40 IRS Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our IRS interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Do you have any questions for me about this position?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from simply 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 here?
- What is the company'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 biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Answer Example
"I have been a fan of your company for as long as I can remember and I am curious what the vision is for expanding in the future to new markets, especially considering the growth of e-commerce and decline of brick and mortar stores across all industries. How do you plan to remain relevant?"
2. Do you believe you are a leader? When have you led a team?
How to Answer
Perhaps you have led a club at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500, or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor.
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be a face of the organization when challenges arise.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I am the president of the social committee. I love that I have the opportunity to encourage employee engagement while being a positive influence on the workplace culture. I am a natural leader because I start with leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentor-ship, a bit of assistance in adjusting to their role, or just a listening ear when they've had a tough day. I am confident in my leadership abilities and look forward to joining your team in a leadership role."
2nd Answer Example
"I definitely see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but also I believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm, and work-ethic. I am open to new ideas and love to tackle a new project which, to me, embodies leadership."
3. How do you evaluate success among your team members?
How to Answer
When you are leading a team it is very important to be aware of the level of success that each team member is experiencing. One underperforming team player can drag down the entire group. Talk to the interviewer about how you are able to stay aware of each team members' success.
1st Answer Example
"I have a very in-depth and successful system for evaluating success among my team members. I check in twice per week with each member of my team. On Monday's - to set our goals together. Then, on Friday's, to discuss any successes and challenges. I have them self-evaluate and then we create a plan for success for the upcoming week. I evaluate their success based on their follow through and willingness to work hard to reach their goals."
2nd Answer Example
"I typically have KPI (key performance indicators) in place to measure the success of each of the members of the team. I also manage our overall success in working together. For example, are we hitting on key initiatives within the department, developing each other for succession planning and having fun along the way!"
4. What are you reading right now?
How to Answer
Do you feed your mind on a regular basis? What kind of literature do you prefer and why? Talk to the interviewer about a book that you are currently reading. If you are not currently reading a book - talk about one that has impacted you the most.
1st Answer Example
"Currently I am reading 'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday. It is a book about ambition, resilience and success. I feel that every professional should read it - it comes highly recommended."
2nd Answer Example
"Recently, I have gone through a couple of books on the Audible App including 'How to Win Friends and Influence People', by Dale Carnegie. It's a classic. What type of books do you enjoy reading?"
5. How do you prioritize multiple projects when they all seem equally important?
How to Answer
Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice. There are many approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions:
1) Make a list. By thinking through and writing down each item that needs to be completed, you can see it on paper.
2) Mark what is urgent or important. Take into account deadlines and meetings.
3) Order each task based upon effort and estimated value. Considering due dates and how long it will take to do each item (also considering how much time you have).
In answering this question, show the interviewer that you have a system in place that helps you to think through what needs to happen, and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you an asset to their company!
Answer Example
"I prioritize based on urgency and time required on the project. I have a list of what needs to be done, by when, and how long I project that it will take to accomplish. I am great under pressure, but try to make sure that I don't get myself or my team into a sticky situation by not allotting enough time for any particular project. That said, I also try to be as effective and efficient as possible and make sure I can use all minutes of a day for a project, so I generally have a few things going at once: I am the lead on some, the delegator on others, and the reviewer on another, for instance. This way, by splitting up the work to the appropriate parties, both I and my team and be the most effective and impactful as possible."
6. What would you do if a client asked you about a product or service and you were unsure of the answer?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants know if you are an independent thinker. Explain that you would take the time to try and figure out the answer, but you are not afraid to ask questions if you need to.
1st Answer Example
"If I had a client ask me about something that I didn't know enough about, I would absolutely find the answer for them before giving a false answer. I am okay with admitting when I don't know something and i love to learn new things. Of course, I would find the answer quickly by asking the appropriate person or finding it within the company's internal resources."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a great researcher and do not mind asking for help. If I did not know the answer, I would readily admit it but then also commit myself to finding the answer."
7. How long have you been looking for a job?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your job search. Have you been on the lookout for a long time? How successful has your search been? You can also ask the interviewer how quickly they are hoping to hire.
1st Answer Example
"I have been on the search for perhaps a month or so. I am now just beginning to become more aggressive in my job search. How quickly are you looking to make a decision?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have been passively looking for a new opportunity for a few months. I need to ensure that this next step is a great fit for me and a positive change so I am being very choosy on where I accept interviews. With that said, I have a great feeling about this role with IRS."
8. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment?
How to Answer
If you work for a larger company, you may have been asked to work on a project with teams from another department. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a big asset to your potential employer, especially if they are a larger organization.
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members from the engineering and sales teams. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
1st Answer Example
"I am regularly exposed to cross-functional teamwork in my current position. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their own strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
2nd Answer Example
"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."
9. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you, or a saying that you grew up with that really resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My personal mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"My personal mission is to give my best 100% of the time. It's important to me that I have a great reputation in this industry through hard work and a positive attitude."
10. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations are to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"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."
2nd Answer Example
"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 opportunity for growth."
11. What causes you to feel dissatisfied on the job?
How to Answer
Everyone will have their own particular triggers that cause them to feel dissatisfaction on the job. Talk to the interviewer about any factors that may deflate or discourage you in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"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 where there is little drama or gossip."
2nd Answer Example
"I have felt dissatisfied on the job when I feel underpaid and overworked. I don't mind working hard at all but I don't like to feel as though I'm being taken advantage of."
12. Why do you think you will be successful in this role with IRS?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.
1st Answer Example
"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentor-ship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I'm confident that I would be the best choice for this role. I am qualified, excited, and this has really been my dream company and role for as long as I can remember. I know that I want it more than anyone else and I have all of the qualifications, plus the biggest heart and work ethic. You won't be disappointed if you choose to hire me."
13. How has your post-secondary education prepared you for this job with IRS?
How to Answer
While attending post-secondary studies, you likely learned some core skills that would be transferable to any position. Think about what you learned in your highest levels of education and how that knowledge applies (or will apply) to your work.
1st Answer Example
"I am a big believer in post-secondary education. It adds a lot of value to those newer to the workplace. My post-secondary education was in Communication and Journalism. The courses in this program helped me to develop stronger business relationships through professional correspondence. I also learned persuasive writing skills which have proven to be incredibly helpful when working on client proposals, and in negotiations."
2nd Answer Example
Some skills gained from post-secondary include:
- Time Management
- Creative Thinking
- Proposal Writing
- Public Speaking
- Presentation Building
- Independent Learning
- Academic Research
- Self-Motivation
14. What do you know about the IRS' mission?
How to Answer
This question tests how thoroughly you've researched the position for which you are applying. Memorizing the IRS' mission and presenting it well to the interviewer can go a long way in exhibiting that you already embrace their motto!
Answer Example
"The IRS mission is to provide America's taxpayers top quality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and by applying the tax law with integrity and fairness to all. When you think about how many tax programs are out there for all sorts of situations, I'd consider it my honor to help them navigate any and all programs that can help them, with fairness and integrity."
15. Who is a source of inspiration for you?
How to Answer
A candidate's role model, or figure of inspiration, will offer a glimpse into their personality, philosophy, and approach to life and work. They'll examine the examples offered and consider how well a candidate will work with one of their leaders. This may also help them pair them with the type of leader who best matches an applicant's inspiration, based on their ideals, helping that leader better serve as a role model for them through the experience.
Answer Example
"I have a few. I truly admire Nicola Tesla for his contributions to humanity, Eleanor Roosevelt for her courage and relentless resolve to defend the defenseless and make our society a better world, and Steve Jobs for being one of the greatest innovators of our time."
16. What are some techniques you use to deliver tough news?
How to Answer
They are interested in assessing your communication skills, and if you can effectively deliver bad news without escalating the situation or creating conflict. Being adept in non-defensive communication is useful when presented with this question.
Answer Example
"I'd give them a head's up as early as possible so they didn't feel taken off guard. As soon as I have the bad news, I'd deliver it, no cushion. Choosing my words carefully, I'd break down the situation, so they had a clear understanding of how the situation played out, resulting in their bad news, so they understood what precipitated it.
Open with transparency, I'd inform them of their options, offer guidance on their best approach to address their situation, and would do everything I could to ensure clear and effective communication has been delivered, de-escalating as needed with empathy and patience. I'd follow up to see if they had questions, and offer them resources. I'd try to be as helpful as I could."
17. Describe a time when you've made a mistake in your work and how you fixed it.
How to Answer
This question gauges your level of integrity, and whether you take responsibility for your own actions. When planning your answer, make sure you exhibit valuable and highly desired traits, such as acute attention to detail, sound judgement, and protecting the assets and resources of the team.
Answer Example
"When I was working for XYC Limited, I noticed a mis-punch in an order. After some cursory investigation, I realized the mistake was my own. But rather than burdening my supervisor with the information too early on, or diverting our resources to rectifying the matter, I made a few phone calls to our warehouse and to our billing department and corrected everything, and placed the order again. The product wouldn't get there on time, so I expedited the shipping. I then called our client and explained that the initial overcharge would pend for only a day, and would be refunded before it cleared. I explained that I already called their financial institution to ensure this and that their product would arrive earlier than expected at no extra charge. I then informed my supervisor what had happened, explained I'd resolved it, and that it took only one payroll hour to correct the issue. They were pleased with how I handled the situation."
18. Describe a time when you improved work-related methods or techniques.
How to Answer
By asking this question, the interviewers are interested in your team involvement, whether you have your eye on the big picture, and if you have an above and beyond team mentality. When answering this question, you'll want to focus on the positives of what you improved and what resulted in being the best for the team.
Answer Example
"I noticed that there were several steps too many for a process at work. I understand why the system was structured as it was, to ensure everything was done according to the procedure. However, it was several steps too many, and several team members were skipping several of the steps to get the work done faster. But they didn't understand why the system was in place, and this resulted in several discrepancies in our system management software. So I studied the system, and came up with an alternative that had far fewer steps and made the job much easier to do the right way rather than taking the shortcuts my teammates were taking. I presented it to our team leaders, and they loved what I came up with. They made some minor adjustments and implemented the changes, which increased productivity and work quality output for our department."
19. How would you reassure a customer when they're concerned?
How to Answer
This question assesses your soft skills, especially surrounding your communication skills. The trick here is to communicate effectively and concisely. Avoid speech crutches ( um, like, you know, etc.) and try to speak clearly and concisely while delivering your well-formulated answer.
Answer Example
"I would speak softly and choose my words wisely, so as not to say anything that might be misconstrued or alarm them. I would be empathetic and describe the situation as accurately and clearly as possible. If they express their fears, I'd encourage them to be patient, and that if there was any bad news I would help them by educating them on all of their options, and any programs that might be useful in their situation."
20. What would you do if you encountered something you didn't have the answer to?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if you think outside the box or ask for help when you are stuck with a complicated problem. It will offer them insights as to how resourceful you are as well as how self-reliant you are in your work versus asking your supervisor for help every five minutes, punting your work onto them and distracting them from their work, when it may have been something you could have handled on your own. Where some might rely on instinct, others might explore all their resources before committing to a course of action. Try to strike a balance between being independent and resourceful, and not being afraid to ask for help when all other options have been exhausted. How you answer this question will attest to your professionalism as well as how innovative you are.
Answer Example
"I would say I'm a very resourceful person. So I turn to the resources I have on hand any time I have to solve a complicated problem. That's the first step. Too often people can hit task paralysis and have trouble even getting started tackling the problem. So I reach for the closest resource just to get the ball rolling, and proceed accordingly; taking the wisest route I can afford, depending on how pressing the complicated problem in question might be."
21. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Have you ever had to take on a task or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?
1st Answer Example
"When my manager went on unexpected medical leave for 3 months last year I was asked to step into her position in the interim. I knew the basics but was certainly not trained on the specifics of the role. I was able to take it on successfully by leaning on my team, reading a lot of company manuals, and asking many questions. Once my manager returned she was very please with the progress that I made and I was awarded a promotion."
2nd Answer Example
"I am often asked to perform tasks outside of my wheelhouse. This includes customer dispute resolution and interviewing potential new employees. I am a diverse employee and am happy to take on additional functions."
22. Because IRS is a diversified organization, we offer a wide range of opportunities for career growth. Where would you like to see your career in 5 years?
How to Answer
Before your interview be sure to visit IRS career opportunities online. Take note of the range in opportunities. Perhaps there are opportunities in other locations? What kind of growth is available in the particular department you are interviewing with? Assure the interviewer that you desire a long term opportunity with IRS by discussing the career path you would like.
1st Answer Example
"I saw a few leadership opportunities posted on your company website that seemed very interesting. Ultimately, I would like to work my way into a management role that offered leadership opportunities. I am very interested in working for IRS because of the multiple growth opportunities present here and I look forward to proving my capabilities to you."
2nd Answer Example
"In 5 years I would like to be seen as an authority in our industry. I would like to be well-connected and trusted when it comes to my work here at IRS."
23. Clear communication is key to our success at IRS. Describe to me your communication style and why you think your style will be a fit here.
How to Answer
Briefly describe your communication style to the interviewer and be sure to include the ways in which you feel your communications styles align. The interviewer would like to be assured that your communication style is a close match to the communication preferences of IRS.
1st Answer Example
"My communication style leans more to the formal side. I like to be to-the-point and keep expectations simple to understand. If I had to sum up my communication style in a few words I would say it is concise, clean, and friendly. From the communication exchanges I have had with IRS so far, I believe our communication styles are a great fit."
2nd Answer Example
"My communication skills are very strong. I often utilize written communications as a follow up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for associates to go back to and reference, plus might answer any questions that come up along the way. I think my style of communication will be a fit here because it's thorough and flexible."
24. At IRS we offer a wide range of products and services. How do you plan to positively impact our business, if hired?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for a couple of main points in your answer. One, they would like to know that you have clearly researched the products / services offered at IRS. Two, they would like to see that you have actively thought about your potential fit with IRS and the ways that you would make a fast and positive impact on their organization.
Your answer should display your confidence and touch on your particular specialty. This could include your great ability to memorize product features, your natural sales abilities, or your cold calling skills.
1st Answer Example
"I really appreciate the range of products that you offer your clients at IRS. I am sure that it is a bit of work to become familiar with all of the products; however, I am very good at memorization and my recall abilities are above average. I expect that I will be up to date on your product lines much faster than your average employee. This strength also helps when it comes to my up-selling percentages because I can easily recommend additional products based on the customers needs."
2nd Answer Example
"I plan to positively impact your business, very quickly, by being incredibly diligent in my training, getting to know your service offerings in and out, and being an engaged member of your team from day one."
25. Because IRS has a large geographic footprint, we have to accommodate a variety of time zones. Do you have experience working for clients and co-workers in multiple time zones?
How to Answer
Working for a diversified services organization can bring some unique challenges as their global footprint may be vast. Be sure to express to the interviewer that you are able to successfully handle the challenges that come along with a large geographic footprint.
If you have experience working with clients and co-workers in multiple time zones: "In my current position I collaborate with our offices in the U.S., Canada, Scotland, and Finland. It was a struggle at first to always remember what day and time others were working in; however, I now have a great desktop application that tracks this for me so I have quick reference to the information that I need."
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I collaborate with our offices in the U.S., Canada, Scotland, and Finland. It was a struggle at first to always remember what day and time others were working in; however, I now have a great desktop application that tracks this for me so I have quick reference to the information that I need."
2nd Answer Example
If you do not have experience working with clients and co-workers in multiple time zones: "I do not have exposure to working around multiple time zones; however, this is something I could pick up on very quickly. With technology these days I am sure I could find some help with a handy phone or desktop application. Also, I am not opposed to working outside of business hours on the occasions where I would need to communicate with a client across the globe."
26. Have you ever been employed through a company merger or acquisition? If so, tell me about your experience.
How to Answer
When your work history includes employment with large companies and/or diversified services corporations the chances are high that you have experienced a merger or acquisition of some sort. Perhaps you have been laid off through a process such as this? Talk to the interviewer about your experience. They are looking for an idea of your attitude when it comes to change in your workplace environment. Maintain a positive attitude and avoid speaking negatively about any previous employers.
1st Answer Example
"I went through a merger in 2010 with Company ABC. The transition during their mass-layoff was not handled as professionally as many would have liked; however, I believe that the leadership team did the best they could. I was lucky enough to stay on board with the company and my experience during the transition was certainly eye opening. I learned a lot through the process."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not had the experience of being involved in a company merger or acquisition. From my understanding, it can be a stressful time for employees and upper management, alike. I feel that the key to a smooth merger would be setting clear expectations and maintaining a high level of communication during all stages."
27. IRS puts a lot of focus on our local and global impact so we seek to hire those with the same values. What do you know about our company values, and how do they align with your personal values?
How to Answer
It is very important that you research IRS in great detail before your interview. Be prepared to discuss the global efforts currently underway and also research any local charity efforts that IRS supports. Discuss your own personal values and how they align with the values at IRS.
1st Answer Example
"I have always spent time volunteering with local organizations. This includes the animal shelter, the children's hospital, and our local food bank. I believe that no matter how busy we are we always have time to give back. I have researched the efforts that IRS puts in when it comes to charity. Your values and interest in your global impact are impressive. It's one of the reasons I am so attracted to your organization."
2nd Answer Example
"The fact that IRS puts so much focus on your local and global impact is part of the reason why I applied here. I follow your organization on social media and have seen pictures of the great work you are able to do. I am excited for the opportunity to be on board with this!"
3rd Answer Example
"the
4th Answer Example
"
5th Answer Example
"t
6th Answer Example
"the
7th Answer Example
"the f
28. We have many strong competitors. In your opinion, what does IRS do to stand out from the rest?
How to Answer
Before your interview it is important that you not only research IRS, but also their competitors. What do you think that IRS is doing better than any of their competitors? Be positive, compliment IRS on their efforts, and ensure that you do not speak poorly of the competitors at the same time.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched IRS online and found a common theme when it came to reviews, comments, and news articles. That common theme is surrounding the fairness that you offer your employees. You have strong benefits programs and offer multiple growth opportunities in all business units. This seems like a really positive place to work. I simply didn't see your competitors standing out in that area."
2nd Answer Example
"You are the undeniable giants in the industry. I have been planning my job here since I graduated with my Degree. I now feel that I am ready to really accelerate my career by making this move. There are so many growth opportunities here and that truly excites me."
29. Typical "corporate culture" is something that we work hard to avoid here at IRS. Tell me about your ideal workplace culture.
How to Answer
Workplace culture is incredibly important since we spend so much of our time at work! Talk to the interviewer about what your ideal workplace culture looks like. Share with the interviewer the factors that would make you want to stay with IRS long term.
1st Answer Example
"I am seeking a role with an organization like IRS where employees matter. This means fair wages, regular opportunities for continued education, and strong internal growth opportunities."
2nd Answer Example
"I have researched your company through your social media channels, and on Glassdoor. Your employees have really great things to say and overall it seems that you have fun while you work. I am looking forward to joining an organization, like yours, that is upbeat and thoughtful with an eye on helping the community at the same time."
30. Tell me about a time that you have helped a co-worker accomplish an important goal.
How to Answer
It is very important to be goal-oriented and determined. What do you do, outside of your own personal goals, to ensure that everyone on your team is successful? Assure the interviewer that you are always willing to keep the team, or company as a whole, in mind.
1st Answer Example
"Last quarter we hired someone who ended up struggling significantly with sales. I sat him down and realized that he simply didn't understand the product. We spent a few hours together over that next week learning the product. In the end, his sales increased by 64% and he was significantly more confident. It helped the team morale as well."
2nd Answer Example
"One of my coworkers was fundraising for a particular cause that was close to his heart. I suggested that we start an office based 50/50 draw, where our team could contribute financially in hopes to win part of the pot. Our clients became involved as well and we had a lot of fun. He was able to raise the funds needed and it ended up being a great team building exercise as well."
31. At IRS our business portfolio is diversified which can create a challenging management environment. Are you able to effectively manage unrelated business units?
How to Answer
The interviewer understands that with IRS being a diverse organization, effective management between business units can be tricky. Assure the interviewer that you are up for the task by giving a specific example of a more challenging leadership role you have held in the past. Briefly discuss the challenge, your approach, the outcome, and what you gained from the experience.
1st Answer Example
"My first leadership position was with a land services company. We had multiple business units including services for residential and commercial clients. The largest challenge was maintaining the same level of customer service for the residential customers as we did the commercial customers. It took some additional training and mentoring of our existing staff and over time I was able to create a training manual that could be implemented for all business units. The implementation was a success and our customer service feedback improved significantly. One thing I learned from this experience is that even though your business may have lines drawn in regards to services and offerings, all employees should be trained and treated the same. Continuity in management is incredibly important."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am able to effectively manage unrelated business units. I do this by keeping expectations and support the same, through all units. In my current role we also take the time to socially integrate everyone so that they feel part of a team, regardless of the formal business structure."
32. When have you had to think quickly in response to sudden change?
How to Answer
Sudden changes will occur in the workplace from time to time. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of responding quickly, and professionally, to sudden changes in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I am able to think quickly on the job and I do 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 very happy."
2nd Answer Example
"Every day, in my current role, we face last minute order changes which can be very expensive if not addressed immediately. I am very good at thinking on my feet and I do enjoy the challenge."
33. How would you describe your work ethic?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks about your work ethic they are looking for specific examples or keywords they can relate to. When you read the company job posting or job description do they refer to particular company ethics? Talk about their values and how those align well with your personal work values.
1st Answer Example
"I am a very dedicated and loyal employee. I saw on your website that you describe your company as honest, transparent and you go the extra mile for your clients. My work ethic is the same. I am honest, flexible, and come ready to work hard for my employer every day."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some keywords to describe your work ethic:
- Diligent
- Ambitious
- Thorough
- Attentive
- Consistent
- Humble
- Earnest
3rd Answer Example
He
34. After receiving information from your supervisor, how do you ensure you properly communicate this information to your team?
How to Answer
It is immensely important to accurately communicate information in the workplace. Discuss with the interviewer how you go about doing so.
1st Answer Example
"When I receive new information from my supervisor I will run my understanding of it by the supervisor to ensure that my interpretation is correct. After that, I will relay the information formally (in writing) to my team. This eliminates word of mouth and misinterpretation surrounding the issue."
2nd Answer Example
"I ensure I have the correct directives from my supervisor and there is clarity over the direction to be taken. Once that happens, I distribute the communication out to my team - typically in a huddle/face-to-face meeting. I follow this up with a written form of communication."
35. Describe your working relationship with your previous or current colleagues.
How to Answer
When you answer this question be sure to remain positive, even if the experience wasn't. Avoid talking about any previous drama and do not speak poorly of your colleagues.
If you had a good relationship with your previous colleagues: "I get along well with most personalities. My colleagues were great team players and we would often meet up after work for drinks or team activities."
1st Answer Example
"I get along well with most personalities. My colleagues were great team players and we would often meet up after work for drinks or team activities."
2nd Answer Example
If you did not have a good relationship with your previous colleagues: "I have had better relationships in the past but we did the best that we could. Our communication styles were all very different which made it challenging at times."
36. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work related procedures.
How to Answer
Have you ever taken the opportunity to present your employer with potential change? Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took initiative in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after my initiative was implemented and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, I noticed that our written procedures were not exactly how the employees were doing things. I decided to interview the employees and compare it to the written procedures that management wanted used. We were able to come to a compromise that met all of the safety and quality requirements of the company, but still worked a bit faster and easier for the staff."
37. Tell me about a time when you created a unique idea or solution, and it was rejected by your colleagues. How were you able to bounce back?
How to Answer
Putting yourself out there with new ideas can be intimidating and we all want to be accepted. Talk to the interviewer about how you would handle the feelings that come with having your idea rejected.
1st Answer Example
"A couple of years ago I made a recommendation for scheduling that would have included some split shifts. The result was less overtime and reduced expenses for the company. My colleagues were unhappy with the idea of split shifts. I was able to see their perspective which made it much easier to bounce back from the rejection. My overall attitude is, you win some - you lose some!"
2nd Answer Example
"I once requested a 'suggestion box' when we were faced with high turnover and employee morale issues. My suggestion was rejected because management thought it would just turn into a complaint box. I was disappointed, but I did not let that deter me from continuing in my pursuit to help find a solution to our turnover issue. Instead, I verbally checked in with the employees, creating a safe place for them to provide feedback and suggestions."
38. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
How to Answer
Some tasks will require a keener eye and additional diligence. Discuss a time when you were extra thorough during a work-related task.
1st Answer Example
"I have to be extra thorough from time to time when I have clients that are especially detail oriented. Often this will mean spending additional time on calls with them to highlight project changes. I am absolutely okay with being extra thorough when needed."
2nd Answer Example
"I am always thorough, but we do have monthly team meetings where we discuss our performance metrics. That reporting takes a little longer."
39. We are asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have 5 years' experience vs 8 years' experience I can absolutely do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my 5 years working in this industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
40. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
Integrity is best displayed through honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the way(s) that you show your integrity in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit on a daily basis. There was never a discrepancy, in the 4 years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable employee."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some ways that you can show integrity at work:
- Following your moral convictions
- Always listening to that little voice the prompts you to do the right thing
- Show consistent ethics
- Do the right thing in all situations
- Even when nobody is watching, choose to do the right thing
- Keep your promises
- Keep secrets when coworkers confide in you
- Do not let anyone take the fall for your mistakes