30 IHS Interview Questions & Answers
1. How do you stay organized and on track when working on a long-term project?
How to Answer
Working for IHS Markit will require an innate ability to manage projects from conception to final implementation. Your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to remain organized to meet deadlines and customer expectations. Talk about your methods for organizing project work and give any examples that you have of your methods being successful. In the consulting and advisory industry, customer satisfaction and word of mouth are integral to the success and growth of a business and effective project management is vital in this satisfaction.
1st Answer Example
"I pride myself on my ability to multitask and my ability to stay organized in key in multitasking. For me, proper organization starts with using technology to my advantage, and I do this through the use of my Outlook calendar and tasks functions. I take time each day to update my tasks and project work and use my ability to prioritize tasks, ensuring proper focus. In looking to bring these skills to long-term project work with your clients, staying organized and on the task will be extremely important for the success of both IHS Markit and your clients."
2nd Answer Example
"In my work, the ability to stay organized and on track comes down to having a plan of attack for each project and keeping track of the plan as we achieve milestones. If you are familiar with the program Trello, it helps me organize all of the components of the projects that I work on and give me the ability to track who is doing what, what deadlines are coming and what milestones we achieve. But even with a great program like this, I can re-prioritize due dates and new tasks as needed with any project."
2. Besides compensation, what do you value the most in the workplace?
How to Answer
Financial compensation aside, the interviewer would like to know what is most important to you when looking for a new job. Your answer will show the interviewer some direction when they are ready to make you an offer of employment. You can talk about health benefits, work-life balance, workplace culture, growth, or even continued education opportunities. The sky is the limit!
1st Answer Example
"I am most interested in working for a company that has a great workplace culture, with a small amount of turnover. As a manager, I like to get to know my team, nurture them, and keep them going for the long term."
2nd Answer Example
"What I value most in the workplace are growth opportunities. I am missing this in my current role and very much look forward to working with a company who will provide me with bigger moves as I prove myself."
3. 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 IHS Markit 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 for IHS Markit?
- What is IHS Markit'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 the data industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
1st Answer Example
"Thank you for asking! A couple of questions come to mind. What do you see as the biggest challenge IHS Markit will be facing in the next 12 months? Also, what is your employee turnover rate, and could you tell me a bit about the retention plan you currently have in place?"
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to ask if there is anything in my background on which you need clarification? Also, after discussing everything today, is there any particular reason why I would not be the best fit for this role?"
4. In what ways would our clients here at IHS Markit benefit from your knowledge and services?
How to Answer
This question is your chance to talk about the unique skills and knowledge that you would bring to IHS Markit. Keep your focus centered on how clients of the organization will benefit from the talent that you bring. IHS Markit is client focused in all that they do. Be sure to do your research on the clients at IHS Markit and think about how your experience will be beneficial for them.
1st Answer Example
"I have extensive experience in risk management in the automotive industry. Having worked with some major players in the industry such as Mercedes and BMW, your automotive clients would benefit the most from the experience and solutions I could help provide them. Not to leave other industries out, I think my experience in the aerospace realm will also translate nicely to your clients in other areas of the private sector."
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in data in a few different industries during my career to this point, I also have the unique experience of creating new organizational policies and procedures in my current role. In hearing more about this role with IHS Markit, I think this experience would be very beneficial for your clients as I would be helping advise them in their practices and creating new policy would be crucial in that process."
5. Do you have experience with big data tools for machine learning such as Apache Spark?
How to Answer
Apache Spark is an analytics engine for big data processing. The interviewer is interested in learning more about your exposure to tools for machine learning. Talk about the tools and systems in which you bring experience. If you are aware of the tools used at IHS Markit, then focus on your exposure to those. If you are unsure of the tools that IHS Markit uses, you can take this time to ask.
1st Answer Example
"I have experience with Apache Spark, and consider myself an intermediate user in this particular tool. I also have about five years' experience with Caffe, which is a deep learning framework. Could you share with me the tools you use most often at IHS Markit?"
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to the industry but am somewhat familiar with a couple of Apache products including Spark, Mahout, and SINGA. I am interested in learning more about the tools you use for collecting and organizing big data. Which tools are most often used here at IHS Markit?"
6. An often difficult part about working for IHS Markit and our clients is the need to be fluent and adaptable to the cultures of our clients. Why would you say that you'd be able to handle this aspect of the job with ease?
How to Answer
In the data consulting world, organizations work with clients of different backgrounds, leadership styles, cultures, industries, and motivating factors. Consultants hired to come into these organizations have to possess a chameleon-like ability to ingrain themselves in a new company's culture. For you to be successful in this role, you must own this same ability.
Be sure to point out your fluidity to adapt to a new situation in your work. Give an example or two of a time you had to do this. Provide your interviewer a sense of your ability to be flexible with clients.
1st Answer Example
"I've been very fortunate to say that I've worked for one employer for over ten years and the experience that I've gained with them is a huge asset to me professionally. But even though all of my relevant work experience is with the same employer, I've worked under six different department managers during my time there, and each person had their unique management style and expectations. As well, my organization has undergone three mergers in my time there, and each merger brought a new and bigger organization to light with new values and culture. Whether it was a manager change or an organization change, I always prioritized openness and asked questions to get to know new processes better. I would bring this approach with every new client that I encountered with IHS Markit."
2nd Answer Example
"I approach each new customer with an open mind while getting to know their motivations, their needs and their expectations of me to help me get a better understanding of how I can best suit them. If hired for this position working with your clients here at IHS Markit, this approach would be vital because of the variety of businesses and industries that you represent."
7. Talk about a time that you successfully educated another individual or group in your area of expertise. What made your educational experience effective?
How to Answer
The role that you are interviewing for with IHS will likely involve providing education to clients in your area of expertise. Your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable and effective in providing education by having you talk about a time that you have done so. Point out some critical items to making business education successful like developing a plan and goals, respecting differing viewpoints and opinions, making it hands-on and making it fun.
1st Answer Example
"The aspect that I love the most about my current job is being the lead for training new hires into our department. Because of my years of experience and my innate ability to effectively orientate new employees, my director asked me to take this duty about four years ago. My approach with any new hire is to customize their training based on their knowledge and experience, so the training is effective for them. What works for one person may not work for another, and I always need to be fluid with this. I also prioritize the need to make orientation and training a hands-on experience for the new hire because classroom learning can only take a person so far in the learning process."
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last seven years working in the corporate tax field. While in this job, I worked very independently for a private organization, so I've been out of the training and education side for a while now. During my first job out of college as a CPA though, I was very adept at providing education to the clients that I worked with daily. What I learned in that experience was the importance of putting material out there in a manner that the trainee understood. As well, talking to clients and understanding my client's wants and needs were very important for me to be able to educate them best. I believe that these skills would enable me to hit the ground running with IHS Markit and your clients would benefit greatly."
8. What is pervasive business intelligence, and what does it mean to you?
How to Answer
Pervasive business intelligence, or Pervasive BI as it's often referred to, is a business' practice of empowering employees by allowing open access to information, and essential responsibilities around decision making. This practice is known to generate beneficial results for companies and also supports a positive company culture. IHS Markit knows that by making it easy for you to find information, the better you will be able to do your job. Talk about the term Pervasive BI, and what it means to you.
1st Answer Example
"To me, pervasive business intelligence means that information is widely spread through a group of employees, allowing them to have access to business data and intelligence, freely. I believe that PBI is an excellent practice as it fosters a positive workplace culture and helps employees to feel empowered."
2nd Answer Example
"I was recently reading an article on pervasive business intelligence, where a popular survey showed that over 80% of senior employees and leaders wanted data and business information to be more accessible to them, in the workplace. The concept may be a new conversation to many, but it's an important one."
9. Help me understand your standards for success in your last job. Please describe what you did to attain those standards, and if you fell short of expectations, what did you do to remedy the problem?
How to Answer
If you look at companies of all sizes, you'll find different types of standards for each one of them. A smaller company's norms might differ from a larger one, based on processes, management, and overall operations. The hiring manager, in this case, would like to hear if you value standards and if you are involved in setting standards or following them.
Ideally, you want to explain that you have involvement with both. Start with some basic facts about the standards you have set, and how you have garnered support from leadership and have successfully maintained those standards over a long period.
It's also important to talk about times you had challenges maintaining standards, and how you were able to remedy issues that came up and regain the support of your teams. This answer shows the interviewer your human side because everyone falls short of expectations at some point. What the interviewer will be paying the most attention to is what you did to remedy the problem.
1st Answer Example
"There are standards that I follow which have made me successful. I start by putting together a winning team. The way that I select a team is I look for winning attitudes, and quality attributes that fit within our team dynamics. Each team member must possess a willingness to learn from failures, and the eagerness to practice and improve even under challenging deadlines. Each person on my team has to accept ownership of their role and be accountable for their work. Lastly, every person on my team has to be respectful to each other."
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to standards, there are many ways to measure success. For me, customer satisfaction is a primary measurable metric. It's my job to figure out what the client is looking for to ensure complete satisfaction. I admit, client satisfaction isn't always easy to measure, but once you develop a system that allows them to measure success, you will have a better idea of how to meet their needs. This approach is one that I developed and use with all my customers. In rare cases where I fall short of my client's expectations, I always examine where things went wrong, and implement a change to immediately right the ship. It could be several things like budget, bureaucracy, unrealistic timelines, etc. I document all project cases, so I prevent failures in the future."
10. What is your favorite data management tool at the moment?
How to Answer
This question offers an excellent opportunity for you to discuss the tools that you use in the workplace, and also to learn about new tools of which you may not be aware. Discuss which data management tools are your favorite at this time and if you are comfortable, as the interviewer about theirs in return.
1st Answer Example
"There are many amazing tools available for data management, and new options coming out all the time. Right now, I appreciate Power BI from Microsoft. It is a powerful business analytics service, and I love the interactive visualizations and intelligence capabilities. I love to learn about new choices in data management tools. Could you share with me your current favorite?"
2nd Answer Example
"Collibra is a tool that I currently use daily and one that has made my job significantly easier in many aspects. The tool is related more to data governance, allowing me to access and control data in a way I never thought possible. Are you familiar with the program? I would be happy to hear of any other recommendations you have as well."
11. When we work with our clients here at IHS Markit, an essential part of receiving buy-in from them comes from business diagrams and charts. What experience do you have in creating and presenting business diagrams and charts?
How to Answer
In a consulting role with IHS Markit, you may be required to present data and information to clients in an easy to understand manner. In this role, you will be working with employees from all different levels of the organization that you consult and putting information into layman's terms is extremely important. One effective way to do this is through the use of business diagrams and charts. Your interviewer wants to find out what experience you have in diagramming and charting. Talk about your experience with things like flowcharts and activity diagrams and explain why visuals are essential for stakeholders.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I regularly create and present process flowcharts and activity diagrams to our staff. I recently created an activity diagram that outlined the production process in their facility. I am very proficient in using Visio to create these, and my presentation was very eye-opening to the team. In the hour-long presentation, many key areas of focus came to the attention of leadership for focus on future improvement. If hired for this role, I'd be very comfortable in working with clients on effective charting and presentation to them in this area."
2nd Answer Example
"With a background in quality, I am very familiar with swimlane flowcharting, and I've used this many times with my current organization to highlight where different departments interact and crossover in processes. While I've most often relied on the administrative assistant in my department in the creation of these, I am very comfortable in learning how to create them with my solid technical skills. My forte lies with presenting and explaining processes to stakeholders."
12. Great data visualization will present data in a convincing way. How do you improve human perception when presenting data?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you see the importance of positioning data in a convincing and easy-to-understand manner. As a data visualization business, IHS Markit knows that their customers will only purchase the services that they understand. Discuss with the interviewer how you improve human perception when it comes to presenting sets of data.
1st Answer Example
"I know that people are very visual so the bulk of presenting data convincingly, comes down the use of color, graphs, and animation. I like to work in small multiples so that the numbers and information I am sharing are easy to digest. A successful presentation is all about the visual layout and easy absorption of data."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read a study on the fact that pie charts are difficult for people to quickly understand and calculate so now I use them sparingly when it comes to presenting data sets and other important information. I lean more towards line charts for tracking changes or showing trends over time. Then, bar charts when I am comparing data from a variety of categories. The use of colors and other visuals is critical, also."
13. Would you say that you are a goal oriented person on the job? Why would you say that?
How to Answer
Success in business consulting often comes from measuring how you have achieved your clients' goals. Your interviewer is looking to hear the fact that goals drive you and that you can set them as well. In your answer, give your interviewer the sense that you are goal oriented by providing an example or two of a time where you set and worked towards a goal as part of a team effort. Explain your role in the achievement of the goals and your ability to stay focused on the result.
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, one of the first things that you'll learn about me is that I am very driven to succeed in all that I do on the job. For me, personal drive centers around goals and my desire to achieve them. I have the focus to set goals myself and to work towards goals that are set by my organization, my leaders or my customers and I would bring this ability with each client that I work with here at IHS Markit."
2nd Answer Example
"I am goal oriented in the work that I do daily. In project management, I work off of both time-related goals and production related goals, and these drive my daily tasks and my delegation of responsibilities to other team members. If given the opportunity to come work for IHS Markit, my clients would greatly benefit from my ability to both set and achieve goals with them."
14. In your opinion, is data a true asset for a business. Why or why not?
How to Answer
Many companies still struggle with the idea that their data is a real asset when it comes to their business. The interviewer would like to know that, if a client asked you about the importance of their data, that you would give a well-thought-out and appropriate response. Share with the interviewer why data is indeed an asset.
1st Answer Example
"Since acquiring data comes with a significant cost, I believe it is fair to say then that data is an asset. Data can give valuable insight into a company's operations, financial strength, future scalability, and more. By properly analyzing data, a company can open itself to millions in growth. For these reasons, I consider data to be a true business asset."
2nd Answer Example
"It is interesting to me that this idea is still in question with some of the clients with which I work. I recently read a study claiming that 36% of businesses lack the tools needed to extract and analyze the information and data that they have. When a client asks me if their data is valuable, I always reply with a hearty 'yes!' It is expensive to gather data, but also more costly to never analyze your data."
15. Walk me through your experience in databases, predictive modeling, and business intelligence. In which of these areas are you best versed?
How to Answer
Depending on the role you are targeting with IHS Markit, be prepared to discuss your specialty. Ideally, you will have experience in more than one area. Discuss which fields of data analysis you bring the most experience. Remember, this question is an opportunity for you to convince the interviewer that hiring you would be the best choice. Show confidence!
1st Answer Example
"Of all three categories, I am most experienced in business intelligence; although I do have a full understanding of predictive modeling also. My specialty is in BI which drew me to your job posting, requesting this type of focus. I have eight years' experience as a BI specialist, training others in the field, and working in a client-facing role for the bulk of those years."
2nd Answer Example
"Hands down, predictive modeling is my specialty. I was excited to see that IHS Markit was seeking someone with expertise in this area. I am passionate when it comes to using statistics to predict outcomes, and I especially enjoy teaching my clients how to analyze data for this purpose."
16. How do you prevent data leakage?
How to Answer
Data leakage occurs when an organizations' data is leaked out in a way they did not authorize. This situation can happen through leakage of printed materials, emails, or lost company laptops or physical files. IHS Markit will have rules in place when it comes to the use of their clients' sensitive or confidential information, and the interviewer wants to know that you understand which steps to take to prevent a data vulnerability.
A few ways that a consultancy can prevent data leakage include:
- Having a clear security policy for all employees to abide by
- Possessing the best software and technology related to security
- Ensuring that employees keep business and personal passwords separate
- Educating employees on potential vulnerabilities and possible data and cyber attacks
1st Answer Example
"We prevent data leakage through employee education, training, and then the reinforcement of rules when it comes to security policies. I recently read that research from Cisco showed that over 60% of employees use a work computer for personal use. As simple as it is, this practice alone can create a security issue. I believe that data security issues often start with unclear employee practices."
2nd Answer Example
"There are many ways to prevent data leakage; however, in my opinion, it all begins with having the right software and technology. Every company should have a data protection solution such as an ERM that goes far beyond a firewall or simple network monitoring."
17. Tell me about a time where you made an excellent recommendation that you think would have significantly benefited your client, but they didn't like it. What approach did you take to convince them?
How to Answer
It's a challenge when you have to deal with a company that has different opinions and management styles. Depending on whom you are working with, and their role and responsibility, you will likely have to craft a compelling value proposition to clearly show that your recommendations will yield a return on their investment in a relatively short time.
Consultants know this all too well. Push back from the client comes from managers who either don't understand the idea, concept or solution and how it will help the organization.
This type of interview question is asked to see how you handle rejection from the client, and if you recommend another solution that might work better. In addition to a compelling value proposition, provide a similar example that you recommended to a client that worked very well and had a good return on their investment.
1st Answer Example
"When someone doesn't like my ideas or recommendations, I don't take it personally. I show empathy toward people who may disagree with my ideas or recommended solutions. I understand that some people may not be clear about how the technology or solution works, and how it may benefit them. When it comes to change, it is sometimes difficult to implement change since people like the way they work and get used to a certain routine at work. One of the approaches that I used to convince them that my recommended solution would benefit the company was to highlight the areas that directly benefited them, and how it would make their daily tasks easier to manage."
2nd Answer Example
"Another way I was able to convince this client that they need my recommended solution was that I gave them ownership and involvement in the project very early on so they could see first-hand where they would be able to realize the benefits that directly apply to their department. I made them feel they were an important part of the process. As an outsider (consultant) telling them how I could improve their operations, I know I had to be respectful of their concerns. I avoided confrontation, and took a non-intrusive approach to learn how they worked so I could document and show them exactly where they benefited from my recommendations."
18. Our clients have high expectations for our work. Tell me about a time you worked with challenging time constraints but were still able to exceed client expectations.
How to Answer
Be prepared for situational questions that ask about project planning, resource planning, expectations, delivery, and how you anticipate distractions. Show the hiring manager that you have meticulously planned and know each step in the process. Your answer should reflect the actions you take to resolve a problem or minimize risk, so issues don't occur. Walk the interviewer through one of the steps in the process, and detail how you address time constraints specifically, and how you can still meet client expectations. Detail this response with how you set up a project plan, the step-by-step approach, and why everyone needs to follow the process to avoid delays and to deliver on time.
1st Answer Example
"Almost every project will have time sensitivity challenges and deadlines. I am very mindful of these things, and take the appropriate steps to ensure projects are planned properly with the appropriate amount of resources, technology, and approvals throughout the process. The way that I start and execute on a project is always with a project plan that serves as a roadmap for success. If I am to avoid time constraints and other challenges, I identify the deliverables and follow through on the most efficient way to produce them. To avoid distractions, I take a close look at the design and test times, project risk, team focus, and management involvement so that we minimize delays from the executive level."
2nd Answer Example
"When I start a project, there are several tasks and milestones that I consider very carefully. The most important one is identifying risks up front to avoid surprises. I take a systematic approach to each step and phase of the project. It has been my experience that setting quality expectations in advance sets the tone for a much more favorable outcome for the project. Keeping a focus and not deviating from the original plan is important for meeting milestones and expectations. I understand that changes happen, and change management needs addressing if this happens. If or when change happens, we refocus the project using rapid application development RAD to stay on schedule, so the delivery date of the project doesn't change."
19. What is your approach to working with a large amount of information/data?
How to Answer
When you work in data management, you will be required to handle large amounts of data and information, keeping it all organized and easily accessible to yourself, and other project stakeholders. The interviewer would like to know that you can successfully juggle and organize it all. If you would like to know more about IHS Markit's process, you can certainly ask.
1st Answer Example
"I learned a technique years ago from a data science blog to take a three-tiered approach when working with large amounts of data, and information. I evaluate, define, and control. What this means is that I first evaluate the type of data that I have. I can then define and categorize it, allowing me to ensure it is organized and protected. From there, I can control its use and distribution. How do you prefer large amounts of data be managed here at IHS Markit?"
2nd Answer Example
"When managing large amounts of information, I create lists, and collections, so that the information is easy to find. I am aware of keeping the data stored as flat as possible. I also archive old information regularly so that it is not a distraction. I want to learn more about how IHS Markit prefers the management of large amounts of information and data."
20. What tools and programs are you comfortable and experienced working on that would help you in this role with IHS Markit?
How to Answer
As business technology has increased over time, the business analytics field has flourished with great tools becoming more readily available. Your interviewer is looking to get a sense of what programs you have familiarity working with and, on top of that, how fluent and efficient you are in using those tools. Be sure to touch on programs and tools that affect effective communication, project management, and modeling or visualization and highlight the fact that you are proficient in and open to learning new programs if needed.
1st Answer Example
"As an avid user and fan of the Microsoft Office Suite, I am very proficient using all of the pieces of the suite. I rely on Outlook for email communications, calendar appointments and managing daily and weekly tasks. I regularly use the Visio tool for diagramming and Excel for tracking purposes. In preparation for this interview, I've been researching common requirements management tools like Rational Requisite Pro, and I feel confident in my technical abilities to learn and utilize a new business analyst program."
2nd Answer Example
"As a trained IT professional looking to breakthrough into the data analytics field, you can be assured that I have a wide breadth of experience working with many different programs and tools. On top of the regular Microsoft Office programs, I've worked on email programs like Zimbra and Mailbird for communications and am comfortable learning any new system. I think one unique aspect I can bring to IHS Markit is my experience working with SQL database management and queries."
21. What interests you in joining the business consulting world here at IHS Markit?
How to Answer
It is imperative to do your research on the organization and the position you are interviewing for so you can match your skills and desires to the job. Be sure that you also speak to the potential move to a consultative type role if this will be the first time for you with a consulting organization. Be sure to highlight the qualities that make you an ideal fit for the job.
1st Answer Example
"At this point in my career, I have maxed out my capabilities in my current role. Over the past two or three years, I've found so much fulfillment in my work when I've been helping others and providing education to them that I've narrowed my job search down to the data consulting field. The prospect of helping other companies grow and become more efficient under my consultation is an adventure that I would love to embark on here at IHS Markit!"
2nd Answer Example
"As I've grown in my role in the Training & Education department with my current employer, I've gravitated toward leadership development and succession planning with my organization, and I'd like to bring these skills to work here at IHS Markit as this position fits right in that mold. Using my experience and knowledge, you'll quickly find that I have a great ability to work alongside and train the top level executives with your clients in a manner that is professional and effective at the same time. My experiences in both automotive and energy sound like they'd fit well with your client base as well."
22. How does data drive a business' success?
How to Answer
Data-driven decision making is becoming a more important topic every year. Companies can leverage data analytics to determine:
- Productivity
- Competitive analysis
- How, when, and where products are used
- Customer demographics
- Pattern analysis
- Business growth
Talk to the interviewer at IHS Markit about the ways that you feel companies can best use data to drive the success of their business.
1st Answer Example
"When I take a hard look at the many uses of data, I see that data can be collected in a plethora of ways to determine the success of a new product launch, competitive analysis, or patterns that occur, which may not be seen by the human eye. In my career, I have the most experience using data to help drive employee productivity and onboarding solutions which can save a company thousands of dollars."
2nd Answer Example
"Data can drive every aspect of a business' success if approached and utilized correctly. In my experience, I have seen that companies underutilize what a full data analysis approach can do for them. Analytics programs should be set up for marketing, sales, employee productivity, product efficiency, competitive analysis and more."
23. Part of our business is in big data, which is continuously changing as new technology and products enter the market. How do you keep up-to-date on these changes?
How to Answer
With the high level of competition in the data industry, companies are continuously introducing new products and services to remain relevant. IHS Markit would like to know that you will be proactive in educating yourself about the changes in the industry. Talk about resources you would use to remain informed to updates and changes in the data industry. Also, communicate that you understand the importance of remaining current on the continuously evolving industry.
1st Answer Example
"Keeping abreast of the changes in the data field is important if a company wants to remain competitive. Companies need to know the technology offered in the industry, so they don't lose their clients to the competition. I remain informed through various online resources such as industry blogs, journals, and community forums. Also, conferences and seminars are also informative sources to learn about changes in the industry, and I do my best to attend these regularly when budgets allow. Also, it is important to ensure knowledge sharing across departments within the company. I have found holding sessions such as 'Lunch and Learns' help with the internal knowledge sharing."
2nd Answer Example
"Keeping informed of the technological advances of the data industry pushes companies to remain innovative themselves. I believe companies remain competitive by improving on the ideas of others. I remain informed through continuous communication with my network. Whether through email, online communities or social media, including LinkedIn and Twitter, I read articles from industry journals and information shared by my network. I believe it is important to be a part of an active network of professionals involved in data within their companies. Also, when my schedule allows, I attend networking events where I continually meet new industry professionals."
24. Your customer wants you to explain the benefits of the Big Data model you developed, how do you communicate the insights they can use for their business?
How to Answer
Everywhere you look in corporate America; you will find Big Data. It's fast becoming one of the most critical facets of a business's operation. Big Data is for data analytics and data management. If you want to know if your company is profitable or losing money, big data analytics can provide that. If you're going to see what product sold best in a specific region of the country or world, big data analytics can provide that information. It's like having a dashboard with multiple screens in one that shows the performance of your company, people, processes, etc.
Everyone talks about this concept, but very few can articulate the benefits of big data and how it can help a business. This lack of clarity is especially true for data consultants who are new to big data. Depending on the level of experience that you have, one of the most critical areas that you should focus your response on is highlighting the insights that the customer is going to realize when they implement a big data solution.
The interviewer is interested in hearing about how you present benefits to the customer in a way that connects with the customer's pain and adds value to the company. Effective communication is vital here. The interviewer might ask for a hypothetical scenario where you presented a case for big data, and it's benefits. It would help to mention that they would be able to calculate metrics for data gathered from multiple sources like social media, customer profile data, company website, etc.
1st Answer Example
"My expertise has been in Data Analysis, so Big Data to me was a pretty flat and easy learning curve. When you're working with large volumes of data, you need to make sure that the data is scrubbed (cleaned) so that the organization can interpret the information so they can use that data to make better business decisions. I was able to do this by using data warehouse applications that broke down the data in smaller manageable groups that had relevant information about each customer or prospect. Based on my knowledge, there are a lot of benefits that a company can get out of big data. Here's a short list that I have compiled based on my experience:
1. Ability to acquire, extract, modify, analyze, and blend the data with various business intelligence tools to get the information you need to run your business.
2. You can evaluate risk by a portfolio of products or services.
3. Be able to customize customer experiences.
4. You can identify important information or performance data to improve decision making.
5. Real-time forecasting and monitoring across company-wide locations, divisions, and business units.
6. You can monitor sales and marketing campaigns, and track customer purchasing habits."
2nd Answer Example
"In years past when I worked with data management tools, it was systems like ETL and Data Warehouses that I used to compile and structure data that the business could use. These were typical Business Intelligence solutions at the time, but they weren't as robust as they are now. My responsibility was to extract and cleanse data so I could present it in a way that was easy to understand to a non-technical person. Having a strong analytical background helped me to analyze different forms of data so that I could optimize and index data structures to present the many benefits that big data has to offer."
25. We're a company of innovative thinkers; we rely upon our innovative thinking to solve client problems. Tell me about a time when you came up with a breakthrough idea that was not obvious to others. Describe your idea and how you developed it.
How to Answer
Innovation is the cornerstone of any successful company. If you show me a highly successful company, I will show you people within that company that are innovative thinkers. Great examples are Steve Jobs from Apple, Bill Gates from Microsoft, and Jeff Bezos of Amazon to name a few.
The hiring manager is posing this as a two-part question to see if your response is clear and concise. Stay on point with your answer. Think about this question for a minute to dissect what they are asking. They are a company of innovators which means, will you fit into their culture and be able to come up with ideas that will be innovative. The interviewer will be listening attentively to how you articulate your message about your breakthrough idea. Walk them through how you came up with the idea, what your thought process was, how you got approval to move forward, and how you executed on the plan.
1st Answer Example
"I've always considered myself an 'outside the box' thinker. Settling for the norm has never been my working style. I always work with the expectation that my idea will serve many purposes, and bring value to our customers. One example is when I came up with a plan to train the trainer at multiple locations via remote video conferencing. This idea was well received and was implemented at over 50 locations worldwide. I came up with the idea because I was responsible for training multiple divisions and didn't have the budget to fly everyone in from numerous sites for the training sessions."
2nd Answer Example
"I was working on implementing a friendlier looking graphical user interface solution for a financial services client. The inspiration came from the feedback I received from people at the client site complaining about processing transactions on a mainframe computer that wasn't much fun to work with or look at. They were used to the dreaded Green Screen on a mainframe, but my solution had a Windows look and feel, which they liked quite a lot."
26. If you were to join IHS Markit in this role, you would be counted on to lead projects. Talk about a time you had to lead a team of individuals. What leadership skills will you bring to us?
How to Answer
The ability to lead others in project work comes down to the fine details and traits of being a great leader. The experience you have can come from many different areas and can include project management, supervising, managing or even mentoring others. When you answer this question, be sure to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, bring unity, lead by example, empower and teach others. Talk about how you will use these skills if hired at IHS Markit.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I've been asked on numerous occasions to lead finance projects for my organization, and I always do so with an open mind. On a recent project, I pulled together a team that included members of sales, production and upper management. To make this project successful, it was up to me to know each team member's area of expertise and delegate tasks based on their knowledge. A great part of the team's success was due to my ability to lead in a manner that promoted communication among individuals who never had the chance to work together. I accomplished this through fun ice-breaking activities with the team and regular email communications outside of our in-person meetings."
2nd Answer Example
"I have extensive experience as a Sales Manager and Director, and I know that the skills I honed in these roles will transfer nicely to this position. Leading teams is best accomplished when I am leading by example and walking the talk. I've also developed great skills in mentoring and coaching my staff, and I've been commended on these skills by both sales leadership peers and my team. In this role, I will bring this same approach when working with clients."
27. We offer services in areas such as asset optimization, customer experience, finance transformation, and risk mitigation. In which field of data management do you specialize?
How to Answer
IHS Markit will have clients that span many industries, all with a variety of needs. Discuss with the interviewer the areas of data management which you have worked, highlighting your level of expertise.
1st Answer Example
"Of the five years I have spent in data management, approximately three of them are working directly in the field of risk mitigation, and two with finance transformations. My experience lends well to clients who need to reduce financial risk and optimize their profits. When it comes to risk mitigation, I am especially well versed in planning, implementation, and progress monitoring."
2nd Answer Example
"When you combine my degree in communications, as well as my experience working with clients on data related to their services, team, and culture management, I would say that my specialization is in the area of customer experience and workforce optimization. With that said, my skills are highly transferable, and I can make an impact on IHS Markit's other areas of focus."
28. Being successful in consulting and working here at IHS Markit requires the ability to work effectively with Type A personalities. What are your experiences in working with this personality and how did you make the relationships a success?
How to Answer
To first understand this question, it is essential to know that Type A personalities are exemplified by being competitive, motivated, organized and goal driven, among many other traits. These traits often lead to success in high-level roles within organizations, and your chances of working with this personality type are high. Think of a time you worked with a typical Type A personality and explain the methods you used to ensure that you had a sound and successful working relationship. Make sure that your interviewer walks away knowing that you can work effectively with driven individuals with high expectations.
1st Answer Example
"For the last six years, I have worked under a director with the prototypical type A personality. As an admitted type B, being under my new director was difficult at first. For me to be successful and for our relationship to flourish, I quickly learned that she liked me to communicate timelines for projects and give updates regularly. She was very time driven. As well, small talk and getting to know me personally wasn't a priority, so our communications to this day are pretty brief and to the point. In this role, I would feel very comfortable with working with high-level type A's because of my firsthand experience."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a type A personality myself. My personality has helped me become very successful as a Financial Analyst. Having had formal training in different personality types, I know that I need to take a meticulous approach when working with type A personalities. My current team consists of type A's, and regular communication is key in ensuring that expectations are clear and that we meet timelines. If hired for this position, I would know my place in working with leaders from clients, and I can easily be both mindful of my approach and have the ability to put my desire to be in the lead aside with them when needed."
29. Being successful in the consulting industry requires adaptability and the ability to learn a business fast. What is your approach to learning the ins and outs of a new client?
How to Answer
IHS Markit consults in different industries, and it is likely that your job would require you to learn the fine details of each client. Demonstrate your ability to be flexible by giving examples of times you've had to do this during your career. As well, describe the approach that you would take to get the know the businesses you would be working with, so you can apply your knowledge and expertise toward helping them.
1st Answer Example
"I've been in corporate training and education for over ten years. In my current role, I have used similar techniques working with different departments to try and tailor programs that meet their specific needs. I feel that my current approach of hosting an intake meeting with leaders would be effective in a consulting role with external customers. The current intake meetings that I lead are an opportunity for me to ask questions and learn as much as I can about my customers. In turn, it is an opportunity for me to lay the groundwork for the project and set expectations. Do you see this as an effective approach for this role?"
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in quality roles for most of my career in both the private and public sectors, my career experiences have shaped me well for this role. Transitioning to a consultative role would be a positive transition for me and the biggest transition will be this need to work in many different industries. For me, researching clients, their business and their industry will be the first step to my approach in learning about them. I want to make a great first impression when I am face to face with a new client, and that first impression starts with my knowledge. Then, my openness and ability to communicate would take over when I am working directly with clients. I know the right questions to ask for laying out quality initiative projects and I know the right things to educate clients on."
30. At IHS Markit, you will have the opportunity to work with our clients' high-level executives and leaders. What experience do you have in working with people at these levels?
How to Answer
As a business advisory and consulting firm, IHS Markit works with Managers, Directors, CEO's, CFO's, CAO's and more. Your role will likely involve working closely with these leaders. Your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are comfortable in working with the leadership team of the organization's clients by having you talk about your experience. Make sure that the examples you provide include details on how you collaborated with these executives.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work directly under our Chief Financial Officer and sit on a couple of different committees that our Chief Executive Officer is on. Under the direction of my CFO, we have a great working relationship. I am comfortable asking questions and bringing new ideas forward. He is aware of my strengths and respects my opinions on matters in my wheelhouse, so he never hesitates to come to me with important things. I think the keys to our strong relationship are the respect we show for each other and our open lines of communication."
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with employees at all levels within these organizations. To me, working effectively with anyone requires a personal touch and a respectful approach. Whether I work with front line sales staff or members of the C-Suite, I take the time to get to know the person, their job and how I can support them. This approach helped me build a relationship with a Sales Executive that a few of my colleagues had struck out with, in recent interactions."