35 Rocket Mortgage Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Why do you want to work for Rocket Mortgage?
What You Need to Know
Most brands aim to recruit employees who fit their mold. Rocket Mortgage wants to hire individuals who are passionate about their careers and the work they do. The interviewer wants to hear what motivates you to work with Rocket Mortgage. They want to ensure you've put thought and careful consideration into working with them long-term. They want to know that you have a desire to grow with their company. Visit their website, research what other people say about them, and how their employees rate their work experience. Find two to three positive attributes of the company that align with your career pursuits and share your enthusiasm.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I want to work with Rocket Mortgage because you have an unmatched training program. You are the largest online mortgage lender in the country, which is amazing. Also, Rocket Mortgage has seen great recognition, such as being ranked in Fortune Magazine."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I want to work for quicken loans because of work-life balance, always encourages employees to learn new things by conducting training classes, and apart from that, some of your ISM's align with the way I work like Yes before No, ignore the noise, do the right things, etc."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer
Great start. You've provided many valid reasons for wanting to join the company. I reworded your response to broaden the concepts, while adding language about your work style.
"I have a strong interest in joining Quicken Loans for several reasons. From the research I have conducted, Quicken Loans promotes a positive work-life balance, encourages continued learning through training programs, and has a strong cultural value that mirrors my own. I am seeking a growth opportunity to broaden my skillset, and I believe Quicken will be a wonderful fit for my talents and passions."
Behavioral
2. If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
What You Need to Know
This conversational question can come anywhere in the interview. It's designed to get you to relax to get to know you better. It will offer insights into your personality and how you'll complement their work culture. Meditate on your values and figures who professionally or personally inspire you. Elaborate on why you'd invite them to dinner and what you'd serve them for dinner.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I'd have Janet Yellen over for dinner. I'd want to have an in-depth conversation with her on everything from her big picture scope to the more rare tidbits of knowledge. I'd serve her Nepalese cuisine."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
3. What is more important to you, money or recognition?
What You Need to Know
They are curious to know your motivators and whether you're more concerned about money than recognition or vice versa. Validate that some employees require constant praise, being invested in their work for the glory versus those only in it for the money. The trick to answering this question is by exhibiting an understanding of why they ask this question and displaying your big-picture thinking. Both are motivators but should be framed with a big-picture lens.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I'd say they're not mutually exclusive. In any leadership setting, taking a unified approach of ensuring you're delivering prompt, often, and specific feedback as a norm creates greater engagement and a more rewarding experience for the team. It also offers each team member a firm footing in knowing where they stand in their performance, keeping them in tune and out of the dark by not having to wait until review time to get a performance evaluation. Words are nice when it comes to praise, but actions speak louder than words."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
4. How do you strike a harmonious balance between your working and personal life?
What You Need to Know
They're gauging whether you can strike harmony and balance when stepping away from the stresses of work. How well you manage your time will offer insights into your effectiveness in your job. If you feel overwhelmed at work because of poor time management, you might bring more stress home from work, not sleep well, or perform at your best at work the next day.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have to be in the moment at all times and find that emotional balance around the clock. If a person isn't consistently balanced, I don't think they can find a balance under extreme circumstances, either at work or at home. Like that old metaphor, when you are on the rim of the wheel, you'll go up, and then you'll go down, but when you are centered in the hub of the wheel, you are in the immovable spot."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
5. Are you interviewing with anyone else?
What You Need to Know
Your interviewer is not interested in hiring someone looking for any job. They want you to want to work for them and want to know why. They also may be curious if you are under a timeline and where you'd scale this opportunity among the others on your wishlist. Feel free to talk with the interviewer about your search so far, and don't hesitate to let them know that a role with Rocket Mortgage is at the top of your wishlist. If they're aware that you're actively looking for a new position, it will put a little fire under a hiring manager to make you an offer or advance you to the next interview if they are interested.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I've never been the type who puts all their eggs in one basic. I am interviewing with several companies and am keeping all those I've interviewed with, comparing each one to see how well they align with my goals and objectives. I'm interested in finding the right lasting fit."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
6. Tell me about a time you created a unique idea or solution that was rejected by your colleagues. How were you able to bounce back?
What You Need to Know
Putting yourself out there with new ideas can be intimidating. Talk to the interviewer about how you process rejection and what you learn from those experiences. Without asking questions first and getting a broader view of the bigger picture, you might be contributing ideas that someone before you already tried. So, offer what you learned from your rejection and how you took those lessons in stride.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, I made a scheduling recommendation that would have included some split shifts. The result was less overtime and reduced expenses for the company. My colleagues were unhappy with the idea of split shifts. I understood their perspective, which made it much easier to bounce back from the rejection. My overall attitude is, you win some - you lose some!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
7. What is your greatest strength?
What You Need to Know
Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role. Strengths can be skills or qualities that allow you to overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. They can be hard skills, your work approach or systems and processes, or soft interpersonal skills, such as your positive attitude or communication skills. Share personal strengths that make you excel at your job. Your consistency in how you present yourself will indicate to the interviewer that you will be consistent in your work performance should they hire you.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Again, I'd have to say I think my greatest strength is my can do attitude. The only thing we control is our attitude. So for me, the glass is always half full. When someone comes up with an idea, I'm the one who says, in order to achieve that goal, we'd have to overcome XYC. Where there is a will, there is a way. Luck is where you find it, and fortune favors the brave. So I am also super determined, resourceful, and optimistic. This has also led to me being an excellent resource, thanks to my approach. I've often found myself mentoring others on my approach. It's funny, but when you are known to be resourceful in the way I am, you inevitably end up being the resources others look to. Any chance to help the team the better my day is."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
8. At Rocket Mortgage, we value continued personal development. What actions have you taken in the last month to improve yourself?
What You Need to Know
The Rocket Mortgage interviewer wants to know that they are potentially hiring someone actively pursuing their career goals beyond what is expected of them in the workplace. So long as your answer focuses on self-improvement, there is no wrong answer! Be sure to comment on your results and how your self-improvement has impacted your professional life.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"This year, I committed to becoming healthier and more active. I started practicing yoga three times a week, which has been a solid start for me. It's increased my energy, helped me sleep better, and even decreased my stress levels at work!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
9. Rocket Mortgage believes in calculated risk. What is the riskiest decision you have made?
What You Need to Know
This question seeks to determine potential red flags. Some thrill-seekers enjoy the rush of leaping, and some recognize planning is necessary before taking that jump. For some, taking risks comes naturally. Then some are risk-averse, maintaining the status quo. Others might take risks compulsively, which could turn costly for an individual, a family, or a company. Innovation is partly achieved by taking calculated risks. Your actions affect others, which is why it's important to exercise caution when making a risky decision in a corporate environment. Rocket Mortgage wants to hear how to approach taking wise, calculated risks.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Last year, I decided to apply for a new job within my company but in a different department. I wanted to move from a customer service-based role into a sales-based opportunity. The risk was that my manager might think I was no longer interested in my current title if I did not get the job. The flip side was taking on a new challenge in a job function I knew very little about. In the end, I received the transfer, and it all worked out!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
10. At Rocket Mortgage, we believe in developing our employees to be the best they can be. What is your greatest weakness?
What You Need to Know
This question helps the interviewer assess your level of self-awareness and whether you're open and honest about your shortcomings. Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. Frame your greatest weakness as an asset in its own right. Being a perfectionist can be a weakness. A well-intentioned shortcoming or a growth opportunity you've self-identified that is integral to your career goals would be a good example. Recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging you identify it as a growth opportunity is a good start.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe I could improve some technical skills, including Excel and PowerPoint. Currently, I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
11. At Rocket Mortgage, we look for a specific type of candidate. How would you describe your workplace personality?
What You Need to Know
If you are not sure how to describe your workplace personality, try watching the video for Rocket Mortgage on their 'Careers' page. They are very clear about the types of people they'd like to join their team. Demonstrate that you are the ideal Rocket Mortgage candidate while being authentic to who you are. Even though it can be difficult to know exactly how others perceive you, do your best to reflect on your interactions with coworkers and recall your most complimented qualities. Above all, having a great attitude and contagious optimism can go far.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I'd say I am very systems oriented, that I am my harshest critic, especially when it comes to upholding my own standards, and that I am very team oriented and happy-go-lucky. I have a pretty great attitude, regardless of the work I perform. I have a proven track record of motivating those working around me. I am the team's cheerleader, an enemy to none, and a friend to all. That combined with my hard skills and on-the-job training and leadership skills, I consider myself poised as a desirable candidate."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Behavioral
12. Tell me about the most challenging problem you encountered in your professional career.
What You Need to Know
Working in the online mortgage lending industry, you may have technical issues, customer complaints, or other obstacles to overcome. If you are new to the industry, think of a relevant challenge, whether in another position or school. Give the interviewer an example of a time you displayed remarkable patience and strong communication skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Last year, our company went through a major acquisition. Everything changed, from our internal software to the company hierarchy. It was like starting a brand new job overnight. The biggest challenge was taking care of my clients and keeping them happy during the transition. I worked a lot of overtime hours and made a greater amount of customer service calls to ensure that my existing clients were minimally affected by the acquisition."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
13. Rocket Mortgage works hard to recognize and reward our hardest working employees. Describe your work ethic.
What You Need to Know
Some of the key foundational building blocks to a strong work ethic start with displaying a sense of integrity and remaining conscientious of the full scope of the big picture. With that in mind, one should strive to master their time management, project management, communication, and interpersonal skills, thereby improving one's productivity, adaptability, multitasking, and leadership skills while enhancing collaboration. Taking it to the next level, think about some of the moral principles and core values that drive you.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my work ethic as solid, reliable, positive, and very disciplined. I am someone that you can rely on, and my delivery is consistent."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Behavioral
14. The mortgage lending business is a competitive one. What motivates you to be the best?
What You Need to Know
When Rocket Mortgage started as Quicken Loans, it emerged as one of the first online lenders. Since their pioneering business model first hit the scene, they've taken measures to stay ahead of their competition. Therefore, they want to assess how motivated you are to pursue this opportunity with them. To compete with the other candidates in the interview pool, perform your research on the company before your interview. Familiarize yourself with their competitors and what sets Rocket Mortgage ahead of the pack. Once versed in their model, dig into the core values and mission statement which motivate them. Use these points to guide your answer. This question tests how aligned your values are with theirs.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I remain motivated by working with a company that takes pride in its reputation and work. Working in a supportive, positive environment keeps me moving forward and makes me want to be the best at what I do. When a community goal and mentality of success are present, it's contagious. Even when the environment is not perfect, I am a naturally competitive individual, so I will go over and above to stand out."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Career Goals
15. Rocket Mortgage hires those seeking a long-term working relationship. Where do you see yourself in five years?
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage is looking for career-motivated individuals. Goal setting can seem intimidating, especially if you are at the start of your career. If you don't have a premeditated trajectory for your career just yet, think about what you're looking for in a job and a company. Make a list of ideas, starting with what inspires you. Think about your personal and professional priorities and what your ideal situation would be in five years. From there, draft a five-year career plan. You'll do this by taking all of your goals, ambitions, and priorities and breaking up those macro goals into smaller, more easily achievable micro-goals. Plot out your next 14 days. Then the following six weeks, the following ten months, and then the remaining four years. Once you've identified and projected timelines for your goals. Adjust them based on which goals you overestimated your timeframes to accomplish and those you underestimated.
Writing a five-year career plan requires flexibility while you master your time management and projections. Once you've mapped that out, determine how Rocket Mortgage fits into those priorities and your plan. If possible, assure the interviewer that you plan to stay with Rocket Mortgage for the long term.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am interested in taking on a management role in the future. I enjoy training others and helping my team solve problems. I love working with others toward accomplishing a greater goal, and I think I would be an excellent manager someday!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Communication
16. At Rocket Mortgage, we take great pride in our customer service reputation. How would you handle a customer dispute?
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage prides itself on an outstanding track record for its customer service. For eleven consecutive years, J.D Power ranked Rocket Mortgage 'Highest in Customer Satisfaction in Primary Mortgage Origination.' To ensure you would compliment their teams' 'above and beyond' customer service, they want to ensure your skills meet their customer service quality standards.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have solid dispute resolution skills. If I come across a dissatisfied client, I start by simply listening. Sometimes they need to vent. I empathize by letting them know I hear what they are saying and understand. If there is anything I can do to resolve it, I act on it. Otherwise, I ask them how I can help them and do my best to meet whatever needs I can."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Communication
17. How would you rate your verbal and written communication skills?
What You Need to Know
When answering this question, emphasize the importance of effective communication in the workplace, written or verbal. Just as how eloquently you speak, your writing skills can reveal a lot about you, from your education level to how actively you read.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself an excellent communicator both verbally and with the written word. I am transparent and strive to say the most in the fewest words possible. I want to ensure that the message I intend to send is the message that's received as consistently as possible. Create standards for yourself and uphold them."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Communication
18. I'd like to know more about your conflict resolution skills. How do you handle conflict with a coworker?
What You Need to Know
The true nature of this question aims to determine how easy you are to work with. Tension between coworkers can be draining, primarily in a high-stress work environment. Providing several examples of difficult co-workers you worked with could accidentally betray your narrative. They might wonder if the problem employee is you. So proceed with caution when navigating this question by providing an example that resulted in a positive outcome. Demonstrate your professionalism and compassion when workplace conflict arises while being able to non-defensively communicate with a wide range of personalities.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My coworker and I disagreed with whether or not a policy was important or not. We worked in a very conservative corporate environment, and I felt the policy negatively affected some of our peers. Rather than letting it become a heated discussion, I took a breath and recognized that we might be interpreting the situation differently. Even though I felt strongly about my point, I felt it was more important to back down. You have to pick your battles, and my relationship with my coworkers is more important than being right."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Education
19. What was your favorite course during your post-secondary studies, and why?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to get to know a little about your educational background. Describe what you learned from that period (coursework, inspiring conversations with a mentor, a real-life experience that contributed to your career, etc.) and how it impacted your life. Try to keep it relevant to the role you are interviewing for.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Believe it or not, my favorite course during post-secondary studies was Calculus. My professor was very creative and gave us assignments that sparked us to think beyond the basics of math and apply calculus knowledge to everyday situations."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
20. Tell me about a time you took a creative approach to solving a problem at work.
What You Need to Know
You want your answer to exhibit determination. Some call it thinking outside the box, while others call it taking a creative approach. A creative approach is open-minded and questions the status quo. Frame yourself as resourceful with a propensity to think fast on your feet. It's important to look at problems from a unique perspective. Demonstrate that you aren't easily discouraged. Sometimes when we have maxed out every potential solution, it's time to take our problem solving to the next level. Demonstrate how you assess a problem and your approach to resolving the issue. Meeting deadlines, over-performing, learning, and innovating is the aim of the messaging in your example.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When I noticed errors in our new sales management software, I decided to investigate. I asked others on my team if they noticed the same problems. Once we identified the core concerns, I asked my manager if I could spend a little time talking to the software company's technical department to see if they could resolve the core issues. We had the concerns resolved within 48 hours of my call. My team appreciated my efforts to resolve the problem, and so did our clients!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
21. Rocket Mortgage is the largest online mortgage lender in America. Why should we hire you over another candidate?
What You Need to Know
Because Rocket Mortgage is the most extensive online mortgage lender in America, you can bet that they receive hundreds of resumes when they post a job opening. The interviewer is asking what makes you stand out. If you're not sure where to start, review your resume and identify the accomplishments of which you are most proud. Think about the qualities that propel you to excel regularly. Highlight those harder quantified skills, such as your soft transferable skills, such as time management, project management, and communication skills.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I see in your job description that you are looking for a candidate with strong personal drive and exceptional people skills. In my current position, I was nominated three times for the customer service award. I never give up when it comes to ensuring the satisfaction of my clients. If you gave me this opportunity, I would bring these exceptional customer service skills to work for you."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
22. Do you have any relevant work experience?
What You Need to Know
Relevant work experience could be anything related to the job you are interviewing for. Reflect on what you have learned from your experiences, which might help you in this new position. Stay focused on what the company is looking for, as stated in the job description, and think about how your experience has helped prepare you for this opportunity.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked for your competitor for the past two years, performing many of the same job functions. My earlier career was also heavily customer-service-focused, which is relevant to what you do here at Rocket Mortgage. Overall, I have approximately four years of relevant work experience."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
Experience
23. What is the biggest mistake you've made? How did you handle it?
What You Need to Know
It's never easy to discuss mistakes or regrets with an interviewer. This question sounds more intimidating than it is. Avoid sharing a mistake with dire consequences or that would reflect poorly upon you. Share instances where you executed sound judgment and did everything you could to remedy the mistake and reduce its negative impact. Explain the valuable lessons you learned from it and how you applied them forward, ensuring you did not repeat the mistake. Every mistake is a growth opportunity. Show your interviewer that you didn't waste the opportunity. Keep your answer light and focus on how you handled the consequences. Share what you learned and how you have improved.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my last role, I was responsible for all customer communication. I would pride myself on how quickly and effectively I could do my job until I made a big mistake on an email. I was moving so quickly that I didn't review the email communication for errors, and it almost cost us the customer! Now I pay much closer attention, proofing every email before sending it and sometimes even asking a peer to review it beforehand."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
24. Tell me about your greatest accomplishment so far.
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to learn more about your experience level by hearing your definition of your team's achievements and the part you played in their success. Maybe you pushed yourself to your edge, proving that you are stronger and more determined than you realized! Perhaps you want to talk about how invigorating you find this aspect of your work. Describe how this achievement acts as a milestone towards your goals. Talking about your accomplishments will give the interviewer a sound idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality and the goals you seek to achieve.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am proud of many of my work achievements; however, I would say that my greatest achievement is the positive reputation I have in the finance industry. Finance is a saturated industry, with many professionals fighting to find their voice. I'm so proud to have carved a distinct career path for myself despite those challenges."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
25. We have a fun but productive environment at Rocket Mortgage. How do you manage your time?
What You Need to Know
To have a well-balanced personal and professional life, one must have strong management skills. Some examples of strong time management are preparing for your workday in advance, having impeccable attendance, using tools to maximize your productivity, and thwarting any unnecessary or avoidable stress. This will contribute to your mood and confidence and allow breathing room to focus on building relations with your coworkers.
Consider sharing your approach to time management and the tips and tricks you implement to manage your projects while meeting deadlines. Volunteer the tools that have contributed to your success and how that has lent to be both fun and productive in your work.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I use a few tools daily to help with time management. My online calendar is connected to my email, which helps me manage appointments and events. My to-do list helps me stay on task every day, and who doesn't love checking things off when they complete a task?! I like to stay organized and check my list throughout the day, re-prioritizing when I need to."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
User-Submitted Answer
"Every evening before bed I spend 15 minutes with my planner and phone calendar. I make a habit of reviewing my itinerary for the next day, prioritizing, double-checking my phone alert times, and making any necessary adjustments. I lay my phone and my planner open by the coffee pot, knowing they will be the first thing I look at in the morning. By executing a consistent daily schedule, I can operate in a more focused and productive environment."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Wow - it sounds like you are very organized and in charge of your day. Good for you! These are great ideas - I might steal one or two :)
Experience
26. Tell me about a time you improved work-related procedures.
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage looks to hire those who take initiative with process improvements. Employees can make two types of improvement - kaizen, or small and incremental improvements, and innovation, or large or sweeping improvements. Provide the interviewer with an example of a time you offered suggestions for improvements, big or small, that benefited the workplace. Explain how you identified the opportunity, the process you took to implement it, and why it was important. Describe the impact it had on the business and your team.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year - a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after my initiative was implemented, and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
27. Tell me about a time you accomplished a team goal. Why do you think your team was successful?
What You Need to Know
This question seeks to answer how rewarding you find projects that require a team effort. Whether it is the social aspect, working on something bigger than yourself, or the camaraderie one experiences from such collaboration, it will indicate how much you contribute to a team effort and what value you place on it. It could also inform them of what motivates you in the workplace.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"This past year, our department came under budget for the first time in eight years. I believe that we achieved this through building an incredibly communicative and collaborative environment throughout the year. When everyone works together for a common goal, great things can happen!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
28. At Rocket Mortgage, you will be expected to think on your feet. What makes you a great problem solver?
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage wants to hear your approach to solving problems. They seek to measure your preferred working style and whether it meets their required criteria. They want to know how resourceful you are and whether you exhibit 'outside-of-the-box thinking. Meeting deadlines, overperforming, learning, and innovating is the aim of the messaging in your example.
Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems and provide confidence in dealing with them. Demonstrate that you are proactive, noticing issues before they become an issue. You want your answer to exhibit determination. Frame yourself as resourceful, with a propensity to think fast on your feet. Explain that you aren't easily discouraged.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creative side. I am a keen observer with a great memory, which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Experience
29. Tell me about an idea you think could improve work performance.
What You Need to Know
Before answering this question, take a moment to reflect on the values of Rocket Mortgage. They value innovation just as much as they appreciate customer service and employee morale. Consider the role for which you are interviewing. You could share a solution that showcases your analytical skills or talk about an idea that could help employees resolve customer complaints more efficiently. Consider addressing an issue that you think would be important to them. But try not to be presumptuous. You haven't yet learned how they do things or why they do them the way they do, so don't assume their systems need revamping. Remain humble.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe many useful tools and apps are very underutilized these days. In my current role, I have worked to incorporate a few resources, including a new project management software and CRM. This idea has saved my organization time and money."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Leadership
30. Rocket Mortgage has a great management training program. What qualities do you look for in a manager?
What You Need to Know
One of the taglines at Rocket Mortgage is, 'Innovation is rewarded, and execution is worshipped.' This statement captures the essence of encouraging the leadership potential of their teams. Their managers strive to guide and direct without micromanaging. They coach and encourage their employees to accomplish their goals and make a positive impact in the workplace. Use this question to show that you would be a great culture fit because you believe in the same values as Rocket Mortgage!
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I look for a natural leader who will challenge me. I don't need a lot of guidance once I'm familiar with my responsibilities, so a manager who offers autonomy and strong encouragement is great for me."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Leadership
31. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
What You Need to Know
This question aims to determine how your leadership skills have contributed to your personal life as well. One's effective time management or non-defensive communication skills can help them with their personal goals and relationships. Think about how your leadership skills come into play in your daily life.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I naturally take on a leader and mentor role with my co-workers. In one instance, I had a new coworker who was having trouble fitting in. I took her out for lunch and talked about the workplace culture and semantics surrounding the various departments. I wanted her to stay and enjoy her employment with us, so I took the responsibility of ensuring she was settling in well. I believe there are always leadership opportunities - you have to keep your eyes open!"
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Leadership
32. Rocket Mortgage looks for candidates with leadership potential. Tell me about your leadership qualities.
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage views every employee as a potential leader and aims to recruit candidates with strong leadership potential.
When defining your leadership qualities, familiarize yourself with the five main leadership types - authoritarian, participative, delegative, transactional, and transformational. Determine which approach aligns most with yours. Then go further and think of leaders you admire and how your philosophy or approach aligns with theirs. Once you have that down, align your values with theirs and discuss how your leadership skills would complement their environment and culture.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have taken many workshops and courses to improve my leadership skills. My leadership qualities are best summarized as dedicated, attentive, and motivating. I like to recognize my employees' small wins because that motivates them to continue achieving."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Teamwork
33. Rocket Mortgage values a collaborative work environment. Do you consider yourself a team player?
What You Need to Know
Rocket Mortgage cares about fostering a collaborative work culture and the growth of its leaders and teams. Innovation is integral to leadership. Collaboration is integral to innovation. The interviewer seeks to measure your preferred working style and determine whether it meets the required criteria. Working well on a team requires solid interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and a drive to mentor, coach, or assist other team members. Explain to the interviewer why you see yourself as a team player, detailing your strong team-player skills and what you frequently contribute.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes! I love working as part of a team because I like contributing to a larger goal. I recognize that each person plays an important role, and there may be days when we need to perform duties outside our usual job description to help out. Sometimes, I spent time mentoring and coaching new employees, not because someone asked me to, but because I knew they needed some guidance."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
Teamwork
34. Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult personality. How did you handle that relationship?
What You Need to Know
Managing working relationships can be one of the most significant skills you can gain! It's challenging to adapt your communication skills to someone else's style, especially when a communication breakdown occurs. Demonstrate that you're proactive and have a grasp of nondefensive communication. Your goal is to demonstrate an ability to amicably work with varying personalities and refocus the efforts away from the individual to the goals and betterment of the team. They're also keeping a keen eye out for any red flags. In the simplest terms, in this scenario, the last thing you want to do is make the interviewer think the challenging co-worker in this scenario was you.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My coworker was great at sales but terrible at paperwork. She would play dumb at times to get other people to do the work she didn't want to do. I focused on coaching her and giving her tools so that she could do her job more effectively whenever she asked for help. Even though she was challenging to work with, I used it as an opportunity to learn and step into leadership."
Written by Elisabeth Walter
User-Submitted Answer
"I had a corporate boss handpicked me for a job position. I gracefully declined the offer. After that, my boss began treating me differently in a harsh manner by assigning me difficult deadlines, late evenings and not including me in team events. After a couple of weeks, I asked for a meeting with her and addressed my feelings. In conclusion, by communicating openly and honestly while keeping it professional, we gained a more respectful working relationship."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
This would be a complicated situation to be in, and it's wonderful that you could handle it directly and with professionalism. You organized this story-based example very well.
Teamwork
35. Rocket Mortgage is a very collaborative workplace. How do you collaborate with coworkers to solve problems?
What You Need to Know
Collaborators are encouraging and motivating team players. When there's a problem, they are proactive rather than passive. The interviewer at Rocket Mortgage wants to see that you are a leader who ensures that everyone's voice is heard. Many firmly believe you cannot have innovation without collaboration.
This question delves into your concept of teamwork and whether you'll compliment their teams. Frequently, you'll encounter coworkers who focus solely on their ambition and goals rather than collaboration or teamwork. Sometimes this is unavoidable, which is why the purpose of this question is to assess how well you work and collaborate with others. Offer an example of a rewarding collaborative experience in a team environment. Describe your part in it, your positive take on it, and the rewards of the experience without emphasizing your contribution. Show off your team skills by giving an example of working with your coworkers. Demonstrate the communication techniques you employed and your contribution to the project.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 23rd, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Last week, in my current position, I recruited a couple of coworkers to help solve a problem for a client. We looked at their financials, but something didn't add up right. Together, we were able to come up with a solution that satisfied the client but still put the company's interests as a priority."
Written by Elisabeth Walter