25 Looker Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Looker interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What is 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Collibra is a tool that I currently use on a daily basis 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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
Interviewers want to hear about that one unique skill that sets you apart from the other candidates applying for this job. Think of your answer as your 'elevator pitch' or your qualifying statement. If you can't think of ways that you are unique, ask a few friends or family members what they feel sets you apart from other people. Their observations may help you understand how you are perceived.
Perhaps you already know what sets you apart! This skill could include any industry accolades, exceptional achievements, additional industry related training, a second language, or how involved you are in the community. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your most influential advocate.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have over a dozen years of experience in data management, at one of your largest competitors. I have already brainstormed creative solutions to position your services against the competition, and ideas that will elevate your business. I have seen a ton of change in the industry through the years, and have adapted to every innovation with ease and excitement."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"When I read the job description, I smiled because it was as though you wrote it with me in mind. I have three years dedicated to exceeding my project targets, and I know a lot about data visualization for the SaaS industry. Also, I was the fastest promoted in my previous position and have led the rollout of new technical products in my current job, making me ideally positioned to help you continue to build your product offering, and exceed financial metrics. Not to mention, I am looking for a company that I can stay with for the long haul, something that you said Looker values as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns
3. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
In many states, it is now illegal for hiring authorities to ask about your current earnings. A question like this will give the interviewer a solid idea of what you are hoping to earn. When you change positions, you want to see an increase in wage.
Most interviewees will typically aim for a 7-15% increase for each time they change jobs. This range offers room for negotiations with the new company. This percentage increase reflects economic inflation, unique skills you bring to the table from the last time you joined an organization, and an increase in responsibilities.
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example if you are comfortable doing so. If this makes you uncomfortable, do give as many indicators as you can. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
If you are newer to your career, or the area, and are unsure of what a fair ask may be, there are many reliable salary calculators available online.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year, and I would like to earn slightly higher in my next position, as I have additional certifications since my last salary negotiation took place."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $80,000 per year with two bonus opportunities based on project completion. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the responsibilities of this role and provides an opportunity to learn new skills."
Written by Rachelle Enns
4. What would you consider your technical specialty?
How to Answer
Do you have any particular areas of interest or ability? Talk to the interviewer about your strengths and be sure to highlight any specific skills that you excel in. It's a great idea, if you can, to highlight particular skills listed on Looker's job posting. If there is a related area of interest where you'd like to expand your capabilities, you can mention those as well.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Business Intelligence has always been a solid area for me. I have a big interest in how better insights and data-driven decisions benefit companies. I see that you are looking for team members who are experts in analytics applications, which is what caught my eye when I first saw your job posting."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have been focusing my career on data structures, storage systems, cloud infrastructure, and modern front-end frameworks. I also have a keen interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning for business analytics."
Written by Rachelle Enns
5. Tell me about a time where you had to analyze a set of data and then make a recommendation.
How to Answer
In the tech industry, you will often be looking at data, analyzing it, and making recommendations based on what you see. Looker needs to hire those who can easily take on sets of data, large or small, and make educated recommendations based on what they see. You can talk about your attention to detail and sharp focus when it comes to data and analytics.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When doing annual reviews with my clients, I analyze the past year's ROIs, trends, and overall data. I then make recommendations for improved efficiencies for the upcoming year. I will make recommendations based on resources and pricing, but also make suggestions on new ways in which we can be creative, like consolidating resources, to save cost when possible. I managed two of the most significant accounts in the office, so my recommendations were fundamental to our bottom line, and I'm happy to report that they were consistently adopted, resulting in more business."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"My current employer wanted to know the exact impact our social media campaigns were making. I gathered our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter data for him and created a short PowerPoint presentation from the data. My recommendation was to increase our keywords in the geographical areas where our ads received the highest click-through rates. My research and recommendations certainly helped as our social reach grew exponentially in the following months."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
6. In your opinion, what is the most exciting collaboration between data analysis and artificial intelligence in the past year?
How to Answer
If you are up to date on the trends and happenings between data analysis and AI, you should have no problem answering this question. Discuss an exciting collaboration, project, or product release that you have heard of recently. Because this is an open-ended question, be careful not to ramble on.
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have taken a keen interest in how artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms have been working together to optimize business workflows. The result appears to be better strategies for enterprises surrounding people management, effective operations, as well as culture and engagement."
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read an article in Forbes on the top machine learning programs to watch. I was especially intrigued with a company called DataVisor which uses machine learning to uncover financial data issues, helping to protect against bank fraud, and other financial based criminal activity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
7. What steps do you take when you have to make an immediate decision without all the relevant information?
How to Answer
Your industry may be all about data management, analytics, and information; however, situations will arise where you may not have all of the information available to you, for split-second decision. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of taking educated guesses that are good for Looker, if needed. Show that you are confident enough in your abilities that you can make a firm decision without all pieces of the problem being present.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I am a strong believer in following my intuition, and that approach has not steered me wrong. I try to gather as much information and data as possible, but when all of the pieces are not accessible, I assess the situation using my prior knowledge of similar situations, and I follow my intuition. If I'm not certain or feel conflicted, I don't hesitate to bring in another person to help me. Rest assured, I will always do my best to come to the best decision for Looker."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Immediate decisions are required of me on a daily basis. For instance, what do I do when a system network goes down? How do I react when a key data set becomes corrupted? I find that the most effective method for making immediate decisions is to forget about what you don't know and focus on what you do know. That's the best anyone can do, and there is no sense wasting time on the what ifs, especially in the software and technology industry when the integrity of a significant project could be at risk."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
8. Unexpected issues arise often in the technology industry, and you must be able to quickly adapt. In your opinion, what makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Looker wants to know that you have a systematic approach to problem-solving and that you do not panic when an unexpected issue arises. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face and solve problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
Strong problem solvers are:
- Systematic thinkers
- Open minded
- Okay with being wrong sometimes
- Always researching and exploring
- Able to identify the core problem
- Able to reverse engineer a challenge to avoid future issues
- Able to come up with multiple avenues that work well for all stakeholders
- Are do-ers and not worriers
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself a great problem solver and believe my skills are in my emotional intelligence, as well as the depth of my technical knowledge. I can be really in tune with the tone of the group I am working with, and how to best tap into their strengths to overcome a complicated situation. By being keenly aware of who can quickly fix what, I'm able to avoid a project landmine quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have been told that I am an excellent problem solver and I believe this is because I have an excellent technical and engineering mind. I can take the issue, work backward to solve it, and then use that resolution as a basis for avoiding similar circumstances in the future. I am also a big-picture thinker which allows me to come up with various resolutions per problem."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
9. Which tech blogs do you subscribe to?
How to Answer
This question is out of interest, but also to see if your 'likes' are similar to those who work at Looker. The hiring authority also wants to know that you keep up to date on the software and tech industry by utilizing reputable sources. Discuss the blogs you subscribe to, or the websites you have bookmarked, or even the industry related podcasts to which you subscribe.
Written by Ryan Brown on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"TechCrunch and DigitalTrends are my two go-to resources. In addition to subscribing to these two blogs, I also belong to a couple of software and technology groups on LinkedIn. These groups offer insightful conversations while allowing me to network with those in my area with similar interests."
Written by Ryan Brown on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I always have my eyes out for new resources and would love it if you have some suggestions. Currently, I subscribe to Wired and Mashable, but I also round out those resources with Harvard Business and other business based resources. I like to keep my information reputable and well-rounded."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
10. How do you react when your team misses a deadline?
How to Answer
Missed deadlines can be critical mistakes in the software and tech industry, and can reflect poorly on you, as a leader. The interviewer would like to understand better how you react to disappointment and plans not going your way. Give an example of a time when your team missed a deadline and walk the interviewer through the action that you took. Your response will help Looker to better understand if your approach is the right fit for their team.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My team is highly efficient, and we rarely miss a deadline. When we do, it's surprising. We had a very challenging client last year who made a significant amount of changes throughout the entire project and implementation. These changes caused us to miss our deadline. I took action after that to ensure a better client onboarding process. This new process made sure we dug deeper with each client at the start which has resulted in fewer mid-project changes. I would be happy to share this process with Looker, should I be your successful candidate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Deadlines are reached as a team, and they are missed as a team. I truly believe that. When a deadline is missed, I look at how we could have moved better as a machine, to make the delivery happen on time. I do not react negatively to my team members, but I do use situations like this as learning and coaching opportunities. How does Looker react with their leaders in the event of a missed deadline or target?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
11. Do you have experience giving product demonstrations, and closing new accounts?
How to Answer
Working in data visualization, you may be required to walk clients through the ins and outs of their data, helping them to understand how to decipher the data and then use it to their benefit. Working for a company that offers a data visualization solution means that you will be tech savvy and able to teach others how to use Looker products correctly. Walk the interviewer through any experience you have giving demonstrations, and working with potential new clients.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I give a product demonstration a few times a month. Although it is not my primary job function; I know our applications and software inside and out, so that I can jump in and help anytime. I am comfortable giving presentations and can explain challenging tech to people with little technical experience easily."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, I give product demonstrations to potential new clients, a few times a week. Once our sales team has primed the client to buy, it's my job to show off the product features, overcome any tech related objections, and then close the deal."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
12. Explain data visualization, and why it is important to a business.
How to Answer
Data visualization is 'an effort to help people understand the significance of data by placing it in a visual context.' Since Looker focus' on business intelligence software focused on helping their customers to understand essential data, the interviewer needs to know that you see the significance in their business mission. Describe what you know data visualization to be, and why these services would be incredibly valuable to a business.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I understand data visualization to be the art of showing essential data in an easy to absorb way. It is crucial to a business because what good is having all the data and analytics from your company if you do not understand it? Once a company can visualize and understand their most important data, they can then use that to leverage further success, and make critical business decisions."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I explain data visualization as helping businesses to understand their data through the use of tables, charts, and other visual aids. Data visualization allows companies to transform their data into actionable insights, so it is incredibly important."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
13. 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, Looker 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
14. Looker often introduces new tools. Have you ever helped to implement a new tool or program?
How to Answer
Statistically speaking, employees resist change. The interviewer would like to know that you can embrace change, and take the initiative to help your coworkers welcome change as well. Show that you are happy being an engaged part of your company, and team; even when changes are present.
Perhaps a new company policy was coming into place, and you helped to make sure everyone had a full understanding of those policies. Maybe a new software was implemented, and you trained as an SME, ensuring everyone had a reliable resource when they needed assistance. In your example, be specific about what you did, and the impact your actions had - whether short or long term.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Last month our company introduced a new data visualization program. I was already familiar with the program because I had used it in a previous role. I offered to do employee training on the program, and my boss agreed to it. I took a lunch hour to give my presentation and then offered myself as the subject matter expert, moving forward. The introduction went very well, and my boss was thankful for my help."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Last year, after becoming six sigma certified, I led the initiative to implement six sigma into our project management processes. I knew that it could be a useful tool for our team. Do you apply six sigma principles at Looker?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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 Looker, 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!
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Hands down, predictive modeling is my specialty. I was excited to see that Looker 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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
16. What do you know about Looker's competitive position within the data analytics industry?
How to Answer
This question will help the hiring manager gauge your knowledge of the data industry and Looker. Knowing where Looker is positioned in the industry will prove you did your research. It will also confirm that you have a good understanding of the position for you which you are applying and the company overall. When speaking about the Looker's position in the industry, mention any niches Looker serves and its biggest competitors.
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The Data industry is constantly changing with new technology that makes tools more user-friendly. There is strong competition in this industry with companies continuously innovating to offer 'the next big thing' to their clients. Looker offers user-friendly interfaces that allow its products to be used across a client's company and not only by its data analysts, making data readily available to those who are looking for answers. I would say Company 1 and Company 2 are Looker's strongest competitors as their products strengths include a user-friendly interface highlighted in all marketing communications. Their goal of making data accessible to all parts of their clients' company is similar to that of Looker"
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Companies that specialize in data analytics have seen companies deal with massive amounts of data that are not being mined due to resource limitations. Also, data quality continues to be an issue as companies deal with vast amounts of data. Through its products and services, Looker understands these issues and implements solutions for them. With regards to competition, Looker faces companies such as Company1 and Company2 whose products and services also address these issues. Although Looker is not quite there yet in size and scope relative to these two competitors, it has increased its presence and has continued to establish itself as a growing threat."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
17. How does data drive a business' success?
How to Answer
Data-driven decision making is becoming a more significant 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 about the ways that you feel companies can best use data to drive the success of their business.
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
18. 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. Looker 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
19. Looker fosters a collaborative working environment. When have you taken the time to teach an essential skill to a coworker?
How to Answer
The interviewers at Looker want to hear that you have experience teaching or mentoring your coworkers. You may have taught a new hire all of your department's standard processes. Perhaps you explained new concepts related to AI and data migration to a more junior employee. You may have mentored an employee who was struggling to meet a project deadline. All of these scenarios are great examples to draw on.
Better yet, if you have personally seen someone struggling with workplace skills or knowledge, approached them, and offered to mentor them, it is a shining example of leadership! Whatever your scenario may be, tell the interviewer what you helped the person with, while highlighting the positive outcome of their skills improvement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Last week our company introduced a new module in our SAP system. I could see that our contracted HR assistant was having some troubles with the new module. I was familiar with it already, so I offered to help him learn the module. We spent his lunch hour for the next three days working on it. He perfected the module and our company was so impressed with his dedication to learning that they are now trying to find room to hire him on a full time, permanent basis."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I'm proud to say that, even without any official management capacity, I often seize the opportunity to teach others at work. Not only have I helped contribute to the sales team's knowledge base of our software, but also I try to teach our clients on the added features of our software, at every opportunity. It's fun to share and teach others, especially since I am always seeking out learning opportunities for myself."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
20. 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. Looker 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.
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
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 what technology is 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 that knowledge is shared across departments within the company. I have found holding sessions such as 'Lunch and Learns' help with the internal knowledge sharing."
Written by Helen Lee on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
21. How could a business use the data visualization services of Looker to prospect and generate new leads?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are familiar with the services of Looker. It's vital that you research their offering, and be ready to discuss which of their services a company could use to benefit their sales pipeline and prospecting capabilities.
Some of Looker's most significant services include:
- Business intelligence
- Analytics
- Visualization
- Security
- Data Modeling
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I see that Looker offers a service which allows eCommerce companies to gain insights on social and web analytics, combining them with current customer data. This service would be excellent for finding and then targeting a specific customer base. The more a business knows about their existing clients' habits, the better they can use that information for targeting new clientele."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"A business could use the data visualization services of Looker in a multitude of ways. It is much easier to target new customers and prospect the right kind of leads, when you can act with confidence, based on real analytics and numbers. I especially appreciate the marketing analytics services that Looker offers for Healthcare, SaaS, and FinTech industries."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
22. What is your approach to working with a large amount of information/data?
How to Answer
When you work in data and analytics management, you will be required to handle large amounts of 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 Looker's process, you can certainly ask.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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 Looker?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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 on a regular basis so that it is not a distraction. I want to learn more about how Looker prefers the management of large amounts of information and data."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
23. Tell me about a time you took charge of a project. Discuss one positive and one negative outcome from the experience.
How to Answer
Looker has many job opportunities, and through these, will come chances to manage projects. The interviewer would like to know that you have the confidence to lead a project successfully. Think about a time when you have taken control of a task - big or small.
Begin with an overview of the project, who was involved, and what approach you took to ensure smooth execution. Next, discuss something that you feel you could have done better. You do not want to dwell on the negative, so be sure to end on why you felt the project was a success! What did you do to create a productive and positive outcome?
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"My employer asked me to lead the training of 15 employees on our new data management software. I was already a subject matter expert on the software so it wasn't difficult for me to plan the lesson. The challenge was making the content entertaining enough to keep the employees engaged. I created a PowerPoint presentation that included pop quiz questions throughout the training. The presentation was a success, and my employer asked me to lead a follow up meeting a few weeks later. Now, I am confident in my ability to jump in and lead software-based training for Looker; whether that be on the client or employee side."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous software sales position, I would often collaborate with the marketing department when it came to selling strategies and new product launches. The marketing director was not the type to take control of a meeting, especially when there was a heavily technical topic at hand. So, rather than go around in circles, I stepped up to take charge of the weekly meetings we had throughout one particular project. I am certain that this contributed heavily to the successful outcome of the project, as all team members had clear directives. That particular project had the highest ROI to date; however, if I were to do that again, I would ensure tighter timelines. I look forward to delivering solid successes like this to Looker, should I be the successful candidate."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
24. 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.
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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 precious 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 absolutely consider data to be a true business asset."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
25. How do you prioritize multiple projects when they all seem equally important?
How to Answer
When working for Looker, you will need to take on multiple projects or clients at a time. They are a busy organization and need to know that you can keep up with their pace. 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 completion, you can better visualize your approach.
2) Mark what is urgent or essential. Take into account deadlines and meetings. If a project management tool is available to you, like Trello or Asana, utilize its features to keep yourself organized.
3) Order each task based on effort and estimated value.
4) Consider due dates and how long it will take to do each item.
When 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 Looker!
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I aim to be as effective and efficient as possible and make sure I can use all minutes of a day for a project. I have a few things going at once most of the time. 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 my team and I can be the most efficient with our time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love to keep running lists of everything that I need to do, big or small. Mostly because I love crossing things off of the to-do list, but also because it helps me keep track of everything. Lately, I've started utilizing a free project management software that I use to make those lists, categorize the tasks, and mark them by the level of urgency. I take care of the most time-sensitive issues first and then move along to the equally important, but perhaps less time-sensitive to-dos. I also estimate how long each task will take, so if I have a few minutes in between projects, I can tackle the quick to dos and use that time effectively, rather than use it to figure out 'what's next.'"
Written by Rachelle Enns on November 27th, 2018