How do you respond to feedback?

"Even though it can be difficult to hear criticism, I always pause before I respond and take time to think about it first. If it catches me by surprise, I usually ask if my supervisor can clarify or explain. I want to grow and improve, so the more specific my supervisor can be, the more helpful it is."

Receiving feedback from a manager or supervisor can be a nerve-wracking experience due to a fear of negative evaluation. This boils down to our human evolution and effort to survive in society. In situations like this, instinct kicks in. As a professional, learning how to respond to negative feedback is as important as the feedback itself. Your response demonstrates your emotional intelligence and ability to objectify the information you receive and separate it from the person delivering the feedback. A career-minded professional identifies the valuable information, adapts, and learns how to apply that information to grow and continue to survive. It equates to ambition. You can't always predict what they may say or how you might feel, but you can learn how to master your feelings and choose how to respond.

"I love receiving feedback from my employer because the feedback allows me to understand where I need to improve."

Do you prefer creative work or rule bound work?

"In the workplace, I naturally lean towards my preference of straightforward rules and expectations. Once I am comfortable with my knowledge base, I can think outside the box. So, to answer your question, I would say I bring a healthy balance of both."

Most organizations prefer to hire candidates who can apply creative thinking when needed but can also follow protocol and guidelines. This question aims to determine how sustainable an employee you'd be in an environment such as theirs and whether you're likely to burn out quickly from the more monotonous aspects of the job. Share your relevant work experience and understanding of the expectations of the role. Assure the interviewer that you can achieve both.

"I am most comfortable when my creativity is challenged. I like to think of new ways of working and create alternate solutions to a variety of scenarios. With that said, I am more than capable of following a predetermined set of rules."

How do you strike a balance between your personal life and work?

"I love being in the outdoors. So you'll often find me gardening or hiking, or biking. When I am indoors watching TV, you'll find me watching some adventure travel program. If I'm not doing those things, I am cooking. These things help me strike an accord with everything else in my life."

How you answer this question will offer the interviewer insight into how you handle your stress levels - either at work or home - and what you do to recalibrate and center yourself. The question centers on balance, so share any hobbies or interests that help you recharge. This question is also an opportunity to share some interesting facts about yourself that could make you a more memorable candidate.

Do you feel nervous about or look forward to performance reviews?

"In all honesty, a little of both. I think it's natural to feel nervous when receiving a performance review since we all crave validation just as much as we fear judgment. But I strive to succeed and best my best, and I am always grateful for any perspective anyone can give that is constructive regarding how I might further my goals."

This question aims to evaluate how goal-oriented you are and whether you look forward to recognition for your accomplishments or dread feedback because you have been cruising along, barely meeting the status quo. This question also aims to evaluate your level of honesty, as it is inherently human to feel nervous about being judged and placed under the spotlight. Answer this question with as much honesty and sincerity as you can while keeping your eye on the big picture of your career goals and your desire to succeed.

What do you consider your greatest strength?

"I'm sincere and warm and create genuine, long-lasting connections with people wherever I go. When I represent myself or a company, I do so with a helpful hand. I identify with the human experience and lend that gift to my career. I truly believe I can largely credit my track record of success to loving what I do and bringing my best self with me wherever I go."

When examining your strengths, consider the traits that define your character - those which your past coworkers have valued you for and the soft skills that you feel make you an excellent candidate. Align your merits with the values the company looks for in their ideal candidates and prides themselves on.

What do you consider your biggest weakness?

"My greatest weakness is not being great as saying no. In the past, I've bitten off more than I can chew and struggled with saying 'no.' Since then, I learned that not communicating what's possible within my well-managed time and taking on more than I can handle will lead me to underperform. I've gotten a handle on this, but as a people person who is not easily offended and rarely takes things personally, saying no can be hard. This trait is a strength and a weakness. I'm learning how to strike a harmonious balance between the two."

People are generally forthcoming about who they are right off the bat. However, that can result in inadvertently raising red flags that the interviewers will look for. Consider sharing growth opportunities that you are aware of and actively working on. This will exhibit a career mindset. Additionally, present your greatest weakness as an asset in its own right. Being a perfectionist can be viewed as a weakness, depending on the context, so can hold yourself accountable and being hard on yourself when you slip up or don't meet your expectations.

How often do you take your work home with you?

"I utilize my work hours very efficiently, so the only time I take my work home is when there is an extremely stringent deadline. I would say that, overall, I take my work home maybe twice per month. It's all about being diligent with your time in the office!"

Most people occasionally put in overtime hours or take work home with them, but doing so frequently could suggest the opposite of going above and beyond. It could indicate poor time management skills and an imbalance in your work and personal life.When a person's working and personal lives aren't well balanced, the stresses of one can directly affect the other. How well you manage your time will offer insights into how effective you'll be at your job. Not managing your morning could result in frequent attendance issues, poorly managing your workflow or projects, missing deadlines, and taking your work home with you.If you feel overwhelmed at work because of poor time management, you might bring more stress home from work, not sleep well, and not perform at your best at work the next day - all important things to weigh when determining if you are a good fit for the position. Therefore, the goal here is to posture yourself as a desirable asset with strong time management skills, emotional maturity, and a strong work/life balance.

"I will take my work home when a deadline is close. I would much rather work overtime hours than let a client down."

What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?

"I can feel dissatisfaction on the job when I am not feeling heard or when there is not a mutual respect among the team members. I work best in more harmonious situations with little drama or gossip."

Interviewing, hiring, and onboarding is an expensive and time-consuming process. Recruiters have a vested interest in ensuring you aspire to grow your career with them and have closely examined whether what they offer equates to what job satisfaction would look like for you. They want to know if you've explored whether this is a proper fit for you. The six primary contributors to job satisfaction are a team's culture and their working environment, how conducive this position is to striking a work-life balance, whether the salary and working conditions meet your expectations, how varied the work is and whether it meets your expectations, whether the development opportunities you seek are to found there, and how flexible and trusting they are about how you conduct your work. Perform proper research on the position, Geico, and yourself before answering. The last thing you want to do is volunteer something that would inform them you'd be unhappy joining their team.

"I have felt dissatisfied on the job when I feel underpaid and overworked. I don't mind working hard, but I don't like to feel as though I'm being taken advantage of."

What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and found that I could be very productive in that type of environment. I enjoy collaborating with my coworkers toward a common goal."

This question aims to reveal how adaptable you are and whether you can be productive in any environment. The interviewers also want to know how realistic your expectations are of the role and if you find any type of environment distracting, which would hamper your productivity. Research the environment that is offered in this position before the interview. Be honest. Formulate your answer to kill two birds with one stone. Give them insights into your personality, what motivates and inspires you on a personal level, how you stay motivated throughout your workday, how you approach your work, and whether the task is high-pressure or monotonous. Answer the question outside of yourself. Focus on the team, the company, and comaraderie.

"I work well in a high-pressure, demanding environment that requires you to work smart and make your mark."

How do you prefer to be recognized for your accomplishments?

"I am an over-achiever and find that the best way to be recognized for a job well done is words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward is to know that my hard work is noticed."

Your answer will reveal what motivated you to pursue this position. The interviewers want to know if this is a positive career move or if you were motivated by their pay and benefits. Although there is nothing wrong with being financially motivated to pursue an opportunity, you shouldn't advertise this as your primary motivator. Instead, offer what motivates you professionally, be it meeting your career goals, earning advancement opportunities from within, going above and beyond your standard of success, or being valued, trusted, and admired in the workplace. Explain how you approach your work, regardless of whether the task is high-pressure or monotonous, and how you stay productive without burning out. We all like to be recognized for our accomplishments in the workplace. However, you want to advertise how well you'll complement their team and how well you work with others, and that you won't burn out in this position.

"I do not particularly love public recognition, so I would say that the best way to recognize me for my accomplishments would be an increase in responsibilities and continued autonomy."

Do you prefer to work with clients on their business/commercial insurance needs or health/life insurance needs? Why?

"I understand that GEICO offers their clients a full suite of services. I have experience working in all types of insurance and am comfortable in most areas. If I had to choose one area of strength, I would say that I have a few more years of experience in commercial insurance."

Some Insurance companies focus solely on commercial/business insurance, while others work strictly on health/life insurance. This question aims to evaluate your adaptability, expertise, and comfort level in working with the full suite of services they may offer. Your answer will help them determine how well-suited you are for the role. Before your interview with GEICO, research the company, its growth opportunities, and what the position entails. Ensure that you understand exactly what you'll be expected to offer their clients. Your answer should highlight the ways the company and your background match.

"Although I have more experience in health and life insurance, I am eager to gain more momentum in commercial insurance. The variety and challenge would be welcome at this point in my career."

Do you prefer working face to face with clients or behind the scenes?

"I am more of an analyst type and prefer to be in the background, making the numbers happen. With that said, I am still a people person and would always put my best face forward in any customer-facing situation."

This behavioral question offers insights into the environments where your personality thrives and whether you are an extrovert or an introvert. Whether you're an analytical innovator, an interpersonal collaborator, or both, exhibit your ability to be productive in any environment. Discuss your preference - number crunching or customer interactions - confidently highlighting your ability to represent their brand.

"I am more of a face-to-face communicator. I love being in the buzz of it all and thrive in customer-facing situations. I am also able to work in the background when needed."

Do you have any plans to further your education in order to advance your career?

"I have a bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and have considered completing my MBA through online coursework on the weekends and evenings. If a Masters's Degree is required to reach particular levels with GEICO, then I am happy to do so."

While it may not be required for all positions, some roles within GEICO may encourage higher post-secondary education. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to expand your post-secondary education. There's no right or wrong answer to this question. Share with them where you are in your career goals in this regard and where you are going.

"I am always open to additional training and coursework. Since I already have my MBA, I would not return to full-time studies; however, if there is a course you recommend, I would be happy to attend."

I see you stayed at your last company for X number of years. How long did you plan on staying with them when you took the job?

"That's an interesting question. I thought I would be with my current employer much longer, but I ended up advancing through the ranks much faster than my peers, and at this point, they offered to promote me in a direction that wasn't conducive to my career goals. I appreciate all they gave me, and I've given them as much notice as I could. I am currently training my successor and want to set them up for the success they have helped provide me."

When discussing how long you were currently or previously employed, keep that timeframe related to how long it took to achieve the career goals you set out to accomplish during your employment with them. Suggest you are looking for long-term employment elsewhere. Be sincere and frame your answer with a positive growth mindset. The interviewers will want to know how committed you were to your current employer and how serious you are about joining another team elsewhere. When someone has outgrown a position and is no longer advancing their career, looking for career growth elsewhere reveals a dedication to one's well-formulated career plans. Focus on your career growth, advancement, and development, and explain how you seek new opportunities aligned with your core values. Describing how the job you're applying for could boost your career as your reason for pursuing the position reveals the possibility of a mutually beneficial opportunity. Displaying professional appreciation for what you gained from your previous employers can also go a long way towards exhibiting emotional maturity.

If you were offered another job at a different company, would you take that job offer over Geico?

"Well, that depends, of course. Honestly, I have been a loyal customer of Geico for over ten years, and in all of my experiences, no other insurance company has been able to convince me to switch over. Not only does the company have the highest integrity and the best policies, but it feels like a great fit as a potential employer, and Geico is at the top of my list. However, for every company I've submitted my resume to and interviewed with, I've taken careful consideration in choosing. I am very selective and wouldn't have applied if I didn't feel like it was a good fit. I suppose it depends on how that company would compare in every other regard in this hypothetical scenario. Salary is important, but it isn't everything."

This question aims to determine where your priorities lie. The interviewers want to know if you are looking for any job anywhere, simply waiting for the highest bidder where money is the sole motivation, or looking for the right company to grow your career with, aligning your values and the working environment that guarantees a higher degree of job satisfaction. In other words, how highly you value Geico as a potential employer will indicate whether they should consider hiring you.

At GEICO, we prefer to hire individuals with longevity in mind. Where do you see your career five years from now?

"As you can see on my resume, I have strong tenure with my previous employers. I would love nothing more than to find a long-term home where I can naturally grow. Over the next five years, I would love to be promoted within GEICO as I prove my strengths and abilities."

The company will likely choose a candidate who is the closest symbiotic match for an enduring employer/employee relationship. A career-minded individual who has taken charge of their development typically has a five-year career plan and has written out their core values and mission statement. This question aims to reveal how well your career goals align with theirs. As Geico states on their site, "Let's Get Growing. No matter where you're at in your career, you can find a place to belong here. Want to grow together? Let's talk. Get tailored job recommendations based on your interests. Your Path to Success Starts Here. Explore Our Paths."

"In five years, I would like to see myself as part of your executive team. I would also like to see the size of my portfolio triple in value from where it is today."

"In 3 to 5 years, I see myself become a business professional who works on the strategy side and demonstrates solid business/ technical skills and can come up with innovative ideas to solve problems with high quality and also engage with senior professionals professionally and confidently. In the long-term, I see myself becomes a leader who leads a team to contribute to a company's development and its bottom line."

Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.

"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I am not always as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."

Communication is integral to the successful operations of any business. The message sent is not always the message received. A communication breakdown can happen anywhere in the chain. Share with the intervewiers the value of effective communication, and elaborate on your approach and skills, from validation to empathy to mirroring. Explore your non-defensive communication skills and your iron-clad approach to making sure everyone gets along and is all on the same page.

"I will rate myself an eight because I value communication, but, just like most people, I have things to learn. I ensure clear communication by utilizing multiple methods of delivering messages and giving ample time for questions before implementing changes."

Tell me about an error or mistake you made due to a communication breakdown.

"I once misread an email from one of my subordinates. The punctuation was incorrect, and I read it in a dire tone rather than in a positive one, as it was intended. After a tense conversation, the employee clarified her intention, and I learned I was mistaken. She and I agreed to exercise verbal communication regularly to avoid a similar situation from happening again."

On occasion, mistakes will happen, and communication breaks down. What is important when answering this question is how well you accept responsibility for your actions, what you would have done differently, and what you learned from the experience. Using the STAR method, describe the Situation, the Task at hand, the Action you took, and the Result of your actions.

"A manager once texted me about a client who was not happy with the results of my work. I was upset because I always try my best and felt that my manager should have initiated the conversation in person. The next day, I approached the manager and requested that future communication of that nature be conducted in person rather than via text message. I did apologize for my initial defensive reaction."

Describe a time you had to deal with a client who was upset about their rates going up and how you handled it.

"I was on the phone with an unhappy customer once who was incensed that their car insurance rates had gone up. As soon as I took the call, they were quite aggressive. I realized they weren't adept at non-defensive communication. So I took notes, distilling facts from their emotional output. Once I had a clear and objective lens of the situation, I could aptly and calmly mirror their grievance back to them in a more impartial way. Once they affirmed my understanding of their situation was correct, I explained that their teenager had accumulated several red light tickets, which they weren't aware of. From there, I empathized with them and calmed them down. I maintained a calm, patient approach, and the call ended amenably."

When an interviewer asks how you approach conflict, focus your example on the situation and never on any one person as the source of the conflict. Take a thoughtful approach by suggesting you listen, empathize, and offer your help in any way you can. Showcase your interpersonal skills and your approach to different personality types. Not everyone will be receptive to hearing things from your perspective, especially when they're there to critique or have a defensive bias against you. Focus your answer on the common hurdles you've faced and how you relate to and establish relationships with your customers. Detail the methods you employ upon entry and how you navigate each situation on an interpersonal level.

Tell me about a time you had to deal with a challenging person.

"I had a coworker who often clocked in late. The staff gave them cross looks when they snuck in. I'd given them a heads-up a few times, trying to be helpful. I even offered some tips to manage their time to avoid arriving at work late, but they kept saying that it wasn't their fault that the bus raced by their stop early two weeks in a row. The next time they were late, the very next day, they got written up. They were pretty upset and blamed me for 'ratting them out.' I did nothing of the sort. But I let them accuse me, and when they were done, I asked them why they thought I brought this upon them. I objectified the situation and asked them several questions without proclaiming my innocence. I then mirrored their statements and asked what led them to believe I brought their attendance issues to management. I then said that's an interesting conclusion based on that evidence, and I left it at that. Later, they came up and apologized and asked me again for those suggestions to help them manage their time."

This question determines what you consider a conflict and how you confront it and gauges your mediation and negotiation skills. The interviewers need to know how adept and effective you are at diplomacy and working swiftly towards a communal end goal, whether with your teams or clients. Your answer will offer a meaningful glimpse into your personality, problem-solving skills, soft skills, and general perception or attitude. Showcase how you strive to preserve the peace; exhibit respect for others and how adept you are at effective, nondefensive communication.

How do you help your clients understand the details of a lengthy insurance contract?

"I understand that insurance policies and contracts can appear complicated to my clients. I will walk them through each section before they sign and use simpler terms and analogies when needed. I have often had clients comment on my ability to relay the information to them in an easy-to-understand method."

No matter which insurance company you work for, client contracts and policies are full of details that are sometimes difficult to understand. Take care with your choice of words and what they might communicate while answering this question. Everyone has their own style of communication. The interviewers are asking you to share yours. Make sure you communicate your answer clearly. Communication is more than getting everyone on the same page. It's about how a message is conveyed. Walk the interviewer through your process when explaining contracts and policies to your customers in layman's terms.

"Yes, insurance contracts can be difficult to understand! I do not want to assume that a client is struggling, so I will let them go through the contract at their own pace and then encourage questions through all steps in the process."

What do you know about the culture at GEICO?

"I have researched GEICO a great deal and found that your company maintains a strong focus on a family-based atmosphere. I appreciate that your company rewards employee dedication through career growth and educational opportunities."

Before you interview with GEICO, research their company's website and the branding and marketing they've used to draw talent while taking note of any keywords or phrases you can incorporate into your answer. Display to the interviewer that you are engaged in the interview process by having performed your 'homework' on them and suggesting that this may have played a part in your wanting to work specifically with them.As they state on their career page, "GEICO's Culture: At GEICO, we love that our associates are proud goal-seekers, and that's why we believe in celebrating their milestones and rewarding their achievements. Throughout the year we reward performance and accomplishments, host programs that recognize personal successes, and acknowledge innovation, service, and leadership."

"Your company has an impressive industry reputation, and I would be thrilled to learn from your leadership team. From my research, I learned that you are very involved in the community and put a lot of effort into developing your employees."

Why do you feel you are a good fit for Geico?

"When I join a company, I am especially interested in building long-term relationships with everyone I work with, coworkers and customers alike. I have been a customer of Geico for over ten years, and the experience I have had as a customer is exactly the experience I aim to deliver. Beyond that, Geico's 'One Dream, One Team' caught my eye. Participating in contests and company-sponsored athletics, volunteering for community service events, and attending on-site activities, are the kinds of things I love to do in my spare time. Building those kinds of relationships with those I work with is right up my alley. It feels like a good fit."

The interviewers want to know how much time you've spent exploring their company, the mission statements, company culture, and values, and how much that contributed to you pursuing this opportunity with them. Thoroughly research their site and determine what most attracts you to working with their company. Avoid suggesting their pay, benefits, or other compensatory factors, which will suggest you are in it for all the wrong reasons and would likely up and leave if a better offer came along.

How do you stay on top of the latest trends, changes, and developments in the insurance industry?

"I enjoy researching and studying new trends and ideas in the Insurance marketplace. I have a few favorite blogs that I subscribe to. This way, I receive quick updates in my inbox every morning. If I am interested in or need clarification on any topics, I research the concept or trend further."

This question evaluates how serious or passionate you are about your career. Being 'in the know' within the Insurance industry requires dedication as it is an ever-changing landscape. The interviewer wants to know if you can talk the talk and walk the walk, offering you the opportunity to showcase your industry knowledge and how current you are by discussing the growth and change you foresee within the next year. This way, you are exhibiting your knowledge and creating an opportunity to connect with your interviewer.

"To stay up-to-date on insurance industry trends, I subscribe to several Google alerts. I am also an avid reader who follows industry influencers. With that said, I love to learn about new resources! Which are your favorite methods of staying on top of industry trends?"

In your most recent position, what was the size of your client portfolio? Was that manageable for you?

"With my current company, I have a portfolio of $55M, which I grew from $15M when I first started. I am comfortable with this volume but can certainly handle more if required. May I ask what the average Insurance agent's book of business looks like with GEICO?"

If interviewing for an account manager or sales-related role with GEICO, be transparent and honest about the size of the portfolio you managed and whether it fits your ideal. Make sure you've researched the expectations of the role. Speak with confidence and with open and relaxed body language. Assure them that you're able to handle the volume required of you.

"My most recent portfolio was smaller than I would have liked, which is why I am seeking a new opportunity. I would prefer to have an active portfolio in the $25-30 million range."

How do you feel globalization has affected the Insurance industry?

"I feel that globalization has forced many companies to be creative and flexible with their business insurance needs. Namely, companies that now have international offices hire offshore employees and participate in global trade. It has caused the Insurance industry to think outside of the box and has, in my opinion, created some very thought-provoking challenges."

Globalization is a business concept that encourages international trade to strengthen the economic situation between countries. Discuss your thoughts on how this practice has influenced the Insurance industry.

"I think that globalization has made the insurance industry more competitive, thus creating a greater need for good reviews and customer satisfaction. Customers are better educated, which holds the entire industry more accountable."

Since beginning your career in Insurance, what do you feel has been the most significant industry change?

"The biggest change I have seen in the Insurance industry, since my start in 1999, has to do with technology. There are many great mobile trends now, including apps that make information simple and easy to access. It's been incredible to see."

This question is a perfect opportunity to display your passion and insight into your industry and to open things up into a memorable conversation by talking shop. Share your thoughts on the changes within the Insurance industry you feel have had the most impact on how you perform. Showcase the breadth of your knowledge by citing what you've read up on and what you have directly experienced firsthand. Keep your answer in a positive and conversational tone rather than negative or heavily opinionated. Start a conversation, not a debate.

"I would say that the most significant change to the insurance industry since I joined has been technology and the changes that come with it. The industry has become more competitive because of it. With that said, I encourage the competition because it keeps most people in the industry honest and encourages us all to try harder for our clients."

How do you organize your day?

"I keep my day organized and stick to my routine as much as possible. No matter what alarm clock you use, the snooze button is there. I never hit mine. I keep a jar of chocolate-covered espresso beans next to my bed. When my alarm goes off, I grab a few of those and pop them into my mouth. Then I'm ready, and I almost always get to work early. This gives me time to stroll through work, saying my hellos, checking in on an individual level, and keeping a sharp eye out for any details which might grab my attention. Then I check my inbox and review anything new or urgent. I review the priorities I tracked the evening before, adjust them accordingly, explore my resources, and get to work. If I have a lot on my plate at work or home, I evaluate every piece of the puzzle. I make it all fit into my week. Spending that bit of time at the forefront to strategize my week allows things to feel more sustainable. I'm proactive, I guess. Reaction is rarely sustainable, in my humble opinion."

This question assesses your approach to your work and what it says about your level of skill and experience as a professional. Share your approach to your time management, how you prioritize and organize, and your attention to detail concerning how well you multitask, track where you left off on a project, and communicate with the others on your team, as needed.

How would you describe your relationship with your customers or clients?

"My customer and client relationships are best described as open and honest. I believe that the more upfront and transparent you are with your clients, the more likely they are to return. I value my clients and nurture those relationships as much as possible."

Share the value you place on your client relationships. Discuss how you nurture them while ensuring they feel valued. Share your strategy for strengthening those relationships and your ability to maintain their brand loyalty. Everyone wants to feel heard and be treated with respect while seeking validation. Showcase your communication skills by detailing how you actively listen and mirror back to your customers what they're communicating while validating their perception and reality. This is the heart of the adage, 'the customer is always right.'

"My customer and client relationships are most important to me. A happy client will help me achieve my targets and goals. Happy clients offer referrals and give you their business because you have developed trust with them. My client relationships can best be described as valued, nurtured, and well-crafted."

Tell me about a time you had to tell a customer something they didn’t want to hear.

"One of my clients was in a car accident, and their chiropractor prescribed massage as part of their treatment. After they had gone in for a massage three times a week for three weeks, the clinic started billing us. However, prescription massage was not included in their personal injury protection policy, and I had the misfortune of informing them that, no matter how they shook it, there were no ICD-10 codes that would allow us to pay out on that treatment. They were pretty upset, and I empathized with them. I suggested they ask the clinic to try billing it to their health insurance, or maybe they could negotiate a payment plan. I also explained that this clinic should have reached out to us sooner rather than taking three weeks to bill us for the service. It was all pretty unfortunate. But I did my best to keep my patience, empathize with them, and offer as many suggestions as I could regarding other courses of action they could pursue."

Customer service can be stressful at times, especially in intense situations. This behavioral question is layered, and your answer will offer a meaningful glimpse into your personality and skills. Not only is the interviewer trying to get an idea of who you are, but also of your communication skills. They want to evaluate how adept and effective you are at diplomacy, mediation, and negotiation, attending to your clients' needs with transparency and integrity while working swiftly towards a communal end goal. Soft people skill and the ability to non-defensively communicate with a wide range of personalities are key here. Exhibit your non-defensive communication skills. Showcase your active listening skills and ability to mirror what was communicated while offering an example where you've applied these or other effective communication tools in a situation where you had to deliver bad news to a customer. Even when that may not be enough, you've at least exhibited that you performed at your best with what you had to work with, acted with integrity, and used every tool at your disposal to deliver the best customer service you could, given the circumstances.

Have you obtained any insurance-related certifications or licenses?

"In 2009, I completed my Certificate in General Insurance through the Insurance Institute of America (IIA). I am currently completing my Associate in Insurance Services (AIS) certificate. Do you require other certificates or licenses to work in this role?"

Some positions within GEICO require special certification or licensing to qualify for the role. These may vary from state to state as well. You've most likely listed these on your resume, so consider this an opportunity to go deeper, along with any other coursework you are currently participating in or any intentions to pursue further certifications or degrees in the future.

"I am newer to this industry and recently completed the Insurance Claims Training Course through FEMA. Are there any courses that you suggest I take immediately? I want to be prepared for career growth at GEICO."

Tell me about your education and how it prepared you for a career with GEICO.

"I will apply everything I learned from my Bachelor of Business Administration Degree to my work with GEICO. My University experience was a positive one. I applied myself wholeheartedly and graduated at the top of my class. In addition to the knowledge gained, I also developed strong organizational skills and a keen ability to multitask - additional skills that I look forward to bringing to GEICO."

The interviewer would like to know how the knowledge you gained during your studies will benefit you in this position. Display your commitment to your career path, exhibiting a passion for your field and enthusiasm for where it'll lead you. Lay the foundation for your professional goals based on your educational pursuits. Focus on some of the relevant topics you learned. Your educational history isn't necessarily restricted to an educational institution. Anything and everything that helped you along your career path and aided in your professional growth can be considered part of your educational history. Prepare your answer in advance while performing adequate research on yourself, Geico, and the role you are contending for. Assure the interviewer that you have gained transferable knowledge and are prepared to apply that knowledge.

"Although I do not bring industry-specific post-secondary education, I have completed some coursework that would be transferable to this role with GEICO. These courses include business administration, portfolio management, and organizational behavior."

"I've developed valuable skillsets from classes I took in college. I majored in Applied Math and Economics. Real analysis class helped me develop logic-thinking skills; data inferences, economic forecasting, and mathematical-statistical helped me develop quantitative analytic skills since some projects require teamwork. I also learned how to coordinate different opinions and work in a team environment. Monetary policy and globalization helped me develop an understanding of financial systems. In addition to the knowledge I gained, I also developed leadership skills by taking leadership positions at clubs. Outside school, I did several internships. I think those internships help me develop research, analytical and communication skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize. I look forward to bringing those skills to GEICO."

Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

"I feel that employees should be paid and rewarded based on their performance. A new employee would be greatly motivated through being rewarded for performance, and it encourages healthy competition with tenured employees."

This nuanced question tests your experience level by allowing you to explore the nuance of your career progression with them. It allows you to rate your skills in contrast to your years of experience. Before your interview, review the leaps and bounds you've made, where you advanced from your peers, and where you stood ahead of the curve. Consider how you would contrast yourself with your coworkers. Demonstrate how you stand apart from those who cruise along in their jobs, craving only the status quo. Demonstrate experience, confidence, and leadership potential.

"I feel performance and experience should be equally rewarded and weighted."

What are your salary expectations?

"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year, plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."

This question can come up anywhere in the interview but more commonly comes towards the end. This question gauges your professional worth, expectations, and self-awareness of how the interview has gone. This is where you'll show your hand and how you not only value yourself but how realistic your expectations are. Your expectations may be unrealistic, or perhaps they sell you short. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example, including any other perks, such as health insurance, PTO, retirement contributions, bonuses and incentives, and anything else of monetary value. Be open and honest. Transparency is always best when salary-based questions arise.

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?

"I am regularly exposed to cross-functional teamwork in my current position. I believe a cross-functional team project can be very successful when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning. I go into these projects with an understanding that everyone has their own strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."

This question aims to reveal the depth of your work experience. When working for a larger company, you may have worked on a project with teams from other departments. This can make you a desirable asset to your potential employer. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams may prove beneficial and tip the scales towards a second interview. If experienced in this regard, share the challenges you faced along the way and what you learned from the experience. If you don't have much experience in this regard, do your research, and talk up your knowledge while communicating how you look forward to the opportunity to accomplish such a career milestone.

"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. Primarily with the HR department and the Accounting department. Clear communication is key when collaborating with different teams. Clarity in expectations is of huge importance."

When have you shown integrity at work?

"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit every day. There was never a discrepancy in the four years I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable employee."

One of Geico's guiding principles is "Operate with uncompromising integrity." Before they consider bringing anyone new onboard, they not only need to ensure you'll embrace their values and be able to earn the trust of their teams, but they need to ensure you'll be a strong representative of their brand, and that includes maintaining the earned trust of the clients, staying true to their reputation. So this question is a character test. Perform adequate research on their values and culture, and speak confidently, maintaining eye contact and keeping your body language open and friendly.

"I show integrity at work all of the time. It's essential to consistently show excellence through integrity. In the workplace, I show integrity by keeping my promises, earning and keeping the trust of my colleagues, and avoiding all workplace gossip."

Do you think honesty is always the best policy?

"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self-esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on the person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy."

Share your thoughts on the value of honesty in the workplace while focusing on perception, intentions, and integrity. Steer clear of the subjectivity or logistics of honesty. Demonstrate your self-perception and the strength of your character. As the expression goes, the true test of someone's character is what they do when no one is looking. Explain what your word means to you. Touch on your approach to emotionally confusing situations and how your integrity guides your responses. Tell the interviewer you see great value in transparency while consistently respecting the chain of command. The semantics of your answer stand to reveal any hidden intentions, so choose your words carefully.

"I feel that honesty is the best policy so long as the honest comment does not come with the intention of being hurtful."

What leadership qualities do you possess?

"I feel that I am good at motivating a team. Last year, I motivated my sales team every day, and we ended up being the top sales team in the company for the year!"

Exhibiting the qualities of a leader goes a long way towards affirming your value to their organization, and you want to market yourself as a desirable asset. The interviewer is curious whether you have any leadership potential or if you've held any leadership responsibilities or roles in the past. Think over your professional past, and offer the best examples from your career.Regardless of your experience level, familiarize yourself with the five main qualities of leadership - being self-aware while prioritizing your personal development; developing others; encouraging strategic thinking, innovation, and action; being ethical and civic-minded; and practicing effective cross-cultural communication. Next, familiarize yourself with the five main leadership types - authoritarian, participative, delegative, transactional, and transformational - and decide which you most identify with.

Some great qualities of a leader are:- Being someone who people naturally want to follow - Exceptional interpersonal skills - Strong relationship-building skills - Taking ownership for the team's errors and mistakes - Excelling at motivating others - Providing kudos to your team - Knowing how to select and hire the right people to join the team - Having a vision for the future

Tell me about yourself.

"My name is Joe. I was raised a military brat, so we moved around a lot. My mother was an officer in the Navy, and she taught me a sense of discipline and a strong work ethic. She's my hero. My father was an artist, and he taught me how to view the world with a different, outside-the-box view."

Before the interview, compose a capsule bio of about 200 words. Stick to a brief description of your life and how it relates to you as a professional. Limit the personal information to where you were born or raised, a blurb about your parents and upbringing, mentors or figures of inspiration, educational and professional achievements, and what led you to this today. Rehearse it, ensuring you come across as relaxed, interesting, and relatable.

Tell me about a time you had to react quickly in response to sudden change.

"I can think quickly on the job and respond well to sudden change. Last week, I was asked to tweak a presentation with just 30 minutes' notice. The changes were significant, but luckily, I work well under pressure. The presentation went well, and our clients were happy."

Sudden changes or developments requiring a sudden shift of priorities occur in the workplace from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you can respond quickly and professionally in such situations. Offer examples that showcase how resourceful you can be, especially where you exhibited outside-of-the-box thinking. Prioritizing tasks based on the big picture instead of short-term goals, their level of importance, and their urgency is a skill. This question is about your organizational and time management skills. Describe your system approach and how you adapt your work style based on the situation.

"The insurance industry can be quite volatile, so I would say that I think quickly in response to change, multiple times per day. When I need to pivot quickly, I do so in a safe and calculated way that can benefit all parties."

GEICO Interview Questions

Go Back

1. How do you respond to feedback?
2. Do you prefer creative work or rule bound work?
3. How do you strike a balance between your personal life and work?
4. Do you feel nervous about or look forward to performance reviews?
5. What do you consider your greatest strength?
6. What do you consider your biggest weakness?
7. How often do you take your work home with you?
8. What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?
9. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
10. How do you prefer to be recognized for your accomplishments?
11. Do you prefer to work with clients on their business/commercial insurance needs or health/life insurance needs? Why?
12. Do you prefer working face to face with clients or behind the scenes?
13. Do you have any plans to further your education in order to advance your career?
14. I see you stayed at your last company for X number of years. How long did you plan on staying with them when you took the job?
15. If you were offered another job at a different company, would you take that job offer over Geico?
16. At GEICO, we prefer to hire individuals with longevity in mind. Where do you see your career five years from now?
17. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
18. Tell me about an error or mistake you made due to a communication breakdown.
19. Describe a time you had to deal with a client who was upset about their rates going up and how you handled it.
20. Tell me about a time you had to deal with a challenging person.
21. How do you help your clients understand the details of a lengthy insurance contract?
22. What do you know about the culture at GEICO?
23. Why do you feel you are a good fit for Geico?
24. How do you stay on top of the latest trends, changes, and developments in the insurance industry?
25. In your most recent position, what was the size of your client portfolio? Was that manageable for you?
26. How do you feel globalization has affected the Insurance industry?
27. Since beginning your career in Insurance, what do you feel has been the most significant industry change?
28. How do you organize your day?
29. How would you describe your relationship with your customers or clients?
30. Tell me about a time you had to tell a customer something they didn’t want to hear.
31. Have you obtained any insurance-related certifications or licenses?
32. Tell me about your education and how it prepared you for a career with GEICO.
33. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
34. What are your salary expectations?
35. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
36. When have you shown integrity at work?
37. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
38. What leadership qualities do you possess?
39. Tell me about yourself.
40. Tell me about a time you had to react quickly in response to sudden change.

GEICO Interview Questions

1. How do you respond to feedback?

2. Do you prefer creative work or rule bound work?

3. How do you strike a balance between your personal life and work?

4. Do you feel nervous about or look forward to performance reviews?

5. What do you consider your greatest strength?

6. What do you consider your biggest weakness?

7. How often do you take your work home with you?

8. What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?

9. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

10. How do you prefer to be recognized for your accomplishments?

11. Do you prefer to work with clients on their business/commercial insurance needs or health/life insurance needs? Why?

12. Do you prefer working face to face with clients or behind the scenes?

13. Do you have any plans to further your education in order to advance your career?

14. I see you stayed at your last company for X number of years. How long did you plan on staying with them when you took the job?

15. If you were offered another job at a different company, would you take that job offer over Geico?

16. At GEICO, we prefer to hire individuals with longevity in mind. Where do you see your career five years from now?

17. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.

18. Tell me about an error or mistake you made due to a communication breakdown.

19. Describe a time you had to deal with a client who was upset about their rates going up and how you handled it.

20. Tell me about a time you had to deal with a challenging person.

21. How do you help your clients understand the details of a lengthy insurance contract?

22. What do you know about the culture at GEICO?

23. Why do you feel you are a good fit for Geico?

24. How do you stay on top of the latest trends, changes, and developments in the insurance industry?

25. In your most recent position, what was the size of your client portfolio? Was that manageable for you?

26. How do you feel globalization has affected the Insurance industry?

27. Since beginning your career in Insurance, what do you feel has been the most significant industry change?

28. How do you organize your day?

29. How would you describe your relationship with your customers or clients?

30. Tell me about a time you had to tell a customer something they didn’t want to hear.

31. Have you obtained any insurance-related certifications or licenses?

32. Tell me about your education and how it prepared you for a career with GEICO.

33. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

34. What are your salary expectations?

35. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?

36. When have you shown integrity at work?

37. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?

38. What leadership qualities do you possess?

39. Tell me about yourself.

40. Tell me about a time you had to react quickly in response to sudden change.