33 MAXIMUS Interview Questions & Answers

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to understand how you handle high-pressure situations and unexpected difficulties in the workplace. Discuss the steps you would take if this situation happened to you.

1st Answer Example

"It is important to always have procedures in place, but I understand that sometimes those procedures do not encompass all client needs. If I came across a situation like this, I would rely on my knowledge and experience to troubleshoot and find a solution. If I did not have the answer, I would then ask for help from my supervisor or a colleague. It is important to stay calm in situations like these, so the client remains confident in our capabilities. I would never tell a client that I didn't have an answer. 'I will find out' is always the best answer."

2nd Answer Example

"I do not mind going slightly off script if needed. There are sometimes extenuating circumstances where the process does not necessarily work. I will gain permission from my employer if it's a bigger concern than usual since I still want to follow the procedure as much as possible."

How to Answer

Being up to date on industry terms, trends, and news is critical in a fast-moving industry such as IT and IT services. The interviewer would like to know that you have a genuine interest in their industry. Speak briefly about the ways you stay up to date on the industry changes and current events by referring to specific sources. You can also ask the interviewer about their favorite resources.

1st Answer Example

"This industry is ever-changing, and I have a true and keen interest in keeping up-to-date on those changes. I regularly read a couple of great online publications including PC Mag and Wired. Do you have any recommendations for great resources?"

2nd Answer Example

"My current employer sends a daily email with the company and industry updates. This update is beneficial and, I am sure to read it thoroughly every day. I also have Google alerts set up so that I am up to date on new trends and happenings in the industry."

How to Answer

Before your interview, it's a great idea to spend time researching MAXIMUS, Inc. reviews, their online presence, and their website. Take note of recurring keywords when it comes to their customer service standards. What are their clients saying? Speak confidently about how you plan to uphold their strong customer service standards if hired.

1st Answer Example

"Your customers have a strong voice, and I noticed a consistent theme in your online reviews and presence. The theme was that you offer friendly, fast, and easy to understand service. I plan to contribute to this by learning my role quickly and continuing to be an approachable and helpful point of contact for the customers who need us."

2nd Answer Example

"I will contribute to your high customer service standards by offering a listening ear and ensuring that I fully understand your products and services. The more I know, the more I will be able to offer your client base."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that your communication style will fit in with the culture they have worked on creating at MAXIMUS, Inc.. When clients seek the help of MAXIMUS, Inc., they do so with certain expectations. Convince the interviewer that your communication style will meet those expectations. It's best to give a few unique keywords when discussing your communication style. Also be sure to compliment MAXIMUS, Inc. on their communication efforts.

1st Answer Example

"I have been a client of MAXIMUS, Inc. in the past and can truly say that positive communication with your clients is what makes you the most popular choice in the area. I am confident that my communication skills will work well here because my focus always remains on simple solutions, easy to understand language, and a friendly tone."

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some additional words to describe your communication style:

- Energetic
- Lively
- Articulate
- Eloquent
- Informal
- Formal
- Succinct"

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that you have a keen interest in working for MAXIMUS, Inc.. You should enter the interview prepared to discuss why they stand out as the top employment option, among their competitors. Talk about what you feel MAXIMUS, Inc. is doing right and how their values and opportunities align with your career goals and employment needs.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that MAXIMUS, Inc. has some strong competitors but when I was researching new employment opportunities, your company always seemed to have the most positive message. I also know a couple of people who have worked with MAXIMUS, Inc. and they had only great things to say about your compensation, culture, and growth opportunities."

2nd Answer Example

"I feel that MAXIMUS, Inc. would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training to support that growth."

How to Answer

The interviewer will likely have an idea of your education background from your resume. What they are asking is for you to take a few minutes to bring the experience to life for them! You can talk about your major, or any special academic recognition you may have received. Discuss the strengths gained during your post-secondary training and how those skills will be used in your new position with MAXIMUS, Inc..

1st Answer Example

"I completed my Bachelor of Applied Technology from Carnegie Mellon University in 2004. During that time I specialized in Data Management and Analysis. I graduated with a 3.67 GPA, one of the top in my class. One of the biggest take-away's from my post-secondary experience was learning how to manage my time while working on multiple projects successfully. I perfected my multi-tasking skills and look forward to bringing those to work for MAXIMUS, Inc.."

2nd Answer Example

"Although I do not have formal post-secondary education, I have taken some courses in customer support, upselling, and a variety of software programs. I look forward to gaining even more knowledge in this role with MAXIMUS, Inc.."

How to Answer

Most companies in the IT and IT Services industry need to be very cautious about who they hire. There is a chance that much of the information you are going to access could be confidential and harmful if put into the wrong hands. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require.

1st Answer Example

"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I have a strong credit history. I do not participate in drug use, either. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role with MAXIMUS, Inc., I will maintain a clean record."

2nd Answer Example

"Yes, I can certainly complete a full background check. I should disclose to you ahead of time that I have a mark on my record from about eight years ago, for a DUI. I am still able to travel, and no longer have restrictions on my drivers' license."

How to Answer

Working for a company which emphasizes the importance of continued education can be an enriching opportunity. Be prepared to talk to the interviewer about your interest in growing your knowledge base. You may want to push your existing knowledge into the expert range, or perhaps there is a current hot topic on which you would like to learn. Whatever your answer may be, ensure that you express to the interviewer your appreciation for continued education opportunities.

1st Answer Example

"I love that MAXIMUS, Inc. emphasizes continued education. This offering is one of the qualities I was looking for, in my next opportunity. If I could take a course or workshop on any topic I would choose to focus on IT Management. My goal is to grow into a management level position, and that would be a great stepping stone to get there."

2nd Answer Example

"That is very exciting news to hear. I value continued education as well. If I could continue my education in any area, I would do a deeper dive into IT Security and IT Security Management."

How to Answer

Whenever you are asked your opinion on an industry-related topic, you should try to be honest but positive at the same time. Whether you like web-based, click to chat support solutions or not, you should be focusing your answer on why you think they may be helpful. If MAXIMUS, Inc. offers a service like this you should also ask them an insightful question about that service.

1st Answer Example

"I have heard mixed reviews from customers on this type of service. In my opinion, any service that allows a client quick access to answers is a positive thing. Have you noticed a shift in your client relationships since implementing this type of solution?"

2nd Answer Example

"Personally, I like the idea of click to chat support solutions so long as they don't become 'spammy.' The placement of the pop-up box should be convenient, and they should be personalized, so they do not appear to be a templated after-thought to the end-user."

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 items you could have found the answers to 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 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 most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

1st Answer Example

2nd Answer Example

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

How to Answer

It is critical that you study the job description before your interview. When the interviewer asks this question be sure to highlight the related experience that you bring.

1st Answer Example

"I bring all of the experience that you are looking for in filling this position. In addition to being an expert user in SAP, I also bring five years' experience in desk side support and as a bilingual IT support agent."

2nd Answer Example

"I have eight years of industry experience with Company ABC and XYZ. Both experiences taught me a great deal about IT, and I am excited to continue my career in this industry with your organization."

How to Answer

Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask!

Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations.

If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.

Keep in mind that, in most states, an employer cannot demand that an employee work more than 44 hours per week.

1st Answer Example

"I am available for full-time work which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"

2nd Answer Example

"If overtime is required in this role, I am happy to accommodate whenever I can. My only restriction is that I cannot work Wednesday nights as I have an evening course those days."

How to Answer

Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (IE: a bus driver should not find driving to be the most stressful part of the job).

1st Answer Example

"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are assisted properly."

2nd Answer Example

"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire to be/do the best I can be. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."

How to Answer

Are you determined to complete your tasks on time or do you frequently miss deadlines? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to act diligently on the job.

1st Answer Example

"Last month I had a client who made a lot of additional and last minute changes to our project. Despite the changes, our deadline remained the same. Our project lead was becoming increasingly stressed that we would not meet our deadline so I agreed to stay late three nights that week to ensure that all expectations were met."

2nd Answer Example

"I am always diligent when it comes to deadlines. However, once I remember having an abnormally large order from a regular client once. I was a little stressed about making sure it was perfect, but I was confident, and we met our deadline with no issue."

How to Answer

The best way to discuss your salary expectations is 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 an opportunity for growth."

How to Answer

It can be difficult to make challenging decisions when you know that your entire team will be affected. Your ability to be decisive and diplomatic will make all the difference!

If you take a more team-oriented approach, share how you collaborate with the group by inviting everyone to discuss their opinions and come to a census. If you prefer to take charge of these situations, share how you step up to a decision while still taking everyone's needs and feelings into consideration.

1st Answer Example

"Leaders are truly set apart by their ability to make tough decisions respectfully and diplomatically. Last year we had to lay off 25% of our sales team. I knew that there would be feelings hurt and it was challenging to do. I got through it by reminding myself that I am the leader for a reason. I needed to trust my judgment but still be able to justify my decisions in the end. Many times when tough choices are in front of me, I will back up my gut feeling with data analysis. If the data supports my intuition, I know what the answer or decision needs to be."

2nd Answer Example

"I believe that when you are working with a team, it is important to bring any questions or situations to the team before making a decision. Everyone should have input; however, the leader needs to be able to pull the trigger on all decisions in the end."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is on your resume. You are indeed not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids, or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate!

Focus on unique non-work related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when it's possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)

1st Answer Example

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

2nd Answer Example

"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I also am a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you."

How to Answer

Why do you think that you are a successful leader? Talk to the interviewer about the variety of things that you believe have led you to your success.

1st Answer Example

"There is a multitude of factors that have helped me to become a strong leader. First and foremost; I had an outstanding mentor from a young age. Secondly, I have studied leadership at great length. My personality has also contributed to my success as I am a natural coach, teacher, and leader."

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some other factors that make a successful leader:

- Having a good example, and replicating that example
- Working on continual development, both professionally and personally
- Being diligent when it comes to fully understanding your business
- The ability to make solid decisions, in a timely manner
- The ability to delegate when you know you aren't the best person for the task
- Maintaining a positive attitude even when times are tough
- Admitting when you are wrong, and holding yourself accountable
- Keeping your team in the loop on current and upcoming changes"

How to Answer

When you are leading a team, it is imperative 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 can 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 Mondays - to set our goals together. Then, on Fridays, 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!"

How to Answer

A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Tell the interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.

1st Answer Example

"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some other ways you could describe a great employer. A great employer will:

- Pause to have fun now and then but also know when to be serious
- Treat everyone fairly, and equally
- Offer rewards for great work
- Offer a continually challenging environment
- Offer flexibility and understands that personal situations come up from time to time
- Encourage a collaborative workplace"

How to Answer

Companies will have confidentiality agreements for a variety of reasons. These could be to protect their trade secrets or to ensure that you do not bring clients over on the occasion that you leave their company. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on confidentiality agreements.

1st Answer Example

"I never have, to my knowledge, broken a confidentiality agreement. Despite my reasons for leaving a position, I would never choose to hurt a previous employer in any way."

2nd Answer Example

"I understand the importance of confidentiality agreements and would never breach a sensitive agreement like that."

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 question presents an opportunity to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!

1st Answer Example

"Although I have five years' experience vs. eight years' experience I can 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 five years working in the IT industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career, such as telecommunications and securities. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."

How to Answer

Double checking and proofreading are critical parts of a job well done. Assure the interviewer that you are diligent when it comes to submitting good, clean, work.

1st Answer Example

"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple check my work if there is time! I feel that it is essential to submit error-free work."

2nd Answer Example

"Yes, absolutely I do! Accuracy is incredibly important in the IT industry and I would never compromise quality in order to save time."

How to Answer

Being able to swivel the focus of your project is a necessary skill for your success in most careers. Talk to the interviewer about a time when a significant change occurred on a project. How did you handle the implementation of the new information?

1st Answer Example

"I had a large project last month that was nearly complete when the client called to say that the dimensions provided were incorrect. Because of this, our team had to re-do the entire proposal. It took us an additional four days of work but, in the end, the client was delighted with our work, and it resulted in new opportunities with them."

2nd Answer Example

"Last year we saw new federal regulations come through which affected 80% of our ongoing projects. We had to adjust our plans quickly; however, we were able to deliver a timely product that met federal regulations."

How to Answer

Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with delays in the workplace.

1st Answer Example

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"

2nd Answer Example

"Setbacks happen for a reason, and they do not affect me emotionally in the least. I am a very pragmatic thinker and stay focused despite the challenges that come my way."

How to Answer

When you answer this question, draw from your last performance review and a piece of feedback you have received from your most recent boss or coworkers. You do not want to guess what your manager thinks of you. Solidify your answer by referring to the strong employment references you are able to provide.

1st Answer Example

"In my recent performance reviews and discussions, my manager describes me as a hard worker, motivated and consistent employee. I always strive to exceed expectations when I can. My current manager is happy to speak on my behalf as a positive reference as well."

2nd Answer Example

"My last manager and I had a close relationship. She appreciated all of my efforts when it came to working overtime and taking my work home when required. I believe she would describe me as unique, reliable and energetic."

How to Answer

Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity.

1st Answer Example

"I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time in University. I am most comfortable, and happy, in this type of environment because it offers a great learning opportunity."

2nd Answer Example

"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life help shed different perspectives and identify potential problems faster."

How to Answer

In which manner do you prefer to communicate - written or verbal? Discuss your preference with the interviewer and support your answer.

1st Answer Example

"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression and body language. I will always choose a face to face conversation whenever possible."

2nd Answer Example

"I like to leverage both methods of communications when dealing in business. Sometimes, situations call for verbal communications and other times, written. As a rule of thumb, I tend to practice verbal communications, with written follow up. Utilizing multiple methods creates repetition and therefore, change."

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and understand the type of manager or employer that brings out the best in you. Some individuals prefer a close working relationship with a lot of accountability while others prefer space and autonomy. If you are unsure of the management style of the interviewing company, try to leave your answer as open as possible. You can certainly ask the interviewer to describe their management style.

1st Answer Example

"I have worked with a wide range of personalities and management styles with great success. If I could express a preference, I feel that I am best in an independent and autonomous environment. Can you describe the management style here?"

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some management styles:

- Directive Autocrat
- Permissive Autocrat
- Consultative Style
- Persuasive Style
- Inclusive
- Democratic Style
- MBWA (Management By Walking Around)
- Laissez-faire
- Mentorship Style"

How to Answer

Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.

1st Answer Example

"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."

2nd Answer Example

"I have been very intentional with my career moves and progression and am happy with the path that my career has taken me."

How to Answer

Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical 'I am looking for growth' answer that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on the company.

1st Answer Example

"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my recent education in IT while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."

2nd Answer Example

"This job is right for me at this time in my career because I am prepared and ready to take on a management position. I feel that your company would nurture my desire for growth and prepare me with the appropriate training."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know more about the types of decisions you are accustomed to making in the workplace. The way you answer this questions will give them a good idea of your level of experience, seniority, and ability to handle the decision-making requirements in this possible position.

If the job you are interviewing for requires you to be decisive and quick on your feet, you will need to be able to provide examples of how you have done these things in the past. If you worked in tech support, you faced problems that you needed to find solutions for on a regular basis. If you worked as a sales rep, you might have required to know how to negotiate and make decisions on prices and benefits you can give your customers.

You may have faced decisions that became so routine you didn't think twice! Refer to these types of decisions and be sure to highlight how these types of decisions have prepared you for a role like this one.

1st Answer Example

"In my previous position I was quite often required to make decisions on staff scheduling as well as hiring and terminating. I feel that role prepared me quite well for a position like this one. I have well-honed decision-making skills and my intuition, when it comes to hiring, has been elevated."

2nd Answer Example

"I was responsible for planning the content calendar: emails, blog post topics, and timing, social media posts, in addition to actually executing the plans. That means everything from creating web copy, to choosing images, and the like. Also, I collaborate with management to decide what promotions and sales we will be running, and when."

How to Answer

When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate.

1st Answer Example

"When we were speaking earlier, about sales targets in this position, you mentioned that most new sales professionals hit their KPI's after 120 days. If hired today, my goal would be to exceed my KPI's after the first 90 days. I plan to make a positive impact very quickly."

2nd Answer Example

"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter, and year to identify any bottlenecks or shortfalls and set a plan to correct them."