If we hire you at PG&E, how will you make an impact in the first 90 days?

"In my first 90 days with PG&E, I would like to make an impact by excelling in my training and learning all I can about the processes here. I want to develop strong relationships with my new coworkers and customers."

Their ideal candidate will make an impact and contribute improvements, big or small. However, their ideal candidate also needs to exhibit strong interpersonal and communication skills and should be spending the first 90 days building relationships, asking questions, and learning not only how to do the job but also to learn why they do things the way they do. Without having that valuable information, it will be impossible to make an impact. It would be like writing a report on a subject you know nothing about without performing any research before you begin. That approach won't work. Show your initiative by preparing a 90-day success plan, mapping your approach to entering a new work environment and introducing yourself and your work style to your new teams. Then share what you intend to do beyond the 90-day plan and how you hope to make an impact. If you are applying for a sales position, discuss how you plan to resuscitate dormant accounts, for example. Address the needs that the company has outlined in the job posting or job description. For instance, if the job description mentions a "must-have" of strong communication skills, be sure to comment on how you plan to utilize your exceptional communication skills to see success in a short amount of time.

"In my first 90 days with PG&E, I would like to make an impact by absorbing as much information as I can in order to effectively execute my job."

"In my first 90 days at PG&E, I want to make an impact by excelling in my trainings and really diving into the procedures this company has in place. I would also like to start building relationships with people on my team to create a support system and also fortify my familiarity with the company. No better way to do that than talking to people who have been around for a while."

"In my first 90 days of employment, I would like to make an impact by communicating with fellow co-workers. I would also imply the well-learned qualifications that I learned from my previous job to listen and observe management to learn the position effectively."

"In the first 90 days, I will make an impact by acquiring all the knowledge & skills needed to be successful in this role. This way I would become a much better asset to this company. I will also build strong relationships with my coworkers, so I can better assist them on the job site, and become a better team player."

How do you handle stress?

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."

This question tests your emotional intelligence (EQ). Someone with a low EQ will have more difficulty governing their emotions and more often than not, responds to situations emotionally, often paralyzed by their fears, stress, or anxiety, and can introduce volatile and difficult to manage elements to an otherwise well-functioning work environment. Someone with a high EQ will be able to quickly separate their emotions from a situation and objectify and change gears, exhibiting adaptability, positivity, determination, and resourcefulness. These are also great leadership qualities. Talk to the interviewer about your philosophy and how you manage to govern your emotions in the workplace.

"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."

"I manage stress well, since previously working in a call center environment I know what it takes to work under pressure and deliver for customers and associates. I believe awareness is a huge aspect of managing stress and taking care of basic needs like if I need a quick snack or take a few minutes to do some breathing exercises. This gives me an opportunity to reevaluate how I can prioritize work and not get overwhelmed."

"I believe I handle stress well, I try not to get distracted by outside noise. I try to focus on the job at hand. If I need to take a 5min break to regain my focus I would do so to go back with a clear mind."

On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?

"I would love to give myself a 10/10 for honesty, but truthfully - nobody is 100% honest all the time. I will give myself a nine because I always do my best to be as honest as possible."

Honesty is a study of perception and intentions, but this question isn't about subjectivity or the logistics of honesty. This question is intended to evaluate your self-perception and integrity. The semantics of your answer will reveal any hidden intentions, so choose your words carefully. Attest to your integrity and what your word means to you. Describe your approach to emotionally confusing situations and how your integrity guides your responses. Explain that you see great value in transparency while consistently respecting the chain of command.

"I put a heavy focus on honesty and trustworthiness in the workplace and my personal life. Because I strive for complete honesty, I will rate myself as a 10/10. My values are solid."

"On a scale from 1-10, I would rate my honesty a 9. I try my best to be genuine and forthcoming with my mistakes and opportunities for growth. At the end of the day, we are all human and no one can be honest 100% of the time."

"I would rate myself as an eight or nine I strive to be a completely genuine honest person. I take accountability for any mistakes and learn from them. My values are solid."

"We are not perfect, so I will say I’m a nine on a scale of 1-10 for honesty. I always try to be as honest and trustworthy as possible not just at work, but in my daily life, I believe that being an honest and truthful person will take you a long way in life."

How can we motivate you on the job?

"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leaderboard, and I like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of competition."

Every employer aims to identify the motivators of each member of their staff and their team as a whole. Talk to the interviewer about the ways you find motivation on the job. Elaborate on your drivers and motivators in your career as well. Where there is passion, there is motivation.

Here are some ways an employer may try to motivate you. Which ones resonate most with you? - Incentive programs where points are earned - Showing complete trust in your work and performance - Setting smaller, more achievable goals - Helping you find your greater career purpose - Being a positive example to you - Maintaining an open and transparent workplace - Personalized incentives vs. Team driven incentives - Getting to know you on a personal level - Positive feedback-based rewards system - Offering a stable work/life balance by encouraging time off - Letting you know your voice matters - Allowing you to take the lead on projects that excite you - Handing out big-picture projects so you feel that you are contributing to the company's future - Public recognition

"Personally, the best motivation on the job is having an open and transparent workplace where the expectations are clear and concise. When this environment is present, it allows for complete trust in my work and performance. Aside from this, words of affirmation and praise are always a nice gesture for a job well done."

Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

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

Before answering scheduling questions, be clear on expectations. Make sure you know all the details and language of the job posting. If their expectations regarding the number of hours you'd work or the shift you'd take on aren't clear, mention that you did your research and noticed it wasn't listed anywhere. This is the perfect chance to clarify their scheduling needs! 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. Express that you are typically a flexible person, and you'd be open to discussing it further. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than commit to a schedule that won't work for you. You're interviewing them as much as they're interviewing you, and you both want to make sure this opportunity is the right fit for everybody.

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

"Yes. I work over 40 hours a week because I work more than one job already because I coach water polo. Getting the job done is always a priority."

"Yes, I am willing to work 40 hours a week full-time and don’t mind working overtime. At my old job, I usually sign up for overtime."

How do you respond to feedback?

"Even though it can be difficult to hear criticism, I always pause before I respond and take time to think about it first. If it catches me by surprise, I usually ask for clarification. I want to grow and improve. The more specific my supervisor can be in their feedback, the more helpful it is."

Receiving feedback from anyone can be tough, especially from those you aim to please. Just as you can't always predict what they may say, you likewise can't always predict how you feel in response. This is the heart of the question. An ideal candidate will actively listen to the feedback received, consider it, and provide a different perspective, clarification, or affirmation and appreciation for the feedback. This approach exhibits a wide variety of soft skills that could set you up as a desirable asset. Those who feel hurt, victimized, persecuted, disappointed, defensive, or angry are less desirable in the workplace and could negatively impact their team's operations, attitude, morale, and productivity. Learning how to respond when given a performance review or general performance feedback is an essential skill.

"I have worked hard on learning to graciously accept all forms of feedback, even when it comes unsolicited. I feel that I can accept feedback very well, and in the process of growing, I have also taught myself how to give great feedback to my team."

"Feedback is important for learning and growth and I do my best to accept it and use that feedback to improve my performance. I like to believe that in most cases feedback is related to business and unless boundaries are violated to not take things personally. This has allowed me to thrive off of constructive criticism and grow throughout my career."

"I usually respond to feedback really well. I think it is a good learning and growing opportunity. I believe feedback is always there to help you, not to put you down."

Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond.

"Last week, I noticed my manager had not completed the schedule for the following week. Some staff complained that they didn't have their work schedule yet. Rather than going to my manager with the complaint, I offered to take on some of her workload so she would have the time to complete the schedule. We worked together for a couple of overtime hours that day and caught her up on everything. It felt good to help but also benefited me."

How you answer this question serves as an honest representation of your work ethic. The interviewer wants to know if you strive to deliver the bare minimum or always go above and beyond in your work. Display a willingness to meet the demands of your team, whether asked of you or not, and that going above and beyond your usual day-to-day standard.

"I often go above and beyond when helping new employees feel comfortable and welcomed. In my current position, I like to take them under my wing and show them the ropes in our organization and industry."

"In the morning, before the truck arrives in the city, I will often visit some of the addresses beforehand to see if they are inspectable or not. This saves the truck from having to visit these addresses when it could be at any addresses performing a possible deliverable inspection."

"In my previous position, the company developed a new customer portal to be used by the businesses and customers we serviced to manage their billing and gas fleet cards for their employees and vehicles. In the early stages of the rollout of this new customer portal, we collectively found that users were struggling to troubleshoot browser issues such as clearing cache and cookies to optimize the efficiency of the website. I took the initiative to create a troubleshooting guide for each browser commonly used by customers with photos and instructions that we then uploaded to the website to be at the convenience of the customer."

"In my current position, I go above and beyond the way I like to assist the new employees with learning the ropes and correct procedures. I have helped out with management at times when assignment sheets were late for other employees to receive their daily sign-off sheets."

"Last Friday I noticed one of my coworkers did not finish a work order that was due that day since he left home early. So I went to the computer and printed out the work order and started doing the job that was assigned to him. I believe in teamwork and helping each other out. We’re all part of the same team and we all work for the same company."

Tell me about yourself.

"I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. It was the best experience I could have given myself; I learned so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US last month and have been actively looking for work for the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."

Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer a few things about yourself that aren't on your resume or cover letter. Try to introduce something uncommonly interesting about yourself that will make you memorable when your interviewer is choosing between the candidates they've interviewed. Exhibit passion and enthusiasm, and try to be charismatic. You can begin with your recent education, volunteer work, or talk about your travels. Bring up anything that is interesting and highlights your ability to be a responsible, reliable, and bright individual.

"With pleasure! I have over ten years of experience in the utility industry and am interested in growing my career to the next level. On a more personal note, I love to read, go hiking, and spend a lot of my extra time volunteering with the humane society."

"Outside of work, I like to golf, I love plants (I have about 30 house plants) and I like to hike around the foothills where I live. I have 3 cats and one dog, and I adore them all."

"I attended a trade school in 2017 with a major in electrical technology. I have worked in the commercial, industrial, residential, and maintenance side of the trade where I have acquired a great set of skills. On a personal note, I enjoy riding my motorcycle, hanging out with friends, and camping."

Tell me about the most important skill you gained in the past year. How will that skill help you succeed in this role with PG&E?

"I think it is imperative to regularly introduce new skills to my repertoire. This year, I am most excited about the coding knowledge I have gained. This knowledge has helped me expand my abilities in more areas than I initially expected, and I hope to utilize my coding skills in this position with PG&E."

The interviewer wants to know where you currently stand in your experience level. If your skill is one that others in your profession picked up early, explain this while framing it against the other skills you've mastered ahead of your peers. Then branch off into the skills you look forward to picking up next and how you plan on advancing your career. Exhibit enthusiasm for the opportunity to grow yourself professionally with them.

Here is a list of transferable skills that you may have gained in your most recent work history: - Writing new procedures - Ability to quickly take and understand instruction - Professional written communication - Learning a new industry or trade - Public speaking or presenting - Delegating tasks - Hiring, terminating, and on-boarding

"Definitely has to be managing work through a Pandemic. Working from home sounds like fun and games until you're actually doing it for nine months straight. It requires a lot of organization, time management, flexibility, adaptability, problem solving, and thinking on your feet. I think my biggest challenge has had to be taking existing tasks and transitioning it to a virtual platform, while still maintaining the quality and experience. For example, new hire orientation. This is an event I take pride in and it is important for me to give my new hires the best possible first impression of the company. It is a lot easier to do that while sitting in the same room. I looked at my program, closely evaluated it, and figured out ways to make it interactive, even through a screen. I opted to put my regular PowerPoint presentation on a more engaging platform like Prezi, I invited other stakeholders to jump in and participate in the zoom call throughout the day, and I even sent over DoorDash lunch as an added treat. This is just one example of how you have to learn to adapt and modify a task to fit this new dynamic."

"I have strengthened my abilities in memorizing/ understanding instructions in a new industry to me. I will use the skills I have obtained to learn safety rules along with covid19 restriction regulations."

What are your greatest strengths? How will these skills benefit PG&E if hired?

"I have exceptional loyalty to my clients and employer. I am also quick to solve problems, which helps me handle customer issues. These strengths will help me build exceptional relationships and maintain customer satisfaction."

Reviewing the job description and company website should inform you about which qualities PG&E values most in a candidate and help you align yours with those. You can refer to the list of responsibilities within the job description to learn what strengths PG&E will value most from you. Explain how your strengths will help you accomplish the job-related tasks and, better yet, exceed the company's expectations. Try to offer unique advantages that will set you apart from other candidates. Then branch into those soft skills you possess that are harder to quantify on paper, which are highly valued traits across all industries.

Some great strengths to mention are: - Communicative - Loyal - Collaborative - Tech Savvy - Flexible in Schedule/Availability - Persistent and Determined - Eager for Knowledge/New Skills

"I would say my three greatest strengths are my communication abilities, my ability to solve problems, and my attitude."

"As an HR professional, I learn things very quickly and I will research what I do not know until I feel like a subject matter expert on the topic. I understand the importance of being a reliable resource for employees, so I always try to be on the top of my game with both internal processes and current state laws and regulations. Additionally and equally as important, I think that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to work with just about anybody. I build relationships with people very easily, and I always try my best to be an exemplary team player. I am an advocate of knowledge transfer, so I am always willing to help or train my team members in my strong areas, and I look for the same advice when I am in need of counsel. I hope that I join a team that will foster this type of collaboration."

"I will say my greatest skills will be my attitude, my ability to solve problems, and my ability to stay focused and block out distractions. And always willing to learn new skills and knowledge."

Why do you want to work for PG&E?

"It's important that I work for a socially responsible organization. I like that PG&E has implemented a new water conservation program, and you donate many dollars and volunteer hours to local charities. You are a company with heart, and I value that in an employer."

Interviewing, hiring and onboarding are expensive and time-consuming endeavors, so it's important to recognize the reason behind each question. They want to ensure that they'll be able to meet their ideal candidate's career goals, just as they want to make sure that their ideal candidate can meet their recruiting requirements. It must be a symbiotic relationship. Assure the interviewer you are specifically interested in working for PG&E. Come prepared with examples of why PG&E is your top choice. Your examples could include how their culture seems to foster the environment you'd require to advance in your career or commenting on individual industry awards and accolades that PG&E has achieved in the past that align with your core values. Perhaps they are well known for their community outreach efforts or strong workplace culture. Make your answer engaging and genuine.

"The primary reasons your company stands out to me include your focus on employee development and continued education. You have a strong reputation for nurturing the human resources that you have. I would be so grateful to work here."

"One of the main reasons I want to work for PG&E, other than my general interest in the utility and construction industries, is because of all the great things I have heard from employees. From what I have heard and read, there are many opportunities for career advancement and the possibility for mobility within the organization. As a young person, the prospect of mobility within the organization sounds appealing."

"The first thing that attracted me has to be the position. Based on the job description, this is a position that I believe will challenge me, teach me new skills, and allow me to demonstrate my current skills in ways that I am not able to in my current role. Aside from that, I would be very fortunate to work for an industry leader. I assume that because PG&E is such a force to be reckoned with, departmental expectations and individual performance is held to a high standard. I would love to be a part of such an influential company."

"I want to work for PG&E because I know many people who vouch for how great of a company it is to work for. In my personal experience as a hiring hall employee, I have had nothing but good experiences in the workplace. My dad and several aunts and uncles have worked for the company and I would love to build a career and continue the legacy."

"One of the main reasons why I would like to work for PG&E is because I have an interest in utility & construction. Also, I have heard great things about the company from employees, and the career growth opportunities they offer."

Our industry is highly competitive. In your opinion, what are we doing right at PG&E? What could we do better?

"I understand this industry is very competitive; however, I have always seen PG&E as the industry leader. I enjoy how you relate to your customers through your marketing and branding efforts. It's all very relate-able content. If I could make one suggestion, I would comment on the user interface for your online job portal. I noticed that it isn't mobile-friendly. With 67% of job seekers being mobile users, you would likely see a strong increase in applicants by making your job portal mobile-friendly. Other than that, I like what I have experienced so far. I'm excited to have the opportunity to work at PG&E!"

Although the interviewer would like to hear your opinion about what they could be doing better, this isn't an invitation to dive into the things you don't like about PG&E. Keep your answer firmly focused on what PG&E is doing right. Offer a lighthearted suggestion for a small kaizen improvement rather than suggesting an uninformed opinion on how they should be innovating. Even better, if there are improvements an executive has mentioned in a piece of media, showcase your knowledge by highlighting those views as your own. Be sure to complete your answer on a positive note by complimenting PG&E and affirming that you want to work for them.

"PG&E is doing so many things right, which is why I am so excited to be meeting with you today! I like the fact that your employees are so happy to work here. Your online reviews are solid. If I could make a suggestion, I would recommend a more robust website as so many customers are on mobile."

"PG&E is doing a great job during the pandemic helping people in need pay their energy bills. Areas of improvement are gas maps and gas service records. There have been times when I pull up a GSR to locate gas distribution lines and the information is inaccurate."

"With the impeccable standards that PG&E have established since founded in 1905, the diversity since becoming the largest electric utility company in 1984 has changed and empowered people's lives. The six-month waiting period process for failing a pre-employment test can be pushed up to at least 4 months."

Why do you want to pursue a career opportunity in the utilities industry?

"I am passionate about the utility industry because these are essential services for any well-developed community. The utility industry allows me to tap into multiple career paths if desired. The diversity it offers is significant and exciting."

This question goes deeper than why you want to work for them. The interviewer wants to know why you chose a career path in this industry. Mapping out your professional journey should offer details about what motivates you and drives your passion for your career pursuits. PG&E is looking for motivated individuals who want to grow with them. The last thing the interviewer wants to hear is that you want to become a police officer, but the utility industry pays too much for you to walk away quite yet.

"My formal education and previous work history are related to the utility industry. I am excited to be considered for this position so I can further grow my experience in this industry."

"Based on my previous experience with the utility industry and construction industry, I enjoy the fast-paced work environment. Pragmatically, the utility industry also offers job security given the essential nature of the work."

"I am passionate about the utility industry because these are essential services for any well developed community. It is also an industry with so many branches. The ability to stretch my skills and possibly branch out to different areas is exciting."

Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

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

The path one follows on their career journey is rarely a straight line. There are often detours along the way. Perhaps you took a promotion that didn't further your career as you'd hoped or were hired by a company that didn't offer the room for advancement they'd led you to believe. For some, 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.

"I have been cautious when paving my career path. Things have gone very well for me so far, and I am thankful for that. This position with PG&E will be a perfect next step in my short and long-term career plan."

"Yes. I was on my way to my last position to eventually become a manager at the rate I was learning and growing. I am a fast learner and a competitive person so I look for growth in all ways and if I am not progressing, something I am doing is wrong."

"Not necessarily my career growth has been slower than I expected, there have been obstacles in my journey. But overall I have bounced back nicely and I feel that this opportunity will take my career to a greater destination with the growth and training PG&E offers."

PG&E has many different departments and growth opportunities. Where would you like to see your career go with us in the next couple of years?

"I noticed that PG&E has opportunities for management and new employee training. My goal is to become a corporate trainer with PG&E because I know the industry well and have been told I am a talented mentor and teacher. I believe there are many great opportunities for my career to flourish with PG&E, and I look forward to spending many years with your company."

PG&E wants to know if you are actively working towards your career goals and how this job fits into those goals. Consider if this position perfectly complements your career path or if you are waiting for something better to come along. Not only do they want to hear your goals, but they want to know how working for them will help you to accomplish those goals! Take a look at the job postings available with PG&E. Perhaps there is a particular location or department where you would like to transition. Talk to the interviewer about how you could see your career flourishing with PG&E.

"I have some pretty lofty career aspirations, and after researching your organization and learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits with my future aspirations. I would love to see myself promoted based on my hard work and results, eventually managing my team."

"Ideally, I would like to stay within HR. I have been in an HR capacity for the last 6 years and I really enjoy the work I do and the relationships I am able to build with the employees I serve. This is why I eventually went back to school to attain my masters degree in HR management last year. In the next 5 years, I would love to grow into a more senior or management position. I do consider myself a natural leader, but it would be a goal of mine to attain the title and be able to become a mentor to another person or people and grow their skills like leaders I have encountered have grown mine."

"I am currently interested in the role I have applied for, I would like to grow within the company and become a manager of my team with other opportunities for growth."

The utilities industry is highly regulated. How do you stay on top of policy changes and trends related to our business?

"My go-to resources for industry-related news are utilitydive.com and waterworld.com. I prefer these resources because I can subscribe to daily inbox updates and their monthly newsletters. Their sources are strong, and the content is always fresh. What are your favorite resources for industry trends and related news?"

The interviewer wants to see that you have a keen and sincere interest in the utility industry. Show that you see this as more than 'just a job.' Offer your methods to stay current on recent industry trends and policy changes. Share something new you've recently read that you found particularly interesting or exciting. Ask them to share their favorite industry resources. This question can start an informative conversation and potentially give you new resources and tools for industry-based knowledge.

"It is tough to keep up with the ever-changing policies in this industry. I have set up Google alerts for particular keywords. Also, I meet with a mentor once a month with a long-time career in the utility industry. During our meetings, we discuss the industry in great detail. I look forward to these meetings because I learn so much!"

"My current company sends out a weekly newsletter outlining notable news in the energy industry. I read through this every week to get an idea of the different names, policies, and standards in the industry. I also follow many different utility and energy companies on Linkedin to receive news updates. I would also be interested in any resources you could suggest since I am interested in learning more."

"I have to be honest, it is tough to keep up with industry related news and updates. One way I do this is by setting up google alerts. Google does a good job at sending me constant updates that pertain to my area or topics of interest. Sometimes, I will receive utility related updates, especially during the fires that were happening earlier in the year."

What questions do you have for me?

"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 interviewing for this position?"

Preparing questions before the interview and jotting down further questions throughout the interview communicates that you put time and thought into whether this position will complement your career path. That will show the interviewer that you have a sincere interest in pursuing this opportunity with them. Even if you wrote a question down before the interview that was answered through the interview set, still bring it up. You could say that you feel the question was already answered and then read the question and verify the answer to your question is correct. Even if it feels redundant, it communicates you put time and thought into it, which speaks volumes. Make sure you've spent appropriate time reviewing their information online. It will help you come up with questions and inform you which questions you could've answered yourself. 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 I can clarify for you? - What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past three years? - Is there any reason you would not hire me?

"Thank you, I do have a few questions. How do you measure performance in this position? Also, can you tell me more about the team I would be working with? Lastly, what a typical day would look like in this position?"

What would you do if a client asked you about a product or service, and you were unsure of the answer?

"If I had a client ask me about something that I didn't know enough about, I would find the answer for them before giving a potentially false answer. I am okay with admitting when I don't know something, and I love to learn new things. Of course, I would find the answer quickly by asking the appropriate person or finding it within the company's internal resources."

The interviewer wants to know if you are an independent thinker and can problem-solve in real time. You want to ensure you retain consumer confidence by coming across as well versed in all product offerings and being able to swiftly speak to their merits. Explaining how you would address such a scenario demonstrate your resourcefulness, quick thinking, communication skills, and experience level.

"I am accustomed to having to think on my feet and come up with a creative answer based on the information I have at hand. With that said, I'm not going to tell a client something that is untrue or could potentially create a long-term issue. I'm not afraid of putting myself in a position where I don't know everything or am not the expert. I am happy to get out of my comfort zone to grow, learn, and help a customer. I will not hesitate to involve the appropriate parties, do my research, and work collaboratively to solve the situation."

Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?

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

Your writing skills can reveal a lot about you, from your education level to how actively you read, just as speaking eloquently can speak to your professionalism, and ubiquitously using speech crutches, such as using the word 'like,' can say the opposite. Emphasize the value you place on effective communication, whether written or verbal, recognizing how it can affect every aspect of the operations of a business.

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

"I am a better verbal communicator but I am able to communicate things verbally or written precisely and concisely."

"Given my past working in a call center, I feel I communicate effectively with both verbal and written communication. Over the phone, there needs to be a level of professionalism and empathy to assist the customer or associate with their needs. Written communication is vital for emailing sensitive or confidential information and for follow-up."

Sometimes our customers have trouble understanding their bill and reach out to us with questions. Tell me about your communication skills and how you would respond to an irate customer.

"A customer called last week because her bill was twice the amount she expected. She was distraught because her bill had always consistently been the same. I listened, let her know I understood where she was coming from, and ensured her I would move as quickly as I could to find a solution. Listening and empathizing helped her calm down and eased the tension during the call. My manager agreed that we would discount her bill by half one time. She was happy, and we kept a customer complaint from blowing out of proportion."

Communicating effectively with a customer who is having trouble understanding something, having difficulty controlling their emotions, and having trouble communicating is a challenging task. The interviewer wants to hear about a situation where you used your customer service and communication skills while effectively managing your emotions. Highlight your ability to maintain a relaxed demeanor, de-escalate, and communicate non-defensively while finding a solution that works for both parties.

"Irate customers usually just want to be heard. If I came across an unhappy customer, I would ask them to tell me more about what was bothering them. Once I have a clear understanding of the problem, I can then ask the customer to tell me what a viable solution would be for them."

"My previous position as a season ticket holder rep was always dealing with questions that ticket holders had. They often wanted to know why their account was charged on the date that it was and when these calls came in the customers usually weren't happy. I would hear their questions first and let them get out what they want to say and then I would just explain how the payment and billing worked and eventually once they understood, it wasn't a problem. It was all about being relaxed with the customer and hearing them out, then given them the correct information so they understand."

At PG&E, we believe in continued education opportunities. What course or workshop would you take if given the opportunity?

"I agree that continued education is essential. If given the opportunity to take any coursework, I would like to complete my Project Manager certificate. Being PM certified would help me manage the aspects of our commercial utility projects more efficiently. Do you have a recommendation for any courses I could be taking to strengthen my skill set?"

The interviewer would like to know that you have a keen interest in gaining new skills by continuing your education when the opportunity arises. It will speak to your career goals and pursuits and communicate your determination to further your career. Tell the interviewer about any course you would like to take and how it fits into your five-year career plan. Be sure to keep your answer industry-related.

"That is a great question, and I appreciate that you consider continued education options for your employees. If I could take any related coursework, I would choose to learn more about the future of electric utilities and organizational behavior. Are there any particular courses you recommend that I take?"

"I would like to enroll in the Engineer Rotational Development Program, an 18-month program in partnership with Stanford University, which gives employees the opportunity to earn a PG&E Engineering Management certification. I would also be interested in a Project Management certification. Do you have other recommendations?"

"Anything! I have always had a love for learning and I believe that every and any skill is worth having because it differentiates you. If I were offered the opportunity at any training or workshop, I would take it. However, if I had to choose, I am especially interested in management trainings (how to be an influential leader, how to manage a team well, how to mitigate an issue between two people, training and development). Anything in that arena would be ideal."

"I would continue my education in utilities to further my knowledge in the industry. I have researched schools that are relevant to the company like the College of San Mateo."

"I strongly believe in continued education opportunities. Given the opportunity, I would like to enroll in a construction management course. I enjoy building things, working in a team, and seeing the fruit of our labor when it is completed. Is there a course you would recommend I should take to reach that goal?"

How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require additional hours from me. Never have I underdelivered on a deadline."

Advertise your adaptability to shifting priorities. It's perfectly natural to want to see a project you are involved in through to its completion. But when a greater need arises, the team is counting on you to be able to let go and address the greater need. Explain how you approach your work and the systems you employ. Exhibit an ability to shift priorities without losing progress, without creating rework, and without losing momentum.

"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact."

"Budget, deadline, customer priority."

"In my current position, I am processing order closures for corrective work on electric transmission poles, and based on the priority of the tag (A, B, COE, E &F tags) I will complete the highest priority first. I work with a team in my department and communication and at times delegation is also vital for making sure high and low priority projects are done in an appropriate time."

"I determine my priorities by making a list of all the tasks that need to be completed. Then I identify which tasks are urgent, a task that needs my immediate attention, and which task is an important, task that has significant worth or consequence. I also am flexible and adaptable so I can plan for the unexpected."

How do you manage a large workload?

"When I have a large workload, I do not stress over the tasks in front of me. Rather, I make a simple plan of which tasks are a high priority and which are a low priority. The higher priority tasks, I complete first. Through this system, I can focus on my tasks individually, rather than stress out by the tasks ahead of me."

Start your answer by clarifying with the interviewer that you never let a large workload stress you out. Think about all the moving components a large workload has. From shifting priorities to competing deadlines, you'll want to exhibit a strong propensity for multitasking and tracking your progress. Convey you have strong attention to detail, ensuring the quality of your work while considering all of the systems and tricks of the trade you employ to ensure your work is on time, meeting deadlines, and consistently exceeding quality standards. Explain how you approach a heavy workload without it bleeding into your personal life or requiring you to repeatedly request overtime hours. Speak with confidence, and present your answer in a highly organized manner. Doing so will demonstrate you are a highly organized person with effective systems that you know like the back of your hand.

"I focus on 3/4 things. Organize, prioritize, time manage, and communication."

"When tackling a large workload, I like to map out how I will manage to complete the tasks and allow for times in which I may get pulled away if a colleague requires assistance or if urgent emails come in while working. Keeping myself from getting overwhelmed is key to working efficiently and having a plan in place gives a sense of security."

"I try not to stress over the workload that I have. I usually break down a large workload into smaller work tasks. This reason I can stay clear-minded and focused, and do not get overwhelmed. I then make a list of all the tasks, identify which is urgent and important, and tackle each task."

It seems that your resume is missing certain skills necessary for this position. How do you plan to compensate for these missing skills?

"Could you share with me which specific skills you feel are not standing out? I would be happy to clarify those skills. If there are gaps that need filling, I am very willing to take additional coursework or training."

Most job descriptions have a long list of requirements. While most of these skills are prerequisites, a hiring manager is aware that this sometimes is more of a wish list, realizing that they can't always expect to find a candidate that checks ALL THE boxes. Therefore, they might overlook some of these if you have other transferable skills that are a fair substitute for those required skills you may lack. Such transferable skills could make the training investment in a new candidate a worthwhile pursuit.Do not fret if you are missing some of the "nice to have" or even a couple of "must-have" skills listed in the job description. Be open about your shortcomings and discuss with the interviewer how you plan to compensate for those.

"I am a fast learner and I will learn the skills necessary. I am able to teach myself skills and I am not afraid to ask questions by any means. Therefore, the skills will be learned one way or another."

"I am happy to discuss any concerns with my skills and experience on my resume. Any skills you feel I am lacking for this position, I would make a priority to develop within the span of my training or probation period if hired, and if not will continue to develop to make myself a more valuable candidate in the future."

"Can you please share with me which skills I'm missing? If they're gaps in my resume I will be happy to take the recommended course & classes needed to acquire the skills."

What are your salary expectations?

"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."

Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. You can also use this opportunity to ask about other factors that could affect your number, such as bonuses, incentives, insurance, retirement, and any other benefits they may offer. Take the time to compose the value of all the benefits and perks your previous employers offered you when determining the worth of your experience level.

"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."

Have you personally used the services of PG&E? If so, what was your overall experience?

"I have been a customer of PG&E for three years now. My experience has been a positive one. I specifically recall last year when my invoice was incorrect. I called the customer service line, and the representative was helpful and friendly. I have recommended PG&E to my friends and family in the past."

Determining if you are a customer or not will tell the interviewer how familiar you are with their services and customer experience. If you are a customer, explain to them how long you have been one, and frame your experience in a positive light. If you're not a customer of PG&E, consider calling their office to inquire about their utility services. This way, you can comment on the customer service that you received. Big or small, be prepared to say YES - you have experienced PG&E first hand.

"I have not been a direct customer of PG&E; however, I called your customer service department a couple of weeks ago to discuss the possibility of changing my services over to you. Unfortunately, I am on a contract with one of your competitors until the end of November. My experience with PG&E was great, so I will be switching over to you as soon as I am able."

"My girlfriend's apartment uses PG&E electric and gas, and I have only heard and experienced positive things. The prices are affordable and we've never had any issues with the service."

"I have been a customer of PG&E for 3 years now. The service has been phenomenal. The one thing that stands out to me is the transparency this company offers to their customers. I appreciate the constant updates I receive via email and notifications of potential power outages so that I can plan accordingly. Unfortunately, this is not the type of communication that many companies have with their consumers which creates a lot of animosity and frustration. I truly think PG&E is a pioneer in this."

"I am currently a PG&E customer, and in my experience the website is easy to navigate my needs with locating previous billing statements and updating payment methods. When calling in to customer service, I've always dealt with reps that were efficient and friendly."

Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?

"I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."

Terminations and corrective discipline measures can be very difficult to handle. With experience, they do get easier. Talk to the interviewer about the extent of your experience with terminations and delivering disciplinary measures. Explain how you cope with the stress and effectively communicate to avoid losing control of such situations. Exhibit your high EQ by discussing the relatable difficulties in delivering or taking part in such measures while affirming why they are necessary, regardless of being a hard part of the job.

"I have not been in a position to perform terminations or hold corrective discipline meetings; however, I would be willing to perform these types of tasks with a small amount of training and research."

Describe your leadership skills.

"In previous employer reviews, my leadership style was described as attentive, open, and confident. I will always listen to my team and give them the benefit of the doubt when it comes to their performance. An example of this would be with my current sales team. When one of my team members is not hitting their quota, I will step in and begin coaching. I want to believe they know their job unless they show me otherwise. This type of leadership has worked well with my team, and we are the #1 sales team in our region."

This question is not asking whether you were in a leadership position. This question is trying to evaluate everything you might have to offer the company, including whether you have any leadership experience or leadership potential. This will help them determine your motivators and any growth opportunities you might show promise for. If the position you are interviewing for requires leadership skills, you need to come prepared with examples of when you have been an active leader. If this is an entry-level role without a leadership component, the interviewer wants to see that you can take the initiative when there is an opportunity.

"I have taken many workshops and courses to improve my leadership skills. My leadership qualities are best summed up as dedicated, attentive, and motivating. I like to recognize my employees' small wins because that motivates them to continue achieving."

"I have been a leader and a follower at different times in my life, in my career, and in sports. I know what it takes to be both. I feel I am a natural leader as I am not afraid to tell people what to do and how to do it. One of the main skills a leader must have when leading others is being able to do the skill they are demanding. I make sure I learn what I want from others in some aspect."

When do you best demonstrate yourself as a leader?

"I best demonstrate myself as a leader when I know that a coworker could use my assistance. I seem to be a natural teacher and mentor, which means that when someone is struggling, my first instinct is to train them. Recently, I coached a new employee on a sales technique that helped her achieve her quota for the first time. I look forward to working in this role with you because it will allow me to take on further leadership opportunities."

The interviewer wants to know what leadership roles you prefer to be involved in. They also want to ensure you are confident with your leadership abilities and that you understand when your leadership abilities have been most useful. Back up your claims by offering a recent example. Discuss the scenario and how your leadership skills made the difference.

"In my current position, every time my current manager is away, I take on the role of leader for our team. This situation usually occurs one day per week. When you call him for a reference, he will be able to tell you that I have naturally stepped into the responsibilities associated with being a leader."

Do you have reliable transportation?

"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."

Even if you're not expected to drive for your job, you will need to have some form of reliable transportation. If you take the bus or ride a bike, that works too! Merely share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time. But don't feel a need to overindulge. Unless it is a job requirement to possess a car, it is illegal to ask if you have a car in a job interview. Asking if you have reliable transportation is permitted but is often a round-about way of getting you to volunteer if you have a car. Those who don't have a car might be prone to a variety of attendance issues, such as not effectively managing your time and missing your bus or your train, or blaming your attendance issues on your bus not stopping or your train running late. Not owning a car can lead to bias against hiring you. With this question, a simple yes will suffice.

"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year, and that was due to a snowstorm that stalled all of our employees' commutes - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."

PG&E Interview Questions

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1. If we hire you at PG&E, how will you make an impact in the first 90 days?
2. How do you handle stress?
3. On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?
4. How can we motivate you on the job?
5. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?
6. How do you respond to feedback?
7. Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond.
8. Tell me about yourself.
9. Tell me about the most important skill you gained in the past year. How will that skill help you succeed in this role with PG&E?
10. What are your greatest strengths? How will these skills benefit PG&E if hired?
11. Why do you want to work for PG&E?
12. Our industry is highly competitive. In your opinion, what are we doing right at PG&E? What could we do better?
13. Why do you want to pursue a career opportunity in the utilities industry?
14. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
15. PG&E has many different departments and growth opportunities. Where would you like to see your career go with us in the next couple of years?
16. The utilities industry is highly regulated. How do you stay on top of policy changes and trends related to our business?
17. What questions do you have for me?
18. What would you do if a client asked you about a product or service, and you were unsure of the answer?
19. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
20. Sometimes our customers have trouble understanding their bill and reach out to us with questions. Tell me about your communication skills and how you would respond to an irate customer.
21. At PG&E, we believe in continued education opportunities. What course or workshop would you take if given the opportunity?
22. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
23. How do you manage a large workload?
24. It seems that your resume is missing certain skills necessary for this position. How do you plan to compensate for these missing skills?
25. What are your salary expectations?
26. Have you personally used the services of PG&E? If so, what was your overall experience?
27. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?
28. Describe your leadership skills.
29. When do you best demonstrate yourself as a leader?
30. Do you have reliable transportation?

PG&E Interview Questions

1. If we hire you at PG&E, how will you make an impact in the first 90 days?

2. How do you handle stress?

3. On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?

4. How can we motivate you on the job?

5. Would you be willing to work over 40 hours a week?

6. How do you respond to feedback?

7. Give me an example of a time you went above and beyond.

8. Tell me about yourself.

9. Tell me about the most important skill you gained in the past year. How will that skill help you succeed in this role with PG&E?

10. What are your greatest strengths? How will these skills benefit PG&E if hired?

11. Why do you want to work for PG&E?

12. Our industry is highly competitive. In your opinion, what are we doing right at PG&E? What could we do better?

13. Why do you want to pursue a career opportunity in the utilities industry?

14. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

15. PG&E has many different departments and growth opportunities. Where would you like to see your career go with us in the next couple of years?

16. The utilities industry is highly regulated. How do you stay on top of policy changes and trends related to our business?

17. What questions do you have for me?

18. What would you do if a client asked you about a product or service, and you were unsure of the answer?

19. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?

20. Sometimes our customers have trouble understanding their bill and reach out to us with questions. Tell me about your communication skills and how you would respond to an irate customer.

21. At PG&E, we believe in continued education opportunities. What course or workshop would you take if given the opportunity?

22. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

23. How do you manage a large workload?

24. It seems that your resume is missing certain skills necessary for this position. How do you plan to compensate for these missing skills?

25. What are your salary expectations?

26. Have you personally used the services of PG&E? If so, what was your overall experience?

27. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?

28. Describe your leadership skills.

29. When do you best demonstrate yourself as a leader?

30. Do you have reliable transportation?