30 PulteGroup Interview Questions & Answers
1. Do you have more experience in resale or new home sales? Which do you prefer, and why?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to ensure that your experience will align nicely with the goals PulteGroup has set for their organization and this role. Take a few minutes to bring your resume to life for the interviewer; being sure to address your experience in resale and new home sales. Since PulteGroup has a significant focus on new residential home builds, be sure to express your interest in this particular avenue.
1st Answer Example
"My career started in selling old homes, as an assistant to my father who was a Realtor. Gradually, I became focused on new home sales as my portfolio grew, and our city expanded. Today, I am more experienced in new home sales. I prefer new home sales because it allows me to better collaborate with my clients on their needs, and I can offer them unique customizations."
2nd Answer Example
"New home sales is my preference since I have the most knowledge in this area, due to my education in construction. For me, it's exciting to see a client walk through a spec home and then be able to make customizations to their actual home, based on their lifestyle and design preferences."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
2. What are some advantages to purchasing a new build versus an older home?
How to Answer
Since the primary focus of PulteGroup is on new home builds, it's best that you come to your interview with an understanding of the differences and advantages of building a new home versus purchasing an older home.
Some of these advantages include:
- Clients can customize the home
- Less competition and bidding wars, so you never overpay
- You have a fresh, clean start rather than having to do renovations
- Your home is more likely to be modern and up to date
- A new home will be more energy efficient since it's made with newer materials
Discuss with the interviewer what you believe to be the advantages; showing that you are prepared to overcome any client objections.
1st Answer Example
"There are many advantages that I can express to PulteGroup clients when it comes to building a home with us versus purchasing an older home. Most exciting, in my opinion, is all of the customizations that can take place. From details such as floor plan, cabinetry, flooring, and hardware; a new home builder will allow you to have a say in so much more! Who doesn't love the idea of moving into a house that was built just for them."
2nd Answer Example
"New home smell! Do I have to say more? Really though, there are so many advantages to building new. If I had a client hesitating on a new home versus an old one, I would show them how much more energy efficient their new home is, compared to an older home. I would show them the fact that they pay for what they want, and can skip what they don't want. When buying an older home; you just get what you get. Also, a new home will be more modern, making it better for resale down the road."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
3. What is your approach to ensuring that a client reads and understands all of the details in their home-buyer contract?
How to Answer
Home-buyer contracts are long, and they cover every nitty-gritty detail you could imagine. They may be yawn-worthy, but they sure are necessary!
The last thing PulteGroup would want is for a client to back out of a sale because they felt nervous over the small print. Discuss with the interviewer what you do to make sure that your clients are comfortable before signing on the dotted line.
1st Answer Example
"The first thing that I do with my clients is I walk them through each section of the contract, using layman's terms. It's essential that I take the time to ensure they know what specific industry terms mean and how they relate to them as a home buyer. If I notice that my client has more questions, or they seem confused, I will revisit any area where they seem to feel stuck. Lastly, if there is still any unclear area, I will call our in-house real-estate lawyer to chat with the clients and answer any of their questions."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been guilty of breezing over the fine print when it comes to large purchases for myself, such as a home or vehicle. I want my clients to feel comfortable asking any questions about their home-buyer contract. For this reason, I would walk them through each section of the contract, explaining certain terms in a way that we can all understand."
4. Competition in the home building realm is fierce. In your opinion, what sets PulteGroup apart from our local competitors?
How to Answer
The hiring authority needs to see that you have done your homework when it comes to the competitive landscape of home building in your region. Take a look at the PulteGroup website, look for times they have been in the news or won any awards for exceptional work. Perhaps they stand out by longevity, how much they give back to the community or the number of 5-star reviews present online.
1st Answer Example
"You are the longest-running business in this region when it comes to mid-level and luxury home building. I appreciate the fact that you give so much back to the community, including the hours that your teams invest in charities such as Habitat for Humanity every year. I am excited to join such a seasoned team of thoughtful building professionals."
2nd Answer Example
"What sets PulteGroup apart are the hundreds of positive reviews I read online from happy customers! Your homes are beautiful, and the feedback is consistent; you produce high-quality homes that people can afford."
5. How many homes do you think we build and sell every year? Tell me about the volume you are accustomed to managing.
How to Answer
You should be able to find the answer to this on the PulteGroup website. If the answer is not there, it's okay to ask! Although your number may be a guesstimate, it's more important to the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to manage a large volume of work.
1st Answer Example
"I read on your website that you build around 120 homes per year, which is a very significant volume. PulteGroup has helped to develop some of my favorite homes in a variety of neighborhoods across this region, and I look forward to contributing to those projects. I currently manage around 15 new builds at a time, and around 45 per year. I am confident that I can take hold of the project volume here with full competency."
2nd Answer Example
"I looked for this information online and, although I could not find an exact number, I have the impression that you are very busy considering you took home the 'Top Homebuilder of the Year' award for the past three years running. Could you tell me more about the project volume that you handle and the volume in this specific role?"
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Marcie's Feedback
6. Have you ever been in charge of contractors or trades people? If so, how many, and under what job descriptions?
How to Answer
The answer to this question should be straightforward for you. List for the interviewer how many people you have led, what their job titles were, and a bit about yourself as a leader. If you do not have leadership experience, lean on an example of a time when you led others without leadership being a formal requirement of the job.
1st Answer Example
"I have led teams of up to 25 people; including general contractors, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and junior project managers. I take pride in being a communicative leader who expresses deadlines and clear expectations from the start. My strength is in gaining buy-in from the team as a whole, ensuring a harmonious work environment with a focus on safety."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career, so my leadership responsibilities have not been formal; however, I do tend to take on a leadership style role in a group setting. Even while attending university, I had a keen ability to keep teams working well together on major group-based projects. I look forward to gaining even more leadership experience with PulteGroup and, one day, leading a team of my own here."
7. How do you manage your projects and all the moving parts that come along with new home builds?
How to Answer
This question is your opportunity to show off your exceptional organizational skills! Talk to the hiring authority about the number of projects that you have on the go, and how you keep track of it all. Assure the interviewer that you are well-organized and capable of handling a significant volume of work. If you are new to your career, you can lean on the fact that you had many projects and assignments on the go while attending post-secondary studies.
1st Answer Example
"I manage my projects through the use of a team-based project management system called Trello. Do you use a similar tool here at PulteGroup? When given a new project to start, I plug in all the information, files, deadlines, and requirements into Trello so that everything is in one place. From the big picture to the finer details that come with the home building industry, myself and my team can easily access it all."
2nd Answer Example
"While in university, I became a huge fan of prioritization, using my iCalendar, and color coding tasks according to urgency. I plan to use a similar style of project organization here at PulteGroup, to help me stay on top of every important project detail."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
8. Do you belong to any professional home builder or real estate associations?
How to Answer
Your answer will be straightforward considering you have the experience, or you do not. You might have professional associations or memberships listed on your resume; however, the interviewer may want you to go into further detail on your level of involvement.
If you do not belong to any professional home builder or real estate associations, you could ask the interviewer for recommendations in the area. By asking for recommendations, you are showing enthusiasm and a desire to be part of the industry.
1st Answer Example
"For the past six years I have been a member of the ABC Home Builders Excellence Association, and this year, plan to run for a seat on the board. I gain a lot of value from this group in the form of networking and learning about changes in our industry, and it's strict regulations."
2nd Answer Example
"I would love some recommendations on where to start when it comes to associations or groups where I can become involved. A career in home building is my ultimate desire, and I am open to any experiences that will help me to network and gain a better footing in this industry."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Marcie's Feedback
9. Walk me through your construction or real estate related education.
How to Answer
An education in construction or real estate may not be a requirement at PulteGroup but related education is always a bonus. Your education may be in the form of a formal degree, online coursework, workshops, or certifications. If your education is not related to the industry, take some time to think about the ways that your training will translate to this particular position.
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelor of Science in Construction Project Management from XYZ University. My courses focused on communication and presentation skills, technical mathematics, materials and methods of construction, and project cost estimation. I was top of my class in most of the technical coursework and found that to be my specialty. This education has helped me to carve out a very successful career in the residential home building space."
2nd Answer Example
"My formal education is in Business Analysis. Although not specific to construction, home building, or real estate; my knowledge is still highly transferable. Valuable coursework comes in the form of math, research, and engineering topics. If you require specific construction related coursework, I am happy to add this to my career plan."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Marcie's Feedback
10. How do you feel about being in charge of building someone's dream home?
How to Answer
Building a dream home for someone sounds like an incredible challenge, and a fun one! But, it isn't all sunshine and rainbows, either. The interviewer would like to see that you have a reasonable idea of what it will take to complete a home building project, successfully. Show your awareness of the hard work involved, and make sure that your passion for this industry shines through.
1st Answer Example
"The thought of being in charge of building someone's dream home is exhilarating and humbling at the same time. I love that I could work for PulteGroup where clients have a deep trust that you will deliver exceptional quality on the biggest purchase of their lives. Rest assured, I will do everything it takes to meet the incredible standards you have set."
2nd Answer Example
"One of the reasons I was so excited to join the PulteGroup team is because of your stellar reputation for delivering projects that people are proud to call home. I very much look forward to being a part of building someone's dream home. I do know that realistically, it isn't all excitement and design; however, I plan to embrace every element that comes with the process of building a dream home."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
11. Home buyers expect service outside of the regular 9-5. How do you feel about working evenings, weekends, and some holidays?
How to Answer
In the real estate and residential home building industry, work hours often occur outside of 'the norm,' and the interviewer wants to see that you can deliver what they need from you despite an irregular schedule.
Talk about times when you have worked outside of the usual 9-5. Be sure to mention any restrictions that you may have, while positioning them as a positive rather than a negative.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that the home building industry works out of the typical 9-5 schedule. I am happy to be available when needed; either by my leadership, my clients, contractors, or vendors and suppliers. In my current position, I do have the freedom to come and go to ensure my kids are picked up from school and brought home. With that said, I keep my work cell on 24/7 and am always just a phone call away."
2nd Answer Example
"Being new to my career, I am more than happy to work any hours required of me; whether that be weekends, evenings, or holidays. I completely understand that clients often work during the day so they may need to make calls or site visits outside of typical hours."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
12. What are the most common objections you expect to hear from new home buyers in this market?
How to Answer
This answer may require some research on your part, to get to know the market conditions in your particular region. In general, residential home builders will come across common objections that include budget, competition, location, loyalty to another builder or agent, fear of not selling their existing home, or even cold feet! Discuss what you find to be the most common objections in your market.
1st Answer Example
"What I have found, primarily in the past six months, is that buyers have too many choices. The residential homebuilding options have exploded in our region, and every person with some design taste has decided to build homes to flip. When I come across this objection, I ask my potential clients to keep focused only on the most reputable builders and leave the new or 'one-off' builders out of the equation. It's imperative to me that my clients purchase a quality product, to avoid disaster and disappointment down the road."
2nd Answer Example
"I imagine that the most common objections that PulteGroup hears from clients would be based on price. I know that your product is premium and that you use only the best materials, which means that your pricing is more on the luxury end. I think it's great that you maintain integrity in your pricing, never competing with other builders who cut their prices down by the thousands just to move their product."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
13. If hired at PulteGroup, how will you source new sales opportunities?
How to Answer
PulteGroup wants to know if you have a sales or marketing plan in mind. It's a good idea to come to your interview prepared with some ideas on how you will make an impact shortly after being hired. In the home building and real estate realm, there are plenty of ways for you to drum up new clients and opportunities. Discuss how you will be a success story, from the start!
1st Answer Example
"If PulteGroup hires me, I will source new sales opportunities by first warm calling the leads that have gone dry in the past 12 months. From there, I will ask for referrals from happy clients of the past. Some other marketing strategies of mine include strategic social media posts to garner interest from your target customer demographic."
2nd Answer Example
"I know there are a few home shows that come through our city every year. I will gain some opportunity and exposure through this trade show circuit. I am good with online marketing, so I plan to begin a social media account focused on the design and beauty that PulteGroup delivers. I will also comb through the CRM to uncover potential prospects and leads that have gone cold."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
14. Do you have experience creating or managing a marketing plan for establishing new customer relationships?
How to Answer
If you are applying to a sales or marketing role with PulteGroup, chances are you have some experience with marketing plans for building new customer interest in the residential home building space. Discuss the knowledge you bring in generating new leads, and the part you have played in sales and marketing plans.
If you do not have experience in creating a marketing plan or working within one, be sure to mention that you are here to learn and grow. Enthusiasm will be the key to a successful response for you.
1st Answer Example
"I have around seven years of experience in sales and marketing with a focus on new client development. For most of my career, I have been in business development, creating plans for customer attraction and prospecting. I am excellent in managing marketing plans, which includes analyzing the ROI of the approaches that I put into motion."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent marketing graduate, so the bulk of my experience is from projects that I put together while obtaining my degree, and the case studies that I immersed myself in, during that time. I am very open to learning new tips and tricks to establishing new customer relationships, increasing revenue, and how a solid marketing plan plays a role in achieving those goals."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
15. What is your preferred approach for networking and reaching out to local realtors?
How to Answer
This question is hyper-targeted to your specific approach in networking. Show the interviewer that you have a keen interest in growing your local network, which will only increase your success with PulteGroup.
If you do not have experience in networking, because you are new to your career, you can answer this question hypothetically. Be sure to display an understanding of the fact that networking is key to success in the residential home building industry.
1st Answer Example
"My preferred approach for networking and reaching out to local realtors includes cold calling and attending industry events. I am an outgoing person and find that I make the most meaningful connections when I am on the phone or face to face with someone, versus sending them a stale email! I am an active part of the sales network in our area, and look forward to bringing my connections with me when I join the PulteGroup team."
2nd Answer Example
"I did some networking when looking for an internship in the residential home building sector. I joined ABC Builders Group and met some wonderful people who were willing to help me get a great start in my career. If hired at PulteGroup I will continue to attend industry events. If you have recommendations for me, that would be great. I am eager to jump on new opportunities to network."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
16. Tell me about your experience working alongside sales, accounting, purchasing, land development, and production departments.
How to Answer
The purpose of this question is to uncover your ability to work cross-departmentally or cross-functionally. The homebuilding industry requires all hands on deck to complete a project successfully so, PulteGroup needs to be very mindful of hiring only team players. If you do not have experience working collaboratively, or if you come from a very independent work environment, that is okay too. Discuss how you are looking forward to working in a team-focused environment.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I work alongside two project managers at all times. Everything we do requires a high level of communication and organization. I completely understand the importance of collaborating with all stakeholders in these high-level residential projects."
2nd Answer Example
"My jobs have all been highly independent; but I have still answered to supervisors across a variety of departments including human resources, sales, and legal. What makes me a great team player is that I communicate often and clearly, I am a good listener who takes direction very well, and I am self-aware, ensuring that I do not overstep in my role as a junior project manager. I am here to learn and collaborate."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
17. On a scale of 1-10, how familiar are you with safety standards in accordance with OSHA and state regulations?
How to Answer
When asked to rate yourself on a scale of 1-10, it's essential to find a healthy balance. You certainly do not want to lowball yourself and give a lower rating than deserved. And, you want to avoid looking over-confident or uncoachable by giving yourself a 10. Generally, if it's true, a score somewhere in the 8-9 range shows a balance of confidence but a willingness to learn and improve. Be prepared to back your answer with examples or facts.
1st Answer Example
"When it comes to safety standards and state regulations, I rate my knowledge as an 8.5 out of 10. I have worked in construction and new home building in this region for the past ten years. There is always room for improvement as regulations and code are continually updated; however, I do put in a significant amount of effort to remain in-the-know through updates from my association memberships and the odd workshop that I attend throughout the year."
2nd Answer Example
"My knowledge of OSHA and state regulations are pretty basic, perhaps a 6, considering I am new to the industry. With that said, I am eager to learn and will start studying these right away so that I have the knowledge required to gain a successful start at PulteGroup."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
18. Are you experienced when it comes to vendor management and negotiations?
How to Answer
In home building, you may need to work with vendors and suppliers to set project expectations and deliverables. You may, perhaps even be required to spend some time negotiating points like pricing, shipping, and deadlines.
Walk the interviewer through any experience you have dealing directly with vendors. Include details such as who you have dealt with, how many times you would be in contact per week, the value of your major vendor accounts or perhaps how much money you have saved your company by establishing great relationships and being offered excellent deals.
1st Answer Example
"I work with around 50 different vendors, all in a different capacity. My largest vendor relationship is with ABC Suppliers. We speak around three times per week as our company spends millions with them every year. We have a great working relationship, and I can gain the best rates and expedited shipping because of this rapport. I am certain that I will accomplish the same, working with the vendors and suppliers you use here at PulteGroup."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position, I help with vendor management when a project manager needs someone to help out due to overflow; however, it is not part of my typical position duties. With that said, I am very comfortable speaking with vendors and suppliers and negotiating deals."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
19. What is a House-in-Progress report, and what should it include?
How to Answer
The interviewer is testing your depth of knowledge when it comes to residential home building. In short, a House-in-Progress report is a checklist or tool used by a home builder to ensure that everyone is on the same page as far as expectations and deadlines go.
These reports are especially helpful for construction crews, project managers, and customer service/sales teams to maintain clear communication. Even if you are new to the residential home building industry, you should have a basic understanding of what should go on this type of report.
1st Answer Example
"In my current job we call them Construction Reports and they include a room-to-room checklist for the project manager to complete daily, and weekly. It's important that this report include expected dates of completion, room for trades professionals to sign off on their work, special instructions, and a section for budget vs. costs."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that a House-in-Progress report is a breakdown of a project which allows every stakeholder to follow along, including the new homeowner. A report like this should probably include budget compared to actual costs, expected completion dates, special notes, and places for sign-offs to happen."
20. Are you experienced when it comes to showing homes, models, or sites?
How to Answer
If you have worked in the real estate, or home builder industry, you likely have experience selling a variety of property types such as new homes, older homes, or even bare land. The interviewer would like to get a better idea of your range of experience. Be sure to express the areas you have worked, explicitly highlighting the areas of real estate in which you are most comfortable working.
If you are newer to your career and do not have a lot of experience in any particular area, you can focus your response on the fact that you are willing and ready to learn the aspects that matter most to PulteGroup.
1st Answer Example
"For the past five years I have worked for a new home builder, selling dream homes from model homes and specs. I have also sold plots of land for future residential home development. What drew me to this job posting was the fact that PulteGroup develops many luxury homes every year, in some of the most desired neighborhoods in this region. I look forward to bringing my new home sales experience to work for you."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to my career and eager to learn everything that I can when it comes to new home sales and even the sale of land for residential and commercial development."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
21. Are you familiar with any CRM software? If so, how have you used a CRM to help you be more efficient at work?
How to Answer
A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) program allows you to view a customers' history, see the progress of their home build project, track sales prospects, and more. An effective CRM will allow PulteGroup to focus on driving sales, track customer retention, and never lose a lead.
Discuss which CRM systems you know best. It's a good idea to ask the interviewer which system they use at PulteGroup so that you can address any experience you have with it, further solidifying the fact that you are a fit for their needs.
Some favorite CRM's in the residential home building industry include:
- Buildertrend
- CoConstruct
- Procore
- Jonas Enterprise / Jonas Premier...and many more!
1st Answer Example
"In my earlier career, I used Microsoft Dynamics, which allows easy customer management on a larger scale, through a variety of industries. Since joining the home building industry, I have worked primarily within the Contractor's Software Group CRM. I like it because it's well suited for small to mid-sized companies who need a system that combines sales, accounting, estimating, and project management all in one. Could you share with me the CRM you use at PulteGroup? I would love to get a head start on learning this system."
2nd Answer Example
"The CRM I am most familiar with is Salesforce. I love that it is cloud-based, allowing me to access data from anywhere. It's an excellent resource for marketing, sales, and customer service along with project management departments, making it a robust choice for the home building industry. I read in your job description that you use Salesforce at PulteGroup, which is great news as this will reduce the time it takes to have me fully trained for the job!"
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
22. What do you plan to accomplish in the first 90 days of working for PulteGroup?
How to Answer
PulteGroup is very goals and target-based. They have to be, considering there are so many moving parts to each home building project they set out to complete.
It's always a great idea to have a 90-day plan prepared when you go into an interview; especially if you are in a sales, management, or project-based interview where immediate action and results are expected, upon hire. If you are applying to a sales role, be prepared to discuss numbers and how you plan to boost these numbers after your arrival.
1st Answer Example
"First, I will take ownership of my training and overall learning curve by studying the ins and outs of this role on evenings and weekends. Second, in the first 90 days, I will call every lead that has gone cold in the past six months. Third, I plan to be on a full sales budget by 60 days. I want to exceed the expectations set on me here at PulteGroup."
2nd Answer Example
"My first 90 days will be spent focused on learning your product and processes. I understand that you have (x) number of vendors, over (xx) contractors, and around (xx) projects on the go at one time. By knowing your processes inside and out, I can better contribute to your excellent customer service standard by providing second-to-none product knowledge. That would be a great accomplishment for me."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
23. The home building industry can be unpredictable at times. How do you react when there is a setback at work?
How to Answer
With home building projects, there are many variables present, which can make for an unpredictable workplace environment. No matter the position you are applying to, there will be situations out of your control. The interviewer would like to know how you react when it comes to unexpected setbacks. Show that you can cope with changes and pivot your approach, as needed.
1st Answer Example
"I come from a competitive sales environment that can be highly emotional, especially when big sales fall through or targets are not met. These emotions could get the better of me if I let them; which I do not. If I miss a goal or face a perceived failure, I visit what I could have done differently. I have learned to process situations and make unpredictable situations work for me rather than against me. For instance, last week, I had the sale of a $600K home fall through because the couple felt it was not their dream home. I turned this situation into an opportunity to upsell them to a higher luxury home for $70K more."
2nd Answer Example
"Setbacks can be disappointing, but they happen. Luckily, I am a very pragmatic thinker and can remain focused despite unexpected challenges. If needed, I will debrief with my manager and make a plan for avoiding a similar situation in the future."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
24. Tell me about some professional goals you have set for yourself this year.
How to Answer
The home building industry is always working to improve and shift to new trends, which means that PulteGroup wants employees on board who love the idea of enhancing themselves professionally, as well.
Show the interviewer that you have the motivation and desire to develop yourself personally, and professionally. Perhaps you have engaged a mentor, or set some lofty sales goals for yourself this year. Whatever your approach may be, be sure to tie it into how this goal will benefit PulteGroup, should they choose to hire you.
1st Answer Example
"This year I have set the goal to be promoted to a territory sales manager; whether that means applying to roles such as this one, or being more aggressive in gaining a long-awaited promotion with my current job. Currently, I perform many of the tasks of a territory sales manager; however, I do not have the title. I have been applying to companies that I believe will allow me to grow in my career, which is another way of pursuing this crucial goal."
2nd Answer Example
"This year, I have attended three seminars and workshops on effective project management and goal setting. Smooth projects always create happy customers, contractors, and employees, so, for that reason, I feel that I can never learn enough on the topic. I look forward to taking what I have learned so far and applying the concepts to this role with your company."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
25. What are your strengths, as they relate to the home building industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about what makes you great at your job. The strengths you mention can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks in the home building industry. These skills help you to effectively manage projects, understand client needs, and help you make deals happen!
Try to talk about unique strengths, staying away from the typical answers such as 'organized,' 'good communicator' and 'multitasker.' A hum-drum answer to this question could cost you the job.
Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role. Tie these strengths into the qualities mentioned in the job posting, for an even stronger response!
1st Answer Example
"I believe my greatest strength lies in my analytical and creative mind. I have worked to cultivate my creativity and apply it to my work in the home building industry. Understanding this business from project management but also creative aspect sets me apart in a unique way, as others tend to either be creative or analytical."
2nd Answer Example
"My strongest skills that help me daily are my people-skills, and the ability to close a sale without being pushy. I relate to the customer, get to know them and their needs, build excellent rapport, and can make solid home buying recommendations that suit them. They happily buy and then send valuable referrals."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
26. How will you build rapport with PulteGroup clients?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know your methods when it comes to getting to know potential home buyers and building trust with them. When you have a great relationship with your clients, you are adding to the success of PulteGroup, hitting your targets, and gaining valuable referrals.
Some ways that you can build rapport:
- Do what you say that you will
- Ask them questions about themselves
- Use industry jargon they will understand
- Set clear expectations, on both sides, from the start
- Remember what they tell you
- Show your extensive knowledge base
- Always be presentable in looks and actions
1st Answer Example
"I believe that the number one rule of homes sales, and building a solid rapport with your client base, is to remember everything! Remember their names, their kids' names, important dates, their design preferences, where they went on vacation, and their favorite lunch spot. When you remember details, it shows that you care. Remembering these details also helps me to make more targeted suggestions when it comes times to recommending home layouts and design features."
2nd Answer Example
"Follow up, follow up, follow up. When I call, check in, ask about hesitations and what they are most excited about, I then build a solid foundation to a trusting relationship. Buying a new home is a big commitment and significant investment. I want my clients at PulteGroup to feel taken care of throughout the entire process."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
27. PulteGroup strives to deliver top client service to our home buyers. What does excellent client service mean to you?
How to Answer
Excellent client service is part of what sets PulteGroup apart from their competitors, and the interviewer needs to know you are entirely on board with these efforts.
Excellent client service means that you actively seek out the opportunity to deliver more than the standard. It means thoroughly listening to their needs and offering support when they are feeling overwhelmed with decisions regarding their new home. Discuss how you will deliver nothing but the best to the clients of PulteGroup
1st Answer Example
"I love the quote from Kate Zabriskie that says, 'The customers' perception is your reality.' To me, this means that if my clients think that we do not care about them, they are right. Exceptional service starts with proper training, setting high standards, and accepting nothing less; something that PulteGroup knows very well. I am eager to help you continue delivering a gold standard of service to your clients."
2nd Answer Example
"To me, excellent customer service means not allowing any negativity to reach the customer. In home building, this means avoiding disasters in a project timeline, issues with vendors, or negativity from contractors. The moment a client feels there is a hiccup is the moment the sales process gets railroaded. Excellent customer service includes seeing potential pain points before they even happen."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
28. Tell me about a time when you were particularly useful in prioritizing tasks and completing a project on schedule.
How to Answer
The hiring authority at PulteGroup needs to know that you are well organized and able to keep up with their project deadlines. This question evaluates your time management skills and diligence when faced with prioritization. Since the question is asking for a specific scenario, you will want to dive into a recent time-consuming project.
Perhaps you started by mapping out a timeline for the work. Discuss if you made a to-do list, updated your calendar, or created a color-coded agenda. Share whatever method of organization worked for you, and be sure to share how you were successful in the end.
1st Answer Example
"I had a supplier fall short a couple of weeks ago, which threatened our timeline. We needed matching hardware for 15 home projects, and they could supply enough for only five projects. I prepared a list of precisely what each home needed, and the order was complex. I spent hours compiling options that the supplier could fulfill without affecting the homes' design elements too drastically. I was able to find new hardware options and ordered everything we needed. My ability to react quickly and make efficient decisions prevented the project from being delayed."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently took on the task of updating our CRM software to streamline our work better. In addition to the high demands of my day-to-day position, I also juggled software implementation and migration. To stay on target, I worked evenings and weekends for two weeks; keeping track of next steps in a color-coded timeline spreadsheet in Excel; which I created."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
29. Are you applying for a job with any PulteGroup competitors?
How to Answer
The world of residential home builders can be a small one! The interviewer would like to know if they will need to compete with other companies, let alone their local competitors when it comes to hiring you.
Tell the interviewer about your search so far without disclosing every single detail. Answer this question with a balance between creating some urgency in the interviewer, and not divulging every aspect of your job search. Be sure to solidify your interest in PulteGroup as well.
1st Answer Example
"It's safe to say that it's a candidate's market right now, with so many available opportunities in the home building industry. With that said, I am only applying to the best roles with companies with which I can grow. I look forward to further discussing your opportunity here at PulteGroup."
2nd Answer Example
"I am in the process of exploring opportunities with home builders that appeal to me; however, I am selective on where my applications go. I am very excited about this particular opportunity with PulteGroup because of your solid reputation and amazing product. I look forward to the next round of interviews."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
30. Have you ever been in a conflict with a boss or coworker? How did you resolve the situation?
How to Answer
You do not always have to agree with your leader or your coworkers; however, the interviewer wants to see that you respond to them with kindness and respect in all situations. Think about a time when your boss or coworker made a decision with which you did not agree. Be prepared to discuss how you responded; ensuring respectful communication despite the disagreement.
1st Answer Example
"Last week, I disagreed with my supervisor when he notified me that our junior sales rep was going to gain some of my accounts. I laid out the reasons why I was confused and frustrated with the decisions he was making. He explained why he was taking this approach, and in the end, we came to a happy medium agreeing that I would take on the pursuit of more new business, given that my sales experience was stronger than others on the team."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read a quote that said, 'If you're comfortable, you're not growing.' So, when confronted with an uncomfortable situation, I approach it as a learning opportunity. There are times when I have asked questions or brought up suggestions that challenged my current boss. I do my best to understand his opposing viewpoint and then learn what I can."
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback