28 Daimler Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Compatibility Questions
- 7. Creative Thinking Questions
- 8. Customer Service Questions
- 9. Diligence Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Education Questions
- 12. Experience Questions
- 13. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 14. Performance Based Questions
- 15. Stress Questions
- 16. Teamwork Questions
- 17. Trust Questions
Accomplishment
1. How can we motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I like to know that my efforts are being noticed. In my current position we have a leader board and I perform better in competition with myself or others."
2nd Answer Example
"I am competitive by nature so the best way to motivate me on the job would be to give me a contest or challenging goal to achieve."
Adaptability
2. We are moving quickly into second interviews. What is your availability like over the next few days?
How to Answer
Good news! If they are asking for your availability in the next few days, you likely made it to the next round. Try to be as flexible as possible with your availability.
1st Answer Example
"I can make myself available at any time with some notice. The most ideal times for me to interview are between 8-10 AM and 2-5 PM Monday through Friday."
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to make myself available at your earliest convenience. I am very interested in this role and will be flexible when it comes to interview times."
Behavioral
3. At Daimler, we are seeking individuals who are self-motivated. Share with me some ways you motivate yourself in your job performance.
How to Answer
The interviewer knows that there may be slower times when you will need to motivate yourself to stay focused. Be positive in your assurances. Help the hiring manager know that you can see a project through, and do not need someone to micromanage you as you work.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that I work well independently. I always keep a running list of items that I might get to should I find myself with extra time. If a project is proving difficult, I find that having a conversation with someone helpful in motivating me. And more generally, I motivate myself with music, books, and seminars I watch online, in order to put me in the right frame of mind."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to motivate myself by reading sales books and working on my skills and work habits during my downtimes. I try to use the slower times to work on my craft or help others around me. In the mornings, I meditate or have a quiet time to clear my head and get ready for the day. I think that Daimler will find me ready and able to work every time I walk in the door."
Career Goals
4. At Daimler we like to hire those who see a future in the automobile industry. Where do you see this position taking you in the future?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you will be engaged enough to want to be promoted should that become a possibility. Engaged employees last longer, and are more productive. Talk to the interviewer about the type of career growth that you would like to see with Daimler. This is a wonderful opportunity to highlight some of your special skills, and work habits that separate you from the rest of the applicants.
1st Answer Example
"I love sales and would be thrilled to have a lucrative career in sales or sales management with Daimler. What excites me most about this opportunity is that there is room for advancement into a leadership role. I love to coach and encourage others, and believe that my management skills can benefit your company. I would welcome any advancement that was offered to me."
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to learn as much as possible about this industry and eventually be in charge of the service department. My organizational skills and my commitment to customer service make me an ideal candidate for advancement. My hope is to work in such a way, that the company will take notice and offer me an opportunity to grow within the ranks."
Communication
5. At Daimler, we hire leaders who inspire and empower. What qualities do you think make an effective leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to assess your style of leadership and see if it is a good fit for the organization. Think about ways your leadership style inspires and empowers your employees to do their very best. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to share the leadership skills you possess, and an effective ROI for Daimler.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I will be successful in this position because I am a passionate leader who affirms and encourages team members to do their best. I aim to clearly articulate a vision and a plan, and then help see it through. I believe that I would be a great asset to Daimler."
2nd Answer Example
"My organizational skills will be a major asset to you. I also bring with me a strong track record of increasing sales and client base. I believe that my responsibility as a leader is make the vision clear to the team members in my department, and then to assist them in fulfilling that vision. I believe I can bring that same strategy and success to Daimler."
Communication
6. At Daimler, we find that more and more people are buying online. How comfortable are you with computers and using them to interact with your clients?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are comfortable using a computer. You will likely be required to interact through the computer and the phone with customers. Not everyone likes to cold call, but it's still a very effective means of ensuring that you are top of mind when it comes to customer purchases. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of making sales calls whether through emails, online chats, or even on the phone.
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of experience in cold and warm calling. Many of my sales have come from calls and emails I have sent introducing myself. I like to call previous buyers or take cold calls in order to provide information to potential clients. I find that it's a lucrative way to spend any of my downtime."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous job, we were required to send out 25 emails a day, and spend an hour a day in the business development center booking appointments. We were given scripts to use and were monitored as we dialogue with each consumer. I learned how to use the phone and the computer to provide whatever information the customer might need."
Compatibility
7. The position may require you to work long hours, including nights and weekends. Are there any schedule limitations that you have?
How to Answer
As in any dealership, Daimler must maintain retail hours of operation. The interviewer needs to know of any scheduling conflicts that may prevent you from working your scheduled hours. Be upfront and forthcoming about any conflicts you might have including nights and weekends. Be positive about your willingness to work whatever hours you can.
1st Answer Example
"I am available to work any hours except for Tuesdays evenings. I am currently attending a class for my MBA, so I would need to end my shift around 5 pm. Other than that my schedule is flexible."
2nd Answer Example
"I have no limitations about working any time, even nights and weekends, though I would prefer to have Sunday mornings off so that I could attend church with my family."
Creative Thinking
8. Are you a creative person?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any interest that you have in creativity and how you have implemented that creativity in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself to be a creative individual. At my previous job I wrote a telephone sales script for our inside sales team. It helped unify our menage and clarify our vision and sales increased by 23% in the first 90 days of implementation."
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a strong creative writer, and I'm at my best when I can get in front of a page or document and work out my ideas."
Customer Service
9. At Daimler we like to train our employees in the art of sales and in the features of various models. Tell me about your sales philosophy.
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to get a read on your sales experience by asking a specific sales-related question. Your exposure to previous sales training can help you more easily learn the Daimler system. Think about the qualities of a good salesperson and highlight the ones that come to mind. Be positive about your ability to learn further training.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that a good salesperson has a heart for his customers. He recognizes that without them, he would not be where he is. That said, I believe in a sales philosophy that strives for excellence in every encounter, whether it is the first meet and greet, or presenting a product, answering a client's questions, or even closing a deal. I realize that I will need further training, and I am excited about adding the sales training your company has so that I can improve my skills even more."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position we were trained in the 'road to the sale' method. This method outlines the various steps which move the client along in the buying process. I believe that a good salesperson has to become a product expert. They should be able to explain features, build value, inform the buyer about the reasons why this car best meets their needs. I can hardly wait to immerse myself into the training Daimler offers."
Customer Service
10. During the day at Daimler, you are likely to be faced with lots of interruptions from customers needing assistance. Share with me how you deal with interruptions at your present position.
How to Answer
Any employee in a retail organization needs to be ready to assist a customer when it happens. The interviewer needs to assess your ability to handle disruptions. Think about what strategies you use to meet those needs, and how you navigate the constant distractions.
1st Answer Example
"In my present position, customers were constantly coming to the counter, and I often had tasks and projects interrupted. I never became exasperated with their questions, because our customers are the very reason we are in business. I was happy to put aside what I was doing and answer the customer's question or ring them up, whatever they needed."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to answer all our guests' demands and never make a guest wait. I was happy to prioritize customers, confident that I could return to my other tasks another time."
Diligence
11. Daimler is one of the largest manufacturers of vehicles in the world. How familiar are you with what we do here at Daimler?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have researched the company as this indicates you are taking the potential of a job with Daimler seriously. This is a great opportunity to show that you have researched the company and that you share the core values. Be enthusiastic when answering the question so that the hiring manager senses your engagement.
1st Answer Example
"In my research of your company, I found that Daimler owns Mercedes AMG which operates a plant outside of Atlanta. Your company is known for making high-quality luxury vehicles and is the largest producer of trucks worldwide. In the US, you have cornered the market on Delivery trucks with the Sprinter van. I also found that you empower your employees to work in socially responsible ways. which I admire, and I'd be excited to be a part of the culture of Daimler."
2nd Answer Example
"I know that Daimler is a German manufacturer which owns Mercedes Benz and Mercedes AMG - the American division. You have a long history of making quality engines, and that you have a strong presence in Formula One racing. I know that you have a great vision for being involved with your local community, by empowering young people through educational initiatives, as well as protecting the environment. I am excited about joining the Daimler team and would be proud to represent them."
Discovery
12. At Daimler we have many employees involved in social projects throughout the community. What social causes do you support and why are they important to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to assess what you may be passionate about. Many employees desire to represent companies that are giving back to the communities they live in. This is a great opportunity to share with the hiring manager areas of social responsibility that are close to your heart. Be positive as you share, and be sure to highlight any that you know that the company supports in common with you.
1st Answer Example
"I support the habitat for Humanity organization and every year I take part of my vacation time to help a team build a home. I also support the 5k run for Alzheimer's that this dealership has sponsored. That cause is dear to my heart, because of a grandmother who had it. My child has also benefited from Daimler when you bought new computers for her school last year."
2nd Answer Example
"Many of the social causes I am involved in are coordinated through the church I attend. Over the years, I have gone on several mission trips both abroad and here nationally. I am a part of the disaster relief team of our church and so whenever a tornado or a disaster hits, we go and help. I also support recycling efforts and I know this dealership has played a big role in that for our community."
Discovery
13. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employment. What were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume and it's best to be honest and up front about the reasons. Gaps are okay to have so long as there is a legitimate reason behind them. Also, show the interviewer that you did not remain dormant during that time. Talk about any courses you took, volunteer work you did, or any lucrative hobbies that filled your time.
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for 6 months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I kept up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
2nd Answer Example
"I was laid off in December of 2016 and, due to the recession, found it difficult to land employment for the 8 months following that lay off. Luckily, I received a good severance package from my previous employer. I took the downtime to learn a second language. It was time well spent."
Discovery
14. At Daimler, we believe in promoting a life/work balance for our employees, what are some things you do to help yourself divert from the stress of work?
How to Answer
Happy employees always make more productive employees. The interviewer needs to know that you will not work yourself so much that you burn out. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to share things that make you a well-rounded person.
1st Answer Example
"I fish and hunt when I can. I find that being on the water is very relaxing and recharges my batteries. i try to spend time with my boys too. I also volunteer to coach their little league teams."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to spend time with my family. We like to go on day trips or to the beach. I find that soaking up the rays and just spending time together is a great way to relax and release the pressures of work."
Education
15. The training you are likely to receive will require classes on the features and functions of each model. This might require some self-study. How comfortable are you with this?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you will complete your training as quickly as possible. Share with the interviewer your desire to become a product specialist/expert. Be sure to include times when you were given the opportunity to learn the features that will potentially benefit Daimler if you are hired.
1st Answer Example
"At my last job, I knew that some of our processes could improve, but wasn't sure how, so during downtime I researched various ways to improve our methods. I wasn't asked to do that, but given that I was most familiar with the processes in question, I took the onus to make them better. And in turn, those better methods improved speed, accuracy and efficiency."
2nd Answer Example
"In my most recent position, I was able to complete the training that was initially offered at home. I wanted to spend my time on the sales floor helping customers. I had no problem finishing these courses quickly."
Experience
16. In this digital age, Daimler is seeking to hire employees who are familiar with smartphones, iPads, and the like. Share with me what experience you have with technology and social media.
How to Answer
The digital age is on us, and changing all the time. Chances are Daimler will require you to have proficiency on your smartphone and other devices. The interviewer will need to assess your abilities in order to ensure your success in a very competitive marketplace. Without going into too much detail, reassure the manager that you have the ability to use your smartphone to interact with customers in a professional manner."
1st Answer Example
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2nd Answer Example
"I currently use an iPad to perform all the work with a customer, like to process their information, and take a credit application. I also have a comfort level with all kinds of social media; Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. I am sure that I can learn more, and am always looking for new ways to interact with my customers. I look forward to learning how Daimler uses their technology."
Job Satisfaction
17. The automobile industry is competitive. Are you comfortable working in a competitive environment?
How to Answer
At Daimler, as in most dealerships, sales positions are numbers-driven. This requires some healthy competition between various salespeople. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable and capable to work within a highly competitive environment.
1st Answer Example
"I am certainly accustomed to working in a competitive environment. My previous positions included keeping track of daily, weekly, and monthly sales metrics. I am absolutely able to thrive in a competitive environment and I use it to motivate myself to do better and sell more."
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been a competitive individual. From playing team sports my entire life to working in commissioned retail environments. I am definitely comfortable with some friendly competition. Nothing makes me happier than to see my name at the top of the sales board."
Job Satisfaction
18. At Daimler we seek to hire individuals who have a keen interest in the automobile industry. What interests you most about what we do?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to determine what attracted you to a position at Daimler. Having a genuine interest in the automobile industry can indicate that you are considering this position as a career rather than a temporary stop-gap. Think about the factors that stand out to you when you consider working for Daimler. When answering the question, show you have researched the company, by giving specific reasons you are excited at the possibility of working for Daimler. Be energetic in your response.
1st Answer Example
"I have always had a keen interest in the Daimler because the company is always on the cutting edge of safety and technology. Daimler has always had a vision for quality work both in its cars and trucks and is always working at improving them. It's an exciting industry to be in! I am really interested in learning more about the technology that you have in your latest SUV models."
2nd Answer Example
"The automobile industry is always changing, and what interests me most about this industry is how Daimler is always leading the pack in making their vehicles more safe and fun to drive. Your company is also heavily invested in several social areas; education, empowerment, and the environment. I can't wait to work for a company that thrives on making the world a better place."
Performance Based
19. Many positions in our company are fully commissioned. Are you confident enough in your sales abilities to work on 100% commission?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are comfortable working in this type of pay structure so that you won't get frustrated if you struggle. Talking about salary and compensation expectations can be uncomfortable but it is a very necessary conversation between yourself and the hiring manager. Reassure the hiring manager that you will be aggressive enough to strive to make your sales goals and earn what you will need to live adequately. Share how you are currently paid. Be open and communicative when it comes to your needs and compensation desires.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked on 100% commission in my last two sales positions. However, that is not my preference for the first few months as I become comfortable in a new position. Currently I am on a compensation guarantee of $4K/month or full commission, whichever is greater. What are you offering in this particular role?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in a 100% commission role for many years. I am comfortable enough with my sales abilities and customer base to take on another commission-driven role. I like this pay structure because it spurs me to be engaged all the time and not wait until the last minute to try and make a paycheck."
Performance Based
20. At Daimler we put a lot of pride in our customer service. How do you go above and beyond for your clientele?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to assess whether you will commit yourself to excellence. Assure the interviewer that you take customer service seriously. Use an example of a time when you have gone over and above the general expectations in order to make a guest happy. Be sure to acknowledge the customer service efforts that Daimler puts forward.
1st Answer Example
"Daimler and Mercedes have a reputation for excellent customer service, which is a commitment that I share. I go above and beyond with my customers by keeping my promises to them. I have a very strong sense of organization and I always follow up when I say that I will. My customers appreciate my sense of responsibility and respect for their time."
2nd Answer Example
"I always have a smile on my face. Another way that I go above and beyond for my customers is by never saying 'no'. I will say 'let me check into that for you' or 'let me see what I can do' or 'I will certainly try to find that answer for you'. It's amazing how a positive spin on all communication can improve a customers' level of satisfaction."
Stress
21. There are times when the dealership gets busy, and stressful. Tell me about your previous position, and how you interacted with your supervisor under duress.
How to Answer
The interviewer must determine if you are respectful of your leaders. And while you do not always have to agree with your leader, you should demonstrate that you still communicate respectfully and effectively. Share with the interviewer a time when you have disagreed with your boss or professor, but you did not argue or have conflict with that person. Rather, through good communication, you worked together toward a solution.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that it's my job as a professional to adapt to all types of people, and I try to get along with everyone I work with. There were times when I disagreed with my supervisor'd decision, but I didn't question his judgement in front of a guest. Instead I addressed the matter later privately, explaining my own misgivings about the direction they took."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to work with some great people and have not experienced conflict with a boss in the past. If I were to experience conflict in the workplace, I would address the situations soon as possible and in the appropriate context. It's never a good idea to let conflict simmer and I'm not afraid to have an uncomfortable conversation to sort out a situation."
Stress
22. At Daimler we set daily, weekly, and monthly targets for all of our sales employees. Have you worked with very specific KPI's as of late?
How to Answer
Every dealership tracks numbers to gauge performance. The interviewer needs to know that you are comfortable working toward daily, weekly, and monthly goals, as this can add pressure or stress to the job. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with strict sales targets. If you have worked in this type of environment before, talk about what you did to ensure that your quotas were met. Discuss your ability to work under the pressure associated with sales expectations.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, we were given monthly goals which were reviewed daily. I actually embrace the added pressure of having to meet a target and use this as a way to motivate myself. I am consistently a top performer in my company. I'd like to show you what I can do."
2nd Answer Example
"My current position is 100% commission-driven, so I fully understand the importance of meeting a quota. I was also graded on a CSI score, which measured how pleased customers were with the service I provided. If we did not meet our targets in these areas, we were not eligible for any bonus. I exceeded my quotas both in units sold, gross profit made, and CSI very consistently."
Teamwork
23. This position will likely require you to work with other department employees and their supervisors. Tell me about a time when you worked with another department and how it went.
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to assess whether or not you are a good team player. Chances are you will have to communicate with members of other departments, whose agenda may not always match with yours. Reassure the hiring manager that you will conduct yourself professionally and without creating drama for others to deal with.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position I worked with our accounting department to ensure that all invoices and purchase orders were processed correctly, We talked several times a day and had a very good relationship. I look forward to bringing this same attitude of cooperation to my work at Daimler."
2nd Answer Example
"in my present position, I have to work with the service and parts department when the customer has an issue or orders an accessory. I have found that putting things in writing is the best way to communicate with those busy departments. We had a very good working relationship and always sought to make sure that the client's needs were met."
Teamwork
24. This position requires a uniform. Are there any hindrances that might prevent you from wearing a uniform each day?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know if you will be able to meet the company's appearance standards. Be upfront and honest about any item that might create an issue down the line.
1st Answer Example
"I was required to wear a polo and khaki pants at my previous employer, so I have no problem with wearing a uniform."
2nd Answer Example
"I did not have a uniform at my previous position. We wore a shirt and tie with dark slacks. I do have an arm sleeve of tattoos, but would be happy to cover them with a long-sleeve T if that might be acceptable to you. I would be interested in learning exactly what your appearance standards might be."
Teamwork
25. Would you describe yourself as a structured type of person or one who goes with the flow?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are capable of being balanced. While there are times you will need to follow a structured routine, there are also times when you will be required to multi-task. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of handling the approach that is required by the situation.
1st Answer Example
"I would describe myself as preferring a more structured environment, but over the years, I have learned to multitask when the situation warrants. I make lists constantly so that I can stay focused, which is very helpful."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous positions I have not had to multitask too much. Our day was pretty structured with routines. But it doesn't bother me when my routine is interrupted, and I enjoy helping coworkers and customers when they have a need."
Trust
26. This position will require you to operate a motor vehicle, please tell me if you believe that there might be any restrictions in this area.
How to Answer
The companies that insure dealerships like the ones Daimler operates have distinct and strict rules about hiring employees who won't add to the insurance risk. Be open and honest about any kind of hindrance there might be on your license. This candor will prevent the company from having to withdraw an offer of employment when they discover that they cannot hire you.
1st Answer Example
"I have been driving for years without any incident. I do not believe that there will be any limitations."
2nd Answer Example
"I do have a ticket on my record, but it caused no suspension of my driver's license. I do not anticipate any issue with me operating one of the company's vehicles."
Trust
27. At Daimler, we believe in protecting our customers' private information. Share with me ways that you have had to do this at your previous position.
How to Answer
The interviewer must gauge your honesty level and in an age of identity theft, this is a good way to assess it. Safeguarding a customer's private info is a sacred trust that must be handled with the utmost care. Assure the hiring manager that you share this commitment, and will be vigilant in protecting your customers. Be positive, but determined about your own efforts in past positions.
1st Answer Example
"I have been a victim of identity theft so I know how much of a hassle that can be. In my present position we are required to keep our customers' information private with no exceptions. I have always been ultra-careful about not sharing anything that could compromise a client's right to privacy."
2nd Answer Example
"A customer's personal information should always be kept private. In my previous position, I took down social security numbers and banking information that would be easy for a hacker or thief to use. I was always hyper-sensitive to the ways I handled it."
Trust
28. I see that you have recently worked for one of our direct competitors. Do you have a non-compete agreement in place?
How to Answer
In competitive markets such as the automobile industry, you may sometimes be asked to sign a non-compete or non-disclosure agreement. Be honest and open with the interviewer about any existing restrictions you may have when it comes to working for a competing organization.
1st Answer Example
"I did sign a non-compete with my current company; however, it just asks that I do not purposefully poach any of my clients from the past 3 years. I am not restricted when it comes to accepting offers of employment from competing dealerships."
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to say that I do not have any restrictions to my employment."