internship website, avoid applying for the internship. If you do not meet their qualifications, you will not proceed further in the hiring process.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am pursuing a degree in healthcare management. Once I obtain my degree, I want to work as a Hospital Administrator."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
15. Besides vacation and holiday time, how many days were you absent from work last year?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Cigna wants to hire a responsible, dependable intern who shows up to work when scheduled. The hiring manager asks this question to evaluate your work attendance in the past year. If you called off work many times in the past year, they might hesitate to offer you the position unless your reasons were excusable.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving the exact number of days you missed work and why. If the hiring manager deems your absence from work an excused and unavoidable reason to miss work, it will likely not be an issue. If you have many unexcused absences, they may disqualify you as a viable candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you cannot remember how often you missed work or answering untruthfully. The hiring manager will contact your former employer for a reference and ask them the same question. It is best to be honest and explain any absences from work in the past year, allowing the interviewer to decide if your reasons were unavoidable or not.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was not absent from work any days last year. One day, I needed to take off to attend my brother's graduation, but I got someone to cover my shift with my supervisor's approval."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
16. We conduct early-stage criminal background checks and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies need to be very cautious about who they hire for many reasons. There is a chance that much of the information you will access could be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. You will be working with the public, and Cigna needs to ensure they hire trustworthy individuals. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check and drug test they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, you should focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue, assure the interviewer that you will pass the test because you do not use drugs. Some states also allow Cigna to test for nicotine in your system. The list of states that allow this is on the company website. If you have anything on your record, you must also disclose that as the investigators will discover any past criminal history.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If passing a drug test will be an issue for you, it is best to wait until you are clean to apply for a Cigna Internship. Many agencies require a pre-employment background investigation and drug test, so you must pass both to work in this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I do not participate in drug use and never have. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role, I will maintain a clean record."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Experience
17. Do you have any experience working in retail or customer service?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Cigna hiring managers will often ask if you have any retail or customer service experience to see if you know the industry. Cigna prides itself on providing exceptional customer service, and they want to hire others who feel the same. If you have worked in retail or customer service, the hiring manager will determine you have the qualifications they seek in an intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Describe any retail or customer service jobs you have worked and how long. Explain your role and job duties so the hiring manager can understand your interactions with customers. If you won any awards for your customer service skills or other accolades, do not forget to mention that to the hiring manager.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you have never worked in retail or customer service, avoid saying that you have. The hiring manager has your resume and will contact references to verify your information. If you are caught being untruthful, the interviewer will pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have worked in customer service positions for the past four years. I worked for two years as a barista at Starbucks and two years as a cashier at Target. I was responsible for greeting customers, ringing up their purchases, answering questions, and providing an excellent customer service experience. I won employee of the month at Starbucks three times and twice at Target."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
18. Why are you pursuing a Cigna Internship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing Cigna to understand what will inspire and motivate you in your internship. You could apply for an internship with many other companies, and the interviewer wants to know why you chose Cigna over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on what drew you to Cigna. It might be that another Cigna employee referred you, you have family or friends who work for Cigna, a recruiter sought you out, or you may have done your research and found Cigna on your own.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you are applying for internships at other companies, avoid telling the hiring manager. They want to hear that you only want to work for Cigna and your reasons.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am pursuing a Cigna Internship because my older sister was an intern and loved her experience. She told me all about the program and how much she learned. I researched the opportunities you offer and want to have the same experience to grow professionally as my sister did."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
19. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the organization and how those qualities will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing them you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the Cigna Internship website before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education the agency seeks in an intern. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When you describe how you meet all of their internship requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Many qualified candidates are interviewing for the same position. Avoid speaking negatively of the other candidates or sounding arrogant when responding to this question. You want to sell yourself in the interview, but not while making the interviewer think you will be a challenging person to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"While I am sure you have many qualified candidates applying for the internship, I am the best candidate because I hold the same values as your company. I genuinely care about making a healthy difference in people's lives and love how your company integrates the physical, emotional, financial, social, and environmental aspects of health and well-being. I also meet your requirements and am a senior with a 4.2-grade point average while studying full-time towards my nursing and public health management degree."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
20. Tell me about an organization or group you have contributed to outside of work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness, all qualities that make a great employee. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to hear about contributions you have made to the community in any form. If you have volunteered specifically in a manner related to your career path, describe the projects you have contributed to. If your volunteer experience does not include work-related contributions, that is fine.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you do not have volunteer experience, avoid saying that you do. The hiring manager may ask for a letter of recommendation from the volunteer coordinator or for a phone number they can call for a reference. You will not be disqualified as a candidate for not having volunteer experience, but you will be if you are dishonest in your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked with the Special Olympics for the past fourteen years. My brother has Down syndrome and participates in several Olympic events. I volunteer as a track coach and event organizer and play alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities. I have been volunteering since I was eight years old, and it has been one of the best experiences of my life."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
21. What are your professional goals for the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have professional goals and a plan to achieve them. Setting goals to improve and grow professionally shows that you are motivated and dedicated to your career. The hiring manager also wants to see if your plans include working for Cigna. Companies invest a lot of money and time to hire and train employees, and the interviewer wants to see if your plans include working for Cigna if hired for the internship position. However, they understand this is an internship position, so they do not necessarily expect you to stay with the company after your internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on the professional goals you have planned for the next five years and how you will achieve them. Since you are still finishing college, you want to concentrate on obtaining your degree and then look for a job in your field. Or, you may plan on pursuing higher education, working towards a master's degree. Be sure to highlight that you see yourself with the company in five years if that is your goal.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have not planned that far in advance. If you do not have professional goals, the hiring manager will determine that you are not motivated and inspired to grow in your career. If you are not motivated to succeed, the hiring manager may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"My professional goals in the next five years are to be hired for the internship position, gain experience, finish my Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, and work with your company as a Marketing Specialist."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
22. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager wants to hear about your greatest weakness to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your life and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to working as an intern but not an essential job duty. If you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills, the hiring manager may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid describing a weakness that is a crucial responsibility of an intern or not work-related. The hiring manager wants to hear what weakness in your professional life you have identified and how you plan to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness in my professional life is my typing speed. I can type 40 words per minute, which is average. However, my goal is to get to 60 words per minute. I signed up for an online typing course and started one week ago. The course outline says that I can go from amateur to pro in thirty days, spending one hour a day practicing. My goal is to be at 60 words per minute in the next thirty days."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
23. What is your greatest strength?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest strength to determine if you have the qualities they seek. Review the Cigna Internship website before your interview and watch the video on how to prepare for an internship. Then, decide on your greatest strength that aligns with your research on the company to show the hiring manager you have what they are looking for in an intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the Cigna Internship website says the company seeks a rising junior or senior college student with strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. In that case, you should say your communication, interpersonal, or leadership skills are your greatest strength. Focus on using a keyword on the website so the hiring manager can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid using a strength not found on the company website or unrelated to your internship. The hiring manager wants to hear that your strength is a quality they seek in a candidate and that you will benefit the company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength is my leadership skills. I developed these skills in high school as the class president and team captain of my volleyball team. I further developed these skills in college as the captain of the debate team. I was elected to these positions because of my ability to lead a group of people to accomplish and achieve the same goals. I enjoy leading others by example, and I look forward to bringing these skills to your company if I am chosen for the internship."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
24. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and that you spend time away from work and school destressing from the pressures you are under.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and determine how well you will get along with other team members based on your interests. Since Cigna is concerned with healthy activities, it would be good to list things you like to do that fall into a healthy category.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Since you are applying for an internship, you want to put your best foot forward. Avoid describing interests that may seem unprofessional or unhealthy to the interviewer. For example, you should avoid saying you enjoy spending your free time lying around watching movies, playing video games, or going clubbing with your friends. While those activities are perfectly harmless and a great way to unwind, the hiring manager may view them as unhealthy or unprofessional for a Cigna Intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are riding mountain bikes, trail running, and rock climbing. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy scrapbooking, cooking, and reading true-crime novels."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Leadership
25. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Perhaps you have led a team at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should 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, demonstrate to the interviewer that you can handle the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Focus on sharing with the hiring manager how you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be the face of the organization when challenges arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, it is best to avoid saying you do not consider yourself a leader. Cigna looks for rising students who want to impact the world. To do that, you must have leadership skills. If your leadership skills could use improvement, take a leadership course, watch videos on leadership, or read books about improving your leadership skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but I also believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I strive to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Management
26. Tell me about your relationship with your previous boss.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question to see how you work with and speak of others. They want to know if you will be an easy person to work with or a challenge. When you answer this question, be sure to remain positive, even if the experience wasn't. Keep your answer short and respectful. Avoid talking about any previous drama, and do not speak poorly of your employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you had a great relationship with your previous boss, explain what made it great. If you did not have a good relationship with your former boss, focus on saying, 'I have had healthier relationships in the past with previous employers, but we did the best that we could. Our communication styles were very different, making it challenging at times.' Be sure to have a follow-up answer if the interviewer asks you to expand on what you have just said.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid speaking poorly of your former boss, even if you did not get along. You should also avoid saying you had an excellent relationship with them if you did not. The hiring manager will call your references and find out you were dishonest in the interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I make a point of investing in coworker relationships. I think it's important to establish these relationships early on, especially with my boss. My current boss knows that he can rely on me for anything in his absence, and my responsibilities have consistently increased to reflect that level of trust."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
27. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager wants to see if you consider yourself a compassionate person since Cigna values helping others improve their health and well-being and cares deeply about those they serve. Cigna intends to hire like-minded interns, so the hiring manager will ask if you are compassionate to determine if you will be a good fit for the team.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on ensuring the hiring manager understands you are a compassionate person. You can say you are a compassionate person, but giving an example of how you have helped others is a better way to let the hiring manager know. For example, you can describe your volunteer experience or how you took care of an elderly relative, helped your neighbors, or took someone in who was down on their luck. Give an example that shows your compassion for others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you do not feel you are a compassionate person. If you say that, the hiring manager will determine you are not a good fit for the Cigna Internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a very compassionate person. I have empathy and compassion for others and do not like seeing people down on their luck. I have volunteered at a soup kitchen that provides warm meals to people without homes for the past three years. I also volunteer at an animal shelter and take the animals for walks, play with them, and help clean their cages. I have compassion for animals and humans alike."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
28. How do you handle stress on the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you can handle stress on the job. Working as a Cigna Intern can be stressful and fast-paced, and the interviewer wants to determine whether you will be a good fit for the team if hired. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to handle pressure in the workplace and the techniques you use to minimize job stressors.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Tell the interviewer that you understand how to decompress away from work so you are ready to mentally handle the pressures of your job. Interns are less apt to burn out or become sick or injured from stress when they understand the stress factor of their job and have healthy ways to relieve stress.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you do not handle stress well. If you cannot deal with the job stressors, the interviewer will determine you may not be a good fit for Cigna. If you feel you need to work on handling stress better, it might be good to research ways to manage stress before your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
29. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is essential that you can remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Interviewers want to hire patient Cigna Interns who remain calm in challenging situations. Let the interviewer know that you are patient and professional and can increase your patience level during difficult times.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you are not a patient person. It requires patience to participate in a Cigna Internship, and the interviewer wants to see that you can remain calm and professional under pressure.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight out of ten for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10, and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan, which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Teamwork
30. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your Cigna Internship, you will be required to collaborate with other team members. You may also be required to participate with the community on volunteer assignments. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have experience working on a team, describe how well you have collaborated with others in the past. If you have not collaborated with others in the workplace, use an experience from a sports team or school to describe how you work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying you prefer to work alone or you do not work well with others. It is okay if you prefer to work alone, but you should not voice that to the hiring manager They want to see that you are a team player and can work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I collaborate very well with others. When like-minded individuals work toward a common goal, the work flows smoothly. I have never had any issues in my four years of working in a team environment. I enjoy working independently and working with others and learning from their experiences."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022