30 Occidental Petroleum Corporation Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Occidental Petroleum Corporation 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. Tell me about your education and how it relates to the oil, gas, or energy sector.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like for you to take a few minutes to highlight your educational background. You can mention your GPA, your major or minor and also any accolades and awards that you received during your university career. If you were involved in student-led clubs or other extracurriculars, you could mention that as well.
1st Answer Example
"My degree in Chemical Engineering has prepared me in a few ways. My degree came with a heavy focus on petroleum which included safety issue reviews such as blowouts, fire, and other hazards. I also learned a great deal about hydrate formation and decomposition, H2S, toxic gases, and safe transportation and disposal of petroleum wastes. I graduated with a 3.6 GPA and was also president of the Student's Union, rounding out my time with some leadership experience."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my Mechanical Engineering degree, where I focused my time on Mechanical and Industrial engineering applications. My GPA was a 3.8, and I made the Deans List. My education has prepared me for a role with Occidental Petroleum Corporation in many ways including leadership, discipline and organizational skills."
2. You will often be working cross-departmentally. Tell me about a time you worked successfully with people outside of your department.
How to Answer
Collaboration and teamwork are significant topics in the oil and gas industry. There will be many opportunities for you to work alongside different people in varying roles, functions, and departments. The interviewer would like to know that you can work closely with others even when their job functions may not be exactly like yours. Your ability to work with cross-functional teams will be a significant asset to Occidental Petroleum Corporation.
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members of the engineering and HR teams. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. Primarily with the Engineering department and the HR department, arranging various contractors and agreements. Clear communication and clarity in expectations are of huge importance to me, and you can rest assured that I would work cohesively with any department."
2nd Answer Example
"I bring experience in cross-functional teamwork in my current chemical engineering position. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
3. With which industry-related computer programs are you most familiar?
How to Answer
The oil and gas industry has many options when it comes to computer programs, applications, and other software solutions. Speak briefly to the ones with which you're most comfortable. Also be sure to express that you can learn new applications and systems quickly.
1st Answer Example
"I have experience with several different computer software suites within the oil and gas industry - I've worked with NetSuite, Sage Business Cloud Enterprise Management, JD Edwards and Microsoft Dynamics most recently. I'm also comfortable with SAP Business. I also can easily learn new systems. Could you share with me which programs you use at Occidental Petroleum Corporation? I would be happy to gain a head start by taking online coursework and tutorials."
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to my career so I would say that I am entry-level in most oil and gas related programs. I am tech savvy, however, and can learn these systems quickly. I am advanced in MS Office Suite and have used CRM's in the past."
4. This role requires extensive knowledge of pipeline systems and oil well machinery. How well do you understand this complicated equipment?
How to Answer
To fully understand pipeline systems and oil well machinery, you will need to have many years' experience in the industry. Briefly discuss with the interviewer how comfortable you are on these topics. Be sure to list any courses that you have taken on these topics.
1st Answer Example
"I have studied pipeline systems for some time now, and have worked in the oil industry for approximately eight years. There are always new things to learn, as the industry is ever-evolving; however, I would rate my knowledge at an intermediate to advanced level. If there is any coursework that you recommend I take before starting with Occidental Petroleum Corporation, I would be happy to comply."
2nd Answer Example
"I am newer to the oil and gas industry; however, I have taken some coursework including fundamentals of offshore and onshore pipeline systems and am confidently in my knowledge base. I am currently working toward my Pipeline Operations Certificate which includes studies focused on corrosion theory, measurement fundamentals, and inspection techniques."
5. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader. Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time. Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
1st Answer Example
"What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree; however, you have to communicate your thoughts professionally and ultimately comply with the leader's decision on a particular issue."
2nd Answer Example
"I have had team members disagree with decisions that I have made as a manager, and it does not bother me unless they are disrespectful about the situation. I think it's great to face challenging thoughts in the workplace and I welcome varying trains of thought. In fact, I believe that sometimes disagreeing with the leader is the strongest sign of a good team member. If someone disagrees with me because they have the greater good of the team and/or the company in mind, then I want to hear that. And as a strong leader, I need to hear it."
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6. Documentation is crucial in this role. Rate your documentation abilities from 1-10 while supporting your answer.
How to Answer
Documentation, in the oil and gas industry, is crucial. When dealing with intense environmental situations, red tape and regulations, and the safety of employees and labor contractors, one must always ensure the I's are dotted, and the T's are crossed. Tell the interviewer that you understand the importance of clear and precise documentation. Give an example of what makes you great with documenting.
1st Answer Example
"I would rate my documentation skills as a 9/10. I am not perfect; however, I fully understand the potential repercussions related to unclear or messy paperwork and documentation. My current manager often compliments me on my reliable documentation, and I am sure she would be happy to comment when you call for an employment reference."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel solid in my documentation skills, ensuring that my work remains organized and precise. Since what I do is closely related to safety initiatives, I am especially careful and pay close attention to detail. For that reason, I would rate my documentation skills as a 9.5/10."
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7. Occidental Petroleum Corporation operates in many countries. Are you eligible to travel and work around the world?
How to Answer
Occidental Petroleum Corporation may operate in a multitude of regions and the interviewer would like to know that you can accommodate their potential needs as you grow within their organization. Be honest with your answer, but as open as possible. If you have limitations, be sure to discuss them. If you are free and able to travel, you can keep your response straightforward.
1st Answer Example
"I am eligible to travel and have no limitations when it comes to working around the world. My passport is valid, and I have a NEXUS border pass."
2nd Answer Example
"Could you share with me more about the travel component in this role? I am eligible to travel and willing to, as needed."
8. Occidental Petroleum Corporation has a serious commitment to safety. How will you help us to uphold this commitment?
How to Answer
Safety is a vital topic in the oil and gas industry, and the interviewer would like to know that you are committed to helping Occidental Petroleum Corporation in their mission. Discuss the ways that you uphold safety standards in the workplace. Extra points if you can memorize the safety mission of Occidental Petroleum Corporation.
1st Answer Example
"I read online that Occidental Petroleum Corporation has a range of programs related to safety, and that your mission is, 'Safety above everything.' I will help you to uphold this commitment by delivering over and above expectations, completing my documentation fully and clearly, and by staying on top of industry trends and changes."
2nd Answer Example
"When Occidental Petroleum Corporation says that the safety mission is to put safety above everything, it resonates with me. Values guide me and understand the importance of a healthy environment and a safe workplace."
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9. Using the STAR method, tell me about the most significant problem you faced and solved.
How to Answer
Many interviewers like to apply the STAR method during discussions with their candidates. If you are not sure what STAR is:
- Situation: talk about a challenge you have faced
- Task: an overview of what you set out to achieve
- Action: a brief on what you did, or how you assessed the situation
- Result: the outcome of the steps that you took
Keep your STAR example workplace related, and keep your response organized, helping you to avoid rambling.
1st Answer Example
"In my first year of working as an O&G administrator, I was asked to update and manage our Well Files into digital files. The job was daunting, so I broke the task alphabetically, and then by region. From there, I started to build the file database. The job took me about three months and, in the end, my manager was thrilled. The result was that the organized file system saved our department many hours of time when searching for oil-well specific data."
2nd Answer Example
"My previous company had an alarmingly high accident rate. As a safety specialist, I was asked to evaluate multiple processes, assess the problem areas, and create a program to resolve the safety issues. I studied every accident, going back six years. Compiling the data, I then analyze my findings, to source out the weak spots. Knowing the weakest areas gave me a baseline from which to work. The entire project took me about four months. The result was, 18 months later, our safety rate went up 35%."
10. Tell me about a time when you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. What did you do?
How to Answer
A few years ago, The RAD Group did a significant study related to workplace safety. They found that only 2 in 5 employees felt comfortable reporting unsafe behavior. The observation study also showed that the average employee performs three unsafe acts per week.
The interviewer would like to know that he/she can trust you to report unsafe work or unsavory behavior in the workplace. The oil and gas industry has incredibly stringent safety regulations and Occidental Petroleum Corporation must make sure that they are hiring someone who honors their commitment to safety.
Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. If you have personally seen some dangerous behavior, discuss the specifics.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous role I often saw co-workers engaging in dangerous work without taking proper breaks and rests. This overexertion is common in the field because people focus on getting the job done as soon as possible. If I witnessed this unsafe behavior, I would ask my coworker to take a rest and would offer to jump in, or call someone new to the floor to take over."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently saw a co-worker not wearing their proper PPE. Safety gear is non-negotiable, in my opinion, so I approached them immediately about their choice not to protect themselves properly. According to my company's regulations, I had to write a report on the incident. I trust it will not happen again. I understand these safety rules are in place for everyone's protection so I will do what I can to uphold the regulations."
11. Oil has different categories. Name a few.
How to Answer
The interviewer is testing your overall knowledge when it comes to oil terminology. Here is an easy guide to different oil categories:
1. Very light oils which include gasoline and jet fuels
2. Light oils which include diesel, some fuel oils, and light crudes
3. Medium oils, which include most crude oils
4. Heavy oils such as heavy crude oils and some fuel oil
Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of oil variances.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that there are many categories and types of oils. Many people believe that oil is all the same; however, it comes in ranges from heavy to very light oil. These types vary when it comes to viscosity and toxicity."
2nd Answer Example
"I have studied all types of oil including very light, light, medium, and heavy. I have the broadest knowledge base with light oils and medium oils, including most crude oils."
12. What is OPEC, and why does it matter?
How to Answer
OPEC is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. It's an intergovernmental body with a mission to, 'coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its member countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets, in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.'
Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of OPEC and how it affects the way Occidental Petroleum Corporation does business.
1st Answer Example
"From my understanding, OPEC is a governing body that coordinates and unifies the petroleum policies of approximately 15 countries. OPEC decisions play an important role in the global oil market."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand OPEC to be an intergovernmental body that helps regulate the global oil market and international regulations. Could you share with me how OPEC affects the way Occidental Petroleum Corporation does business?"
13. How are crude oil prices determined?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you have a understanding of pricing in the oil and gas industry. Although you are likely not an oil trader, you should still have a good idea of how pricing works when it comes to crude oil, gasoline, and more. Of course, supply and demand is a factor but try to dig a bit deeper when you respond.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that market conditions, as well as supply and demand, are critical factors when it comes to pricing crude oil. Other important factors include consumer habits, terrorist activities and other global threats, environmental issues, and also the grade of the crude itself."
2nd Answer Example
"Crude oil prices are determined by multiple factors, which include market conditions, economic issues, environmental issues, and also the overall demand for the crude. The smallest market shift can alter the crude pricing, which is why some people dedicate their entire lives to learning about crude oil pricing and the factors that affect it."
14. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the Occidental Petroleum Corporation website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working at Occidental Petroleum Corporation?
- What is Occidental Petroleum Corporation'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
"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?"
2nd Answer Example
"A few questions come to mind, so thank you for asking. What's the next major project Occidental Petroleum Corporation is looking to tackle? I know you're seeking to expand this particular department, so I wonder what is next."
15. Which is the leading publication or resource that you use for up-to-date news on the oil and gas sector?
How to Answer
It's crucial that you keep up-to-date on the latest news and changes within the oil industry. The industry is ever-changing, and you must be well-immersed to stay on top of your game. Luckily, there is a multitude of publications and resources available, to keep your knowledge current. It's a great idea to ask the interviewer if they have any suggestions for you to expand your knowledge base.
1st Answer Example
"I like to stick with a few of the most reliable resources for oil news such as Oil and Gas Journal, RigZone, and Oil & Gas 360. Before you stopped publishing, I also used to love to read The Lamp. Do you have any recommendations? I love to hear of new resources where I can learn."
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite publication for up to date news is Oil and Gas Journal. I also look for trending tweets on Twitter, and I follow Exxon Mobil on social media, for up to date news. Do you have any additional resource recommendations? I'm always looking for new sources of reliable information about the industry."
16. What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?
How to Answer
API gravity is American Institute Petroleum gravity. In short, it is a measure used to determine the weight of petroleum liquids compared to water. Here, the interviewer is not looking for you to give a math or physics lesson. They want to know that you are aware of basic terms and what they mean. Keep your response brief, and easy to follow.
1st Answer Example
"I understand there is a specific formula used to find the gravity of petroleum liquids from the specific gravity, also known as SG. The formula is: API gravity = 141.5/SG - 131.5. I also know that is the API gravity is 10+, it is classified as a light oil which will float on water. An API gravity under ten will sink and then becomes categorized as heavy oil."
2nd Answer Example
"What I understand about API gravity is that it's a measurement that calculates the gravity of petroleum liquids compared to water. This calculation is how oil becomes classified from light, medium and heavy for example."
17. What is the most significant achievement you have on the horizon?
How to Answer
When you show that you have goals and achievements on the horizon, you are letting the interviewer know that you put thought into your career and what you bring to your employer. Employees who do not have goals set just beyond their reach are typically disengaged and unmotivated. This achievement does not need to be complicated. It can be as simple as finishing a beautiful Powerpoint presentation, finishing work-related coursework, or reaching a sales target.
1st Answer Example
"The most significant achievement on the horizon for me is the completion of my Advanced Excel and SAP courses. I have learned a great deal, and have a few modules to go. I look forward to applying these new skills to this role with Occidental Petroleum Corporation"
2nd Answer Example
"For the last two years, I have been working toward my master's degree in Chemical Engineering while also working full time. This effort has been challenging and rewarding all at the same time. My graduation date is this May, so that is the most significant achievement on the horizon."
18. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Working in the oil and gas sector, you will often be expected to wear many different hats. The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were asked to take on a task for which you knew very little. Have you ever had to take on a responsibility or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Include the outcome, and what you learned.
1st Answer Example
"My first management job was the scariest time in my career! I honestly didn't know if I was doing my job well. I led by instinct, took leadership workshops, and spent a lot of time reading books related to effective people management."
2nd Answer Example
"I was once asked to train an employee on a new SAP system that I hardly knew. To prepare, I worked overtime, watching online tutorials so that the new employee's training time was well spent."
19. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you handle pressure when an unexpected stressor arises. Being able to make quick decisions and think fast on your feet sets top-notch professionals out from the crowd. We all make a lot of choices every day, so start by telling the interviewer that you make a lot of quick decisions each day. Next, be prepared for a more significant example that will be sure to impress.
1st Answer Example
"In my current field admin role, this happens often! We handle a lot of contractor situations surrounding schedule and shift changes. Often, we have guidelines we follow, and there are also times when situations call for creative solutions. I make split-second decisions when resolving contractor matters, always keeping the best interests of the company in mind."
2nd Answer Example
"My current position requires me to make tough decisions on a regular basis. I work well under pressure like that. With split-second decisions, I will always go with my initial instinct. Last week, I had two high-profile clients show up for a meeting at the same time. One client was late, and the other was early. I did not want anyone to feel bad for being late or too early, so I had each party placed in a different conference room. My colleague started the meeting with our early meeting while I met with the client who was late. It worked out well because I am no stranger to multi-tasking and I have great support staff."
20. Why is this job with Occidental Petroleum Corporation right for you at this time in your career?
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'response that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on Occidental Petroleum Corporation.
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 new education in GIS while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."
2nd Answer Example
"I currently manage a small team of 12 field operators and engineers. Although I love the work, I am ready to stretch myself professionally into an organization with more production capacity, and teams of 25 or more. This year I dedicated myself to taking two leadership workshops, which I feel greatly prepared me to take on the challenge of the work volume present in Occidental Petroleum Corporation."
21. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
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
"I am willing to work overtime as appropriate. How much and how often are the first questions that come to mind. I firmly believe that downtime, or personal time, is essential to recharging your batteries and staying focused, but I am certainly willing to be a team player."
22. How would you describe your written communication skills?
How to Answer
Being a bright communicator, in written form, is an essential skill to master. Discuss any courses you have taken in communication, journalism, or writing. If you have a sample of your written communication in the form of a report of a work-related article, you can certainly bring that example with you. Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a case or story.
Here are some words to describe your communication skills:
- Articulate
- Crisp
- Eloquent
- Formal
- Informal
- Punchy
- Succinct
1st Answer Example
"My written communication skills are powerful. I often utilize written communications as a follow up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for my FTE's and contractors to go back to, and reference, plus they might answer any questions that come up along the way."
2nd Answer Example
"I have above average written communication skills. I am an experienced writer and have also written many successful quotes and RFP's in my career. I would describe my written communication skills as clear, concise, and thorough."
23. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how to ensure a healthy level of productivity from you. Are you able to be productive in any environment or are there particular types of situations that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment that offered at Occidental Petroleum Corporation before the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and have found that I can be very productive when there is the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments although that isn't my preference."
2nd Answer Example
"I work well in a high pressure, demanding environment that requires me to work smart and make my mark. I am competitive and love a significant challenge. How would you best describe the work environment at Occidental Petroleum Corporation?"
24. Tell me how you brought value to your most recent position.
How to Answer
This question offers another way for the interviewer to ask about your recent successes and bragging points. The interviewer wants to know which top skills you will highlight if you had to narrow down where you brought the most value.
Perhaps you influenced changes that saved the company money. Maybe you were the top performing manager in your department. Think of your strengths in action! If you are reliable, talk about how consistent your work has been and how you are in constant support of your coworkers. If you have a strong work ethic, share how you accomplished a project in the midst of harsh obstacles.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I brought value through delivering an increased customer base and a stronger contractor network. My ability to build strong relationships helped me secure and maintain a great deal of new business."
2nd Answer Example
"My organizational skills made an incredible impact on my current company. Upon my arrival, I quickly implemented new filing systems for both physical and digital files. I also introduced the use of Trello, a project management app that we now use office-wide."
25. When given an important assignment, how do you approach handling it?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you first approach a critical assignment. Are you the individual who will take an assignment head-on, or do you need to research and plan early? Do you jump in and get it all done immediately or do you balance it with other assignments? Talk to the interviewer about how you approach essential tasks at work.
1st Answer Example
"When my supervisor gives me an important assignment or task I am sure to assess the depth of the project, then take a look at my schedule to see how I can appropriately balance it with my other work. I do not procrastinate because then it's easy to get behind."
2nd Answer Example
"I lay out all the deadlines, figure out the deliverables, priority order, and then do all the research needed to make informed decisions. I keep a written "to-do" list and transfer project deadlines into my calendar to stay on task."
26. What have you done to improve your oil and gas knowledge in the last year?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are interested in your industry, and career growth, enough to take your professional development into your own hands. Even if your current employer does not offer perks like oil industry conferences or financial reimbursement for additional coursework, there is no reason why you cannot take the initiative.
You could:
- Read industry or career-related books
- Subscribe to relevant podcasts
- Enhance your education with an additional certificate
- Attend a conference related to your career or personal growth
- Teach yourself a new software program
- Read established journals and websites on a regular basis
- Find a mentor who is senior to you, in your particular industry or career path
1st Answer Example
"It is important to me that I continue to grow as a professional oil and gas administrator. This year I took an Advanced Excel course so that I could take my competency from intermediate to expert. The course has helped me immensely, and I am currently looking into a leadership workshop as well."
2nd Answer Example
"The oil and gas industry is always changing, and it's vital that I continue to gain knowledge, to keep up with the latest and greatest! I refer on a daily basis to a variety of energy-related journals and publications such as Oilweek, Midstream Business, and Gas & Oil magazine."
27. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
The oil and gas industry has not always enjoyed a reputation of honesty, transparency, and integrity. Times have changed over the decades; however, and Occidental Petroleum Corporation needs to know that you are someone driven my integrity in the workplace. Integrity is best displayed through honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you show your integrity in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Honesty and integrity are two values at the center of my being. I like to think I practice this in the workplace by always doing the right thing by the company, its customers, and its people. In my current role, I have led my team in turning down business from companies that we don't believe share our value of integrity."
2nd Answer Example
"Integrity is fundamental to me. I was once given credit for a report that I did not create. I did present the report, but one of my staff members had put it together for me. I made sure to show thanks for the compliment and alert everyone to its creator. I took my subordinate out to lunch later for making me look good."
28. What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you understand what makes a leader genuinely stand out. Just because you are a manager, that does not mean you are a leader.
A real leader is someone who makes others want to jump on board with their mission and follow them. A manager is just someone who has people under them. To be an excellent leader, you should offer a balance between the two. You need to be able to have people buy into your vision but at the same time, show authority when necessary.
1st Answer Example
"A manager is someone who has a team of people who answer to them. That person simply has the responsibility of 'managing' the team's work. A leader, on the other hand, is someone of influence and, I believe, anyone can be a leader - no matter their job title or position."
2nd Answer Example
"To me, leadership is a mindset versus a title. A manager is more of a job title. Anyone can possess leadership skills, but a great manager will have leadership skills along with the ability to direct his or her team to success."
29. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have a personal motto or mantra. Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you or a saying that you grew up with that resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly necessary to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes the credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"My mission is to give my best 100% of the time. It's important to me that I have a great reputation in this industry through hard work and a positive attitude."
30. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much emphasis you put on pay when considering a new position. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- work/life balance
- amount of travel involved in the role
- overall medical and health benefits
- additional perks such as car allowance, cell allowance, spending account
- the industry you will be working in
- amount of vacation time
- the type of clients you would be working with
- the location of the company
- career growth opportunity
- the size of your new team
- the company's reputation
- overall workplace culture.
Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job. If you are not sure on details for this role, you can ask!
1st Answer Example
"Salary is important to me because I know that I am skilled and well educated. With that said, I do look at the full picture before accepting a position, which includes factors such as benefits, the amount of paid vacation time, the type of work challenges and opportunities and work/life balance."
2nd Answer Example
"Several factors are important to me when taking a job. Compensation is a driving component but so is the company mission, culture, benefits, and location. Right now, I am looking to have an easier commute than I currently experience, and I'm also looking to join an industry leading organization where I know I can learn, grow and develop as a professional."