30 ConocoPhillips Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our ConocoPhillips interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?
How to Answer
API gravity is American Institute Petroleum gravity. In short, it is a measure used to determine the weight of petroleum liquids compared to water. Here, the interviewer is not looking for you to give a math or physics lesson. They want to know that you are aware of basic terms and what they mean. Keep your response brief, and easy to follow.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand there is a specific formula used to find the gravity of petroleum liquids from the specific gravity, also known as SG. The formula is: API gravity = 141.5/SG - 131.5. I also know that is the API gravity is 10+, it is classified as a light oil which will float on water. An API gravity under ten will sink and then becomes categorized as heavy oil."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"What I understand about API gravity is that it's a measurement that calculates the gravity of petroleum liquids compared to water. This calculation is how oil becomes classified from light, medium and heavy for example."
Written by Michelle Clark
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2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much emphasis you put on pay when considering a new position. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- work/life balance
- amount of travel involved in the role
- overall medical and health benefits
- additional perks such as car allowance, cell allowance, spending account
- the industry you will be working in
- amount of vacation time
- the type of clients you would be working with
- the location of the company
- career growth opportunity
- the size of your new team
- the company's reputation
- overall workplace culture.
Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job. If you are not sure on details for this role, you can ask!
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture before accepting a position, which includes factors such as benefits, the amount of paid vacation time, the type of work challenges and opportunities and work/life balance."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Several factors are important to me when taking a job. Compensation is a driving component but so is the company mission, culture, benefits, and location. Right now, I am looking to have an easier commute than I currently experience, and I'm also looking to join an industry leading organization where I know I can learn, grow and develop as a professional."
Written by Michelle Clark
3. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have a personal motto or mantra. Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you or a saying that you grew up with that resonates with you?
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly necessary to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes the credit for good work."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My mission is to give my best 100% of the time. It's important to me that I have a great reputation in this industry through hard work and a positive attitude."
Written by Michelle Clark
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4. What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you understand what makes a leader genuinely stand out. Just because you are a manager, that does not mean you are a leader.
A real leader is someone who makes others want to jump on board with their mission and follow them. A manager is just someone who has people under them. To be an excellent leader, you should offer a balance between the two. You need to be able to have people buy into your vision but at the same time, show authority when necessary.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"A manager is someone who has a team of people who answer to them. That person simply has the responsibility of 'managing' the team's work. A leader, on the other hand, is someone of influence and, I believe, anyone can be a leader - no matter their job title or position."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"To me, leadership is a mindset versus a title. A manager is more of a job title. Anyone can possess leadership skills, but a great manager will have leadership skills along with the ability to direct his or her team to success."
Written by Michelle Clark
5. What can you tell me about some of the ways ConocoPhillips encourages diversity and inclusion?
How to Answer
Diversity and inclusion efforts are a key part of all talent acquisition and management initiatives at major corporations today. Take the time to get to know what ConocoPhillips believes and administrates in terms of building a diverse and inclusive team environment, and be able to connect that with your own expectations.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"From what I've seen in my research, it looks like ConocoPhillips' commitment to building a diverse and inclusive environment is foundational to its SPIRIT Values that guide how team members interact every day. This is the type of environment I'm looking for. I really believe that the strongest companies draw from the varied backgrounds, ideas and views of their employees in order to drive success."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm encouraged by what I see ConocoPhillips engaged in in terms of diversity and inclusion efforts. I see that you have several employee networks, you're committed to supplier diversity, and in terms of recruiting and hiring, the company creates balanced interview teams to mitigate unconscious bias. In addition, I'm excited to learn more about your talent management teams that review employee development and career progression by skills and location. All of this indicates to me that ConocoPhillips wants to do right by its employees and to see them all succeed."
Written by Michelle Clark
6. What have you done to improve your oil and gas knowledge in the last year?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are interested in your industry, and career growth, enough to take your professional development into your own hands. Even if your current employer does not offer perks like oil industry conferences or financial reimbursement for additional coursework, there is no reason why you cannot take the initiative.
You could:
- Read industry or career-related books
- Subscribe to relevant podcasts
- Enhance your education with an additional certificate
- Attend a conference related to your career or personal growth
- Teach yourself a new software program
- Read established journals and websites on a regular basis
- Find a mentor who is senior to you, in your particular industry or career path
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"It is important to me that I continue to grow as a professional oil and gas administrator. This year I took an Advanced Excel course so that I could take my competency from intermediate to expert. The course has helped me immensely, and I am currently looking into a leadership workshop as well."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The oil and gas industry is always changing, and it's vital that I continue to gain knowledge, to keep up with the latest and greatest! I refer on a daily basis to a variety of energy-related journals and publications such as Oilweek, Midstream Business, and Gas & Oil magazine."
Written by Michelle Clark
7. When given an important assignment, how do you approach handling it?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you first approach a critical assignment. Are you the individual who will take an assignment head-on, or do you need to research and plan early? Do you jump in and get it all done immediately or do you balance it with other assignments? Talk to the interviewer about how you approach essential tasks at work.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When my supervisor gives me an important assignment or task I am sure to assess the depth of the project, then take a look at my schedule to see how I can appropriately balance it with my other work. I do not procrastinate because then it's easy to get behind."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I lay out all the deadlines, figure out the deliverables, priority order, and then do all the research needed to make informed decisions. I keep a written "to-do" list and transfer project deadlines into my calendar to stay on task."
Written by Michelle Clark
8. Tell me how you brought value to your most recent position.
How to Answer
This question offers another way for the interviewer to ask about your recent successes and bragging points. The interviewer wants to know which top skills you will highlight if you had to narrow down where you brought the most value.
Perhaps you influenced changes that saved the company money. Maybe you were the top performing manager in your department. Think of your strengths in action! If you are reliable, talk about how consistent your work has been and how you are in constant support of your coworkers. If you have a strong work ethic, share how you accomplished a project in the midst of harsh obstacles.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I brought value through delivering an increased customer base and a stronger contractor network. My ability to build strong relationships helped me secure and maintain a great deal of new business."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My organizational skills made an incredible impact on my current company. Upon my arrival, I quickly implemented new filing systems for both physical and digital files. I also introduced the use of Trello, a project management app that we now use office-wide."
Written by Michelle Clark
9. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how to ensure a healthy level of productivity from you. Are you able to be productive in any environment or are there particular types of situations that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment that offered at ConocoPhillips before the interview.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and have found that I can be very productive when there is the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments although that isn't my preference."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I work well in a high pressure, demanding environment that requires me to work smart and make my mark. I am competitive and love a significant challenge. How would you best describe the work environment at ConocoPhillips?"
Written by Michelle Clark
10. How important are ConocoPhillips' conservation partnerships to the company's overall success?
How to Answer
This is an opportunity to show that you understand how ConocoPhillips is working with other organizations on the important issue of water conservation. You can find good information on the ConocoPhillips website, so make sure to review it before going in for your interview. Show that you have a general understanding of why these partnerships are so important.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I read that ConocoPhillips partners with communities and institutions to advance conservation, and skill building and improve access to technology. This commitment to water and biodiversity is important to the company's operations and is integrated into planning, exploration, development and production. I believe it's so important for the major global corporations who are huge users of water to also be part of the solution for how to best steward it."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I've read that ConocoPhillips is involved with many well-respected conservation organizations like the Smithsonian Institution, the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. I believe that these relations are designed to support the development of innovative ideas, tools and techniques to advance and promote leading-edge solutions to complex water and biodiversity conservation challenges across the globe. This is an area that's very important to me, and I'd love to be part of these initiatives."
Written by Michelle Clark
11. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask!
Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations.
If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.
Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am available for full-time work which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am willing to work overtime as appropriate. How much and how often are the first questions that come to mind. I firmly believe that downtime, or personal time, is essential to recharging your batteries and staying focused, but I am certainly willing to be a team player."
Written by Michelle Clark
12. Why is this job with ConocoPhillips right for you at this time in your career?
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical 'I am looking for growth'response that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on ConocoPhillips.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my new education in GIS while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I currently manage a small team of 12 field operators and engineers. Although I love the work, I am ready to stretch myself professionally into an organization with more production capacity, and teams of 25 or more. This year I dedicated myself to taking two leadership workshops, which I feel greatly prepared me to take on the challenge of the work volume present in ConocoPhillips."
Written by Michelle Clark
13. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you handle pressure when an unexpected stressor arises. Being able to make quick decisions and think fast on your feet sets top-notch professionals out from the crowd. We all make a lot of choices every day, so start by telling the interviewer that you make a lot of quick decisions each day. Next, be prepared for a more significant example that will be sure to impress.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current field admin role, this happens often! We handle a lot of contractor situations surrounding schedule and shift changes. Often, we have guidelines we follow, and there are also times when situations call for creative solutions. I make split-second decisions when resolving contractor matters, always keeping the best interests of the company in mind."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My current position requires me to make tough decisions on a regular basis. I work well under pressure like that. With split-second decisions, I will always go with my initial instinct. Last week, I had two high-profile clients show up for a meeting at the same time. One client was late, and the other was early. I did not want anyone to feel bad for being late or too early, so I had each party placed in a different conference room. My colleague started the meeting with our early meeting while I met with the client who was late. It worked out well because I am no stranger to multi-tasking and I have great support staff."
Written by Michelle Clark
14. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Working in the oil and gas sector, you will often be expected to wear many different hats. The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were asked to take on a task for which you knew very little. Have you ever had to take on a responsibility or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Include the outcome, and what you learned.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My first management job was the scariest time in my career! I honestly didn't know if I was doing my job well. I led by instinct, took leadership workshops, and spent a lot of time reading books related to effective people management."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I was once asked to train an employee on a new SAP system that I hardly knew. To prepare, I worked overtime, watching online tutorials so that the new employee's training time was well spent."
Written by Michelle Clark
15. What is the most significant achievement you have on the horizon?
How to Answer
When you show that you have goals and achievements on the horizon, you are letting the interviewer know that you put thought into your career and what you bring to your employer. Employees who do not have goals set just beyond their reach are typically disengaged and unmotivated. This achievement does not need to be complicated. It can be as simple as finishing a beautiful Powerpoint presentation, finishing work-related coursework, or reaching a sales target.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The most significant achievement on the horizon for me is the completion of my Advanced Excel and SAP courses. I have learned a great deal, and have a few modules to go. I look forward to applying these new skills to this role with ConocoPhillips"
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"For the last two years, I have been working toward my master's degree in Chemical Engineering while also working full time. This effort has been challenging and rewarding all at the same time. My graduation date is this May, so that is the most significant achievement on the horizon."
Written by Michelle Clark
16. What can you tell me about the ConocoPhillips SPIRIT values?
How to Answer
Spend some time before your interview looking through the ConocoPhillips website so that you can speak authoritatively about the company's general culture and values. The interviewer wants to hear that you're prepared for the interview and can connect ConocoPhillips' values with your own.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I love the acronym SPIRIT that describes the ConocoPhillips values. Safety, People, Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Teamwork. These are all values that are important to me as an employee, as well, as I search for a new employer. The acronym helps keep the values top-of-mind and easy for team players to remember as they go about their day-to-day work. I'd like to be part of this kind of intentionally values-driven culture."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The SPIRIT values drive the work and behavior of every ConocoPhillips employee. From what I've researched, the SPIRIT philosophy means that you all respect one another, recognizing that your success depends on every employee. It also means that ConocoPhillips creates an inclusive environment that reflects the different backgrounds, experiences, ideas and perspectives of your employees."
Written by Michelle Clark
17. Which is the leading publication or resource that you use for up-to-date news on the oil and gas sector?
How to Answer
It's crucial that you keep up-to-date on the latest news and changes within the oil industry. The industry is ever-changing, and you must be well-immersed to stay on top of your game. Luckily, there is a multitude of publications and resources available, to keep your knowledge current. It's a great idea to ask the interviewer if they have any suggestions for you to expand your knowledge base.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I like to stick with a few of the most reliable resources for oil news such as Oil and Gas Journal, RigZone, and Oil & Gas 360. Before you stopped publishing, I also used to love to read The Lamp. Do you have any recommendations? I love to hear of new resources where I can learn."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite publication for up to date news is Oil and Gas Journal. I also look for trending tweets on Twitter, and I follow several oil and gas companies on social media, for up to date news. Do you have any additional resource recommendations? I'm always looking for new sources of reliable information about the industry."
Written by Michelle Clark
18. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the ConocoPhillips website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working at ConocoPhillips?
- What is ConocoPhillips's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"A few questions come to mind, so thank you for asking. What's the next major project ConocoPhillips is looking to tackle? I know you're seeking to expand this particular department, so I wonder what is next."
Written by Michelle Clark
19. What have you learned about the ConocoPhillips Biodiversity Action Plan?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have an interest in the future of ConocoPhillips' environmental sustainability efforts. Take the opportunity before your interview to do some research into ConocoPhillips' stated goals and objectives in this area so that you can speak confidently.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I had a chance to look over the Biodiversity Action Plan, and first, I'm heartened by the fact that ConocoPhillips recognizes biodiversity as a vital factor in human well-being and that the company understands its importance for maintaining ecosystem health. I'm impressed that the company begins with an enterprise-wide review of the the Conservation International Biodiversity Hot Spot map when evaluating potential impacts to biodiversity from onshore and offshore operations."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I read over a little of ConocoPhillips' Biodiversity Action Plan, and from what I can tell, it's divided into four major sections. There's understanding the company's environmental footprint, followed by managing the environmental risks associated with operations and projects. Then there's managing overall risks and opportunities and engaging with external audiences."
Written by Michelle Clark
20. What is OPEC, and why does it matter?
How to Answer
OPEC is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. It's an intergovernmental body with a mission to, 'coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its member countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets, in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.'
Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of OPEC and how it affects the way ConocoPhillips does business.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"From my understanding, OPEC is a governing body that coordinates and unifies the petroleum policies of approximately 15 countries. OPEC decisions play an important role in the global oil market."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I understand OPEC to be an intergovernmental body that helps regulate the global oil market and international regulations. Could you share with me how OPEC affects the way ConocoPhillips does business?"
Written by Michelle Clark
21. Oil has different categories. Name a few.
How to Answer
The interviewer is testing your overall knowledge when it comes to oil terminology. Here is an easy guide to different oil categories:
1. Very light oils which include gasoline and jet fuels
2. Light oils which include diesel, some fuel oils, and light crudes
3. Medium oils, which include most crude oils
4. Heavy oils such as heavy crude oils and some fuel oil
Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of oil variances.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand that there are many categories and types of oils. Many people believe that oil is all the same; however, it comes in ranges from heavy to very light oil. These types vary when it comes to viscosity and toxicity."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have studied all types of oil including very light, light, medium, and heavy. I have the broadest knowledge base with light oils and medium oils, including most crude oils."
Written by Michelle Clark
22. Tell me about a time when you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. What did you do?
How to Answer
A few years ago, The RAD Group did a significant study related to workplace safety. They found that only 2 in 5 employees felt comfortable reporting unsafe behavior. The observation study also showed that the average employee performs three unsafe acts per week.
The interviewer would like to know that he/she can trust you to report unsafe work or unsavory behavior in the workplace. The oil and gas industry has incredibly stringent safety regulations and ConocoPhillips must make sure that they are hiring someone who honors their commitment to safety.
Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. If you have personally seen some dangerous behavior, discuss the specifics.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my previous role I often saw co-workers engaging in dangerous work without taking proper breaks and rests. This overexertion is common in the field because people focus on getting the job done as soon as possible. If I witnessed this unsafe behavior, I would ask my coworker to take a rest and would offer to jump in, or call someone new to the floor to take over."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I recently saw a co-worker not wearing their proper PPE. Safety gear is non-negotiable, in my opinion, so I approached them immediately about their choice not to protect themselves properly. According to my company's regulations, I had to write a report on the incident. I trust it will not happen again. I understand these safety rules are in place for everyone's protection so I will do what I can to uphold the regulations."
Written by Michelle Clark
23. What is most exciting to you about ConocoPhillips' new international ventures?
How to Answer
This is a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm and ability to imagine the company's future success. Take some time to review the areas where ConocoPhillips is currently exploring new ventures and speak to the way they have the potential to impact the company's overall business.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"From what I've read, the company's recent exploration focus has remained on select business units--Alaska, the U.S. Lower 48, Malaysia and Norway--where existing infrastructure and experience can be leveraged. Moving forward, ConocoPhillips will also concentrate on international exploration opportunities that provide both scale and flexibility, with international new-venture activity ongoing in Latin America. All of this is very exciting for the company; just the fact that it's thinking ahead and striving for new markets and solutions indicates the kind of ambitious environment I'm looking for."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm very excited about the exploration work ConocoPhillips is carrying out, particularly in Australia and Indonesia. To see that the company currently boasts 22 million undeveloped acres is also heartening and speaks to ConocoPhillips' tremendous potential. I am ambitious and exploratory by nature, so being part of new international ventures for ConocoPhillips would be an honor, along with providing an appropriate outlet for my skills, interests and abilities. Sign me up!"
Written by Michelle Clark
24. ConocoPhillips has a serious commitment to safety. How will you help us to uphold this commitment?
How to Answer
Safety is a vital topic in the oil and gas industry, and the interviewer would like to know that you are committed to helping ConocoPhillips in their mission. Discuss the ways that you uphold safety standards in the workplace. Extra points if you can memorize the safety mission of ConocoPhillips.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I read online that ConocoPhillips has a range of programs related to safety, and that your philosophy is that no job is so important you can't take the time to do it safely. I will help you to uphold this commitment by delivering over and above expectations, completing my documentation fully and clearly, and by staying on top of industry trends and changes."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"When ConocoPhillips says that a safe company is a successful company, it really resonates with me. Values guide me, and I fully understand the importance of a healthy environment and a safe workplace."
Written by Michelle Clark
25. ConocoPhillips operates in many countries. Are you eligible to travel and work around the world?
How to Answer
ConocoPhillips may operate in a multitude of regions and the interviewer would like to know that you can accommodate their potential needs as you grow within their organization. Be honest with your answer, but as open as possible. If you have limitations, be sure to discuss them. If you are free and able to travel, you can keep your response straightforward.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am eligible to travel and have no limitations when it comes to working around the world. My passport is valid, and I have a NEXUS border pass."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Could you share with me more about the travel component in this role? I am eligible to travel and willing to, as needed."
Written by Michelle Clark
26. Documentation is crucial in this role. Rate your documentation abilities from 1-10 while supporting your answer.
How to Answer
Documentation, in the oil and gas industry, is crucial. When dealing with intense environmental situations, red tape and regulations, and the safety of employees and labor contractors, one must always ensure the I's are dotted, and the T's are crossed. Tell the interviewer that you understand the importance of clear and precise documentation. Give an example of what makes you great with documenting.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I would rate my documentation skills as a 9/10. I am not perfect; however, I fully understand the potential repercussions related to unclear or messy paperwork and documentation. My current manager often compliments me on my reliable documentation, and I am sure she would be happy to comment when you call for an employment reference."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I feel solid in my documentation skills, ensuring that my work remains organized and precise. Since what I do is closely related to safety initiatives, I am especially careful and pay close attention to detail. For that reason, I would rate my documentation skills as a 9.5/10."
Written by Michelle Clark
27. At ConocoPhillips, we are committed to Living by our Principles; how can you see evidence of this?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you've done your homework and have a general understanding of the ConocoPhillips values and how they manifest in the way the company conducts its business. You don't have to know a lot of specifics; just show that you're familiar with the company's philosophies.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"From what I've researched, ConocoPhillips lives its principle particularly in the area of sustainability. The company's sustainable development approach integrates policies and positions, action plans, engagement and transparent reporting. With commitments to everything from ensuring sources of cleaner energy to investing in employees and working ethically, ConocoPhillips is publicly taking a stand to conduct its business in a way that does the most good for the most people."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I definitely saw evidence of this approach as I was preparing for this interview. I love the way these values are outlined very clearly on your website, so there should be no confusion among employees and partners as to what ConocoPhillips stands for and how it intends to operate within the global marketplace. Two elements of Living by your Principles that really stood out to me are the commitment to transparency and accountability and the desire to minimize the company's environmental footprint. In an industry that can often be mistrusted or misperceived, these qualities are very important for the company's success."
Written by Michelle Clark
28. This role requires extensive knowledge of pipeline systems and oil well machinery. How well do you understand this complicated equipment?
How to Answer
To fully understand pipeline systems and oil well machinery, you will need to have many years' experience in the industry. Briefly discuss with the interviewer how comfortable you are on these topics. Be sure to list any courses that you have taken on these topics.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have studied pipeline systems for some time now, and have worked in the oil industry for approximately eight years. There are always new things to learn, as the industry is ever-evolving; however, I would rate my knowledge at an intermediate to advanced level. If there is any coursework that you recommend I take before starting with ConocoPhillips, I would be happy to comply."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to the oil and gas industry; however, I have taken some coursework including fundamentals of offshore and onshore pipeline systems and am confidently in my knowledge base. I am currently working toward my Pipeline Operations Certificate, which includes studies focused on corrosion theory, measurement fundamentals, and inspection techniques."
Written by Michelle Clark
29. With which industry-related computer programs are you most familiar?
How to Answer
The oil and gas industry has many options when it comes to computer programs, applications, and other software solutions. Speak briefly to the ones with which you're most comfortable. Also be sure to express that you can learn new applications and systems quickly.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have experience with several different computer software suites within the oil and gas industry - I've worked with NetSuite, Sage Business Cloud Enterprise Management, JD Edwards and Microsoft Dynamics most recently. I'm also comfortable with SAP Business. I also can easily learn new systems. Could you share with me which programs you use at ConocoPhillips? I would be happy to gain a head start by taking online coursework and tutorials."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to my career so I would say that I am entry-level in most oil and gas related programs. I am tech savvy, however, and can learn these systems quickly. I am advanced in MS Office Suite and have used CRM's in the past."
Written by Michelle Clark
30. You will often be working cross-departmentally. Tell me about a time you worked successfully with people outside of your department.
How to Answer
Collaboration and teamwork are significant topics in the oil and gas industry. There will be many opportunities for you to work alongside different people in varying roles, functions, and departments. The interviewer would like to know that you can work closely with others even when their job functions may not be exactly like yours. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to ConocoPhillips.
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members of the engineering and HR teams. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. Primarily with the Engineering department and the HR department, arranging various contractors and agreements. Clear communication and clarity in expectations are of huge importance to me, and you can rest assured that I would work cohesively with any department."
Written by Michelle Clark on November 10th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I bring experience in cross-functional teamwork in my current chemical engineering position. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
Written by Michelle Clark