28 McLaren Automotive Limited Interview Questions & Answers
1. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or professor? How was it resolved?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you are respectful of your leaders, and while you do not always have to agree with your leader, you communicate respectfully. Use CAUTION when responding to this question. An employee who bad-mouths a previous employer can indicate a malcontent who will be disruptive to a team environment. Be positive about the importance of good communication and how it can help in you achieving your goals.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that it's my job as a professional to adapt to all types of people, and respect leadership even when I disagree with decisions they make. I find that good communication is the key. When my supervisor provides clear instructions, I can usually accomplish the task."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to work with some great people and have not experienced conflict with a boss in the past. If I were to experience conflict in the workplace, I would address the situation as soon as possible through conversation, but never in front of a guest. It's never a good idea to let conflict simmer, and I'm not afraid to receive constructive criticism if it is offered positively and professionally."
2. McLaren Automotive offers medical, dental and vision care as well as matching 401 K. What benefits do you currently receive?
How to Answer
In our world, having additional benefits like health insurance and a retirement plan is almost as important as a salary. This is a great opportunity to share what you are accustomed to receiving and how it compares to what McLaren is offering. Be positive and excited by this conversation.
1st Answer Example
"I have medical insurance for me and my family, which costs about 800 dollars a month. I am very excited to hear that you offer dental and vision, and I would love to know more details."
2nd Answer Example
"The fact that McLaren offers these kinds of benefits makes me excited about the possibility of working for them. I have medical and dental presently but don't have a retirement plan. I will be signing up for that first, I think. Can you tell me more specifics about the type of plan McLaren Automotive offers?"
3. We like to hire employees who have a work/life balance. What are some things that you do to divert your mind from work?
How to Answer
Balance employees are happy employees. This question will help the interviewer get to know you as a person, not just an employee. Talk to the interviewer about any interests you have outside of work and how you use that time to recharge and rejuvenate your spirit.
1st Answer Example
"I do like to spend time traveling with my family. My wife and I write a travel blog based on our experiences at various restaurants or hotels. It's a fun way for us to reconnect with each other and for me to relax so that I can have the energy I need when I come back to work."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that creativity shows itself in many forms so, but I guess the thing I like to do most is a hike in the mountains each weekend. I love just being out in nature, in a forest, with a campfire going. There is just something about the peacefulness of fishing in a mountain stream or watching the sunset on the top of a mountain. The time alone helps me unwind from the stress of work."
4. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work related procedures.
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to learn about your willingness to be looking for new ways of meeting customers' needs. McLaren prides itself in pushing boundaries so that the company can be more efficient and responsive. Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took the 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
"This year, I asked my manager if we could look at some new options for parts vendors. We ended up finding a couple of vendors who were more competitive with their pricing, so we made the switch. I am estimating that the change saves us close to $1000 per week."
5. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last position.
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know what other skills or work habits you may have that he might not have inquired about. Chances are you have likely gained many great skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which attributes you value the most. Be sure to include skills that will potentially benefit McLaren Automotive Limited if you are hired.
1st Answer Example
"In the past few years, I have learned how to multitask, which has come in handy in sales. In addition, I have learned how to utilize my cellphone to make videos about features that my customers love. I also have strong skills in a variety of Microsoft programs such as PowerPoint and Excel."
2nd Answer Example
"In my most recent position, the skills that I am most proud of are the leadership classes I have been assigned to. I have learned several great coaching techniques that I believe would benefit my time at McLaren. In addition, I have learned the importance of clear communication for everyone to know how to contribute to success. If we fail, we fail as a team, and most mistakes can be traced to a lack of effective communication."
6. Unfortunately, customers do not always follow our scripts. They can often interrupt our days, and keep us from accomplishing tasks. Tell me how you feel when a customer intrudes on your day.
How to Answer
The interviewer is setting a trap, and you need to be careful. No one likes to be interrupted, but in this case, it is a condition that happens every day in retail sales. The hiring manager wants to know that you will be flexible to set aside a task and take care of a customer, no matter what. Be positive and thoughtful about how you provide great customer service by never making a guest feel they are imposing on your time.
1st Answer Example
"To be honest, I am never bothered when a guest asks a question or calls. Without our customers, we would not be in business very long. I want every guest to feel that they are the most important thing I am doing at that very moment. So I think a smile, warm greeting, and willingness to focus on them are the best approaches. I can always get back to what I was doing when they are gone."
2nd Answer Example
"Customers should never be an imposition to us, and they can tell when you feel that they are. I try to greet each customer with enthusiasm and energy so matter how crazy their request is. I want to make them feel like a VIP every time they call or come by."
7. McLaren Automotive Limited wants to hire quality managers who are able to get the most from their team members. Share with me some leadership secrets you have learned over the years.
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know your leadership philosophy to determine whether you will be a good fit. Think about why you are the right fit for this particular position with McLaren Automotive Limited. This is a good time to highlight your skills and show the interviewer that you are the best choice for the position.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that a great leader can set a vision, communicate a plan and process clearly, and then inspire every member of his team to give their very best. I have studied many leaders and coaches over the years and have tried to incorporate their philosophies into my own. I believe that my skills will fit right in with what McLaren is trying to do."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that leaders are made, not born. Over the years, I have been blessed to work with some great leaders who taught me how to inspire, direct, and encourage. My organizational skills will be a major asset to you, and I also bring a strong track record of increasing sales and client base. These are just a couple of the reasons I feel that I'll be successful in this role with McLaren Automotive Limited."
8. How do you organize your day?
How to Answer
Seeling luxury vehicles requires a great deal of organization. Share some of the tools you have found helpful to stay on task and organized. If you keep a day planner or an organizer on your phone, explain how they have helped you keep track of assignments and tests. If you like to make to-do lists, this is a great example of a tool that can help you stay organized and prioritize. Be energetic when sharing knowing that the interviewer is looking for an employee who can stay focused on the task.
1st Answer Example
"I keep an updated Outlook calendar to keep track of work appointments, deadlines, and all of my outside activities. I am good at managing my time so that I complete projects on time and am prepared for my customers when they walk in for an appointment."
2nd Answer Example
"A few of the tools that I use during the day to stay organized include Google Calendar and notes on my smartphone. These tools help me to stay on top of my schedule and easily collaborate with my team. I try to keep organized so that I can be as productive as possible."
9. This position will require you to appropriately handle a customer's personal information. Share with me how you might safeguard someone's information.
How to Answer
McLaren Automotive believes that safeguarding a person's personal information is a sacred trust. The interviewer is attempting to gauge your honesty and your desire to attend to this critical task. Think about ways that you have protected a customer's information and how important this is to you. Assure the hiring manager that you will do everything in your power to limit any exposure that might make your customer vulnerable.
1st Answer Example
"I have been a victim of identity theft, so I know what a hassle it can be when your personal information is exposed. I would not want any of my customers to experience that, I can assure you. I would cover and protect any information in a folder or secure it in a locked drawer if I needed to keep it overnight. I would never leave it on a desk for everyone or anyone to see."
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous position, we were required to take credit applications, sometimes over the phone. I always tried to shred the documents after we finished so that no one other than myself and our finance manager would have access to them. I also kept information in a file folder any time it was on my desk so that the customer could see my attempts to try and protect them."
10. This position will require you to work with other departments, like parts or accounting. Share with me how you might have worked with other employees in your previous position.
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are a team player, capable of working with other employees who may have their own set of responsibilities. Think about times when you had to work with someone from another company or a different department. Show some specific skills you have used to make the communications with them smoother and more beneficial. Be positive about your ability to adapt, and provide clear dialogue when needed.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, I was required to work with our accounting department to ensure that all purchase orders and invoices were logged correctly. We have a wonderful relationship, and I learned a lot about how important having a paper trail is."
2nd Answer Example
"Currently, I work with accounting, parts, and our service department daily, and our communication is always good. I believe that patience is a key to working with someone in another area because you never know what kind of stress they might be under. So I try to be positive in my approach and remember to show appreciation when it's warranted or needed."
11. Your position at McLaren will require you to be able to operate a motor vehicle, and will perform a background check. Are there any limitations to your driving record or any issues in your background that we should be made aware of?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to eliminate any potential problems or future embarrassments by asking such a basic question. Due to excessive insurance rates on high luxury vehicles, these dealerships must thoroughly vet their employees. Be positive and upfront about any limitations or issues that there might be. Assure the hiring manager that you realize that you would be representing McLaren and not just yourself.
1st Answer Example
"I do not have any issues on my record, and you are more than willing to check my background. I have been driving for years without any incident, and there have been no legal issues in the past. I know that this is important because your company needs to protect itself from dishonest employees who will create problems for you down the line."
2nd Answer Example
"I did have a citation for speeding about a year ago, but everything is resolved. There are no other issues in my background that should keep me from being considered for employment."
12. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employment. What were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume, and it's best to be honest and upfront about the reasons. Gaps are okay to have so long as there is a legitimate reason behind them. Also, show the interviewer that you did not remain dormant during that time. Talk about any courses you took, volunteer work you did, or things you were involved in that made you a better person.
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for 6 months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time, I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
2nd Answer Example
"I was laid off in December of 2016 and, due to the recession, found it difficult to land employment for the 8 months following that lay off. Luckily, I received a good severance package from my previous employer. I took the time to travel, and I even learned a second language. It was time very well spent, and I believe it made me a better individual."
13. McLaren likes to hire individuals who are self motivated. What are some ways you keep your attitude engaged and energized for the tasks you perform?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you are not someone who needs constant supervision or affirmation to do your work. Think about some of the ways that you keep your attitude positive and focused. Be positive about your ability not to have to be micro-managed.
1st Answer Example
"I motivate myself by listening to encouragement podcasts each morning as I drive to work. It is amazing how something I hear fits right in with the day! I also keep an energetic and enthusiastic outlook on any task, knowing that even the smallest of them are helping me grow and are leading me toward a sale. I can hardly wait to bring that positive energy to my job at McLaren."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to motivate myself by being an example to others on my team. Most people that I know respond really well when someone is encouraging them to be better. I like to spend most mornings planning a to-do list and then working hard to accomplish those tasks. I have a sense of pride when I get to the end of the list."
14. We are moving quickly into second interviews. What is your availability like over the next few days?
How to Answer
Good news! If they ask for your availability in the next few days, you likely made it to the next round. Try to be as flexible as possible with your availability. Be excited about the possibility of working for McLaren.
1st Answer Example
"I can make myself available at any time, with some notice. The ideal times for me to interview are between 8-11 AM and 2-5 PM Monday through Friday."
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to make myself available at your earliest convenience. I am very interested in this role and will be flexible when it comes to interview times."
15. At McLaren Automotive Limited we seek to hire individuals who have a keen interest in the automobile industry. What interests you most about what we do?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what attracted you to apply for a position with McLaren Automotive. Having a genuine interest in the automobile industry may indicate that you plan on making this a career rather than a temporary stop-gap. Think about the factors that stand out to you as you consider a career at McLaren Automotive. As you answer the question, give specific reasons why you are interested in this position. Show that you have researched the company by offering some highlights of McLaren. It is going to be very important to the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I have always had a keen interest in the automobile industry because style and technology are always changing. McLaren Automotive has designed some of the greatest performance cars in the world. Their reputation for winning Formula One is exciting to me. I am really interested in learning more about the technology that you have in your latest designs and being a part of the passion that drives your company.."
2nd Answer Example
"Almost every time you watch a Formula One race, McLaren Automotive is at the top of the pack. I love the sleek athletic design of your cars and the passion your company has not to push boundaries but completely rethink them. I really want to be a part of that dynamic."
16. Most of the work we do in sales is done through electronic media, like smartphone and computer. How comfortable are you with this technology and share with me your engagement with social media.
How to Answer
McLaren will require you to use various social media and current technology to communicate with clientele. The interviewer needs to know that you are have had exposure to social media and know how to use it to your advantage. Not everyone likes to cold call, but it's becoming more and more important to stay competitive in today's market. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of respecting a customer's time by giving them options in communication.
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of experience in using technology, like my phone. I find that my customers prefer to text or email rather than be hassled with a barrage of phone calls. Many of them ask for videos or spec sheets, and my phone and computer allow me to do so. Many of my sales have come from great follow-up habits. After the sale, I will also call previous buyers to schedule our maintenance services and ask for referrals. I find that it's a lucrative way to spend my downtime."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a great familiarity with social media, as that I have a YouTube channel for videos, am on Facebook and Instagram. I use these avenues to communicate with potential clients and to stay in front of existing ones. I have been trained in cold calling and will call orphan owners to introduce myself and begin building a relationship with them."
17. At McLaren Automotive Limited we put a lot of pride in our customer service. In fact, one of our core values is to exceed our customer's expectations. How do you go above and beyond for your clientele?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to assess your willingness to capture the culture of the company. McLaren Automotive has as one of its core values that we exceed our customer's expectations. Assure the interviewer that you take customer service seriously. Use an example of when you have gone over and above the general expectations to make a customer happy. Be sure to acknowledge the customer service efforts that McLaren Automotive Limited puts forward.
1st Answer Example
"I go above and beyond with my customers by committing to my entire focus to their every need. I have a strong sense of organization, and I always follow up when I say that I will. My customers appreciate my sense of responsibility and respect for their time."
2nd Answer Example
"I always have a smile on my face! Another way that I go above and beyond for my customers is by never saying 'no.' I will say 'let me check into that for you' or 'let me see what I can do' or 'I will certainly try to find that answer for you.' It's amazing how a positive spin on all communication can improve a customers' level of satisfaction."
18. The automobile industry is competitive. Are you comfortable working in a competitive environment?
How to Answer
Oftentimes, positions within the automotive industry are sales and numbers-driven. The interviewer needs to know that you can thrive in this type of environment. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable and capable of working within a highly competitive environment.
1st Answer Example
"I am certainly accustomed to working in a competitive environment. My previous positions include keeping track of daily, weekly, and monthly sales metrics. I am absolutely able to thrive in a competitive environment. I use the competition to motivate myself to perform at a higher level."
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been a competitive individual, from playing team sports my entire life to working in commissioned retail environments. I am definitely comfortable with some friendly competition! I am looking forward to showing McLaren Automotive what I can do!"
19. At McLaren Automotive, we have a strict appearance code policy. Tell me about the position you worked at last, and how you maintained a good personal appearance.
How to Answer
Because McLaren deals with luxury vehicles, the company caters to wealthy professionals. This means that your personal appearance will need to be flawless. This is an opportunity to discuss the value you place on your own personal appearance standards and your willingness to invest in yourself if needed. Discuss with the interviewer exactly what might be required, so there are no misunderstandings later on down the road.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, I was required to wear a suit coat, shirt and tie, and matching slacks. I have always prided myself in wearing nice clothing and have an extensive wardrobe. I would be very interested in hearing about your company's appearance standards."
2nd Answer Example
"I should have no problem with the standards that McLaren Automotive requires. I have always taken pride in my personal appearance and believe that how you look to the customer can make the difference between making a sale or not."
20. This position will likely require you having to work nights and weekends. Are there any limitations to your schedule we should know about?
How to Answer
Like any automotive dealer, McLaren Automotive operates with specific retail hours of operation. The interviewer needs to know that you are flexible enough to work when scheduled, even if it includes nights or weekends. Be forthcoming about any scheduling conflicts you might have, and be enthusiastic about working whenever you are needed.
1st Answer Example
"I have a class that I am taking for my MBA on Tuesday evenings. So I would need Tuesday off, or I would need to leave around 5 pm to get to class on time. I do not have any other limitations, and I look forward to working every shift I am scheduled for."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have any conflicts or limitations to my schedule and am looking forward to working as many hours as McLaren Automotive will allow me to."
21. Many positions in our company are fully commissioned. Are you confident enough in your sales abilities to work on 100% commission?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to ensure that you're ready to live under a full-commission pay plan. Talking about salary and compensation expectations can be uncomfortable, but it is necessary to talk between yourself and the hiring manager. Be open and communicative when it comes to your needs and compensation desires.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked on 100% commission in my last two sales positions; however, that is not my preference for the first few months as I become comfortable in a new position. Currently, I am on a compensation guarantee of $4K/month or full commission, whichever is greater. What are you offering in this particular role?"
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in a 100% commission role for many years. I am comfortable enough with my sales abilities and customer base to take on another commission-driven role."
22. Tell me about your sales performance this year.
How to Answer
McLaren Automotive Limited prides itself in selling very high-priced ultra-luxury vehicles. This means that they will only consider the best of the best as sales representatives. Numbers and percentages don't lie! This is the best time to brag about yourself and your achievements in your current / most recent position.
1st Answer Example
"So far this year, I am 113% to target with 3 more months to go. I have been the top sales performer in our dealership for the past 5 months. I attribute this to my great follow-up habits as well as my strong cold calling skills."
2nd Answer Example
"My supervisor is thrilled with my performance so far this year. I fully expect to exceed my targets this quarter. I have had experience in selling top-end luxury vehicles and look forward to selling to your customers as well."
23. At McLaren Automotive Limited, one of our core values is that we work together, part of this involves being socially responsible. What social causes are you involved with and why are they important to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to assess if you are the kind of employee who will share the company vision of social responsibility. You can effectively answer this question by researching the company before the interview to see what areas McLaren involves itself in. Be positive about your own volunteer work, and highlight any that you and the McLaren dealership might have in common.
1st Answer Example
"I want to work for McLaren Automotive Limited because you have a reputation of using your technology to protect the environment through reducing your carbon footprint. I also love that you supported one of my children at their school through the STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) when you sponsored the Robotic Wars last year. I can hardly wait to be a part of something like that."
2nd Answer Example
"I know that McLaren is a luxury high-performance maker of some of the finest automobiles in the world. As such, I love the fact that you also give back to the community, from your work with hybrid vehicles to the educational resources you provide to develop the next generation of math and engineering students. I spend days working with Habitat for Humanity, building houses. I have found that giving back is a great way to enjoy what I do even more."
24. At McLaren Automotive Limited we set daily, weekly, and monthly targets for all of our sales employees. Have you worked with very specific KPI's as of late?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to prepare your thinking for a position in which performance is constantly managed and reviewed. Assure the interviewer that you are comfortable with strict sales targets. If you have worked in this environment before, talk about what you did to ensure that your quotas were met. Discuss your ability to work under pressure associated with sales expectations.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, we were graded by several different categories. We had goals that were set often and then measured and discussed in our daily sales meetings. I am consistently a top performer in my company. I do thrive on high expectations because I find that I can use this environment to motivate myself to do more."
2nd Answer Example
"My current position is 100% commission-driven, so I fully understand the importance of meeting the goals that are set for you. Currently, my targets are specific, and I exceed them regularly."
25. At McLaren, we believe in hiring excellent sales professionals. Tell me about your philosophy of sales.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have had sales training and can move the customer to an initial meeting to the point of purchase. Think about the sales training you have had and the key points that created the skills you have. This is a wonderful opportunity to share the skills that you have acquired. Be enthusiastic about your abilities to perform.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that my sales philosophy starts with how you greet each guest and moves to how you present the product, build value, and even close the sale. In my previous position, I was trained on the road to the sale and used it as a basic framework to keep my focus on selling. I am really excited to bring what I know to my job at McLaren Automotive."
2nd Answer Example
"There are a variety of different steps on the way to a sale. I believe you have to know your product, and you have to listen to your customer's needs so that you can match the best product with what is best for them. I believe that I have the skill set to do both of those things well. I am looking forward to having an opportunity to see what I can do for you."
26. McLaren Automotive has a passion for making high end performance vehicles. How familiar are you with what we do?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to assess whether or not you have researched the company. In competitive markets such as the automobile industry, the more familiar you are with the company and its story, the greater the chances are you may be hired. Share with the manager some of the highlights of your research. Be enthusiastic about the possibility of working for McLaren Automotive Limited.
1st Answer Example
"I have been impressed with McLaren for years, particularly with your dominance of Formula 1 racing. I was so excited to see how passionate your designers are about creating the greatest car they can. I really want to be a part of that dynamic."
2nd Answer Example
"I was very impressed that McLaren Automotive was born out of racing. I love Formula 1 racing and the design of both the cars and the engines. Everything is so precise and calculated, from wind drag to engine performance to even fuel usage. I also noticed that you are about the launch your very first hybrid performance vehicle. I am excited about the possibility of being hired by them!"
27. At McLaren Automotive Limited we believe in training our employees in the areas of expertise. Tell me about any specialized training you might have received in your previous position.
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to get a handle on what kind of specific training you have had and how best it fits with what McLaren will be offering. Many automobile manufacturers insist that their salespeople become product specialists. Be positive about what you may know about sales and the various models McLaren offers. Assure the hiring manager that you are very willing to learn more so that you can make the greatest contribution possible. Companies will offer training to their top-performing employees.
1st Answer Example
"I would love to take additional courses on McLaren Automotive as a company and the various models they offer. I am familiar with the sales process, but know that there are always more that I can benefit from."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that a good salesperson is a product expert. I want to learn as much as I can about the models McLaren Automotive offers so that I can answer any questions the client might have. I'm happy to hear that you offer continued training for your employees!"
28. At McLaren Automotive Limited we like to hire those who see a future in the automobile industry. Where do you see this position taking you in the future?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to determine your engagement level with a job at McLaren. Talk to the interviewer about the type of career growth that you would like to see with McLaren Automotive Limited. Be positive about your own skills and your willingness to learn as much as you can so that you can make a positive contribution.
1st Answer Example
"I love sales and would be thrilled to have a lucrative career in sales with McLaren Automotive Limited. What excites me most about this opportunity is that there is room for advancement into a leadership role. I would definitely like to work my way to a sales management position, and I believe that I have the skills to do just that should the company decide to hire me."
2nd Answer Example
"I am excited about the possibility of learning as much as possible with McLaren Automotive and would welcome any type of advancement that the company might offer. I believe that my sales and leadership skills will contribute to the passion and energy McLaren has. I cannot wait to get started!"